We are proud to share that DDC President and CEO C.J. DeCrescente has been named a 2026 inductee into the Capital Region Business Hall of Fame, one of the most prestigious leadership honors in the region.
This distinguished award is presented by Junior Achievement of Northeastern New York (JA NENY) in partnership with the Center for Economic Growth (CEG). It recognizes exceptional business leaders whose professional achievements, values, and community commitment have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the Capital Region’s business community.
A Premier Regional Honor
Induction into the Capital Region Business Hall of Fame represents the region’s highest leadership distinction. Each year, no more than three individuals are selected for induction, underscoring the significance of this recognition. Since its founding in 1996, the Hall of Fame has honored just 83 visionary leaders whose work has helped shape the economic and civic landscape of Northeastern New York.
C.J. will be inducted alongside two other outstanding local leaders:
- Andrea Crisafulli, President, Crisafulli Bros.
- Tom Putnam, Founder and Executive Chairman, Fenimore Asset Management
Together, the 2026 inductees reflect the innovation, integrity, and community spirit that define excellence in the Capital Region.
A Career of Leadership and Growth at DDC
C.J. began his career at DDC in 1979, gaining hands-on experience across nearly every facet of the organization. In 1997, he was named president, and under his leadership, the company has experienced sustained growth and success.
During his tenure, DDC has expanded through strategic acquisitions, implemented industry-leading operational practices, and fostered a workplace culture rooted in respect, accountability, and continuous improvement. These efforts have earned DDC recognition from the Albany Business Review as one of the Capital Region’s Best Places to Work for 15 consecutive years.
Commitment Beyond Business
Beyond his professional accomplishments, C.J. is widely respected for his dedication to community engagement and philanthropy. A strong advocate for hands-on involvement, he has served on numerous nonprofit and community boards and maintains long-term commitments to organizations across the region.
His philanthropic support includes sustained involvement with groups such as the Northeastern New York Alzheimer’s Association, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and many other charitable organizations that strengthen the Capital Region and improve quality of life for its residents.
Industry Leadership on a National Scale
In addition to leading DDC, C.J. is a founding partner of KEG 1, LLC (Knowledge Exchange Group), a peer organization established in 2007 by nine leading beverage wholesalers from across the country. KEG 1 member companies operate distributorships in Texas, Colorado, Kentucky, Iowa, Maine, and Missouri, fostering collaboration and the sharing of best practices across diverse markets nationwide.
Induction Ceremony Details
The 2026 Capital Region Business Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony will take place on:
- Thursday, May 28
- Albany Marriott – Wolf Road, Colonie
- 5:00 p.m.
Tickets to the event are available now. Proceeds support Junior Achievement’s mission to equip K–12 students with financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and career readiness skills.
For ticket information, click here or call (518) 631-5077.
Congratulations to C.J. on this well-deserved and meaningful honor. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to both business excellence and community impact continue to make a lasting difference throughout the Capital Region.