Barbara Donaghey is the recipient of the 2016 Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) Business Person of the Year award. Awarded since 1988, the Business Person of the Year recognizes the contributions of outstanding business people in the Baldwinsville community and celebrates a business person who has demonstrated a commitment to local economic development. The recipient also embodies exemplary and ethical business practices in addressing quality, customer service, and social responsibility.
Donaghey, along with husband Bill, is the owner of The Nantucket Cat, a gift shop for cats and cat lovers. Established in 2004, The Nantucket Cat is a well-known business in the heart of the village of Baldwinsville. Each year, Donaghey hosts fundraising events at The Nantucket Cat that benefit local animal welfare and rescue organizations. Donaghey is also one of the founders and organizers of Au Chocolat, a boutique shopping celebration in the village of Baldwinsville that takes place each November. This extremely popular event brings hundreds of people into Baldwinsville and benefits not only the participating locations but all shops and restaurants in the village.
Sharon Lighton, owner of Anana’s Trinkets & Teacups, nominated Donaghey and said in her letter of support: “When I opened Anana’s Trinkets & Teacups one year ago, Barb was the first person to offer advice, encouragement, and suggestions; truly an established entrepreneur trying to help a fledgling entrepreneur get on her feet. Barb’s past experiences as a woman in the retail business world was of tremendous help to me, and her continued insight and assistance is priceless.”
Donaghey’s commitment to the community and the local economy extends to her volunteer work for The Museum at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse. In addition to working at the annual Peony Fest, Donaghey has also played an active role in the selection of merchandise for the museum gift shop. According to museum director Sue McManus, “Barb mentors our small museum shop, giving generously of her valuable time and experience. When thanked, she invariably replies ‘the museum shop is important to all of us.’”
Donaghey will be honored at the GBCC Business Person of the Year Dinner on Thursday, September 29 at The Red Mill Inn in Baldwinsville. Also nominated for this year’s award were: Lindsy Luu, owner of Lindsy Luu Agency – State Farm; Mary Slater, business manager for Friends of Beaver Lake; and Lynn Tanner, executive director of Radisson Community Association.
The Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce is a progressive association of businesses and organizations that promotes cooperation within the community, advocates for members, and projects a positive image for the Baldwinsville area. Membership is open to all who are concerned with improving the local economic climate and wish to work with other business people. More information on GBCC member benefits and events is available on their website, baldwinsvillechamber.com.
