Troy University has a new star in its midst as Sandra Lucas has been selected as the 2004 State Star of the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network. Lucas, senior consultant for the Troy University Small Business Development Center (SBDC), is an alumna of the University. She has worked for the Sorrell College of Business since 1984.

“Sandra is a truly exceptional person and is truly deserving of this recognition,” said Janet Kervin, Director of the Troy University Small Business Development Center. “She is a team player and a great friend. We are all very fortunate to be able to work with her.”

The Alabama Small Business Development Center is a nationwide partnership uniting private enterprise, government, higher education and local nonprofit economic development organizations. The SBDC also provides management and technical assistance to help Americans start, run and grow their own businesses.

“I am pleased to make this announcement, and to recognize Sandra for extraordinary contributions to the work of the Troy University SBDC and small business in Alabama,” said Bill Campbell, Director of the Alabama SBDC. Lucas was presented the award at a recent Small Business Administration convention in New Orleans. She was chosen by the Alabama SBDC for being an exemplary performer making a significant contribution to the SBDC program, and showing a strong commitment to small business in southeast Alabama.

“It is an honor to accept this award and to have the opportunity to help so many people achieve the dream of starting and succeeding in their own business,” Lucas said. Lucas gained most of her knowledge and understanding about business and consumer behavior through personal experience. She was a buyer for Gayfer’s department store for six years and owned and operated her own day-care. She also has experience in property management overseeing a sizeable apartment complex. “Her personal experiences and her formal education make her uniquely qualified to assist aspiring and existing small businesses,” Kervin said.

Lucas, a native of Lafayette, earned her bachelor’s degree in 1971 and a master’s degree in 1995, both at Troy University. Lucas is a SBDC certified business counselor and a certified NxLeveL instructor and is also an instructor of business communications, management and marketing. Besides working with the Small Business Development Center, Lucas is a member of the Southeastern Area Small Business Council, the Small Business Directors Association in Region IV and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

Photo ID (Left to right) – Bill Senn, Divisional Sales Manager, Sam’s Club, sponsor of the ASBDC State Star Reception, Scott Daugherty, ASBDC Board Chair and State Director, North Carolina Small Business Technology Development Center; Mrs. Lucas; Bill Campbell, Alabama SBDC State Director; far right, Antonio Doss, Associate Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Small Business Development Centers.