Local business leaders were recognized Thursday at Goodwill’s Annual Business Advisory Council Appreciation Breakfast, held at the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem. The breakfast brings together members of Goodwill’s six BACs, which advise on the needs of employers and act as ambassadors for Goodwill in the community.
After a welcome and remarks by Vice President of Workforce Development Sherry Carpenter, Board of Directors Chair Sherry Polonsky, and President and CEO Art Gibel, three graduates of workforce development programs spoke about their experiences. Marvin Hill, a formerly homeless veteran, participated in Operation: GoodJobs and took the truck driving class at TransTech; today he is employed at Covenant Transport. Jessica Young, a single mother of two (one with special needs), learned office skills and complete the call center training class. James Morton, also a veteran, obtained resume and cover letter assistance at the Rowan Career Connections Center; today he works at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner VA Center.
Several BAC members were recognized for the contributions during the last year. Each council chair was recognized, along with Outstanding Service & Commitment awards given to one member of each BAC.
Business Advisory Council Chairs:
Winston-Salem: Allan Younger, Forsyth Tech Small Business Center
Asheville: (Co-Chairs) Cassie Christie, Mission Hospital and Tommasanne Davis, Mission Hospital (Megan Lemmond with Mission Hospital accepted the award
Davidson County: John Giampaolo, Cardinal Innovations Healthcare
Iredell County: Robert Taylor
Rowan County: Donna Lovill, NC Vocational Rehabilitation
Outstanding Service & Commitment:
- Iredell County – Missy Jablonski, Childcare Health Consultant for the Iredell County partnership for Young Children
- Davidson County – Laura Gobble, Lexington Chamber of Commerce
- Asheville – David McCartney, General Manager of the Aloft Hotel, downtown Asheville
- Rowan County – Michelle Stowe, Recruiter with “The Resource”
- Forsyth County – Teddy Burris, Consultant
In addition, Goodwill volunteer and Kathy Frith of Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton were recognized for contributions to the Success Outfitters program.
Click here to view event photos