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Honoring the 2025 SBDC State Star Award Winners

On September 2, 2025, a special reception will be held at the iconic Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, celebrating the talented individuals who have been named the State Star Award winners by America's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network. This prestigious award acknowledges exemplary individual achievements within the network, recognizing those who not only excel in their roles but significantly impact the landscape for small businesses across the country.

The State Star winners are individuals nominated by their peers and selected through a rigorous decision-making process overseen by State Directors. Their selection is based on demonstrated excellence in performance, substantial contributions to their networks, and a steadfast commitment to fostering small business success. Charles "Tee" Rowe, the President and CEO of America's SBDC, expresses pride in these winners, stating, "Our State Stars represent the best of America's SBDC Network. They are dedicated professionals who go above and beyond to help small businesses succeed. Their exceptional performance and unwavering commitment to entrepreneurial growth make them true champions of economic development in their communities."

2025 State Star Awardees

The recipients of the 2025 America's SBDC State Star Awards include a diverse group of individuals from across the nation:

• - 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 Islands
• - Heather Fay, Virginia
• - Ursula Sanson, Washington
• - Marsa Myers, West Virginia
• - Stephanie Robey, Wisconsin
• - Devan Costa-Cargill, Wyoming

These individuals exemplify dedication and service to their respective communities and small businesses, which lie at the heart of the American economy.

As America's SBDC continues to support small business owners through its extensive network of professionals and resources, the annual conference not only serves as a platform to celebrate this achievement but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and community in fostering economic growth. For further details about the SBDC State Star Awards and conference, visit americassbdc.org/state-stars-2025.

In summary, the America's SBDC State Star Award is a prestigious recognition that honors Unsung Heroes in the small business landscape. By acknowledging their contributions, we are reminded of the vital role they play in the nation's economic fabric and the success of local enterprises. Their stories inspire excellence, encouraging others to pursue their aspirations in the world of small businesses.