The WestStar mission is to identify, encourage and equip community-minded people who want to become more involved, want to help West Tennessee become a better place, and are willing to accept assertive and dynamic leadership roles. Participants learn new leadership skills and develop strategies for assisting communities in solving problems and maximizing potential. Participants also become part of a growing network of other leaders who, through mutual support and assistance, shape the future of West Tennessee.
Two of our TSBDC network members recently received the prestigious honor of becoming Alumni of WestStar Leadership. On June 19, 2014, Maleia Evans and Landy Fuqua, Directors of the DSCC and UTM SBDCs respectively, graduated as members of the WestStar Class of 2014. For seven rigorous months, Evans and Fuqua have been participating in two-day sessions across West TN, learning intricate facets of economic development, small business development, and community leadership. The WestStar program is highly competitive, from an admissions standpoint. Members of the WestStar program are hand-selected to apply and then are chosen by the Board of Trustees. In order to apply, one must be recognized in their community as a proven leader with potential for making great things happen in West TN.
Pictured here are both Evans and Fuqua, with their loved-ones, at the graduation ceremony. Many congratulations are in order to these two TSBDC family-members! It is truly is an honor to carry the WestStar Lifetime Membership Alumni status.
Landy Fuqua, WestStar Class of 2014
Pictured with her husband, Bill
Maleia Evans, WestStar Class of 2014
Pictured with her husband, Anthony and Daughter, Marilauren