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Kiesha Haughton Smoots - Regional Director
ksmoots@umaryland.edu
Kiesha Haughton Smoots was named the new director of the Central Region SBTDC in October 2009. A SBTDC Capital Region counselor since 2006, collectively she brings seven years experience with small and underserved business owners and a strong interest in international trade.
Prior to accepting the Regional Director role, the range of services she provided spanned every aspect of starting, operating, and expanding small businesses. As a former senior business consultant, she successfully facilitated or enabled her clients to achieve the following: 28 new business starts; $ 7 million in financing; $ 8 million in government contracts, 188 new jobs, $ 5.9 million in sales.
In addition to various business training certifications, her educational background includes an MBA from the University of Maryland - with a concentration in international marketing, and an MA in Global Finance, Trade and Economic Integration from the University of Denver. Her undergraduate work includes a BA in Government & Politics and German from the University of Maryland. Kiesha is an active member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Toastmasters International.
Sandra Conaway - Assistant Director
sconaway@umaryland.edu
Sandra Conaway has been with the SBTDC since it was housed under the Department of Economic and Employment Development in the early 1990s.
Considered the glue that holds the region together, Sandra manages the Central Region's administrative policies and procedures, and effectively interfaces with the Maryland Lead Center and Central Region field offices. She is responsible for the region's financial transactions, including grant applications, budget preparation, billing and collection.
Proficient with SBTDC's management information system, Sandra frequently troubleshoots problems and concerns with satellite offices and clients.
She is dedicated to the advancement of Maryland's small business population and is well-versed in the issues and considerations of starting a small business. Always, eager and willing to share her knowledge, Sandra welcomes opportunities to assist small business entrepreneurs.
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