New York, NY – Dominic Palermo, a 2024 graduate of Wagner College, claimed first place at the Tunnel to Towers 2025 Climb, completing the grueling 2,226-step, 104-story ascent in just 15 minutes and 28 seconds, on Sunday afternoon.

After placing second in last year's climb, Palermo returned stronger in 2025, finishing 26 seconds ahead of Brooklyn's David Roeske, the 2024 winner.

"I had done it last year, so I was just hoping to stay in running shape and then with just experience on the stairs to see how it went," Palermo said.

This marks Palermo's second major Tunnel to Towers event victory, having also placed first at the 23rd Annual Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk in October 2024.

The Tunnel to Towers Climb is a signature fundraiser for the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors the legacy of Stephen Siller—a Brooklyn firefighter who lost his life on 9/11 after running through the Battery Tunnel with 60 pounds of gear to aid in rescue efforts at the Twin Towers. The foundation, led by Staten Island native Frank Siller, continues to support families of fallen first responders and military service members.

During his time as a Seahawk, Palermo earned multiple All-NEC honors, won numerous championships in cross country and track & field, and was a multi-time recipient of the NEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year award. He currently works in the financial sector at Fidelis Investors.