This energizing, one-day summit is centered on empowering those in business - whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or corporate leader. This event offers expert-led sessions on marketing, AI tools, funding strategies, HR essentials, lead generation, finance, and more, tailored to the real-world challenges and opportunities faced in today’s business landscape.
Learn from seasoned professionals and innovative thinkers who’ve built and scaled businesses from the ground up. Walk away with actionable strategies, practical tools, and a vibrant network of professionals committed to growth and leadership.
Register now and reserve your spot!
This event is open to everyone interested in learning about entrepreneurship regardless of sex.
Thursday, November 6, 2025
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
We would like to thank State Farm for their generous support of this program.
Alyssa Foskey serves as the Area Director for the UGA Small Business Development Center at Valdosta State University. She joined the Valdosta team in 2019 with 20+ years of customer service experience, 15+ years teaching in higher education, and 11+ years of contract training that includes customization and instruction in business management.
Additionally, Alyssa has specialized knowledge of the childcare industry and is active with the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning and other childcare organizations. She also has a knowledge base in logistics and transportation from her sales experience in the freight industry.
Panelist. Tommie Beth Willis, South Georgia Director of ACE – Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs, was born and raised in Colquitt County and resides in Moultrie, GA. Prior to joining ACE, she served as President/CEO of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce from 2016-2023. In addition to her work in community development, Willis has 30+ years of marketing experience and 20 years of business management experience. Tommie Beth serves on the Boys & Girls Club Moultrie-Colquitt County Board of Directors, Southern Regional Technical College Marketing Program Advisory Committee, and represents Colquitt County on the Southwest Georgia Workforce Development Board. She is also an Alumni of South Georgia LEADS and the South Georgia Women's Leadership Initiative.
Stephanie Stuckey is Chair of Stuckey's Corporation, known to generations of travelers as a roadside oasis. She received both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Georgia. Stephanie has worked as a trial lawyer, served 14 years as a state representative, and was Director of Sustainability for the City of Atlanta before purchasing Stuckey's in 2019. Along with her partners, Stephanie is reviving her family's business as a pecan snack and candy brand. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys road tripping across America in search of the World's Largest Ball of Twine.
Andrea Collins is a consultant and Emergenetics Associate with Olive Orchard Coaching & Consulting, helping teams and individuals understand how they think, behave, and thrive. With a background in nonprofit development, marketing, floral entrepreneurship, and chamber leadership, she blends strategy, creativity, and heart. Andrea holds a BFA in Communications and an MPA from Valdosta State University. She’s also Creative Partner at Collins + Dixon Interior Design, crafting soulful, intentional spaces. Wife and mom, Andrea embraces a full, faith-filled life. Her career’s twists have shaped her deep commitment to helping others thrive—with warmth, clarity, and a passion for purposeful living.
Marcy Sizemore is a wife, mother of two grown sons, and founder/CEO of Olive Orchard Coaching & Consulting. After two decades of family and community service, she launched Olive Orchard—born at her kitchen table and now a thriving firm. Her work includes Student Success, supporting youth with academic coaching, and Corporate Support, equipping professionals with leadership and cultural tools. Marcy’s passion is helping others uncover strengths, overcome obstacles, and lead with clarity. She brings heart and insight to every conversation. In her spare time, Marcy and her husband steward a regenerative sheep farm, embracing nature’s rhythms and intentional living.
Robbie Parks is a Statewide CE Trainer and Business Consultant. In this role, she leverages her 20+ years of experience to teach entrepreneurs how to launch, manage and grow their businesses. Her areas of expertise include marketing (traditional and digital), communications, graphic design, brand design and management, process analysis, CRM implementation and administration, and search engine optimization. Robbie holds a dual certification as a Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) | AMA Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) from the Digital Marketing Institute and American Marketing Association and obtained a certificate in Nonprofit Organization Management.
Jeff Hanson is CEO & President of Citizens Community Bank, a $200 million institution founded in 1927 in Hahira, GA. With over 25 years in Georgia’s financial industry, Jeff is a proven leader known for driving growth and championing local initiatives. His service extends beyond banking through active roles with the Valdosta/Lowndes Chamber, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Foundation, and Leadership Georgia. He holds a BBA from the University of Georgia and advanced banking credentials. Jeff’s vision for Citizens Community Bank centers on excellence and community development, reflecting his deep commitment to both business success and regional impact.
Molly is an award-winning stylist, homeschool mom of four, and proud owner of House of Colour - Thomasville. With expert training in color theory and wardrobe science, she helps women embrace their God-given beauty with confidence. Her experience running a successful online boutique deepened her passion for guiding clients in dressing for their body shape, personality, and lifestyle. Through personalized color and style analysis, Molly equips women to feel seen and authentically themselves in business, at home, and beyond. Passionate and purpose-driven, she empowers women to show up fully: beautifully styled, boldly present, and rooted in purpose.
This program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and is supported by federal taxpayer funds. By registering, you certify that you are legally authorized to receive services funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, in accordance with applicable federal law and regulations.
All programs are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
The UGA SBDC in funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
All SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the United States. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
The UGA SBDC is an accredited member of America’s SBDC.
The University of Georgia
Small Business Development Center
382 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
P: (706) 542-2762