Rogue Valley SBDC Outreach Center

How do your colleagues describe you?

“Fun, attempts to be funny, highly productive and driving at times, likes to joke around, bring cookies and homemade stuff to work, loves to get involved in way too many things — loves to serve the community and has a passion for small businesses.”

Why do you do what you do?

I grew up in a small business, owned a small business for 24 years, and strongly believe that small businesses are the lifeblood of all communities. I have a passion for helping small businesses survive and thrive, and I love sharing my skills to make this happen.

Bio:

How do your colleagues describe you?

Kenny is the Rogue Valley SBDC’s rural economic development eyes and ears.

Why do you do what you do?

The rural areas of Josephine County are unique. Economic and community development go hand in hand. My focus is to support people with an existing business or interested in starting a new one with the opportunities and needed resources for sustained success.

Bio:

Kenny has over 30 years’ experience as a sole proprietor and owner of a variety of small businesses. He is active in rural Josephine County and has been project manager for several community development projects. Coordinating with many different organizations, Kenny works to support responsible and sustainable economic development. Equally comfortable in both the public and private sectors, Kenny brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the SBDC.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Karen has been an SBDC business adviser and instructor in Josephine County since 2018. She advises on all stages and operational needs of a business. In addition, she has extensive experience in leadership roles in for-profit, public, and non-profit organizations. She holds a doctorate degree in organization and leadership and has completed programs in executive coaching and project and change management.

Karen enjoys sharing her broad range of business knowledge and experience to help local owners align business, finance, and human resources strategies and goals to ensure success. She has additional expertise in helping owners recruit and retain a productive workforce.