LOCK HAVEN, Pa. - University officials, economic developers, bankers, legislative representatives, small business owners and many others gathered to recognize the Lock Haven University Small Business Development Center’s 10th year of operation. A luncheon was held in the ballroom of LHU’s Durrwachter Alumni Conference Center on June 12.

The event began with an official welcome by Dr. Keith T. Miller, LHU president, and several speakers, including Dawn Datt, the center’s director over the first seven years of operation at LHU and current director of the Clearfield Campus, who commented on the important role the SBDC plays in Clinton and Lycoming counties in helping businesses start, grow and prosper.

Tim Keohane, the current SBDC director, spoke about the recent history of the center and provided statistics of the impact that has been achieved by its staff assisted clients over the 10 year timeframe.

“Over 1000 clients have been assisted with 29,500 hours of consulting, resulting in the start-up, acquisition and/or expansion of 277 small businesses in Clinton and Lycoming counties since 1998,” Keohane said.

Keohane pointed out that these accomplishments would not be possible without a dedicated staff committed to working with clients in helping them become more successful in their small business endeavors.

Among the other speakers were representatives from each of the event’s sponsors – the Clinton County Economic Partnership, the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and the Williamsport/Lycoming KIZ, as well as two clients of the SBDC. Karen Willar, owner of Ridgecrest Home Sales, based in Clinton County, spoke about her experience in working with the members of the staff of the SBDC who taught her how to “understand the financial aspects of her business through the implementation of Quickbooks.” Another client from Lycoming County, Dave Bellomo, owner of Dave Bellomo Fitness, characterized his relationship with the SBDC team as “an invaluable business management resource,” which he refers other entrepreneurs to on a consistent basis. Both business owners referenced their difficulty in dealing with the various challenges they have encountered over the years, and how beneficial it has been for them to take advantage of the local consulting staff’s expertise and professional guidance.

Julie Brennan, legislative aide for state Sen. John Wozniak’s district office in Lock Haven, also was on hand to present a congratulatory citation from the Pennsylvania Senate in recognition of the SBDC milestone. Brennan reflected upon the Senator’s desire to “partner” with the SBDC by locating next to them in the East Campus of Lock Haven University when he opened his office in Lock Haven in 2004.

In his closing comments, Keohane thanked all those who attended the event for their support of the center over the years.