SU’s Campbell chosen state business development “star”
Southern University's Will M. Campbell, Jr., has been selected as 2013 "Louisiana's State Star" by the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC).
Campbell, director at LSBDC at Southern, was honored recently during a private awards reception in Orlando, held in conjunction with the 33rd America's Small Business Development Center Network (ASBDC) Annual Conference. He is among 63 "stars" chosen nationwide.
"I am very honored to receive this award and humbly grateful to have the opportunity to serve the small business community," said Campbell. "This award would not have been possible without the support of our clients, the SBA [U.S. Small Business Administration], LED [Louisiana Economic Development], the City of Baton Rouge, our great staff and my family."
Campbell was chosen for being an exemplary performer, making significant contributions to the LSBDC program, and showing a strong commitment to small businesses in the state.
"Will has been a tremendous asset to the LSBDC network. He is a dynamic leader who is passionate about small businesses and the community," said Rande Kessler, LSBDC State Director.
Under Campbell's leadership, the LSBDC at Southern University has grown to become one of the top producing centers in the state. Over the last three years, Campbell and his team have started more than 47 small businesses helping them access more than $33 million in capital, creating 319 new jobs and saving 89.
"Mr. Campbell hit the ground running and unlike some other runners, he knows in which direction to run," said Donald Andrews, dean of Southern's College of Business. "As director of the LSBDC at Southern University, he has made major progress in moving the center in the direction needed to enhance the business potential and impact on our service area."
Earlier this year, Campbell was a recipient of the prestigious LSBDC "Three Million Dollar" award which recognizes recipients for helping their clients secure three million plus dollars in loans, equity, and other capital. Campbell won the award for the 2nd consecutive year.
As director, Campbell works with small business owners to provide counseling, training, and technical assistance in all aspects of business management. Campbell also works closely with local, state and federal officials to assist with regional economic development efforts.