06/26/2026
Yesterday was an unforgettable day!
I graduated from the BBB Breakthrough Accelerators Cohort after an incredible 12-week journey.
Standing on the 21st floor of the beautiful Walden Club overlooking downtown Chattanooga made today even more special.
What started as strangers, all small business owners/entrepreneurs, as classmates meeting every Thursday night quickly became something much more. Over the past 12 weeks, we gained valuable knowledge for our small businesses, formed lasting friendships and our small group quickly became a family. I had some challenges during this time but as always I persevered and was able to graduate with my classmates.
The graduation ceremony was extremely nice. Each of us that graduated received a diploma, enjoyed a nice dinner, and was awarded a $350 micro grant for completing the program. The knowledge, confidence, and relationships I gained throughout the 12-week course will forever be etched into my memory and heart and all of this was simply priceless.
A very special thank you to Michele Mason. Your professionalism, kindness, encouragement, and unwavering belief in each of us made this journey truly unforgettable. On a personal level, your support meant more than you may ever know. When my daughter was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it felt as though you were constantly standing beside me. Somehow, you always seemed to know exactly the right thing to say at exactly the right moment. Your compassion and encouragement helped carry me through one of the most difficult seasons of my life, and I will always be grateful.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Paula Horne with the Better Business Bureau. You stepped in and showed me what true friendship looks like when I needed it most. Your kindness, support, and genuine care will never be forgotten.
To everyone I have met and spoken with at the Better Business Bureau—thank you. What makes BBB so special isn’t just the programs they offer, but the people behind them. Every interaction has been filled with encouragement, respect, and a sincere desire to see others succeed. It is evident that you genuinely care about the entrepreneurs you serve, and that kind of support is truly priceless.
The Better Business Bureau doesn’t just support businesses—they invest in people. Thank you for believing in entrepreneurs, providing opportunities to learn and grow, and welcoming each graduate as a BBB Member. I am honored to represent my business alongside an organization built on trust and integrity.
