Kim Jenkins has worked with the SBDC for 18 years. She has additional experience in human resources with Columbia Gas Transmission and has previously owned and operated her own gift shop. Kim has a B.S. in business administration from Berea College; a masters of business education from Morehead State University and is a Certified Business Advisor (C.B.A.) from The University of Toledo. She was recognized in 2000 as the Sutton Landry State Star and again in 2008 with the Distinguished Staff Service Award at Morehead State University. Kim is active in her community, serving as vice president of People Helping People, Inc. and participates with the Ashland Alliance. When not at work, Kim enjoys participating in church activities, traveling and playing board games with family and friends.

Peggie Ervin has worked with the KSBDC for 5 years. Peggie has additional work experience in general management, assessment coordinator, child care supervisor, geriatric nursing, bookkeeping and customer service. She is an active member of the Chamber of Commerce, her church and a Boy Scout troop. When not at work, Peggie enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren, her 90 year-old mother and her soul mate, Troy.

Miller Slaughter has been with the Western Kentucky University SBDC in October 2011. Miller brings more than 30 years experience in marketing and general management, primarily with consumer packaged goods brands where he was responsible for advertising, promotions, new product development, market research and financials. In addition, Miller spent six years in economic development with the State of Kentucky and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. Miller has a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Kentucky and a Masters of Management from Northwestern University. When not at work, Miller serves as a fellow in the Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute and enjoys spending time with family.

Chris Bixler has been with the Western Kentucky University SBDC since 2006. Before joining the SBDC, Chris worked in education administration. Chris has a B.A. and M.A. from Western Kentucky University and is actively involved with the Chamber and Housing Authority of Bowling Green. When not at work, Chris enjoys reading, yard work and spending time with family and friends.

Matt Whitaker has worked with the Western Kentucky University SBDC for the past two and a half years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Matt owned and managed an online business. Matt is graduated Cum Laude from Western Kentucky University. When not at work, Matt enjoys photography, rooting for the Lakers, restoring furniture, listening to new music and playing with his dog.

Patricia Krausman has been with the KSBDC for 18 years where she has provided business management consulting and training. She also serves as the statewide program manager for the KSBDC Veterans Assistance Program. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Patricia worked to support small businesses in both the for-profit and nonprofit arena, working for Metro United Way, Safeguard Business Systems and others. She has served on many local, state and national committees and task forces related to small business and entrepreneurship. Patricia has helped develop and coordinate several statewide initiatives, including KSBDC programs for veterans, agricultural diversification and advanced professional development for the network. Patricia has a B.A. in business administration from McKendree College and an M.B.A. from Embry Riddle University. Patricia is a four-time recipient of the Million Dollar Loan Club, National Runner-up in the Bank of America Client Success Competition, UK College of Business Judy Haywood Valuable Staffer Award and the KSBDC Sutton Landry State Star Award. When not at work, Patricia enjoys cooking, decorating, reading and travel.

Steve Heil has worked with the University of Kentucky SBDC for more than one year. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Steve spent seven years as District Executive with the Boy Scouts of America and 20 years in the manufacturing industry, 15 years of which were spent as plant manager. Steve has a B.A. in forestry from the University of Kentucky. Steve is extremely involved in his community and currently serves as the District Chair for the eight county Old Kentucky Home District, advisor to Venture Crew 147 in Bardstown, board member and Chair of Finance for Bethlehem High school in Bardstown, and is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men’s fraternal organization. Steve has also been involved with the Boy Scouts of America for 41 years. When not at work, Steve and his wife enjoy high adventure actives with their Venture Crew, hiking, and spending time with their children, who are sophomores at EKU and UK.

Dana Price has worked with the University of Kentucky SBDC for one year. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Dana served as training coordinator in disaster preparedness. Dana has a B.S. in public relations, with a double minor in marketing and sports management from Campbellsville University. When not at work, Dana enjoys boating with her family and friends, wakeboarding, coaching high school softball, fitness and cheering on all University of Kentucky athletics.

 David Hunter joined the Murray State SBDC July 2012. He has more than 20 years of financial services background working with Farm Credit Services, USDA and Commercial banks. David brings perspectives, as a lender, a loan underwriter and a business owner. David has a B.S. in Agriculture Economics from the University of Kentucky. When not at work, you can find him working on the family farm or spending time with his wife, two children and two grandsons.

Gail Scillian has worked with the Hopkinsville SBDC for more than eight years. When not at work, Gail enjoys canoeing and camping with her husband and having friends and family over for food and fun.

Shirie Hawkins has been with the Bluegrass SBDC for more than 5 years. Shirie brings more than 10 years business and banking development experience including development of mutually beneficial partnerships with area businesses and educational institutions, as well as training and consultation for entrepreneurs and first-time homeowners. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and an active member of the Bluegrass Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Fausto Sarmiento has been with the Bluegrass SBDC since May 2012. Fausto is an experienced management professional with more than five successful years providing banking solutions through a consultative business-to-business sales program that incorporated commercial and retail loan production and business development. Fausto uses his consulting skills to make immediate, positive contributions to organizations where production and innovation are essential for growth. Fausto holds a Bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Georgia and a Master’s in Diplomacy and International Commerce from the Patterson School at the University of Kentucky. In 2008 he was selected as a Top 40 Under 40 Business Leader and received the Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia’s Residential Banker of the Year Award. In 2005, Fausto received the First American Bank and Trust’s Quality Service Award. When not at work, Fausto enjoys participating in community events and training in the martial art styles of capoeira and Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Sean Moore has worked with the KSBDC for 5 years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Sean served as head of marketing and promotion for a small media group, executive director for a Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Development Council and general manager of a retail sporting goods chain, all in the state of Florida. Sean most enjoyed the training element of his previous jobs and today brings that love to the KSBDC through seminars on a variety of topics of value to both the small business owner or to a full corporate organization. Sean is currently pursuing a degree in Human Resources with a focus on Team Management at the University of Louisville. When not at work, Sean ‘lives and breathes Red Sox baseball.’ He and his wife have three cats and two dogs who keep them more than busy.

Jay Houston joined the Bluegrass SBDC in 2011. Jay has more than 30 years experience in strategic planning and marketing. Before joining the KSBDC, Jay was a serial entrepreneur, having started and managed half-a-dozen successful small businesses of his own. His specialties are: niche marketing, Internet marketing, product development, distribution network development, negotiations and organizational planning. Jay is a former United States Air Force officer and aviator whose specialty was in tactical and strategic planning. He has a B.S. in organizational management from Colorado Christian University. When not at work, Jay enjoys spending time with his family, writing and hunting in his home state of Colorado. He is the author of six top-selling books.

Becky Jo Marefat has worked with the Bluegrass SBDC for less than a year. Currently Becky manages a family business which has previously utilized KSBDC services. Prior to this, Becky has worked as a bookkeeper and paid tax preparer, taught technology at the elementary level and spent 15 years as Data Processing Manager for a Kentucky-based retail company. She has an A.D. in business management and is certified in Quickbooks. Becky remains active in her community, volunteering with the United Way of Bluegrass and serving as a volunteer tax preparer. When not at work, Becky enjoys boating and spending time with her family and friends.

Becky Naugle has worked with the KSBDC for 13 years. Becky grew up working in a family-owned small business and owned her own business for 10 years. She has also served as director of a community leadership program. A graduate of Indiana University, Becky holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s and Ph.D. in instructional systems technology. She has received the SBA Community Leadership Award. Becky remains active in her community, serving as a member of Kiwanis and volunteering the Madison Humane Society. When not at work, Becky enjoys cooking, gardening, pets and watching the Big Bang Theory. She has one husband and one son and is “very proud of them both!”

Gordon Garrett has worked with the KSBDC for more than five years. Gordon has 25+ years of experience starting and growing technology companies. He has a B.S. in computer science, a Business B.B.A. in business and an M.B.A. with I.T. emphasis. In 2010 Gordon was recognized as the Sutton Landry State Star and has been inducted into the Million Dollar Loan Club, a distinction honoring KSBDC consultants who have secured more than $1 million in loans. Gordon is active in his community, participating with the YMCA of Central Kentucky and the Rotary Club. When not at work, Gordon enjoys cycling and spending time with family at his cabin on Lake Superior.

David Stevens has worked with the KSBDC For more than 22 years. David has a B.S. in accounting from the University of Kentucky. When not at work, David enjoys playing guitar and bass, fishing, hunting, camping, motorcycling and boating.

Dee Dee Harbut has worked with the KSBDC for 10 years. Pior to joining the KSBDC, Dee Dee served as district manager for Automatic Data Processing, where she was responsible for assisting small businesses in the area of taxes, payroll and human resources; merchandise manager for KY Textiles and principal buyer for the Lexington Mercantile Department Stores. Dee Dee has an M.B.A. from Eastern Kentucky University. In 2007 Dee Dee was recognized along with 16 others for her contributions to the University of Kentucky. She has been recognized with the Star Award by the Workforce Development Cabinet’s Vocational Rehabilitation for her assistance with disabled businesses. In January 2008, Harbut received the Supplier Diversity Advocate Award from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council-Southeast. In 2009 she was also selected as the Sutton Landry State Star. Dee Dee currently chairs the Governor’s Minority Employment, Business Affairs & Economic Development Council and serves as a Commissioner on the Lexington-Fayette County Parking Authority Board. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority – Beta Gamma Omega. When not at work, Dee Dee enjoys exercising, walking and spending time with family and friends.

Marge Berge has worked with the KSBDC for 28 years. She spent three years as administrative staff for the Western Kentucky University SBDC, 16 years as administrative staff and communications coordinator for the Bluegrass SBDC and then nine years as MIS manager for Central Office. Marge has completed Microsoft and vendor computer software training, along with KSBDC professional development activities. She is the recipient of the Sutton Landry State Star award. When not at work, Marge enjoys reading, attending her grandchildren’s activities and gardening.

Sarah Magargee-Hineman has worked with the KSBDC for more than one year. Prior to joining the KSBDC, she worked in marketing with the University of Kentucky’s Office for Commercialization & Economic Development and as marketing specialist and editor for EBSCO Industries international headquarters. Sarah has extensive media experience, having worked as an editor at a daily newspaper in Florida and a general assignment report for various publications in Alabama. A graduate of the University of Alabama, Sarah has a B.A. in journalisms with emphasis in community journalism and photography. She has received numerous awards for news reporting and one first place award for news photography. When not at work, Sarah enjoys cooking and baking, exercising, working with her husband on home renovations and playing with their four cats.

Kevin Norvell has worked with the KSBDC for four years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Kevin served as director of entrepreneurial development for East Kentucky Corporation, a regional economic development organization. He has also co-founded and operated several small businesses in the information technology and consumer electronics industries. A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Kevin holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration and a Master’s in Business Administration. Kevin has been inducted into the Million Dollar Loan Club, a distinction honoring KSBDC consultants who have secured more than $1 million in loans and is a member of the Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. When not at work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, volunteering in his church and coaching youth sports.

Stephanie Guy has worked with the KSBDC for less than one year. She has experience in customer service, information technology and Web site design. Stephanie has received a MCSE Microsoft Certified Engineer Certificate from Sullivan University and is currently studying management and information design. She has also received several customer service awards through previous employers. When not at work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her five year-old watching Disney movies, coloring in her daughters many coloring books and tackling large jigsaw puzzles.

Dave Oetken has worked with the KSBDC since 2011. Dave began his business career in the sports/entertainment industry, primarily in ice skating and ice hockey. He has owned and managed three ice rinks and earned the Manager of the Year award from the Ice Skating Institute of America. In addition, Dave was operations manager for several professional ice hockey teams in both the East Coast Hockey League and the American Hockey League. He has also owned, operated and sold several businesses in the food industry. From there he moved into the restaurant field, owning and operating a number of franchise concepts. Since 2005 he has owned Louisville News company, one of the largest distributors of thoroughbred horse publications in the eastern United States. David has a B.A. and M.B.A. from Bellarmine University. He remains active in his community, serving as a SCORE volunteer since 2003 and is a past vice chair for GLI’s Small Business Innovation Committee

Toni Cardell has worked with the Louisville SBDC for five years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, she served as project director for the Louisville Minority Business Development Center and housing director for Sullivan University. Toni holds and M.B.A. and a B.A. in English, both from the University of Louisville. She is a twice recipient of the Million Dollar Loan Club, a distinction honoring KSBDC consultants who have secured more than $1 million in loans. Toni is active in her community and volunteers with Middle School Connection and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana. When not at work, Toni enjoys reading, volunteering, exercising and attending plays and sporting events.

Janet Flaugh has worked with the Louisville SBDC for five years. Before joining the KSBDC she served as director of volunteer services for the Kentucky Center for the Arts. Janet has a B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University. She is active in her community, serving as a volunteer for the Floyd County Animal Rescue League. When not at work, Janet enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking/rafting and nature photography.

Sam Coleman has worked with the Southeast SBDC for 11 years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Sam served as an officer in the United State Marine Corp., a territory manager for Mobile Oil and marketing representative for Exxon Mobile Oil Corporation. A graduate of Tennessee Wesleyan College, Sam has a B.S. in behavioral science. In 2010 Sam was inducted into the KSBDC’s Million Dollar Loan Club, a distinction honoring KSBDC consultants who have secured more than $1 million in loans. Sam remains involved in his community, serving as commissioner for the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, commissioner for the Kentucky African America Heritage Commission and board member for the Tri-Cities Heritage Development Corporation. When not at work, Sam enjoys playing with this granddaughter, gardening, officiating basketball games and playing golf.

Gabrielle Wright has worked with the Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College SBDC for two years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in education and is a volunteer at the G.E.D. center in Knox County, Kentucky. When not at work, Gabrielle enjoys spending time with her children.

Mark Murphy has been with the Morehead State University SBDC since April 2010. Prior to joining the SBDC, he spent nine years as finance manager for a car dealership, four years as an indirect loan officer for a bank and two years in coal mining. Mark has also owned two of his own businesses, a trucking business and an ATV aftermarket products company. Mark has a B.B.A. in Marketing from Morehead State University and is currently working towards an M.B.A.. Mark has been awarded the 2011 TENECO Partnership Award from the 2011 Morehead/Rowan County Chamber Leadership Class, of which he is an active member. When not at work, Mark enjoys spending times with family and friends, working on his Corvette and going to NASCAR races.

Sue Harris has been with the Morehead State University SBDC for more than one year. Prior to joining the SBDC, she spent 35 years working in music and adult education at Morehead State University. Sue has also owned and managed her own business, Abundant Treasures Antique Store, for three years. She has an Associates of Arts degree from Morehead State University and dedicates time volunteering with the Morehead Chamber of Commerce, Morehead First Church of God and the Painted Hills Garden Club. When not at work, Sue enjoys gardening both edibles and flowers, making quilts, visiting antique shops and spending time with her grandchildren, family and friends.

Chris Wooldridge joined the Murray SBDC three years ago after having spent 20 years in financial services. Chris is a graduate of Murray State University, the Kentucky School of Banking and the Kentucky School of Insurance. Chris is active in his community, serving as president of Murray Main Street and is a member of Rotarian, Community Development Committee and Kentucky Association of Development. When not at work, Chris enjoys spending time with his family.

John Mitchell joined the Murray SBDC in July of 2012.  He has more than 25 years in leadership roles with GE Appliances and Pella Corporation.  As Division President and Chief Operating Officer for Pella, he led the start up of a new division to manufacture and market a radically new product line.  The new venture achieved more than $20 million in sales in only three years.  As Vice President of Engineering and Quality for Pella, he led the invention of a patented process to make a low-cost, industry leading fiberglass material.  Leadership roles at GE include productivity, product design, product testing, electronics, global sourcing, and manufacturing.  He spent two years living and working in Great Britain with GE. Teams he has lead have included full division staff, up to 40 engineering professionals, and over 600 hourly workers.  He became an expert in Six Sigma at GE and in Lean Manufacturing at Pella.  John has a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Louisville.  He holds two patents and has published six papers.  Most recently, he has consulted with businesses and non-profit organizations to help them through strategic planning, process improvements, and website development.  John grew up in Louisville and has lived in Murray since 2002.  When not at work, John enjoys photography, cycling, computers, home improvement, and boating.

Tamela Hayton joined the Murray Small Business Development Center in July 2012. She is a graduate of Murray State University and holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Business Administration.  She is currently working towards a second Master’s Degree in Public Administration. When not at work, Tamela enjoys crafting, attending Nashville Predator’s hockey games and spending time with family and friends.

Lois Decker has worked with the Owensboro SBDC for 15 years and has more than 29 years experience in the business field. Lois’ goal at the KSBDC is to assist companies in controlling costs, promoting efficiency and streamlining operations. She has owned her own financial consulting company and has additional work experience in the utility industry and they mortgage banking community. A graduate of Brescia University, Lois has a B.S. in accounting and graduated Cum Laude. Lois is active in her community, serving as an OCHS “band mom,” a Chamber member, Loudes Committee member, past PTO president (7 years), past PTO treasurer (3 years), and has served on several school and church committees. When not at work, Lois enjoys spending time with her children and attending their games and competitions, cheering them on all the way.

Tricia Hudson has worked with the KSBDC for 23 years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Tricia worked as a student secretary for the engineering department at General Electric and as an assistant to several attorneys. Tricia has an A.D. in Legal Secretarial Administration. When not at work, Tricia enjoys spending time with her family.

Michelle Spriggs has worked with the Paintsville SBDC for three years. Michelle brings more than 11 years experience in nursing home administrative accounts receivable billing, Medicare and Medicaid billing, private party billing, government compliance, human resources and patient care. Prior to this nursing home experience, Michelle managed a fast food business where she was responsible for daily operations, management of employees and cash flow. Michelle has a B.A. in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship and is currently perusing an M.B.A. from Morehead State University. Michelle remains active in her community, serving as Johnson County Relay for Life Committee Chair Person since 1998, member of the Rotary Club since 2009 and Johnson County Women’s Chamber of Commerce Board Member since 2011. When not at work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family camping, traveling, barbequing, volunteering and enjoying the simple things in life.

Mike Morley has worked with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center for 25 years. He has previous experience in sales, retail and mining and holds an M.B.A. In 2001 Morley received the Sutton Landry State Star Award and in 2006 he was recognized with the Extraordinary Achievement by a Center award. In 2010 Morley was inducted into the KSBDC Million Dollar Loan Club, a distinction honoring KSBDC consultants who have secured more than $1 million in loans. When not at work, Morley enjoys gardening, playing bluegrass music and boating.

Linda Casebolt has worked with the Pikeville Small Business Development Center for 22 years. She has previous work experience in manufacturing, food service and office management and has continued her education through classes at Morehead State University. When not at work, Linda enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, fishing, traveling and working in her flower garden.

Michael Rodriguez has been with the EKU SBDC for nearly four years. Prior to joining the KSBDC, Michael worked for more than 10 years in healthcare management, including tenure with long-term care, hospital, wound care clinics and community mental health agencies. In addition, Michael owned his own business, a Subway franchise, for three-and-a-half years. Michael has an M.B.A. from Morehead State University and is a twice recipient of the Million Dollar Loan Club award. He is active in his community and is a member of Delta Mu Delta; an affiliate member of American College of Healthcare Executives; a former board president of Big Sandy Healthcare, Inc. and is involved with various local Chambers of Commerce and other economic development organizations. When not at work, Michael enjoys browsing the Internet, traveling, playing video games and walking.

John Preston has worked with the KSBDC for 12 years. John has 18 years experience as Vice President of Lending, Commercial Loan Officer and Branch Administrator and has also owned and operated an independent insurance agency. He holds a B.S. in accounting from the University of Kentucky School of Banking. In 2011, John was the recipient of the Sutton Landry State Star Award. John is an active member of the Somerset Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce. While not at work, John enjoys golfing, traveling to national parks and spending time with his grandchildren.