Date: March 26, 2009
Contact: Eric Matanyi
Governors State University
Phone: (708) 534-4044
Fax: (708) 534-8399
Email: e-matanyi@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, March 26, 2009 - Governors State University CenterPoint for Entrepreneurs recently received The Business Ledger’s 2009 Annual Award for Business Excellence. The CenterPoint, an economic development agency, was recognized for its significant contribution to the growth of the region’s business community.
CenterPoint Director Hilary Burkinshaw, of Orland Hills, and GSU College of Business and Public Administration Dean Ellen Foster Curtis, of Flossmoor, received the award at a special reception on March 25. The award was presented by last year’s winner John Greuling, President and CEO of the Will County Center for Economic Development.
“As a recognized part of the economic development activities of the region, we provide a centralized resource for businesses and local government alike,” said Foster Curtis upon acceptance of the award. “Our active involvement with local businesses and communities has enabled us to provide pertinent business consulting and innovative programs such as the Veterans’ Entrepreneurial Boot Camp.”
In 2008, the organization’s Veterans’ Entrepreneurial Boot Camp received the Illinois Entrepreneurship and Small Business Growth Association’s Program Excellence Award. Several CenterPoint clients have also received recognition as exemplary business owners in recent years.
CenterPoint has been part of the Chicago Southland’s economic landscape for 25 years. Co-funded by Governors State University, U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the center has produced impressive results. Since 2000 alone, CenterPoint has helped create and retain nearly 3,000 jobs and assisted clients in obtaining $117 million in loan dollars.
“We applaud the positive impact CenterPoint has had on regional business,” said GSU President Elaine P. Maimon. “The center plays an integral role in fulfilling the goals of our new strategic plan, especially the goal of increasing the university’s effectiveness as an economic catalyst in the region.”
For additional information on The CenterPoint for Entrepreneurs, call (708) 534-4929 or visit www.centerpointgsu.com.
