2024 Businessperson of the Year

On behalf of the Board of the Syosset/Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, I want to congratulate Kenya Zachary for being named the 2024 Businessperson of the Year. In addition to volunteering her time on behalf of our board, Kenya is also the co-chair of the Women in Business group, and frequent participant in Chamber events. She has supported the efforts to host the Syosset Street fair annually, while serving the local business and residential community as the manager of Jovia Financial Credit Union in Syosset. On a personal note, she has been invaluable in assisting me with managing the financial matters of the Chamber as our treasurer.

Congratulations to our other finalist, board member Melesia Dechiaro of Lash Box. Melesia received substantial support from the membership and the Board, and was well deserving to be considered this year for the honor. A record nine Chamber members, including seven from the Board, received nominations in 2024. This shows the broad depth of business leaders who are a positive influence in the local community. I want to acknowledge Chamber Secretary Laura Venugopalan, past Chamber president Danielle Delgrosso, Board Members Ari Goldblatt, Dr. Parul Makkar, Mike Gallo along with members Rick Lewis and Mario Mouzouris for being nominated by their fellow Chamber members. I was honored to work with previous Businessperson of the Year honorees, Chamber Vice President Tami Racaniello and Board member Alan Goldberg, in ensuring a fair and secure nominating and vote for all who were named this year.

Thank you to our great Board for giving due consideration to our finalists when considering your vote. The committee appreciates our past President Ken Robinson, who once again assisted in the balloting process. Most importantly, thank you to all the membership for supporting the Syosset/Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, so that we can help you to thrive and survive in the local business community.

Russell P. Green, President, Syosset/Woodbury Chamber of Commerce