Taking her decades-long experiences as a small business owner of multiple businesses in North Carolina and upstate New York, leadership and service in the United States Airforce, and management of family businesses, Sara Holden has assumed the helm as Director of the Small Business Center at Sandhills Community College. The program is part of the North Carolina Community College system and offered free of charge to anyone in the community looking to start their own business.
“Entrepreneurialism has always been a part of my family’s DNA,” said the New York native. “From candy and bead making to carpentry to popcorn to art and farming, I’ve had my hands in all aspects of start-ups and successful companies. Bringing my skillset to others in the community is exciting and I look forward to jumping in and meeting folks in Hoke and Moore counties who can use the support and skill sets that our program offers.”
Holden brings management, leadership, communications, project management, organizational, time management, and goal setting to the table as part of her of outreach to citizens in the community who are interested in pursuing their dreams and making a difference in their communities. While her office is located on the Pinehurst campus, future business owners can expect to see her on the road in their communities.
“We want to come to where the business entrepreneurs and work around their schedules moving forward,” said Taylor McCaskill, Senior Director of Workplace Development and Corporate Training. “We know folks are working while planning a new business or growing their business and we’re aiming to be more convenient and responsive to their needs.”
Holden is excited to start networking and be the connector of services from Sandhills Community college to the region as small businesses ramp up and sustain. “It’s an ever-evolving process from concept to execution and in between,” she said. “I hope to jump in where they need me and offer support toward continued success and momentum.”
Plans also include looking into more agricultural opportunities to support farmers, tourism and possible lodging opportunities throughout Moore and Hoke counties. “I want to be an extension of what they are working on and see our how our tools and services can make an impact.”
Holden holds a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri and is an honorably discharged veteran at the rank of Staff Sergeant. She received numerous accommodation, longevity and awards of excellence and proficiency. She is married and a mother of three adult children.
Holden can be reached at 910-695-3938 or [email protected]
More information about the Small Business Center at the Dedman Center for Business Leadership can be found at https://www.sandhills.edu/wce/sbc.html
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Article and photo contributed by Sandhills Community College.
