The Women’s Business Center (WBC) at Cornerstone Alliance this week hosted its ELEVATE Entrepreneurship event, celebrating the accomplishments of local entrepreneurs and the inaugural graduates of the Business Plan Certified small business certification program.
The eight-month program prepares entrepreneurs to successfully launch and scale their ventures by providing comprehensive training, strategic guidance, and capital-ready business plans.
The Business Plan Certified “Class of 2025” graduates include:
- Tracy Ann Bullocks
- Ethel Clark-Griffin
- Magdana Gedeon
- Terry Gilson
- Wilvia Danette Green
- Tieasha Henry
- Oalliyah Hornes
- Shannon Jennings
- Emily Onken
- Angie Novak
- Jennifer Popielski
- Marci Taylor
- Nancy Welch
- Karissa White
- Chandra Williams
- Juelz Zwolinski
“The Women’s Business Center’s first Business Plan Certified cohort was exceptional. These entrepreneurs demonstrated remarkable commitment to learning, supported one another throughout the process, and all graduated prepared to launch or expand their businesses,” said Brandy Jaquez, Managing Director of the WBC. “We are proud of their accomplishments and the contributions they will make to strengthening our community.”
As the capstone to the program, participants presented their business plans to a panel of local investors, receiving constructive feedback and evaluation. One graduate was recognized as valedictorian for outstanding participation and achievement.
“Angie Novak, founder of Straight from the Lake Jewelry, was selected as the class valedictorian for her strong engagement and well-developed business plan,” said Jaquez. “Her creative approach and proven customer demand position her business for growth. To support her expansion into wholesale, we were delighted to present her with a $2,500 cash award.”
The next Business Plan Certified cohort will begin in January 2026. Enrollment will open later this year. For more information, email wbc@cstonealliance.org or visit www.cornerstonewbc.com.
Headline Photo: Marla Schneider, President & CEO of Cornerstone Alliance, presents a check to Valedictorian Angie Novak of Straight from the Lake.
