Medina, NY – September 3, 2025 – Velocitii is proud to announce that CEO and Partner, Heather Smith, was named a finalist for the 2025 Greater Rochester Chamber Inclusive Leadership Award. This recognition honors top executives, HR professionals, and change-makers across the Greater Rochester region who are dedicated to advancing inclusivity, equity, and employee well-being in the workplace.
Now in its fourth year, the Inclusive Leadership Award highlights individuals and organizations that foster cultures of trust, collaboration, and innovation while ensuring every employee feels valued and empowered. Heather Smith was one of fourteen finalists selected for her leadership in transforming Velocitii’s culture into one rooted in transparency, respect, and mutual trust.
“When I joined Velocitii five years ago, the Executive team and I agreed that the current culture was far too toxic and knew that it could not be changed overnight. Yet, transformation was possible, and it began with a single commitment: to listen and to be heard,” said Smith in her remarks as a finalist. “By shifting our focus from fault-finding to collective growth, we laid the foundation for respect. I could not be more proud of what this team has accomplished in a relatively short period of time.”
Under Heather’s leadership, Velocitii has earned recognition as a Top Workplace for three consecutive years, with additional honors for Purpose & Values, Employee Well-Being, and Innovation. Her approach to leadership emphasizes inclusion, empathy, and employee development, qualities that extend beyond the workplace to positively impact the Greater Rochester community.
Heather was nominated by peers in the business community who praised her authenticity, empathy, and ability to build spaces where employees feel seen, heard, and valued. As one letter of recommendation noted:
“Heather Smith exemplifies what it means to be an inclusive leader. She leads with heart, purpose, and unwavering dedication to her people, her community, and her mission. She not only embodies the values of inclusive leadership, she inspires others to do the same.”
While the 2025 award was ultimately presented to Marisa Geitner, President and CEO of Heritage Christian Services, Velocitii celebrates Heather’s recognition as a finalist and her continued leadership in fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
About Velocitii
Velocitii partners with brands and organizations to create opportunities, build customer connections, and drive business growth. Specializing in customer service, back-office support, and specialized industry solutions, Velocitii delivers high-quality, scalable services tailored to client needs. With a strong focus on culture and employee engagement, Velocitii fosters an environment where teams thrive—resulting in consistent performance excellence.
Learn more about Velocitii: https://velocitii.com/get-started