SBDC’s Willa Smith Earns Prestigious 2024 State Star Award

Financial expert recognized for outstanding contributions to New York's small business community

Willa Smith, advanced certified small business advisor at Stony Brook University's Small Business Development Center (SBDC), has been honored with America's SBDC 2024 "State Star" award for New York. This recognition highlights her exemplary performance and significant contributions to the SBDC program and small business community.

Since rejoining the Stony Brook SBDC team in 2020, Smith has assisted 467 SBDC clients, helping them secure more than $61.5 million in loans, grants, and other financing and save or create 2,404 jobs. Her expertise in credit underwriting, risk assessment, and financial analysis has been instrumental in guiding business owners to secure funding and grow their operations.

Smith initiated and chairs the NYSBDC Lender Relations Committee, coordinating webinars for network staff and working with the state director to explore partnerships for improved access to capital.

"Willa consistently enhances processes at her center and throughout the network. Her commitment to supporting small businesses makes her a remarkable asset to our team," said Sonya Smith, NYSBDC state director.

"I'm honored to receive this recognition. My passion is empowering small business owners and contributing to their success. This award reflects the collective efforts of our entire SBDC team and the resilience of the entrepreneurs we serve," commented Smith.

Smith's background includes experience as an NYSBDC advanced certified small business advisor, training manager, regional sales manager in residential lending, and regional credit officer for Citi's Small Business segment. She holds a Master's in Professional Studies with a concentration in Human Resource Management from Stony Brook University and has taught as an adjunct professor.

Smith, along with State Stars from across the country, will be celebrated on September 10 during the America's SBDC Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA.