Veta Jeffery: Building Inclusion and Economic Growth in Omaha
Veta Jeffrey
Legacy Maker | Omaha, Nebraska
Story by Aniya Porter
Veta Jeffery made history when she was named President and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce in 2022, becoming the first African American woman – and the first person of color – to lead the organization in its more than 125-year history.
Her selection followed a nationwide search to succeed longtime Chamber leader David Brown, who retired after nearly two decades at the helm. Jeffery was chosen for her experience in community economic development, diversity, and civic leadership, a blend of skills seen as essential for the Chamber’s evolving role in the region.
Before arriving in Omaha, Jeffery gained extensive experience in public service and community engagement. She served as Chief Diversity Officer for St. Louis County, where she worked with government and corporate partners to expand inclusion and equitable access to opportunity.
Her work in Missouri also included managing community and economic development programs, including efforts to rebuild local economies and expand workforce development in the wake of racial and civic unrest.
In her first months leading the Chamber, Jeffery emphasized workforce development, public-private partnerships, and economic inclusion as strategic priorities, reflecting her belief that a thriving regional economy must work for all communities. Under her leadership, the Chamber continued its focus on attracting talent, supporting businesses of all sizes, and strengthening diversity and equity initiatives.
Following her tenure, she launched Jeffery Consultants. Her firm has focused on business strategy, banking, and economic development, community development, philanthropy and organizational effectiveness.
Her leadership demonstrates that inclusion and economic growth can be pursued in tandem, reminding the community and business success is deeply tied to equitable engagement.
Know a Black community leader whose story should be told? Nominate them by emailing office@lozafina.com.
