CONGRATULATIONS
The 2020 and 2021 State Stars, who were chosen by their SBDC networks, are among the best of the best -- those who demonstrate exemplary performance, make significant contributions to their networks, and are deeply committed to the success of America's small businesses.
Sponsored by
Alabama
Katherine Zobre
Alabama SBDC Network
2020
Over the last two years (2019-2020), Katherine Zobre has significantly contributed to the goals and mission of the Alabama SBDC, working with over 1,200 clients, exceeding all expectations, and continually innovating the products, services, and processes that allow the SBDC to grow Alabama’s economy.
alabama
Andrea Rogers Mosley
Alabama SBDC Network
2021
In the midst of a global pandemic, Andrea Mosley on-boarded an entirely new staff, designed and deployed a series of robust programs for the CARES Act, continued to provide one-on-one assistance of the highest quality, and greatly contributed to the development and deployment of the Alabama SBDC’s strategic plan.
Alaska
Julie Nolen
Alaska Small Business Development Center
2021
Julie has risen to meet the needs of the AKSBDC during COVID. She has done a great job getting us through this past year, from providing leadership to ensuring that the staff’s physical and mental health was taken care of. She is an amazing mentor and leader.
Arizona
Kevin Peck
America's SBDC Arizona
2020
Kevin has led his rural Center to become a true resource and partner in his region through community engagement, outreach and a commitment to help clients realize the American Dream through successful small business ownership. Kevin is an exceptional team member and partner to agencies and stakeholders statewide.
Arizona
Gina Couillard
America's SBDC Arizona
2021
Gina turned a struggling Center into an impressive turnaround story through leadership, community engagement and a commitment to help businesses survive a game-changing pandemic. She built a strong team which reached deep to help small businesses in crisis and create economic impact in an area hit hard by tourism losses.
Arkansas
Nicolas Mayerhoeffer
Arkansas Small Business And Technology Development Center
2020
Nicolas joined the ASBTDC in 2017 and has assisted clients in starting more than 40 businesses and accessing more than $26.2 million in capital. He created a Marketing Map tool to assist businesses in developing marketing strategies that connect them with their customers.
Arkansas
Wendy Orvis
Arkansas Small Business And Technology Development Center
2021
Wendy skillfully guides new clients to the resources they need. in 2020, she stepped up to manage the increased demand for services created by COVID. She specializes in assisting first-time business owners. In the past 12 months, 12 of her clients started businesses.
california
Magali Laureano-Perez
Central CA SBDC
2021
During the past 15 months, the Pandemic ravaged our small business clients. Magali worked tirelessly to make sure every client received optimal SBDC services. She kept the Lead Center operating at a high level, using the latest technology to support staff and clients. She is the perfect example of a State Star!
California
Anthony Curtis Elliott
Los Angeles Regional SBDC Network
2020
In the year 2020 and through June of this year, Tony has provided services to over 295 clients, generating over $91 million in access to capital. This performance is just the tip of the iceberg in the effectiveness of Tony’s work with clients.
CaLifornia
Lori Williams
Los Angeles Regional SBDC Network
2021
Lori’s vast experience in understanding finance and accounting, and how to analyze the TRUE status of a client’s financial health, allowed her to work so productively with clients on the edge due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
CaLifornia
Ronn Van Dusen
Northern California SBDC Network
2021
Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, Ronn’s service to SBDC and it’s mission, and to the business community, were inspirational. In an 18-month period, Ronn assisted 246 clients to access $19.7 million in capital, start 32 businesses, create 85 jobs and retain 690 jobs.
CaLifornia
Craig Russom
Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center
2021
Craig Russom went above and beyond the call of duty as an SBDC consultant and was an invaluable resource and expert. He took initiative by learning about all the regulations, grants, and loans that were available during COVID-19. Craig was the lifeline to many businesses this past year.
CaLifornia
Amy Chapman
San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network
2021
Amy is the heart of the North San Diego SBDC as the Office Administrator. She also is the go-to person for anything any other center staff needs. During the Covid pandemic, Amy held the hands of the advisors and leadership of her center to serve thousands of small businesses.
Colorado
Lisa Hudson
Colorado Small Business Development Center
2021
Lisa consistently goes above and beyond for the business owners in the East Colorado region covering 13 counties, and is highly respected within both the region and the Colorado SBDC Network.
Connecticut
Matthew Pugliese
Connecticut Small Business Development Center
2021
Since joining CTSBDC in late 2019 Matt has been an effective leader, rising to new challenges and mastering them quickly. Whether organizing and facilitating dozens of webinars, assisting advisors on complex issues, or providing a sounding board for pandemic stress and frustration, Matt’s kind, encouraging and approachable manner is appreciated.
Delaware
Louis DiNetta
Delaware Small Business Development Center
2021
Louis “Lou” DiNetta is highly regarded throughout Delaware as a key resource within the technology business ecosystem. Lou uses his unmatched technical expertise and business acumen to help innovators fund vital research and commercialize new technologies. His efforts helped DE-SBDC earn a national SBA Tibbetts Award for excellence in innovation.
District of columbia
Stacey R. Palmer
District of Columbia SBDC Network
2020
Stacey has updated our website on a daily basis, providing the most updated information on the pandemic, loans, and grants. Stacey has taken on many clients that needed to know how to pivot to marketing on social media and has taught them how to build their content and attract new clients.
District of columbia
Charles H. Motte
District of Columbia SBDC Network
2021
During the pandemic Charles kept the DCSBDC organized and updated on all of the new information flowing from the CDC, OSHA, Howard University and The District of Columbia government. We were able to provide our clients with real-time information on opening, closing, socially distancing, PPP and EIDL guidelines.
Florida
Marge Cirillo
Florida SBDC Network
2020
Marge is a valued and well liked member of the FSBDC at UNF team. She had the region’s highest number of impact sessions in 2020. She consistently exceeds goals set for her, and her customer satisfaction rating with her small business clients is among the highest in the network.
Florida
Roberto Castellón
Florida SBDC Network
2021
Roberto is a exemplary Florida SBDC Network business consultant who far exceeds all goals set for him and has an incredible impact on the small business community he serves. Roberto is a true professional and represents the SBDC in the best way possible at every opportunity.
Georgia
Peter Williams
University of Georgia SBDC
2020
Peter was selected by his peers as the UGA SBDC 2019 Consultant of the Year.
Georgia
Michael Myers
University of Georgia SBDC
2021
Michael was selected by his peers as the 2020 UGA SBDC Consultant of the Year.
Hawai'i
Dennis Wong
Hawai'i SBDC Network
2021
Dennis has made significant contributions to our success since the moment he joined the Hawai’i SBDC team. He has achieved impressive client results by drawing on his deep experience in working with local businesses. His professionalism and contributions to the Hawaii SBDC make an outstanding example for all of us.
Idaho
Ruth Schwartz
Idaho SBDC
2020
Ruth took initiative to become the network’s COVID-19 program-related-subject-matter expert after only being with the network for a few months. Her dedication to serving others and the incredible value she brought to the team in a short amount of time is well deserving of the Idaho SBDC’s 2020 State Star award.
Illinois
Andrew Fogaty
Illinois SBDC Network
2020
Andrew Fogaty is a long-time member of the Illinois SBDC Network, serving as a center director in Chicago. Andrew is extremely dedicated and passionate about serving his clients, particularly serving clients with disabilities. Andrew is very engaged and supportive of other SBDCs and responsive to the Illinois SBDC State Office.
illinois
Kevin Kim
Illinois SBDC Network
2021
Kevin Kim is a tremendous asset to the Illinois SBDC ITC. He’s extremely engaged with his clients, achieving great success in helping clients expand their international sales. He’s very involved in the Illinois SBDC Network on strategic planning groups and serving as ITC liaison to EXIM REPP and SBA OIT.
indiana
Tracie Davis
Indiana Small Business Development Center
2021
Tracie Davis is a lifelong student and is always in search of opportunities to grow professionally to better meet the needs of her clients. She never hesitates to step outside of her comfort zone and is viewed as a mentor to advisors throughout the Indiana SBDC network.
Iowa
Kimberly Tiefenthaler
America's SBDC Iowa
2020
Kimberly is an all around asset to our network. She cares deeply about small businesses and also owns one with her husband. Kimberly has helped create synergies throughout the network to not only help our organization function better but she has a true passion for entrepreneurship and small businesses.
iowa
Brook Boehmler
America's SBDC Iowa
2021
Brook Boehmler is a true advocate for small business across our state. His contributions to the SBDC and our small businesses have been significant, including developing strong relationships with key stakeholders, increasing marketing for his center, and working tirelessly to help others. We are honored to have Brook here.
kansas
Randy Robinson
Kansas Small Business Development Center
2021
Using CORE and CARES Act funds, Randy was instrumental in envisioning, establishing and managing statewide marketing and call centers and a rural kiosk system. These allowed us to more efficiently reach out to current clients and serve the needs of small businesses struggling during the pandemic.
kentucky
Kevin Norvell
Kentucky SBDC
2021
The entire Kentucky SBDC Network has recognized Kevin as being a tremendous asset. Being the “Coach of the Coaches” he has been instrumental in onboarding and guiding our new hires, as well as assisting in identifying technology tools that have allowed the Kentucky SBDC to excel exponentially.
louisiana
Karen Romero
Louisiana SBDC
2020
Since starting with the LSBDC in April 2019, Karen Romero has coordinated 101 training events with over 3,000 attendees. In the third quarter of federal fiscal year 2019-2020, training attendees represented over ½ of the state’s overall goal of 5,001 attendees.
louisiana
Sonia Wilson
Louisiana SBDC
2021
Mrs. Wilson has a passion and drive to assist small businesses with starting, expanding and exceeding their endeavors, while making a significant impact on communities at large. Mrs. Wilson has a passion for increasing cultural diversity and awareness among business owners, while providing educational opportunities to assist with their growth.
maine
Shannon Byers
Maine SBDC
2020
Shannon’s clients praise her for her skilled and easy to talk to demeanor, helping them feel focused and confident. Her colleagues praise her leadership, dedication, grace and composure. Since 2017, she has spent 2,500 hours helping clients to start 26 businesses, create/save 93 jobs, and generate $6 million in capital.
Maine
Alison Lane
Maine SBDC
2021
Alison’s clients praise her for her knowledgeable, positive, and supportive demeanor. Her colleagues praise her as a problem solver, team player, and hardworking leader. Since 2019, she has spent 1,900 hours helping clients to start 31 businesses, create/ save 90 jobs, and generate almost $9.5 million in capital.
maryland
Mark Malec
Maryland SBDC
2021
Mark Malec never says he cannot do something. He is widely respected in the network and has over 37 years of service to small businesses and the western Maryland region. He is a consultant to the consultants and is retiring this year, so this is an honor from Maryland.
Massachusetts
Dan Lilly
Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network
2021
During the past five years as an SBIR advisor, Dan has built a robust and respected program for innovators. This year he has assisted clients in securing over $30.5 million in funding. He consistently exceeds goals, increases partnerships across the state and is recognized as a valued resource by his clients.
michigan
Ron Stevens
Michigan SBDC
2020
Ron Stevens, Associate Regional Director, has long and invaluable experience across industries. He willingly shares his expertise and perspectives with clients, colleagues and partners. Ron serves on multiple statewide committees and task forces where he is always engaging and innovative. He steps into leadership roles whenever and wherever needed.
michigan
Janis Mueller
Michigan SBDC
2021
Janis Mueller, Regional Director, is a strategic leader, always looking for best ways to help clients. She has built a high performing team. Partners describe her as an instrumental leader amongst the small business ecosystem and an integral part of the revitalization and growth of the local communities.
Minnesota
Pat Campanaro
Minnesota SBDC
2020
Pat serves a small, entirely tourist-driven community of 1,300 in far northeastern Minnesota. Her effort throughout the pandemic went far beyond her job description. Pat recognized the importance of ensuring every business – not just her clients – was aware of and utilized the opportunities available through the federal and state governments.
Minnesota
Deb McGregor
Minnesota SBDC
2021
Deb always goes above and beyond for our clients. She brings incredible energy and passion to her role as a Marketing Consultant. Her bright ideas and encouraging words were never more important than during the pandemic. She inspires all of us with her integrity, authenticity, and commitment to serve.
mississippi
Charles Templeton
Mississippi Small Business Development Center
2021
Establishing strong community engagement for our program, Charles Templeton leads the new Mississippi SBDC Center for Cybersecurity and the collaborative efforts of this center with other SBDC’s and America’s SBDC. Chip championed the Family Business Education Initiative along with his center directorship and business counseling responsibilities, all with exemplary service!
Missouri
Mike Adams
Missouri SBDC
2020
Mike Adams is passionate about his role. He has a gift for creating maps of collected impact that tell the Missouri SBDC story. His willingness to assist counselors has been felt and has helped them to better understand data. He is always willing to help others and think outside the box.
Missouri
Sally Williams
Missouri SBDC
2021
Sally Williams has a wealth of experience and Knowledge that she shares freely. She brings a deep commitment to supporting clients and has a passion for helping others. She has truly stood out during the last year and has a capacity to understand the “human element” in business.
montana
Shandy Hanks Moran
Montana SBDC
2020
The Montana SBDC Network voted for Shandy as our State Star for her exemplary work within her region and beyond. Shandy works in a large region of Montana, delivering high quality work to all corners of her widespread service area.
montana
Lori Gilliland
Montana SBDC
2021
Lori was voted the 2021 State Star by the entire core Montana SBDC Network, for her selfless service to the Montana SBDC Network throughout 2020.
nebraska
Charlie McPherson
Nebraska SBDC
2021
Charlie McPherson is an exemplary Center Director, working collaboratively with his colleagues at the Nebraska SBDC and within his network in the Mid-Plains region. Throughout the pandemic, he has seamlessly transitioned his clients to working with him virtually, continuing to provide vital and needed services to business owners in Nebraska.
Nevada
Anabel Navarro
Nevada SBDC
2020
Anabel has continually expanded her business advising and training skills. She has developed and taught training programs in English and Spanish, and promoted Nevada SBDC services via radio interviews and social media. In FY 2020, Anabel served over 270 clients and helped obtain $30.9 million in new funding for her clients.
Nevada
Caroline McIntosh
Nevada SBDC
2021
During the pandemic, Caroline assisted numerous small businesses with disaster loan funding and with shifting their business models. Caroline had $1.8 million in capital formation (300% of her goal) in rural White Pine County, population 9,580. She also helped open a record number of new businesses.
new hampshire
Heidi Edwards Dunn
New Hampshire SBDC
2020
Heidi was not only instrumental in revamping NH SBDC’s website, social media presence, newsletters, eLearning, and webinar series, but she stepped up into more of a leadership role working closely with the SD and ASD. She rose to the occasion with expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to the team’s success.
New Hampshire
Chuck Gilboy
New Hampshire SBDC
2021
Chuck came to the SBDC during a busy and complicated time – early on during the pandemic. He dove into creating and presenting hundreds of COVID-related webinars, becoming the public face of the NH SBDC. He quickly earned the trust and respect of his team for his work.
new jersey
Maria E. Torres
America's SBDC New Jersey (NJSBDC)
2020
Maria E. Torres is the backbone of our entire network. Maria has been with the NJSBDC state office for almost 30 years, working her way up from receptionist to the statewide fiscal administrator. She is diligent, efficient, hard-working, and has the respect of all who work with her.
new jersey
Jackeline Mejias-Fuertes
America's SBDC New Jersey (NJSBDC)
2021
Jackeline Mejias-Fuertes, Ph.D., is the perfect example of what a State Star should be. Always the advocate, she is consistently recognized in NJ and throughout the country for her talents, innovation, and community support, which kicked into high gear with the pandemic. The NJSBDC is lucky to have Dr. Mejias-Fuertes.
new mexico
Vicki Watson
New Mexico Small Business Development Network
2021
Ms. Vicki passed away at the end of March 2021. She was a Director that exhibited exemplary performance, not to mention she made a significant contribution to her community and showed a strong commitment to her clients.
New York
Tom Reynolds
NYSBDC
2020
Tom has consistently been a top performer for the SBDC as a business advisor since he rejoined the program in 2014. He had $20 million in impact in 2019. He is always willing to work with colleagues to assist as needed. His contacts in the community are extensive and strong.
New york
Liam McMahon
NYSBDC
2021
Liam, who has led our Technology Assistance program for a few years, had the most economic impact of any advisor in the state during 2020. He routinely works collaboratively with advisors in his center and other centers to help clients succeed. He demonstrates his commitment to small business every day.
north carolina
Robin McIntire
North Carolina SBTDC
2021
Robin serves in many leadership roles with the SBTDC. She is the current Regional Center Director at UNC Charlotte. In addition, she serves as the new Western District Director and Chair of the Continuing Professional Development Committee. Robin is a great team member and leader for the NC SBTDC.
North Dakota
Keith R. Olson
North Dakota Small Business Development Centers
2021
Keith’s success over the last 19 years with our network is built on strong relationships, quality work, and a constant drive to be better than the day before – through professional development and through sharing his expertise with our staff. He is consistently a top performer in our state.
ohio
Rob Alexander
Ohio SBDC
2020
• Co-founder of Springfield Hustles (business planning/pitch competition with $25,000 grand prize)
• Co-founder of Champion City Entrepreneurs (monthly business meetings)
• Chair, Entrepreneurship Committee of Clark County Local Foods Council
• Through county’s DJFS:
Taught leadership skills to 14-24-year-olds and developed two new 12-week programs
• Conducted COVID update seminars, including YouTube videos
Ohio
David Riggs
Ohio SBDC
2021
• Negotiated transfer of host responsibilities to Miami University Regionals
• Successful absorption of Clermont County SBDC
• Key to formation of the SW Ohio SBDC marketing collaborative
• Opened new satellite offices in Oxford, Liberty Township and Clinton County
• Upgraded Middletown branch office in size and visibility
Oklahoma
Jessica Ervin
Oklahoma SBDC Network
2020
Jessica Ervin played a vital role in developing the Oklahoma SBDC Tech Launch Center. She works with tech clients to assist them in applying for SBIR and other innovation grants. Jessica attended Tech Warrior OPS in Ohio in 2019 and is responsible for bringing the OPS event to Oklahoma.
oklahoma
Cindy Ruminer
Oklahoma SBDC Network
2021
Cindy Ruminer was responsible for converting the Oklahoma SBDC training program to an online delivery format virtually overnight when COVID-19 closed all office locations. Cindy worked with SBA, Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and SBDC Advisors to facilitate events providing rapidly changing information to clients as quickly as it became available.
oregon
Joanne Scharer
Oregon SBDC Network
2021
Joanne works as a project manager for the Oregon SBDC Network in addition to working at the Chemeketa SBDC as an adviser. Recently, Joanne helped the Network through a successful virtual accreditation review, the first in America’s SBDC history, in addition to supporting statewide communication virtually through the Connect site portal.
Pacific islands
Timothy Mamangon
Pacific Islands SBDC Network
2021
In his first year as a center director, Tim achieved his milestone goals for both core and CARES Act funding. Tim secured additional funding through an EDA grant for $1M over three years. He established key partnerships in finance, non profits, and government, to expand SBDC counseling and training.
Pennsylvania
Marcia McGavisk
Pennsylvania SBDC
2020
Marcia McGavisk co-hosted webinars on the SBA EIDL and PPP application process. She also assisted clients in the network of 16 centers across Pennsylvania to manage their information, successfully apply for and track expenses for SBA loan programs, and receive loan forgiveness.
pennsylvania
Elizabeth Hay
Pennsylvania SBDC
2021
Elizabeth Hay has been an outstanding member of the Penn State University SBDC as a business consultant with the network since December of 2019. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, she has provided valuable services to meet the needs of small business owners.
Puerto Rico
Sheila Rivera
Puerto Rico SBTDC
2020
Ms. Sheila Rivera is a high performance counselor. She has helped established businesses preparing financing proposals and marketing and business plans, among other services. She is committed to her clients, attending to their needs and exceeding their expectations. She has experience in several industries and is a loyal and dedicated employee.
Puerto rico
Madelin Colón
Puerto Rico SBTDC
2021
Ms. Madelin Colón is a high performer business consultant, exceeding her milestones and client expectations. She was recently promoted as Barranquitas SBTDC Service Center Director. Madelin really lives our values, overcomes challenges, is strongly motivated, and brings energy and passion to her clients and focus on creative business solutions.
rhode island
Alaina Capasso
Rhode Island Small Business Development Center
2020
In March 2020, Alaina developed, organized and facilitated a wildly popular weekly series (which continues today) of marketing webinars that helped panicked clients pivot quickly to remote sales and promotion. A newer employee, Alaina’s enthusiasm, positive approach and can-do attitude are a breath of fresh air — she is fantastic!
rhode island
Susan Davis
Rhode Island Small Business Development Center
2021
Sue was promoted from office administrator to business counselor working with start-ups in December 2020. During the lengthy transition, she continued to successfully juggle her many administrative responsibilities with her new business advising work. Sue is a true “multitasker,” and does her job(s) with a smile — thanks, Sue!
South carolina
Ben Calhoun
South Carolina SBDC
2020
Ben stepped into a highly rural, six-county area and transformed the services and reputation of the SCSBDC. He created multi-county partnerships with government and educational and economic development leaders that have led to highly acclaimed and innovative programs benefitting businesses and students. His can-do attitude and enthusiasm are unparalleled.
South carolina
Martin Goodman
South Carolina SBDC
2021
Martin has served the SCSBDC in consulting/management roles since 1992. He is consistently a top performer, winning many network and local awards. He has strong partnerships with lenders, university and community leaders, and he is always sought out for his expertise. His leadership and contributions to the network are vital to SCSBDC’s success.
South dakota
Belinda Engelhart
South Dakota SBDC
2021
Belinda is consistently a top performer in the South Dakota SBDC network. She led the team in Business Starts for 2020 and single-handedly exceeded our network’s Capital goal for the year. Belinda was also a very solid contributor to client consulting hours and Jobs Supported. Impressive work!
Texas
Amy Freeman
North Texas SBDC
2021
A true advocate for small business interests who promotes small business initiatives in support of the needs of her clients. She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to small businesses throughout the pandemic, resulting in businesses saved. Her stellar performance through bold and creative efforts makes her an exceptional advisor!
Texas
Huey M Lee
Northwest Texas SBDC Network
2021
Huey M Lee has been with the SBDC over 25 years, and through her demonstrated dedication and leadership talents she earned the position of Director of Special Projects. Her desire for learning and acceptance of new responsibilities without question makes her an excellent choice for this well-deserved recognition.
texas
Lisha García
South-West Texas Border SBDC Network
2020
Lisha is the 2020 winner of a network-wide, point-based competition based on client-attributed impact and dedication to the SBDC. Her certifications include CGBP, ProfitMastery instructor, and Franfit Advisor. She is known for serving women, rural and underserved clients with passion and dedication. She provides advising and training in Spanish and English.
Texas
Mark Martinez
South-West Texas Border SBDC Network
2021
Mark is the 2021 winner of a network-wide, point-based competition based on client-attributed impact and dedication to the SBDC. He holds an MS in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and is certified as a Quickbooks ProAdvisor, Lean Six SigmaGreenBelt, and is studying for SHRM-CP. He is also an entrepreneur and an adjunct professor.
texas
Charles Capers
University of Houston Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network
2020
Charles is a valuable asset to the SBDC who has demonstrated that he can meet and exceed his goals and contribute to the success of the network. He has built solid relationships with his clients, his colleagues, and partners in the community.
texas
Jim Pillans
University of Houston Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network
2021
Jim excels in his position as a director and advisor. Jim led his center to be the top performing center in the network and he personally was the top performing advisor who exceeded all his goals.
Utah
Jeff Mather
Utah SBDC Network
2021
Jeff and his center continue to exceed goals, in addition to causing positive economical impact in Southern Utah.
vermont
Debra Boudrieau
Vermont Small Business Development Center
2020
Debra was chosen as the 2020 State Star for excellence in service to her clients and colleagues. She is knowledgeable, dedicated, empathetic, passionate, and accessible. She provided timely and accurate interpretation of complex disaster loan and grant programs throughout the pandemic. Her impact has had an extraordinary ripple effect throughout the state and beyond!
Vermont
Kate Paterson
Vermont Small Business Development Center
2021
Kate has had a significant impact on the Vermont SBDC over the past year. Her responsive, engaging and supportive approach has enabled every advisor to be exponentially more effective. Kate has been instrumental in the addition of new tools, technologies and partnerships, resulting in greater organizational and client success.
Virginia
Michael D. Austin
Virginia SBDC
2021
Mike’s unsurpassed knowledge of SBA procedures and policies contributed greatly to our understanding of what was taking place in EIDL, EIDL Advance, PPP, SVOG and RRF, as well as SOAR and other lending vehicles. His expertise enabled him to distill bureaucratic language into clear, concise reads which benefited both counselor and clients.
Virgin Islands
Sherrika Industrious-Phillips
Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center
2021
Sherrika goes above and beyond to represent the Network and its services in an exemplary manner. She is a devoted staff member who goes the extra mile to ensure that our marketing, social media presence, website, etc. are professionally presented, recognized, and of the highest quality.
washington
Eric Grimstead
Washington SBDC
2020
Eric Grimstead was lauded by the State Star selection committee for his professionalism, expertise in both the art and science of business advising, and his rapport with clients. Eric joined the SBDC at Western Washington University in 2008 after nearly 20 years in small business management, marketing and financial planning.
washington
Sarah Truglio
Washington SBDC
2021
Sarah consistently receives top marks for the caliber of her work. Whether she is working with clients, with network colleagues or with other resource partners, she is always the consummate professional. If one suggestion doesn’t work, she’ll find another. The best part is, she ALWAYS responds immediately and with a smile. She is our guiding STAR!
West virginia
Sharon Stratton
West Virginia Small Business Development Center
2021
Sharon excelled during a challenging year not only at assisting existing businesses to access programs that would help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, but also at helping aspiring entrepreneurs capitalize on opportunities to launch their new businesses.
wisconsin
Michelle Somes-Booher
Wisconsin SBDC
2020
Michelle has strength, compassion, stamina and sound strategic thinking. She has the ability to work with small business owners and high-ranking university officials with equal poise and ease. Her leadership and management during the COVID crisis have kept all of her staff positive, productive and progressing.
Wisconsin
Cheryl Mitchell
Wisconsin SBDC
2021
Cheryl met all four metrics for the first time in seven years and made a lasting impact in the community, including the Mercado Project. She identified barriers and ways to work around them, and she created opportunities, collaborations and funding resources to help others. She is committed to the SBDC, her region, her staff and her clients.
Wyoming
Michael Lambert
Wyoming SBDC Network
2020
Michael Lambert is a rock star! He is instrumental to the network’s reputation for providing incredibly valuable market research. Mike is committed to supporting Wyoming entrepreneurs by providing quality results. He has done this by identifying the best tools, leading and mentoring his team of researchers, and constantly evaluating processes.
wyoming
Nicholas Giraldo
Wyoming SBDC Network
2021
Nicholas Giraldo is an exemplary performer because he cares. Nick is dependable and always ready to help a client, co-worker, or our network. His research and analysis are spot-on to the client’s situation. His reports are clear, understandable, in-depth, and provide actionable information to assist clients in strategic decisions.