Greater Rochester Chamber’s Small Business Council announces twelve finalists for the 2025 Business Person of the Year Awards

Rochester, New York – The Small Business Council (SBC), a trusted affiliate of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, has officially announced the twelve finalists for its highly regarded 2025 Business Person of the Year Awards. This annual tradition, now in its 42nd year, honors outstanding for-profit business leaders in the Greater Rochester area who exemplify excellence not just in business growth and leadership but also in community service and civic impact.

Since its inception in 1983, the Business Person of the Year Awards has stood as a symbol of entrepreneurial achievement in the region. Each year, local business figures are nominated for their vision, leadership, and commitment to building strong companies while supporting their communities.

This year’s finalists are split into two distinct categories based on company size: businesses with under 25 employees and those with more than 25. The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Rochester, and promises to be an uplifting celebration of small business excellence.

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The finalists in the under 25 employees category are:

• Lindsay Connelly, President/Founder of Linden Digital Marketing, LLC
• Lauren Goetz, Owner/Founder of Everyday Hands, Inc.
• Stephen McDonnell Jr., President/CEO of Wilmac Technologies
• Michael R. McNaughton, CFP®, CPWA®, CEO & Founder of OakWood Financial Services
• Nannette Nocon, Private Wealth Advisor at 7Crest Financial Partners, an Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisory Practice, LLC
• Erika Sorbello, Owner & Stylist at Gallery Salon

These six individuals lead businesses that may be small in staff size but have demonstrated substantial impact in their fields—whether that’s marketing, technology, finance, or creative services.

The over 25 employees category features six equally impressive leaders:

• Mark Fuerbacher, President of Universal Imports of Rochester Inc.
• Sarah Hasenauer, Owner of Farmhouse Table
• Ardis Mangione-Lindley, President & Founder of Straight A Homework House
• Scott Miller, Owner of Scott Miller Salon Spa & Store
• Gail Morelle, Vice President, Partner at Christa Construction
• Becca Post, Founder & CEO of Helen + Gertrude

These finalists head businesses that have expanded beyond modest beginnings and now play vital roles in Rochester’s economy. From education support services and construction to retail and digital strategy, their companies reflect the diversity of enterprise in the region.

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Bob Duffy, President & CEO of the Greater Rochester Chamber, offered praise for the finalists:

“On behalf of Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, congratulations to the twelve Business Person of the Year Awards finalists! This represents an elite group of business leaders that are shaping our region, growing its economy, and creating meaningful differences for employees and our community,” he said.
“Thank you to our Small Business Council affiliate volunteers for their work to plan this event and celebrate small business leaders making a difference. I look forward to coming together and celebrating these changemakers at the ceremony in July.”

Steve Hogan, President of the SBC Board, echoed that sentiment:

“Congratulations to all of our 2025 Business Person of the Year Awards finalists! Each of our finalists is an exemplary leader in Greater Rochester, contributing to our region’s economic vitality and growth. Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and taking time to recognize the leadership of these organizations is so important, now more than ever. We look forward to celebrating all of our finalists on July 30 and hope to see you there.”

Registration is now open for the awards ceremony, and sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to support Rochester’s vibrant small business sector. The event is expected to draw a broad audience of business professionals, civic leaders, and community advocates.

For additional information, or to register for the ceremony, interested parties can contact Cassidy Pendell, Events, Training, and Affiliates Manager, at [email protected].

The 2025 Business Person of the Year Awards will not only spotlight individual accomplishments but also reflect the strength and resilience of small businesses throughout the Greater Rochester area. As July 30 approaches, excitement continues to grow for a night dedicated to visionaries who are shaping the region’s future—one bold decision at a time.