Aud Authority Unveils NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium
Aud Authority Unveils NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium
Historic Venue Begins New Chapter Through Naming Rights Partnership
UTICA, N.Y. (September 10, 2026) — Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today announced a 10-year naming rights partnership between the Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority (AUD Authority) and NBT Bank that will officially rename the venue NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium. The agreement was awarded through a competitive bidding process and marks a long-term investment in one of the region's premier entertainment and community venues.
“The Aud is truly one of the gems of Oneida County, and its history and significance to our community cannot be overstated,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “This is a partnership that brings together two institutions with deep roots in the Mohawk Valley and a shared commitment to the people who call this region home. NBT Bank has consistently been a strong community partner, and we are proud to see them put their name alongside a venue that means so much to so many people. It is a fitting partnership for a place that has been part of the fabric of our community for generations.”
The naming rights agreement marks a new chapter for one of Central New York's most iconic destinations while preserving the legacy and history of the Utica Memorial Auditorium, which has served generations of residents and visitors since it was constructed in 1959.
“The Utica Memorial Auditorium has been a cornerstone of the Mohawk Valley for generations, bringing communities together through unforgettable moments in sports, entertainment and life’s milestones,” said Scott Kingsley, CEO of NBT Bank. “NBT Bank is honored to support the next chapter of this iconic venue. Our connection to this region runs deep, and this partnership reflects our longstanding commitment to the people, organizations and communities that continue to shape the future of the Mohawk Valley.”
The venue will continue to host a wide range of sporting events, concerts, family entertainment, community gatherings, and special events, drawing visitors from across the Mohawk Valley and beyond.
“NBT Bank is going to be a wonderful partner for us,” said Shawn Weiman, Chairman of the Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority. “Our mission has always been to provide an environment for entertainment, sports and community events in order to create a positive impact on our area. The support of NBT and their commitment to our community will be paramount to that mission for years to come.”
“We are proud to operate NBT Bank Arena, and look forward to the opportunity to thrive alongside such a strong community brand,” added Robert Esche, CEO of Mohawk Valley Garden. “NBT Bank is deeply connected in our area, and has been a longstanding partner already with the Utica Comets. They will help the Aud Authority and Oneida County continue to grow and bring impactful events to the Mohawk Valley.”
Pending the execution of the final contract, the new branding will be reflected throughout the facility, in marketing materials, event communications, signage and digital channels. Additional details regarding implementation and upcoming activities associated with the transition to NBT Bank Arena at the Utica Memorial Auditorium will be announced in the coming weeks.
About NBT Bank
NBT Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth management services from locations in seven states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut. The bank and its parent company, NBT Bancorp Inc., are headquartered in Norwich, N.Y. NBT Bancorp had assets of $16.21 billion as of June 30, 2026 and is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol NBTB. More information about NBT is available online at www.nbtbank.com. Member FDIC.
About the Utica Memorial Auditorium
The Utica Memorial Auditorium was built in 1959 in honor of the area's brave veterans and the sacrifices they made for our country. The building was owned and operated by the City of Utica from 1960 to 1996 before being sold to the Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority at the tail end of 1996. Known for its iconic design, the Auditorium served as one of the filming locations for the movie, "Slap Shot", and also inspired the design of New York City's Madison Square Garden.
The 3,860-seat multi-purpose venue has been a major landmark in the Mohawk Valley for decades. The arena has served as a hub for sports entertainment as the home of the Utica Comets and Utica City FC, but has also hosted countless other events such as concerts, rodeos, and graduation ceremonies.
The building's footprint grew significantly with the construction of the Utica University Nexus Center in 2022, adding 12 state-of-the-art pro locker rooms, three ice rinks, a fitness center, and additional parking. The addition of the Nexus Center as well as the arena's centralized location makes it a premier entertainment venue which continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
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