Mark Holtzman
Champion Honoree
Mark Holtzman served as part of the Equinox Inc. board of directors for over 20 years. His leadership saw the growth and expansion of Equinox’s suite of services across the Capital Region. Mark served in a variety of roles, at one time serving as board member, treasurer, and board chair.
His service expands beyond Equinox Inc. as well, with time spent serving on the boards of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District and the Twin Rivers Council for Scouting America. In his professional career, Mark worked as a partner at KPMG, building up local commerce and contributing to the strength of Capital Region business.
Now retired, Mark lives an active life of service and leadership. Mark is currently the Chair of the University at Albany Accounting Advisory Board and serves on the University at Albany’s School of Business Advisory Board. He is also a trustee and officer of the Fort Orange Club in Albany, NY. He is still a territory chair for Scouting America, and recently joined the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region as a board member. His legacy of leadership and investment in the community means we are proud to present him with the Champion Honoree Award.
Eric Hannay and Elaine Gruener - Hannay Reels Inc.
Champion Honoree
Eric Hannay and Elaine Gruener have spent over three decades leading Hannay Reels. A family company, Hannay Reels was founded in 1933 by their great-grandfather, Clifford Hannay. Focused on the production and distribution of high-quality reels, Hannay Reels is committed to solving complex problems for their customers.
Their partnership with Equinox began in 1977, and has grown consistently since then. Their premiere support of our 2000s Capital Campaign and our yearly donor events since then have cemented their place as a leader in advancing human services and building community in the Capital Region. Over 25 years of investment Hannay Reels has been influential in enabling Equinox to advance their mission, changing lives and strengthening communities in the Capital Region through a continuum of human services.
CEO Eric Hannay and COO Elaine Gruener will be leaving Hannay Reels in 2027, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and community development. We are proud to honor them as our Champion Honoree.