Judy McCauley, West Virginia District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration, made a surprise announcement during the 2013 Small Business Award Ceremony at the end of May. Tara Elder, Director of the Women’s Business and Training Center was named the 2013 Director’s Choice award winner.
The Director’s Choice award is reserved to recognize an individual or organization making a positive impact on West Virginia’s economy – someone who stands out in the crowd for their dedication and goes above and beyond the call of duty.
“Tara exemplifies the meaning of the Director’s Choice award,” said McCauley. “I call on Tara a lot – looking for help for small businesses – and she is always extremely positive and has never said, ‘no we can’t do that’.”
Elder was born and raised in Oak Hill where she put herself through college. During college she worked for a small business learning the ups and downs of what it means to be a small business. After completing her education she became the general manager of Books-A-Million in Charleston, WV. Elder then received the opportunity to work for the Small Business Development Center in Beckley. In 2004 she founded the Women’s Business Center where she resides today as the director.
Through Elder’s leadership efforts, the Women’s Business Center has helped over 12,000 entrepreneurs through the training and counseling needed to start or expand a business. “I appreciate the recognition received from the SBA and Judy,” said Elder. “I love that I have the opportunity to help small businesses in West Virginia every day. It is truly an honor to receive the 2013 Director’s Choice award on behalf of myself and the Women’s Business & Training Center. I couldn’t ask for a more devoted and dedicated staff.”
You can learn more about the Women’s Business Center by visiting www.westvirginiawbc.org/.
