There are high-fives — and then there are Hi5s.

Both were likely combined when national CPA and advisory firm BKD (a longtime Indiana Chamber member) celebrated a yearlong initiative based on its client service culture. Not only did the Hi5 campaign result in congratulatory hand slaps, but a valuable prize, as well.

The company explains:

BKD’s unique culture is rooted in the five standards of unmatched client service — Integrity First, True Expertise, Professional Demeanor, Responsive Reliability and Principled Innovation — and we expect clients to hold us accountable to these standards.

The Hi5 campaign was meant to encourage employees to heighten their participation in BKD’s unique client service culture, educate themselves on how to better serve clients and each other and celebrate our success. As part of the program, employees “elevated” each other on a Wall of Fame housed on BKD’s intranet. Each employee, excluding partners and directors, receiving an elevation in 2012 was entered into the January 4 drawing.

Leigh Mapes, South Region human resources generalist in BKD’s San Antonio office, was the winner of a new, fully loaded Mazda MX-5 Miata sports car, valued at more than $30,000. The car, emblazoned with Hi5 decals, had been taken to the various offices throughout the year to remind employees of the rewards of delivering excellent client service.

“It really is a blur to me,” said Leigh, a six-year BKD veteran. “When I heard my name, I was in shock. With more than 1,600 people being elevated, I couldn’t believe my name was picked! So many thoughts were going through my head, but above all, I knew I was so blessed to be the winner.”

Kudos to BKD and congratulations to Leigh.