A boxing champion turned concussion advocate got a hero’s welcome at this year’s Shields of Honor Gala in Geneva.
Ray Ciancaglini, founder of The Second Impact Foundation, was named Honorary Fire Chief and had the Geneva Police Department’s shooting range renamed in his honor during the Nov. 1 event at Ventosa Vineyards.
The gala raised $42,000 for Geneva’s police officers and firefighters — but the spotlight was on Ciancaglini, whose work promoting concussion awareness and public safety has made a lasting mark in the Finger Lakes.
In an emotional ceremony, Ciancaglini received a ceremonial fire chief’s helmet, recognizing his commitment to first responders and his public health advocacy.
In a second surprise, the Geneva Police Department officially renamed its range “The Shields of Honor Range House,” made possible through Ciancaglini’s support and community backing.
“The fire and police departments are the backbone of our community,” Ciancaglini said. “Being honored by both departments in such meaningful ways is truly humbling.”
The evening featured dinner, cocktails, live music by Night Train, and a lively auction led by Carrie Hessney-Doran. Attendees also remembered the late Fire Chief Carlton Naegele and Police Chief Frank Pane Jr., the first recipients of new awards named in their honor.
Now in its fourth year, the Shields of Honor Gala has raised $144,000 for Geneva’s first responders. Ciancaglini’s foundation, inspired by his own battle with CTE and Parkinson’s from untreated boxing concussions, continues to push for education and support for those on the front lines.
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