Recognizing the 2025 State Star Award Winners
America's SBDC has chosen its 2025 State Star award winners, showcasing remarkable individuals who have significantly impacted the small business community. These awards are part of the prestigious network aimed at recognizing excellence within America's SBDC network.
Acknowledging Outstanding Contributions
The SBDC State Star Award is a distinguished recognition that aims to highlight individuals who have excelled in their roles within the SBDC network. Each winner is nominated by their peers, emphasizing their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in their communities. The honors will be presented during a private reception, celebrating these exemplary professionals.
Celebrating the Winners
This year’s awards mark a significant moment to honor dedicated individuals who have set benchmarks for performance. The 2025 America's SBDC State Star winners include:
Mel Washington, Alabama
Misty O'Connor, Alaska
Catherine Torres-Balauro, American Samoa
Lou Farina, Arizona
Karissa Graham, Arkansas
Dennis Murphy, Central California
Gonzalo Fernandez, Los Angeles CA
Dr. Nancy Mangold, Northern California
Jay Allis, Orange County / Inland Empire
Viridiana Rosales-Trujillo, San Diego & Imperial
Hope Hartman, Colorado
Laura Feliciano, Connecticut
Jill McAndrew, Delaware
Yahaira Hurtado, District of Columbia
Marge Cirillo, Florida
Todd Anduze, Georgia
Cynthia Yamasaki, Hawai'i
Kyle R. Guelcher, Idaho
Ian King, Illinois
Huss Sadri, Indiana
Larry Wajda, Iowa
Michelle Spriggs, Kentucky
Ada Womack-Bell, Louisiana
Christine Cole, Maine
Luis Diaz-Colorado, Maryland
Sandra Ledbetter, Massachusetts
Shannon Schwabe, Michigan
Mike Paulus, Minnesota
Anthony Cambas, Mississippi
Dr. Lance Coffman, Missouri
Rich Gannon, Montana
Kiley Phelps, Nebraska
Kelli Kelly, Nevada
Ed Miles, New Hampshire
Mark Rizzo, New Jersey
Della Bedingfield, New Mexico
Michelle Catan, New York
Lisa Ruckdeschel, North Carolina
Ashley Louw, North Dakota
Adelpha Lynn Kapileo Magofna, CNMI
Mousa Kassis, Ohio
Greg Jones, Oklahoma
Kevin Leahy, Oregon
Michael Taijeron, Jr., Pacific Islands
Aleshia Marshall, Pennsylvania
Armando Zayas, Puerto Rico
Sandra McNamara, Rhode Island
Scott Mace, South Carolina
Melissa Meidinger, South Dakota
Josh Brown, Tennessee
Amy Reid, Texas Gulf Coast
Virgel Conner, North Texas
Manzel McGhee Jr., Northwest Texas
Maricela Brown, South-West Texas
Roger Koyle, Utah
Nancy Shuttleworth, Vermont
Karen Jones, Virgin Island
Heather Fay, Virginia
Ursula Sanson, Washington
Marsa Myers, West Virginia
Stephanie Robey, Wisconsin
Devan Costa-Cargill, Wyoming
Connecting and Empowering
In an inspiring statement, Charles "Tee" Rowe, President and CEO of America's SBDC, expressed his pride in the state stars, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. According to Rowe, these individuals are more than just award recipients; they are champions of economic growth and vital resources for small business owners.
Learn More and Get Involved
To find out more about America's SBDC State Star Awards and explore the ongoing initiatives that empower small businesses, dedicated individuals are encouraged to visit the organization’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the SBDC State Star Awards?
The SBDC State Star Awards recognize outstanding individuals within the America's SBDC Network for their contributions and support of small businesses.
Who selects the State Star Award winners?
Award winners are selected by their State Directors after being nominated by their peers within the network.
Where will the award winners be honored?
The award winners will be celebrated at a private reception during the America’s SBDC Annual Training event.
Why is the SBDC important for small businesses?
The SBDC provides essential management and technical assistance, which helps entrepreneurs start, run, and grow their businesses successfully.
How can I learn more about America's SBDC?
Detailed information can be found on America's SBDC official website, where resources and support programs are available.
