The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Annual Awards during a celebratory evening on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at The Oaks Grandview. Sponsored by leading businesses in the region, these honors recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the Greater Rochester area.
Educator of the Year: Davita Fortier
The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce recently presented its 2nd annual Educator of the Year Award, sponsored by Compass Home Inspections, LLC. This award was established to recognize outstanding educators who embody the highest standards of teaching excellence and make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. Criteria for this prestigious honor include dedication to teaching, innovation in education, a student-centered approach, leadership, and community involvement.
At the Chamber’s Annual Awards Celebration, held on Wednesday evening, May 21, 2025, at The Oaks Grandview, the Chamber proudly presented the 2025 Educator of the Year Award to Davita Fortier, First Grade Teacher at McClelland Elementary School.
Davita has been an educator for more than 35 years and is described by colleagues as an unwavering pillar of the McClelland community, consistently going above and beyond to support students, staff, and families.
She is the driving force behind many of the school’s most cherished activities, including Fallfest, Craft Night, STEM Night, Read Across America, the Talent Show, the Walk-A-Thon, and more. Davita is also an active member of the PTA. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her training in Orton-Gillingham and OGAP math concepts, which help her effectively meet the diverse learning needs of her students.
In addition to her many contributions, colleagues note that Davita still finds time to support the Student Council and actively participates in a wide range of school-based initiatives.
McClelland Elementary School Principal Maegan Jerr shared, “Beyond her work in the classroom, Davita is a leader on our team, always advocating for what is right for the students,” adding, “McClelland is truly fortunate to have Davita as an educator, mentor, and role model. She is the embodiment of dedication and an inspiration to us all.”
Paraprofessional and longtime friend Dea Cleveland, who has worked alongside Davita for over 20 years, shared that Davita was the one who inspired her to pursue a career in education. “Davita makes the time to tutor students of all grade levels, helping them reach and exceed their goals. Many of her former students stop by her classroom to say hello and share their successes. She has made lifelong connections with her students and their families.”
The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Davita Fortier for her unwavering commitment, dedication, leadership, and passion for teaching. She has consistently demonstrated these qualities to her students, families, and colleagues throughout her career.
Ron Goodwin, Director of Music and Performing Arts at Spaulding High School, had the honor of presenting the Educator of the Year Award to Davita Fortier.