Keuka College has been named the 2025 Mike Linehan Business of the Year by the Yates County Chamber of Commerce in recognition of the College’s enduring contributions to the region and its deep commitment to community partnership.
The annual award honors a Chamber member that demonstrates exceptional service to both its constituents and the broader Yates County community. It is named for the late Mike Linehan, longtime Chamber president and a passionate advocate for local business.
“Keuka College has been a cornerstone of Yates County for more than 130 years, and most of us have a connection to it in one way or another,” said Chamber President & CEO Jessica Bacher. “It’s woven into the life of our community. That’s why we’re so proud to recognize Keuka College. This honor celebrates not just its history, but the meaningful role it continues to play in shaping the future of Yates County.”
The College’s engagement with the local community runs deep – from signature programs like Celebrate Service… Celebrate Yates and the Donald and Corinne Stork Award for Community Service to year-round partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and schools. Through its distinctive Field Period® internship program, Keuka College places students in real-world roles throughout the region that benefit both the student and the host organization.
“Since our founding in 1890, Keuka College has called Yates County home,” said College President Amy Storey.
“We’re proud to be one of the region’s largest employers, an educational partner, and a driver of economic and social impact. Just as importantly, we’re proud to be good neighbors. This recognition means so much because it reflects the strong, enduring partnerships we share with our local community.”
The award will be presented during the 2025 Yates County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Community Awards ceremony, scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, June 5, at Climbing Bines Hop Farm & Brewery in Penn Yan.
