Taking her decades-long experiences as a small business owner of multiple businesses
in North Carolina and upstate New York, leadership and service in the United States
Air Force, and management of family businesses, Sara Holden has assumed the helm as
Director of the Small Business Center at Sandhills Community College. The program
is part of the North Carolina Community College system and offered free of charge
to anyone in the community looking to start their own business.
“Entrepreneurialism has always been a part of my family’s DNA,” said the New York
native. “From candy and bead making to carpentry to popcorn to art and farming, I’ve
had my hands in all aspects of start-ups and successful companies. Bringing my skill
set to others in the community is exciting and I look forward to jumping in and meeting
folks in Hoke and Moore counties who can use the support and skill sets that our program
offers.”
Holden brings management, leadership, communications, project management, organizational,
time management, and goal setting to the table as part of her of outreach to citizens
in the community who are interested in pursuing their dreams and making a difference
in their communities. While her office is located on the Pinehurst campus, future
business owners can expect to see her on the road in their communities.
“We want to come to where the business entrepreneurs are and work around their schedules
moving forward,” said Taylor McCaskill, Senior Director of Workplace Development and
Corporate Training. “We know folks are working while planning a new business or growing
their business and we’re aiming to be more convenient and responsive to their needs.”
Holden is excited to start networking and be the connector of services from Sandhills
Community College to the region as small businesses ramp up and sustain. “It’s an
ever-evolving process from concept to execution and between,” she said. “I hope to
jump in where they need me and offer support toward continued success and momentum.”
Plans also include looking into more agricultural opportunities to support farmers,
tourism, and possible lodging opportunities throughout Moore and Hoke counties. “I
want to be an extension of what they are working on and see our how our tools and
services can make an impact.”
Holden holds a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri and is
an honorably discharged veteran at the rank of Staff Sergeant. She received numerous
accommodation, longevity, and awards of excellence and proficiency. She is married
and a mother of three adult children.
More information about the Small Business Center at the Dedman Center for Business
Leadership can be found at https://www.sandhills.edu/wce/sbc.html