CNYSME names Edward M. Riley 2022 Crystal Ball Recipient

Syracuse, N.Y. — The Central New York Sales & Marketing Executives (CNYSME) have selected Ed Riley as the 45th recipient of its annual Crystal Ball Award. Riley will receive the award on Thursday, April 7th, 2022 at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown during the annual Crystal Ball and Sales & Marketing Excellence Awards presentation and celebration.

An enduring symbol of the organization’s mission, the prestigious Crystal Ball is awarded annually by CNYSME to a local business person or group of businesspeople in recognition of their contributions to the sales and marketing profession and for their endeavors in the areas of community development and support.

The criteria for Crystal Ball recognition includes, but is not limited to: a person whose visibility impacts the progress and prosperity of Central New York, a leader who demonstrates commitment to superior quality and professionalism, a person who fosters excellence in their industry, local involvement in community and civic organizations, and demonstrates and practices an appreciation of the sales and marketing industry.

“Ed Riley embodies all of these things and more,” said CNYSME President Jaime Lawlor Wager. “His passion for what he does and what he’s brought to Central New York is nothing less than inspirational and we’re excited to add him to the list of esteemed recipients.”

In 2014, Riley founded Hotel Syracuse Restoration, LLC and later Brine Wells Development, LLC. Then, he executed the purchase, restoration, and renovation of the closed and deteriorating historic Hotel Syracuse, which reopened as the Marriott Syracuse Downtown in 2016.

Riley is a Syracuse native and attended CBA, Onondaga Community College Architectural Technology, and Syracuse University Architectural School. He remains active in the community, serving on several local organizations as a member of their board of directors, including the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, OCC Foundation Board, CNY Humane, and Rescue Mission.

For his efforts in the community and related to the restoration and reopening of the Hotel Syracuse, he has received several awards, including Outstanding Renovation and Adaptive Reuse award for Bentley Settle Building, OCC Faces Alumni of Distinction, Award for Excellence in Renovating the Hotel Syracuse from Downtown Committee, OHA Gold Metal, AOH Hibernian

For more information about the Crystal Ball, click here.