Local Businesses Recognized for Commitment to Inclusion
Six Oneonta businesses were honored Tuesday, May 6, during the 3rd Annual Oneonta Inclusive Business Award Ceremony at the Foothills Performing Arts Center.
The award is a shared initiative of the Community Foundation of Otsego County, Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta, and aims to foster partnerships with the local community. It recognizes local businesses and organizations with exemplary commitment to promoting inclusivity and business friendliness in the Oneonta community.
In the opening remarks at the event, Alberto Cardelle, president of SUNY Oneonta, noted that “Our collaborations with local businesses are essential to advancing our mission of enriching campus life and fostering a more inclusive and vibrant community.” He added, “Positive community engagement not only enhances the educational environment but also contributes meaningfully to regional economic vitality.”
Reflecting on the program’s growth, SUNY Oneonta’s Vice President for Equity and Inclusion Bernadette Tiapo, recognized the more than 20 business entities nominated for awards in 2025. She noted further that “Five businesses were recipients of awards in both 2023 and 2024, and six this year. We’re proud to continue this tradition, celebrating both new and returning honorees – like Wise Guys Sammy, honored for a second time.”
The following businesses were recipients of awards during the ceremony:
- Healthy Livin Wellness, [email protected].
- The Underground Attic, 273 Main St.
- Vêsucré, www.vesucre.com.
- Wise Guys Sammy’s, 261 Main St.
- Yoga People Oneonta, 50 Dietz St., Suite L
- Zip’s Chop Shop, 155 Main St., Suite A
Photo courtesy of SUNY Oneonta
Nominations were solicited through a short survey sent to students and employees on both the SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College campuses. Campus and community members were invited to nominate their top choices of business-friendly and inclusive businesses in the Oneonta area. The students and employees had to clearly convey how the businesses they nominated provided “exceptional service to diverse populations, treat customers with utmost respect and civility, and go above and beyond in meeting the needs of its diverse customers.”
Alicia Richardson, Hartwick College’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Officer, emphasized the significance of the recognition for students and the community. “Oneonta businesses that take the time to make community members feel seen and welcome shape their experiences and ultimately their sense of belonging,” Richardson said. “These meaningful actions should always be recognized and celebrated. Hartwick and SUNY Oneonta are collectively dedicated to ensuring that students see Oneonta as a place where they are safe to be themselves and where inclusivity matters.”
Jeff Katz, executive director of the Community Foundation of Otsego County, highlighted the awards’ role in recognizing businesses that help strengthen the fabric of the local community. “Our community encompasses many groups – residents, students, businesses, and more,” Katz said. “Making sure that all our community feels welcome and included is vital to making our community healthy. The Oneonta Inclusive Business Awards recognize those businesses that make the extra effort to bridge divides. Every business should work towards achieving this recognition and we should all know about the businesses that do!.”
Hartwick College President Jim Mullen underscored the significance of the event for the College and the broader community. “Our students thrive when they feel valued both on campus and off,” Mullen said. “Being part of an initiative that honors local businesses for their commitment to inclusion speaks directly to Hartwick’s values. It reinforces to our students that Oneonta is not just where they study—it’s where they belong. We’re proud to be a partner in celebrating these businesses that help make that possible.”
