June 28, 2011 | WMU News
Davis, regional director of the MI-SBTDC for Southwest Michigan since 2009, was chosen by the MI-SBTDC for being an outstanding performer, making major strides in developing the program in the region and showing a strong commitment to small business in Michigan.
"I am honored to have the opportunity to recognize Tamara Davis for her extraordinary work in serving Michigan's entrepreneurs and small business owners," says Carol Lopucki, MI-SBTDC state director. "Tamara possesses tremendous business acumen, leadership skills and peer respect. She contributes in a dynamic way to the SBTDC network at large."
Davis brings an extensive academic background to her role with the MI-SBTDC as well as practical business experience from both the private and public sectors. As regional director, she has increased the visibility and awareness of the center throughout Southwest Michigan.
She has served on committees, engaged with regional partners and spoken at regional events to promote the awareness of the MI-SBTDC services. The Southwest Michigan region served more than 350 clients in 2010 with a satisfaction rate of 96.8 percent. Its regional clients created 153 new jobs in 2010 and increased capital formation 14 percent to over $16 million.
Davis accepted the award at a special reception during the 2011 MI-SBTDC network conference in Traverse City.
Davis earned her bachelor's degree from the Haworth College of Business in 1988 with a concentration in advertising and marketing. She earned her MBA from WMU in 1999. After many years in advertising, she joined the Vermont Secretary of Administration's office under then-Gov. Howard Dean.
Upon returning to Michigan, Davis joined Kalamazoo College, serving in various capacities, including director of operations of the Stryker Center. She served as project manager of the economic development group regional EDGE and as a MI-SBTDC business consultant. In 2003, she joined Davenport University as the department coordinator of the Management, Marketing and Legal departments for the Battle Creek, Holland and Kalamazoo Davenport University locations, serving in that capacity until taking her current position.
The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center provides counseling, training and market research for Michigan's new business ventures, existing small businesses, expanding new businesses, new technology companies and innovators.
The Southwest Michigan MI-SBTDC regional office is located at Western Michigan University in the Haworth College of Business. Entrepreneurs and small business owners may access the services of the Southwest Michigan MI-SBTDC office by visiting misbtdc.org or calling (269) 387-6004.
For more information, contact Valorie Juergens at valorie.juergens@wmich.edu or (269) 387-5964.
