Umpqua SBDC

How do your colleagues describe you?

"He likes to get things done! And, he's a bit eclectic given he's into woodworking, skiing, whitewater kayaking, cooking, landscape design, international travel, reading and even performing on the pipe organ."

Why do you do what you do?

Having traveled extensively, I believe that the true character of a community can be defined by its local and small businesses. Through the SBDC, I love being able to help someone take their great idea, an amazing recipe or new product and turn it into something meaningful for themselves and others. Together, we all benefit.

Bio:

Holding an MS ED degree from University of Oregon, Christopher spent many years in higher education administration before venturing out into the world of small business ownership. Alongside his professional career, he has served on a number of not-for-profit boards as a way to become more fully involved in the communities in which he's lived. Christopher's extensive international travelling experience, including both working and living abroad, helps foster his appreciation for working with people from widely different backgrounds and experiences. Christopher's professional interests include constant process improvement, continuing education, policy making and business operations.

How do your colleagues describe you?

"Someone who truly cares and wants the best for all involved."

Why do you do what you do?

"I work for the SBDC because I am so blessed to have learned so much over almost 22 years and I want to give back to anyone who is willing to work hard for what they believe in."

Bio:

Diane advises businesses in the areas of start-ups, expansion, acquisitions, operational planning and marketing. She holds degrees in business administration, education and hospitality management and is the owner of a fruit and vegetable wash company. Diane also created and is an instructor for a Business Academy for Umpqua Valley Christian High School.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Innovative, energetic and knowledgeable in social media, marketing and IT solutions.

Why do you do what you do?

The internet is like the wild west, eventually it'll be a thriving environment for economic growth, but first it needs to be refined and made usable by all. My goal is to lower the barriers to entry to online business success by demystifying the internet and how it works in relation to your business. Students will leave my class with a better fundamental understanding of the internet and it's potential.

Bio:

Justin Deedon is a UCC alumni who dedicates his entrepreneurial endeavors to bringing the full power of technology to Douglas County. He has worked on projects from data center development to low-cost IT support solutions for those in need. He continues his dedication to this cause by assisting SBDC clients in the areas of online marketing presence and system developments to demystify the difficult field of technology.

How do your colleagues describe you?

"She has lots of experience and is willing to help."

Why do you do what you do?

"It's so rewarding to see the light bulb moments when small business owners understand the importance of bookkeeping. When they run financial reports and can track their progress, I feel a sense of accomplishment."

Bio:

Gale has been an SBDC adviser for more than 23 years. She also runs workshops throughout the year on QuickBooks.

How do your colleagues describe you?

"Doug brings a wealth of experience to the advising role, adding a dash of good humor and quick wit on the side to keep things exciting."

Why do you do what you do?

I enjoy helping others and I really like to see people succeed. I always tell my kids to listen to me about the things I have learned and the mistakes I have made. If they do that, their progress may be faster and easier. While they may still make their own mistakes, this is sometimes how we learn best.

Bio:

Doug has over 35 years of experience managing people: 10 years were with a major corporation and 25 years were spent operating a restaurant franchise. He started with one unit and expanded to seven over time.

He also has bought, sold, and managed, real estate for over 45 years.