OHIO’s Small Business Development Center receives several awards at statewide conference

The Ohio University Small Business Development Center (SBDC), part of the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service, received several awards at the annual Ohio SBDC Statewide Conference in November.

The OHIO Small Business Development Center team was recognized as a leader in client satisfaction and performance, receiving the Best Customer Satisfaction award for being the highest rated Center in the state with 99.1 percent of clients reporting they were highly satisfied. 

Ohio University SBDC Regional Director Lissa Jollick said the SBDC continues to exceed expectations every year and surpass impact goals provided by the Ohio Department of Development and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“At our annual conference in November, the achievements of our advisors were illuminated with our team and staff winning a stunning six awards – one team and five individual awards,” she said. “In the 19 years that I have been part of the SBDC program, I have never witnessed this level of recognition given to one center. We truly have a ‘Best of Class’ SBDC program at Ohio University.”

Alongside team acclaim, four SBDC members also received individual recognition. 

Robin Ambrozy, certified business advisor, received the Most Business Starts Award and a Peer Award for Innovation. Carleen Dotson, training manager and certified business advisor received the Spirit Award, which is an award that goes to an SBDC staff member who embodies what the SBDC program is about. Cindy Voorhies, certified business advisor, received a Peer Award for Collaboration. Don Hackney, export assistance advisor, received a Peer Award for Mentoring, in recognition of successfully launching the Ohio Export Internship Program at OHIO’s College of Business.  

Voinovich School Dean Tracy Plouck said she is proud to support the Voinovich School’s commitment to serving Appalachian communities and small businesses. 
“The Voinovich School is a key force in driving economic opportunity and prosperity in Appalachian Ohio.” Dean Plouck said. “We are proud to serve as an epicenter for regional entrepreneurial support and it is an honor to receive this recognition for our SBDC’s commitment to providing superior customer service.”

For more information about Ohio University’s SBDC and its services, visit https://sbdc.ohio.edu/.