Staten Island, NY, November 3, 2023 – In an effort to bridge gaps in healthcare access and promote community well-being, the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) hosted their renowned annual Health & Wellness Expo on November 2 at the College of Staten Island. Nearly 1500 attendees explored the Expo’s wide range of health screenings, educational seminars and sessions, and ceremony honoring the borough’s “Health Heroes” for their invaluable contributions to the health and well-being of Staten Islanders. The Expo’s presenting sponsors were New York City Councilman David Carr, Richmond University Medical Center, and Staten Island University Hospital/Northwell Health. 

“For the last 15 years, SIEDC’s Health & Wellness Expo has created opportunities for Staten Islanders to take that first step toward investing in their health and well-being,” said Mike Cusick, President & CEO of SIEDC. “SIEDC is grateful for the support of our sponsors, members, and local organizations who share in our commitment to promote accessible and preventive care services among the community.”

The day kicked off with a Keynote Breakfast featuring New York State Department of Health Deputy Commissioner for Aging & Long Term Care Adam Herbst, who delivered the keynote address on the governor’s master plan for aging and emerging priorities relevant to Staten Island seniors. 

The borough’s elected officials from city, state, and federal levels were also present and included Borough President Vito Fossella, New York City Councilman Joe Borelli, New York State Assemblyman Mike Reilly, New York State Assemblyman Mike Tannousis, and representatives from New York City Councilman David Carr and Congresswoman Malliotakis’ offices. Diane Arneth, Executive Director of Community Health Action of Staten Island, served as the Expo’s Health & Wellness Ambassador. 

The Expo’s offerings included:

• 20+ health screenings - vaccines, EKG, diabetic and pre-diabetic prevention, hearing exams, and more.

• Educational seminars on navigating Medicare, suicide prevention, and managing chronic conditions.

• Health Hero ceremony honoring five individuals who have dedicated their careers to the betterment of the borough’s health and wellness:

• Dr. John Reilly, Chair of Orthopedics, Staten Island University Hospital/Northwell Health

• Isangozi Shoneyin, Forensic Nurse Coordinator, Richmond University Medical Center

• Dr. Mitchell Weinberg, Chair of Cardiology, Staten Island University Hospital/Northwell Health

• Kevin Medefindt, Detective 1st Grade, NYPD Patrol Borough Staten Island Community Affairs

• Carmelo DeFranco, Owner, NYC Business Group

• Vendor exhibition of 50+ organizations and businesses.

• Lifesaving hands-on trainings about responding to emergency situations.

• Fitness demonstrations sponsored by the Jewish Community Center of Staten Island (JCC). An “Inclusive Yoga” session was held by the JCC for individuals with disabilities, a first-of-its-kind program for the Expo.

Corporate and education sponsors included Verizon, JP Morgan Chase, Northfield Bank, National Grid, Kozy Shack, and Jag-One Physical Therapy. SuperHealth Pharmacy, Audiology Island, Beacon Christian Community Health Center, and Community Health Center of Richmond offered screenings with the Expo’s hospital partners. 

View photos from the November 2 event below. Find the full gallery here.