Janet P. Graham has been selected as the 2009 State Star of the South Carolina Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Graham is area manager of the Coastal Area SBDC located at Coastal Carolina University in Conway.

“I am pleased to make this announcement, and to recognize Mrs. Graham for her extraordinary contributions to the work of the SBDC and small businesses in South Carolina,” said Larry Stevens, SBDC regional director. “She was chosen for being an exemplary performer, making a significant contribution to the S.C. SBDC program, and showing a strong commitment to small business in both Horry and Georgetown counties. I’m proud to have her represent our state.”

“It is an honor to accept this award,” said Graham, “and to have the opportunity to help so many people achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.”

An awards ceremony honoring the ASBDC 2009 State Stars was held in Orlando, Fla., in conjunction with the ASBDC’s 29th annual conference. The reception was sponsored by Corporate Turnaround, an “Alliance Partner” of the ASBDC.

America’s Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) Network is a partnership uniting private enterprise, government, higher education and local nonprofit economic development organizations. It is the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) largest partnership program, providing free counseling, workshops, and management and technical assistance to help Americans start, run and grow their own businesses.

Persons interested in receiving business counseling may contact Graham at the Coastal Area SBDC by phone at 843-349-4010, 843-349-4009 or visit the Web site at www.coastal.edu/sbdc.