BULLDOG 100 U G A A LU M N I A S S O C I AT I O N ’ S
F A S T E S T- G R O W I N G B U L L D O G B U S I N E S S E S
2015 EDITION
2015 BULLDOG 100 TOP BUSINESS OWNER MARC GORLIN WITH MEREDITH GURLEY JOHNSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE UGA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, DURING THE 2015 BULLDOG 100 CELEBRATION.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
A Student’s Perspective of the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration
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The Celebration in Photos
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Quick Stats
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The 2015 Bulldog 100 Top Ten
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The 2015 Bulldog 100 List
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The Class Photo
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Serial Entrepreneur is Co-Founder of 2015 No. 1 Bulldog 100 Business
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2015 Keynote Recap: Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81)
24 Alumni-Owned Businesses Fuel Georgia’s Economy
From left to right: Photo 1: Student Alumni Council members Loni GIbson (BSFCS ’15, ABJ ’15) and Chelsea Walker (BSFCS ’15) assisted with registration during the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration. Photo 2: Maureen Clayton (ABJ ’80, MA ’84), UGA Alumni Association board member and 2015 Bulldog 100 honoree and sponsor, and her husband, Chris Clayton (BBA ’80, JD ’83) enjoy the Bulldog 100 reception. Photo 3: John Prince III (BBA ’64) (left) and son Jay Prince (BBA ’93) enjoy the Bulldog 100 reception with B.J. Prince.
BOARD MEMBERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ruth Bartlett (BBA ’76), President Bonney Shuman (BBA ’80), Vice President Bill Thomas (AB ’88), Secretary and By-laws Chair Craig Camuso (ABJ ’90), Treasurer and 40 Under 40 Chair Tim Keadle (BBA ’78), Immediate Past President Maureen Clayton (ABJ ’80, MA ’84), Exec. Committee Rep. and Nominating Committee Co-chair Brian Dill (AB ’94), Exec. Committee Rep. and Bulldog 100 Chair Kim Metcalf (BS ’93, MS ’96), Exec. Committee Rep. and Alumni Chapters Chair
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Stella Williams Bailey (BSHE ’69, MHE ’71) Josh Bell (AB ’93, MPA ’95, JD ’98) Harriette Bohannon (BSHE ’74) Bill Caldwell (BLA ’97) Jody Corry (ABJ ’88, JD ’91) April Crow (BSEH ’95) Yvette Daniels (AB ’86, JD ’89) Barry Dotson (ABJ ’86, EDD ’06) Frank Elridge (BBA ’81) Brian Fuller (BS ’98) Vivian Greentree (ABJ ’00, AB ’01) Joane S. Hood (BBA ’91) Shelly Hutchinson (MSW ’00) Lisa Hyde (BBA ’87) Lisa Gipson Jarvis (BSFCS ’95, MED ’01) Lex Kenerly (BS ’78) Kelly Kerner, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Audrey Lewis ’16, Ex-officio J. Michael Lewis, Ex-officio Luther Lockwood (BBA ’89) Margaret Mathews (BSHE ’81, MED ’83) Bob McLeod (BSA ’80) Lyddy O’Brien ’16, Ex-officio Trey Paris (BBA ’84, MBA ’85) Bonnie Petersen (BSHE ’79) Palmer Sanford (BBA ’01, MBA ’10) David E. Shipley, Ex-officio Johnelle Simpson ’16, Ex-officio Jim Sommerville (BS ’71) Robbin Conklin Steed (ABJ ’85) Bret Thurmond (BSAE ’80) Robert Watts (AB ’10) Barbara Woods (BFA ’77) Lee Zell (AB ’96) Martha Zoller (ABJ ’79)
ABOUT US
Bulldog 100 recognizes the 100 fastest-growing businesses owned or operated by UGA alumni. Nominated companies must have a UGA alumnus as CEO, president or managing partner. Companies are also eligible if at least 50 percent of the business is owned by UGA graduates. Companies must have been in business for five years or more, have minimum verifiable revenues of $100,000 in the first year of the 3-year assessment period, and must operate in a manner consistent with the university’s “Pillars of the Arch.” Upon nomination, each business is asked to submit certain financial data to Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors. Warren Averett reviews submissions based on compounded annual growth rates for the three years prior to the nomination and provides the UGA Alumni Association with a ranked list of the 100 fastest-growing businesses. While the complete alphabetized list is released to the public beforehand, the final ranking order remains confidential until the annual Bulldog 100 Celebration each January/February in Atlanta. Nominations for the next year’s Bulldog 100 open on the Monday following each Bulldog 100 Celebration. Nomination information can be found at alumni.uga.edu/b100.
SPECIAL THANKS Special thanks to the UGA Student Alumni Council; UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors; Christopher Robin Sapp ’16, Alma Mater performer; Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81), keynote speaker; Brian Dill (AB ’94), Bulldog 100 Committee chair; Office of the President; Office of the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations; Office of Special Events; Marquee Sponsor Bank of America; Wingate (ABJ ’79) and Spence (AB ’09) Downs, photography; and Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors.
CONNECT with the UGA Alumni Association:
Visit our website: alumni.uga.edu The University of Georgia is committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action.
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A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE OF THE 2015 BULLDOG 100 CELEBRATION By: Emilie Clarke ’16
(Left) Emilie Clark ’16 announces the rankings for 10 of the Bulldog 100 businesses.
As a Student Alumni Council (SAC) member, the UGA Alumni Association has afforded me numerous opportunities for experiential learning, including serving as a Bulldog 100 “caller.” This public speaking opportunity is a chance for me and nine other SAC members to reveal the Bulldog 100 rankings during the annual Bulldog 100 Celebration in Atlanta. The honorees have achieved the level of success for which many college students hope making it an even more incredible experience. Serving as a caller, though, taught me more than just a list of names of successful businesses. It opened the door for me to network and discuss business challenges with everyone in attendance. As I chatted with alumni, I realized they were as excited to have students present at the Bulldog 100 Celebration as we were to be there. Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95), founder of Kabbage, Inc., the 2015 No. 1 business said, “I wish there were even more students. We believe in the potential students have to affect change after they graduate. So I hope we can provide every opportunity to inspire them.” Bulldog 100 opened my eyes to how eager alumni are to help students succeed. My vision of a self-servient business world faded the more I spoke with various honorees. Will Harris (BSA ’76), of No. 74 White Oak Pastures, explained how alumni enjoy engaging with students, saying, “It is uplifting to see young people get involved. To watch them assist the UGA Alumni Association pull off an event like this is impressive. Plus, having students around reminds alumni to stay young and sharp.”
B eing a college student is unlike any other experience. Students balance education with
extracurricular activities, athletic events and (hopefully) sleep. Therefore, one of the best times in life is also one of the most stressful. While college prepares students for the adult world, it takes hands-on, interactive experiences to truly grasp the realities of post-college life. 4
Michael Lentz (ABJ ’06), of No. 71 Vert, added “I still feel like a student. The success I’ve seen, it all started as a student. Having the students here keeps up the enthusiasm for what we do. We succeed to give back and, in turn, watch the students succeed.” Networking with alumni who have been in students’ shoes before, have felt their anxieties and ultimately achieved success, encouraged the students in attendance to work hard and strive to do more than the graduates who came before.
Meredith Gurley Johnson (BSFCS ’00), executive director of alumni relations, put it best as she explained the importance of interaction between students and alumni. “Students are the pride and joy of this university,” she said. “To have the Student Alumni Council here brings the celebration full circle. Not only are we here to celebrate the success of our alumni, but to inspire students to rise to their greatest potential.”
You can directly support students like Emilie in a number of ways, the simplest of which is making a gift to the Georgia Fund. Visit giving.uga.edu for details. Other ways for individuals and businesses to enhance the student experience include:
• Hire a UGA graduate or provide an internship for a student (hireUGA.com)
• Host a Dinner with a Dozen Dawgs (email jmg88@uga.edu)
• Get involved with your school or college (email jcheney@uga.edu)
• Stay informed with the latest university news (uga.edu)
(Above) More than 700 people registered for the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration on February 7 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
Emilie Clarke ’16 is a fourth-year communication studies major simultaneously pursuing a master’s degree in nonprofit organizational management. She has served on the Student Alumni Council for the past three years, was a UGA Orientation Leader during Summer 2014, and served as a residents assistant throughout her time in college. She is the National Alliances and Community Events Intern at Make-A-Wish Georgia and plans to pursue a career in corporate philanthropy. She credits her success as a student to her UGA education and the amazing UGA alumni who have shown her kindness and support. When Emilie wrote this piece, she was the strategic communications intern for the UGA Alumni Association and was invited to share her insight into this year’s celebration.
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THE BULLDOG 100 CELEBRATION 1
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In Photos 3
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1. UGA Alumni Association Board Member Bill Thomas (AB ’88) with Charles Ogbon ’18, a recipient of the UGA Black Alumni Scholarship. 2. (l-r) Brothers and Bulldog 100 business owners Adam (BSBE ’98, MS ’07) and Rory (BSBE ’99) Singer of No. 83 business The HardCore Gym/ Athens Fitness & MMA.
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3. (l-r) John Shurley (BBA ’77) of Bulldog 100 partner Warren Averett CPAs & Advisors, his wife Marcia Shurley (M ’82) and John Prince III (BBA ’64) of No. 92 business Prince Automotive Group.
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4. Christopher Robin Sapp ’16, member of the Student Alumni Council, performs the University of Georgia Alma Mater. 5. Members of the Student Alumni Council catch up with UGA Assistant to the President Matt Winston (second from right) and his wife Kimberly Winston (center). 6. Bulldog 100 chair Brian Dill (AB ’94) addresses the crowd before dinner during the Bulldog 100 Celebration. 7. T.J. Callaway (BBA ’07), owner of No. 2 business Onward Reserve, and wife Catherine Callaway (BSFCS ’07).
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8. Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81), president and CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, delivers the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration keynote address. 9. Student Alumni Council member Dowdy White ’16 presents keynote speaker Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81) with a UGA Book of Honor. 10.(l-r) No. 20 honoree and event sponsor Walter Lee Jones III (BS ’97), Bernina Jones, Barbara Bailey and Joe Bailey, Sr. 11. Owners of No. 67 business, SEA Atlanta, Julie Shingadia (ABJ ’01, MMC ’05) and Raj Shingadia (AB ’01, BS ’03). 12.The table setting for the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration.
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13.(l-r) Mitchell Breda (BBA ’10), Janis Breda, Rodger Breda (BBA ’73), and Matt Breda (BBA ’02, MED ’05). Breda Pest Management was named the No. 78 fastest-growing business in 2015. 14.Eric Teusink (AB ’03, AB ’03) hammed it up while waiting for his fellow School of Public and International Affairs honorees to arrive on stage.
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15.Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources Dean Dale Greene and his wife Jeanna L. Wilson. 16.No. 94 business executive director Bob Sleppy (BS ’05, MBA ’10), of Nuçi’s Space in Athens, with wife Rachel Sleppy. 17.Ron Holt (BSA ’97) of No. 21 business Two Maids & A Mop, and his wife, Rachel Holt. 18.Executive Director of Alumni Relations Meredith Gurley Johnson (BSFCS ’00) with Tracy Bates (BBA ’87), of No. 22 business 6 Degrees Group.
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2015 BULLDOG 100 BY THE NUMBERS This page designed by Kaitlin Eddy ’16, UGA intern
AVERAGE COMPOUNDED ANNUAL GROWTH RATE Bulldog 100 Three-Year Comparison 50% 40%
47.53%
150%
Bulldog 100/Top 50/Top 10 Classes of 2014 - 2015
143%
125%
47.66%
163%
47.53% 47.66%
25%
Class of
2013
Class of
2014
74%
70%
50%
10%
TOP
Class of
100
2015
TOP
TOP
50
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HONOREES BY SCHOOL/COLLEGE 85 26 23 9 7 6 5 4
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Terry College of Business Graduate School Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication College of Family and Consumer Sciences College of Education Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
School of Public and International Affairs College of Pharmacy College of Public Health College of Engineering School of Law College of Environment & Design School of Social Work
SIX–YEAR HONOREES
372
40 companies are making their Bulldog 100 debut
Class Year
75%
20%
60 companies are repeat honorees
40
2014
51
2013
54
2012
52
2011
54
2010
100
BUSINESS OWNER DEMOGRAPHIC
35
FEMALES
115 MALES
PRIMARY CLASS YEAR 1960s 3 1970s 15 1980s 21 1990s 47 2000s 63 2010s 1
unique companies nominated
NO. 1 BUSINESSES 2011
2010 & 2013
1866 1966 1968 1973 1980 1983 1988 1993 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
NEWEST
10
40
STATES
CITIES
AND D.C. REPRESENTED
2015 715 711 653
497
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2010 held at InterContinental Buckhead
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2011
2012
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•1 •1 •1 •1 •1 •1 •1 •3 •1 •1 •3 •5 •5 •4 •7 •4 •5 •8 • 12 • 13 • 10 • 10
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COMPANIES BASED IN GEORGIA
2012
2014
White Oak Pastures
New Companies
2015
FOUNDING YEARS OLDEST
351 businesses honored since program began in 2010
100%
39%
30%
REPEAT HONOREES
2013
2014
held at Atlanta Marriott Marquis
NUMBER OF BULLDOG 100 CELEBRATION ATTENDEES
2015
UGA_Gwinn_Bdog100_PEMag_Layout 1 2/6/15 4:57 PM Page 1
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Bulldog 100 Ticket Sponsors Bob Harris (AB ’79) Brookwood Animal Hospital Brian Fuller (BS ’98) Harriette Bohannon (BSHE ’74) Jennifer Chapman (BBA ’97, MACC ’98, JD ’02) Jim Sommerville (BS ’71) Keane Johnson (AB ’04, MED ’05, BSFCS ’07) Leslie Younts Brown (BSHE ’82) Ruth Bartlett (BBA ’76) Suzanne LeRoux (AB ’97) Vic Sullivan (BBA ’82)
THE 2015 BULLDOG 100 Written By: Bernadette Green (ABJ ’15) Former UGA Alumni Association Intern
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Kabbage, Inc. Atlanta, Georgia Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95) Industry: Financial and data technology kabbage.com Founded: 2009 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
Top Ten
Marc Gorlin is a serial entrepreneur who co-founded the 2015 fastest-growing Bulldog-owned business, Kabbage, Inc. Gorlin founded companies that provided B2B services for 13 years before launching Kabbage in 2009. The online financing and data technology company provides funds to merchants through a simple, quick, automated loan application process. Since its inception, Kabbage have provided more than $400 million in loans to help small businesses grow. Kabbage has been profiled in numerous publications, including Time, Forbes and USA Today. Since the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration, Gorlin has taken another step in the startup world, founding Roadie, Inc., the first neighbor-to-neighbor delivery network. To learn more about this year’s fastest-growing business, see page 16.
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Onward Reserve Atlanta, Georgia T.J. Callaway (BBA ’07) Industry: Clothing/Apparel onwardreserve.com Founded: 2010 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
A 2012 40 Under 40 honoree, T.J. Callaway spent several years in investment banking before co-founding Onward Reserve in 2010. Onward Reserve is a menswear retailer with a large online presence and seven brick-and-mortar stores located through the Southeast and Washington, D.C. Since it began, Onward Reserve has specialized in men’s casual clothing and lifestyle products, with a focus on Southern culture. The majority of the products carried in the stores are handmade in the United States.
Kevin Aycock Homes Atlanta, Georgia Kevin Aycock (BA ’02) Industry: Real estate kevinaycockhomes.com Founded: 2004 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 2
Kevin Aycock Homes is a residential and commercial general contracting firm, specializing in custom home building and property receivership. its corporate office is in Atlanta, but the company is bonded and licensed as an unlimited general contractor in several states. Aycock offers a wide range of specialized business workout and real estate services to financial institutions, law firms, state and federal courts, property owners and similar entities throughout the country.
The Ansley Group Atlanta, Georgia Bonneau Ansley III (BBA ’99) Industry: Real estate ansleyatlanta.com Founded: 2008 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 2
The name Bonneau Ansley is synonymous with real estate sale and development in Atlanta, South Carolina and along the Georgia Coast. An Atlanta native, Ansley is a well-regarded builder and investor. Since beginning his career, the alumnus has been involved in real estate sales and development exceeding $450 million and has built more than 80 luxury homes priced at $1 million or more.
Agora Athens, Georgia Airee Hong Edwards (AB ’99) Industry: Antiques and vintage consignment iheartagora.com Founded: 2002 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
Airee Hong Edwards, who graduated with a degree in studio art in 1994, never saw herself as a business person until she decided to use her background to open a store devoted to creativity. The alumna wanted her business to be a place where everyone could contribute. This way of thinking led to Agora, a co-op where vendors can sell jewelry, art, clothing and home décor alongside funky vintage items.
Onward Reserve offers college students an opportunity to get involved in various capacities of the business while learning valuable life and career skills through the company’s campus representative program.
The Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association presented the company with a 2012 Gold OBIE Award in the “Residential Remodeling/Addition” category, the highest honor given to an Atlanta real estate firm.
Ansley is especially knowledgeable about new construction and large developments. He is a full-time associate broker with Harry Norman Realtors in the company’s Buckhead office. He was named the “No. 1 Individual Agent Citywide” by the Atlanta Board of Realtors in 2009, and received the Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate’s Outstanding Rookie award in 2013.
Edwards, along with her husband, Russell, expanded the business by opening Agora Vintage on Broad Street in Athens, Georgia. The original Agora, now under new ownership, is located on Clayton Street in downtown Athens and is now called Atomic. Agora now focuses on high-end couture and serves as a rotating gallery for local artists. Agora has been featured in GQ, Southern Living and Garden & Gun for its ‘shop local’ mentality and eclectic inventory.
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Palmer & Cay, LLC Atlanta, Georgia Jack Cay (AB ’96) Industry: Commercial lines insurance broker palmerandcay.com Founded: 2010 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
Palmer & Cay, Inc., is an insurance firm specializing in property and casualty insurance for mid-size to large clients with complex business needs. The company started in Savannah, Georgia, in the 1800s and has been under the leadership of five generations of one family, merging with a national financial services firm in 2005. With offices in Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston and Birmingham, Palmer & Cay is an insurance leader in the Southeast.
EvoShield Athens, Georgia James Ellis (AB ’83) Industry: Protective athletic gear and apparel evoshield.com Founded: 2005 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 6
In the fall of 2005, four UGA alumni, Stan Kavanage (M ’78), W. David Hudson (BBA ’78), Justin Niefer (BSFCS ’05) and Stan Payne (M ’97), came together in Athens, Georgia, to establish a company around a revolutionary gel-like material that, once exposed to air, molds into a rigid surface in minutes. This hard surface formed the ideal material for protective athletic gear and apparel.
Before becoming the fifth-generation Cay to lead Palmer & Cay, Jack Cay was a broker in London and in the private equity industry in New York City. He helped re-launch Palmer & Cay in 2010.
In 2007, after two years of product development and field testing, EvoShield began selling its products to professional athletes. Based on player demand and positive feedback, EvoShield now officially outfits 30 Major League Baseball teams, 200 college and professional football teams and has expanded into softball, hockey, lacrosse and soccer. EvoShield is one of only four Bulldog 100 businesses that has made the list every year since the program began in 2010. It was the top Bulldog 100 business in 2011.
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One Love Organics, Inc. St. Simons Island, Georgia Suzanne LeRoux (AB ’97) Charles M. LeRoux (JD ’98) Industry: Cosmetics and personal care products oneloveorganics.com Founded: 2007 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
Former lawyer Suzanne LeRoux and her husband, Charles, founded One Love Organics in 2007. The cosmetics and personal care products brand came alive when Suzanne, who is a long-time supporter of alternative healing, began formally studying holistic nutrition, herbs and aromatherapy. After several years moonlighting as a beauty alchemist, the alumna took up the cosmetic arts full time, growing the business into successful company.
Social Empowerment Center Lawrenceville, Georgia Rachelle D. Hutchinson (MSW ’00) Edward Hutchinson (MED ’09) Industry: Social and mental health services socialempowermentcenter.com Founded: 2002 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 2
Husband and wife Rachelle and Edward Hutchinson are the dynamic duo behind the Social Empowerment Center. Rachelle began her career working for the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) in a variety of roles. Upon leaving DFCS, the alumna offered individual therapy for families, completed assessments of children entering foster care and trained new DFCS workers. Edward, is Social Empowerment Center’s chief information officer and vice president. He is also a vice president and technical lead with SunTrust Bank.
Networked Insights Chicago, Illinois Dan Neely (BBA ’97) Industry: Technology networkedinsights.com Founded: 2006 Years on the Bulldog 100 list: 1
Networked Insights is a marketing and analytics software company that classifies and analyzes the social web so that brand marketers can better understand how consumers talk about products and perceive competitors. The company analyzes millions of data points each day from social media networks, and various blogs and forums to present marketers with a 360-degree view of their target customers. The result is improved marketing performance, shaped by real-time consumer data. Networked Insights also collects historical data, allowing the company to trend data over time.
Charles uses his law background as the chief financial officer and legal representation for the company. He gave up his law partnership after the couple’s sons were born to devote his time to the business, his family and his passion for simplicity that serves as the inspiration for One Love Organics.
With a multicultural focus, Social Empowerment Center supports families in crisis and provides a wide range of mental health services. It was the top Bulldog 100 business in 2014 and Rachelle is now a member of the UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors.
Fast Company named Networked Insights one of the world’s 50 “Most Innovative Companies” in 2012.
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THE 2015 BULLDOG 100 1. Kabbage, Inc. Financial and Data Technology Atlanta, GA kabbage.com Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95) 2. Onward Reserve Clothing/Apparel Atlanta, GA onwardreserve.com T.J. Callaway (BBA ’07) 3. Kevin Aycock Homes Real Estate – General Contractor Atlanta, GA kevinaycockhomes.com Kevin Aycock (AB ’02) 4. The Ansley Group Real Estate – Sales Atlanta, GA ansleyatlanta.com Bonneau Ansley III (BBA ’99) 5. Agora Antiques/Vintage Consignment Athens, GA iheartagora.com Airee Hong Edwards (AB ’99) 6. Palmer & Cay, LLC Commercial Lines Insurance Broker Atlanta, GA palmerandcay.com Jack Cay (AB ’96) 7. EvoShield Protective Athletic Gear and Apparel Athens, GA evoshield.com James Ellis (AB ’83) 8. One Love Organics, Inc. Cosmetics/Personal Care Products St. Simons Island, GA oneloveorganics.com Suzanne LeRoux (AB ’97) Charles M. LeRoux (JD ’98) 9. Social Empowerment Center Social Services/Mental Health Lawrenceville, GA socialempowermentcenter.com Rachelle D. Hutchinson (MSW ’00) Edward Hutchinson (MED ’09) 10. Networked Insights Technology Chicago, IL networkedinsights.com Dan Neely (BBA ’97) 11. TurnKey IT Solutions, LLC IT Consulting Marietta, GA turnkeyit.net Jason Lannen (BBA ’04)
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12. The Spotted Trotter, LLC Charcuterie Atlanta, GA thespottedtrotter.com Megan Ouzts (BBA ’02, JD ’05) Kevin Ouzts (ABJ ’04) 13. Vino Venue/Atlanta Wine School Restaurant/Wine Retail Dunwoody, GA vinovenue.com Michael Bryan (BBA ’89) 14. DWG B2B Integration Consulting Alpharetta, GA dwg-us.com Bill Woerner (MBA ’95) 15. RazorInsights Health Care IT Kennesaw, GA razorinsights.com Reed Liggin (BS ’94) Kraig Brown (BSED ’90) 16. Smyrna Truck & Cargo Van Body Manufacturing/ Truck Equipment Distribution Smyrna, GA smyrnatruck.com Scott Edens (BBA ’99)
22. 6 Degrees Group Recruiting/Staffing Alpharetta, GA 6degreesgrp.com Tracy Bates (BBA ’87) 23. PharmD on Demand, Inc. Pharmacy Management Athens, GA pharmdondemand.com Michael Azzolin (PHARMD ’02) Andy Barrs (MFR ’02) 24. Mullins Management and Entertainment Sports and Entertainment Management Augusta, GA mullinsmanagement.net Joe Mullins (BBA ’95) 25. Inspect-All Services Pest Control/Home Inspections Conyers, GA inspectallservices.com Brandon Lunsford (AB ’02) Brian Lunsford (AB ’02)
32. Starnes Publishing Publishing Mountain Brook, AL 280living.com villagelivingonline.com thehomewoodstar.com hooversun.com vestaviavoice.com Dan Starnes (M ’98) 33. FirstAtlantic Bank Community Banking Jacksonville, FL bankfirstatlantic.com Mitch Hunt (BBA ’80, MBA ’81) 34. J&M Pool Services LLC Swimming Pool Services Newnan, GA jmpools.com Michael Durand (BBA ’06) 35. Scott Circle Public Relations Washington, DC scottcircle.com Laura Gross (ABJ ’95)
26. CollegeTown Properties Real Estate – Student Housing Athens, GA collegetownproperties.com M. Chase Lawrence (BSFCS ’05)
36. Needle Solutions IT Consulting Johns Creek, GA needlesolutions.com Joshua Needle (BBA ’99)
17. Adaptive Medical Partners Health Care Staffing Irving, TX adaptivemedicalpartners.com Scott Edwards (BSFCS ’02)
27. Early Trucking Company Trucking Transportation Arlington, GA earlytruckingco.com James Cannon (BBA ’77) Bryan Willis (BBA ’85)
37. Catapult Creative Media Inc. Advertising/Marketing Baton Rouge, LA catapultcreativemedia.com Virginia Huling (BFA ’02) David Maples (BBA ’02)
18. Mather Economics Business Consulting Sandy Springs, GA mathereconomics.com Matt Lindsay (BBA ’92, PHD ’99)
28. Suggs Johnson, LLC Accounting Anderson, SC suggsjohnson.com Brian L. Johnson (MACC ’95)
38. One on One Matchmaking Dating Industry Atlanta, GA 1on1matchmaking.com Sarah Kathryn Smith (BSFCS ’98)
19. Police & Sheriff’s Press, Inc. Security Printing Vidalia, GA pasp365.com Frank D. Raiford (M ’79) Melanie Ledford Raiford (ABJ ’84)
29. Expert Technical Solutions Staffing Atlanta, GA experttechnical.net Ram Bhojwani (BBA ’05) Zachary “Chip” Taylor (BS ’06)
39. Greenbrier Family Dental Dentistry Evans, GA greenbrierfamilydental.com Adam Scott (BS ’03) Laura Scott (BS ’00)
20. Professional Technology Integration, Inc. IT Consulting Norcross, GA professionaltechintegration.com Walter Lee Jones III (BS ’97)
30. Robert Bowden, Inc. Manufacturing – Building Products Marietta, GA robertbowden.com Steve Cole (BBA ’78, MBA ’80) Robert Bowden (MA ’68)
21. Two Maids & A Mop Consumer Services Mountain Brook, AL twomaidsfranchise.com Ron Holt (BSA ’97) David Luke (BBA ’00)
31. Zone Home Solutions Pest Control/General Contractor Buford, GA zonehomesolutions.com Trey Scarborough (BBA ’94) Thomas Glen Ross (BSA ’86)
40. Ironwood Insurance Services, LLC Commercial Insurance/Employee Benefits Brokerage and Consulting Atlanta, GA ironwoodins.com Will Underwood (BBA ’85) Matt Lovein (BBA ’96, MBA ’00) Matt Hene (BBA ’03) Skin Edge (BBA ’05) Mark Watson (BBA ’80)
41. Universal Servo Group, LLC Automation/Robotics Dawsonville, GA universalservo.com Larry Voss (AB ’94) Stewart Bloodworth (BSPH ’94) 42. Meridian Management Group Property Management Atlanta, GA meridianmgtgroup.com Bryan Brinson (BBA ’06) 43. SOAR Performance Group Sales Consulting Atlanta, GA soarperformancegroup.com Charlie Thackston (BBA ’78, MBA ’79) 44. Terrapin Beer Company Beverage Manufacturing – Beer Athens, GA terrapinbeer.com John Cochran (BBA ’93) Dustin Watts (BBA ’03) Irina Melnik Cochran (BBA ’93) 45. Stratus Property Group, LLC Real Estate Atlanta, GA stratuspropertygroup.com Jeff Koon (BBA ’05) 46. Association Management, LLC Community Association Management St. Simons Island, GA bestassociationmanagement.com Alva Youngner (BSHE ’66, MED ’73, EDS ’75, EDD ’77) Mary Bryan Fields (BBA ’71) 47. Full Media Web Development/Internet Marketing Gainesville, GA fullmedia.com Kris Nordholz (BBA ’95, MBA ’96) Kevin West (BS ’02) 48. Sally Williamson and Associates, Inc. Consulting/Training and Development Atlanta, GA sallywilliamson.com Sally Williamson (ABJ ’83) 49. Imery Group Construction Inspection/Green Building Consulting Athens, GA imerygroup.com Luis Imery (MBA ’03) 50. Bitstream Consulting LLC IT/Telecommunications Atlanta, GA bitstreamllc.com Ollie Strickland (BS ’01)
alumni.uga.edu/b100 51. Jackrabbit Technologies Technology/Software as a Service Huntersville, NC jackrabbittech.com Mark Mahoney (BBA ’83) 52. Asa Carlton, Inc. Commercial Construction Buford, GA asacarlton.com Scott Hester (AB ’93)
61. Forsyth Exterminating Pest Control/Inspections /Wildlife Control Cumming, GA forsythexterminating.com Julie Ramirez (BBA ’06, AB ’06)
62. TracePoint Consulting Management Consulting Atlanta, GA tracepointconsulting.com Randy Geoghagan (BBA ’91) 53. O’Kelley & Sorohan, Attorneys Meredith Bilow (BBA ’97) at Law, LLC Law 63. Ultra Car Wash Duluth, GA Automotive Care okelleyandsorohan.com Atlanta, GA Joe O’Kelley (BBA ’83) ultracarwash.com Chip Hackett (BBA ’88, MBA ’92) 54. Towersource, Inc. Telecommunications 64. Williams Teusink, LLC Roswell, GA Law towersourceinc.com Decatur, GA Doug Weston (BBA ’89) williamsteusink.com Brandon Stewart (BSFCS ’99) Eric M. Teusink (AB ’03, AB ’03) David J. Metzger (BBA ’02) 55. Head Over Heels Boutique Retail 65. Dancefx, Inc. Macon, GA Arts headoverheelsmacon.com Athens, GA Ashley Pyron (AB ’06) dancefx.org Danielle Hosker (AB ’01) 56. DPM Fragrance Allison Hayn (ABJ ’04) Wholesale Manufacturing Jenny Broe (BS ’06) Starkville, MS dpmfragrance.com 66. Cay Insurance Services, Inc. Thomas Reed (BBA ’87) Insurance Savannah, GA 57. Infinity Network cayinsurance.com Solutions, Inc. John Sipple (BBA ’00) IT Services Christopher Cay (AB ’97) Macon, GA infinitynetworks.net 67. SEA Atlanta Brian Betzel (BBA ’01) Aquarium Sales and Service Johns Creek, GA 58. Bayou City Smiles seaatlanta.com Dentistry Raj Shingadia (AB ’01, BS ’03) Houston, TX Julie Shingadia (ABJ ’01, MMC ’05) bayoucitysmiles.com Marcus deGuzman (BS ’96) 68. Louie’s Cafe Food Service/Catering 59. Your Pie Franchising Cartersville, GA Food Franchising louiescafeonline.com Athens, GA Will Sprague (BSA ’03) yourpie.com Mary Elizabeth R. Sprague (BBA ’02) Arthur Allen French (BS ’77) Drew French (BBA ’05) 69. Expert Computers, Inc. Bucky Cook (BBA ’77) IT Services for SMBs Griffin, GA 60. Southern Tradition expertcomp.com Tailgating, LLC Drew Taylor (BSFR ’98) Tailgating Equipment Rentals Starkville, MS 70. BridalLive southerntraditiontailgating.com Software/Technology Brad Vickers (EDD ’07) Marietta, GA bridallive.com Tom Esposito (BBA ’01) Rachel Esposito (BBA ’01)
71. Vert Digital Marketing Atlanta, GA vertdigital.com Kevin Planovsky (ABJ ’05) Michael Lentz (ABJ ’06) Matt Griffin (BBA ’05) 72. Bone & Joint Institute of South Georgia Health Care – Orthopaedic Surgery Jesup, GA bjisg.com J. Lex Kenerly III (BS ’78) 73. Liberty Technology IT Services Griffin, GA libertytech.net Ben Johnson (AB ’00) 74. White Oak Pastures Agriculture Bluffton, GA whiteoakpastures.com Will Harris (BSA ’76)
81. Estes Landscape Design, Inc. Landscape Design Sharpsburg, GA esteslandscape.com Robert Estes (BLA ’95)
91. Professional Land & Timber Services Forestry Consulting Brunswick, GA David D. Johns (BSFR ’78)
82. Sullivan & Schlieman Wealth Management, LLC Wealth Management/Financial Planning Alpharetta, GA sullivanandschlieman.com Andrew Sullivan (BBA ’89) Josh Schlieman (BBA ’02)
92. Prince Automotive Group Automotive Dealer Tifton, GA princeauto.com John B. Prince III (BBA ’64) John “Jay“ B. Prince IV (BBA ’93)
83. The HardCore Gym/Athens Fitness & MMA Fitness/Martial Arts Athens, GA athensfitnessandmma.com Rory Singer (BSBE ’99) Adam Singer (BSBE ’98, MS ’07) 84. Pawtropolis, Inc. Pet Care/Retail Bogart, GA pawtropolis.com Amanda Rodriguez Crook (BS ’01) John Crook (BS ’02)
93. M. Jeffrey Martin, CPA, LLC Tax Accounting St. Simons Island, GA ssicpa.com Jeff Martin (AB ’87) Lynn M. Martin (BSHE ’84) 94. Nuçi’s Space Nonprofit Athens, GA nuci.org Bob Sleppy (BS ’05, MBA ’10)
95. Insight Strategic Communications Internal Communications Consulting 85. Riverbend Environmental Inc. Roswell, GA Environmental Consulting insight-communication.com Watkinsville, GA Maureen Clayton (ABJ ’80, MA ’84) riverbendenvironmental.com Kim Reagin Metcalf 96. jobTopia, LLC 76. Innovative Therapy (BSEH ’93, MS ’96) IT and Accounting Staffing Concepts, LLC Roswell, GA Health Care 86. EOC¹ jobtopiallc.com Hawkinsville, GA Environmental Consulting Anthony Moore (BBA ’93) itcmgt.net Bainbridge, GA Joe Sapp (M ’94) eocone.com 97. SERVPRO of Henry and Kevin Hitchcock (BSEH ’94) Spalding Counties 77. Professional Benefits Residential/Commercial Consultants 87. SDA CPA Group, P.C. Restoration Services Insurance – Employee Benefits Accounting McDonough, GA Woodstock, GA Dunwoody, GA servpro8537.com professionalbenefitsconsultants.com sdacpa.com Danny Brown (M ’79) Nick Schkabla (BBA ’02) Stanley Dean (BBA ’85, MACC ’86) Bryan Turner (BBA ’01) Kelly Dean (BSHE ’89, MS ’91) 98. Boyce Design and Contracting 78. Breda Pest Management 88. Seacrest Partners Construction/Design Termite and Pest Control Insurance Partners Atlanta, GA Loganville, GA Savannah, GA boycedesign.com bredapest.com seacrestpartners.com Thomas Boyce (BBA ’07) Rodger Breda (BBA ’73) Cliff McCurry (BBA ’71) John Robert Boyce (BBA ’08) Matt Breda (BBA ’02, MED ’05) Cindy Parker Robinett (BBA ’89) Mitchell Breda (BBA ’10) 99. Howell Orthodontics 89. Capital Investment Advisors Dentistry – Orthodontics 79. Sovereign Systems Financial Services Jefferson, GA Technology Consulting Atlanta, GA howellortho.com Norcross, GA yourwealth.com Emily F. Howell (BBA ’00) sovsystems.com Michael Reiner (BBA ’74) George Barkley (BBA ’94) Mitch Reiner (BBA ’05) 100. Fehrman Investment Group Matt Cadogan (BBA ’96) Financial Advisory Services Michael Hunsucker (BBA ’91) 90. Wela Strategies Augusta, GA Financial Services fehrmaninvestmentgroup.com 80. Mom Corps Atlanta, GA Jeff Fehrman (BBA ’93) Staffing welastrategies.com Atlanta, GA Mitch Reiner (BBA ’05) momcorps.com Allison O’Kelly (BBA ’94) 75. Forisk Consulting Forestry and Timber Consulting/ Research Athens, GA forisk.com Brooks Mendell (PHD ’04) Amanda Lang (BSFR ’05, MS ’08)
13
Congratulations 14
s, Class of 2015! 15
SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR IS CO-FOUNDER OF 2015 NO. 1 BULLDOG 100 BUSINESS By Elizabeth R. Elmore (ABJ ’08, BBA ’08)
Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95) earned his undergraduate degree from the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication – perhaps a little surprising for someone who has helped launched numerous tech startups, including the 2015 Bulldog 100 fastestgrowing business, Kabbage, Inc. But Gorlin is adamant that his background in journalism allowed for him to communicate his thoughts and ideas effectively – thus ensuring success in whatever industry he was launching his latest endeavor. “Journalists are natural storytellers,” said Gorlin after being named the first Grady graduate to land at No. 1. “I credit Grady with a lot of my early abilities to communicate and tell stories. When you are starting a company—whether it’s an accounting firm, a pool-cleaning business, a digital agency or a financial services firm—you’re telling a story to your customers; you’re solving a problem for them. The more effectively you tell that story, the better you’re going to do.” Gorlin co-founded Kabbage, Inc., in 2009 with Rob Frohwein and Kathryn Petralia. The financial services data and technology platform provides funding to small businesses through a simplified application process that is automated and 100 percent online. Customers can have cash in as little as seven minutes – faster than cashing a check at the bank. Despite an unstable economic period in December 2008, to say the least – Gorlin says the timing was right to move forward with the business. There were few entities who could make lending less than $100,000 to finance small companies cost-effective, and there was also an emergence of data on the internet about those small businesses. Kabbage has grown rapidly since its launch and has become the leading online lender of working capital for small businesses. It began offering $2,000$12,000 primarily to e-commerce merchants. Today, though, 70 percent of its customers are brick and mortar, compared to 5 percent a few years ago. Just a matter of days before the Bulldog 100 Celebration, Kabbage announced it was lending $3 million per day – less than a year since it hit the $1 million mark per day, and its loans were ranging from $500 to $100,000. 16
Grady Dean Charles Davis (MA ’92), Kabbage Co-founder Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95) and UGA President Jere W. Morehead (JD ’80).
In 2013, Fast Company named Kabbage a “Top 10 Most Innovative Company in Finance,” along with PayPal and Square. The following year, it made Forbes’ “Top 100 Most Promising Companies” list. Perhaps most importantly, though, the number of return customers indicates that Kabbage’s approach is working and it’s a serious source of working capital for small businesses. Today, the co-founder and former chairman of Kabbage, Inc., is already onto his next endeavor – as founder and CEO of Roadie, Inc., an app-based shipping community that some are calling “the Uber for shipping and delivery.” The app’s recent mention on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” has given Roadie a push on social media platforms, and music star Ludacris has announced a partnership with the company. Perhaps this is the beginning of Gorlin’s return to the Bulldog 100 stage – as the first alumnus to land at No. 1 for two different businesses.
Kabbage provides funding to small businesses through a simplified application process that is automated and 100 percent online. Roadie delivers your stuff where it needs to go faster, cheaper, and friendlier. Learn more about Roadie and download the app at roadie.com/download.
CHECKING IN WITH MARC GORLIN, BULLDOG 100 BUSINESS OWNER *Exerpt from UGA Alumni Association Blog post.
Director of Alumni Programs Frances Beusse (BS ’06) caught up with Marc Gorlin (ABJ ’95), serial entrepreneur and owner of Kabbage, Inc., the 2015 No. 1 Bulldog 100 business, to discuss his latest venture, Roadie Inc., the first neighbor-to-neighbor shipping network. Caption below.
What did it mean to you to be the owner of the Bulldog 100 fastest-growing business in 2015? It was a huge honor. There are so many great Bulldog businesses out there, so to come out on top was an unexpected but crazy awesome honor. I love that it was the first time someone from the Grady College has won the award. That made it even more special to me, and based on his reaction, Dean Davis was pretty excited about it, too. As an alumnus, what advice do you have for UGA alumni or students looking to break into the start up business? Start early and start often. Don’t be afraid of failure. Coming out of school is your best time to take risks. Most students aren’t coming out of school with a spouse, mortgage payments or kids. Take chances and don’t be afraid to break things. My dad always told me, “Don’t get a job, find a deal.” Whether you’re starting a company or just figuring out the right career to begin with, it’s important to find your deal. Say you’re making a Roadie delivery from Atlanta to Athens. Describe your perfect day in the Classic City. Well, the day obviously starts with me rolling into Athens with a package to deliver. I love meeting new people and the Roadie community includes more than its fair share of Bulldog fans, so that’s always fun. After that, I like to walk around campus and stop at the UGA Bookstore to get my kids something – you can never have enough UGA gear. Stopping by the Grady College is a must and Dean Charles Davis (MA ’92) usually has good stories to share. Finally, it’s hard to get me out of town without visiting The Grill.
I used to enjoy that fine establishment much later in the evening during my days in Athens, but these days I go old-school and drop in for a BBQ burger platter with some feta fries and a chocolate milkshake. That always makes for a great day. Your career path has had lots of twists and turns. Where do you see yourself in five years? Assuming Roadie’s partnership with Ludacris continues to go well, I plan to start my own hip-hop career under the stage name Lil’ Roadie and I hope to fill stadiums worldwide and make billions. If that doesn’t work out, I’ll be thankful to be running the most innovative company in the shipping industry and helping make the world a better, greener, friendlier place. Marc Gorlin stopped by campus in August to drop off a little swag for his latest business venture, Roadie, Inc., the first neighbor-toneighbor delivery network. While in Athens, he visited Parker Middleton (left), Grady’s senior director of development and alumni relations, and Meredith Gurley Johnson (above), executive director of the UGA Alumni Association.
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KEYNOTE RECAP: HALA MODDELMOG (MA ’81) By: Jamie Lewis (AB ’12, AB ’12)
During the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration, Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) President and CEO Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81) took the stage at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis to address the crowd of business owners and entrepreneurs – some of the best and brightest graduates the University of Georgia has produced. The annual gathering honors the 100 fastest-growing businesses owned or operated by UGA alumni and is proof of the university’s ability to create dynamic leaders. As CEO of the MAC, Moddelmog is uniquely positioned to understand small businesses’ immeasurable effect on the state of Georgia. “Small businesses are truly the backbone of our economy,” said Moddelmog. “In fact, 86 percent of all firms in metro Atlanta employ fewer than 20 employees, making the region one of the top 10 metro areas in the nation for the number of firms employing less than 20 employees.”
Student Alumni Council member Dowdy White ’16 presents a UGA Book of honor to Hala Moddelmog (MA ’81), the 2015 Bulldog 100 keynote speaker.
It is no surprise that nearly half of this year’s Bulldog 100 businesses are based in the metro Atlanta area. With thriving university facilities and programs offered in Atlanta and Gwinnett County that welcome non-traditional students earning degrees while continuing to work, UGA recognizes the importance of developing business leaders for the state. “Most jobs in the next five years will come from companies that don’t exist today,”Moddelmog said. “We should be doing all we can to support small businesses and entrepreneurs because they are creating the jobs that will drive our economy forward.” A trailblazer in every sense of the word, Moddelmog attended UGA to earn a master’s degree from the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, with her sights set on a career in the corporate sector. She credits her Grady professors with cultivating a drive and a “take action now” mindset that has stuck with her throughout her postgraduate career.
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“Because of my experience at UGA, I’ve never been afraid to take risks in my career. It’s the willingness to take risks that has opened many doors for me,” the alumna said. “From serving as president of Church’s Chicken in my thirties, to helping reboot Arby’s, to ushering in a new era of leadership at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, risktaking has been a constant in my career.”
“Most jobs in the next five years will come from companies that don’t exist today.” Hala Moddelmog (MA ʼ81)
Ambition and risk-taking have helped Moddelmog transform the MAC into one of the most influential business organizations in the state. She attributes the chamber’s success to her commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, which she says is “essential in today’s competitive economy.” As CEO of the MAC, Moddelmog advocates for diversity through a number of initiatives, including partnering with Women in Technology to increase the pipeline of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers (STEM) by connecting them with internship opportunities. (Side note: the UGA Alumni Association was recognized five female-owned businesses with focuses in the STEM fields during the 2015 Bulldog 100 Celebration.) The state’s economy has a bright future under Hala Moddelmog’s trusted leadership, and the University of Georgia is proud that so many of its graduates are playing a role in that progress.
About Hala Moddelmog President and CEO Metro Atlanta Chamber
Hala Moddelmog became the first female president and CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) in January 2014, following a long and successful career in the corporate and nonprofit sectors.
Prior to joining MAC, Moddelmog was president of Atlanta-based Arby’s Restaurant Group, an international quick-service restaurant chain with approximately 3,500 units and annual system-wide sales of approximately $3 billion. In 2006, she was chosen as president and CEO of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world’s largest grassroots organization working to eradicate breast cancer through education, awareness, public policy and science throughout the globe. Moddelmog established a world-renowned scientific advisory board and established the Susan G. Komen Advocacy Alliance, to advocate for breast cancer patients at the federal and state level. Moddelmog was the first woman to lead an international restaurant company when in 1995 she was named president of Church’s Chicken, the world’s third-largest chicken brand with 1,500+ restaurants in 15 countries and nearly $1 billion in system sales. During her tenure, the company experienced record sales and profit growth with eight years of consecutive comparable sales increases. She serves/has served on multiple boards, including: Woodruff Arts Center, Alliance Theatre, International Women’s Forum, Women Corporate Directors, The Committee of 200 (c200), United Way of Metro Atlanta, Women’s Foodservice Forum, Atlanta Women’s Foundation, Atlanta Committee for Progress and more. Moddelmog earned her master’s degree from the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication and a bachelor’s degree in English from Georgia Southern University. 21
Wisdom | Justice | Moderation CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BULLDOG 100 CLASS OF 2015 FOR BRINGING PRIDE TO YOUR BUSINESS AND THE DAWG NATION!
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ALUMNI-OWNED BUSINESSES FUEL GEORGIA’S ECONOMY
By: Joe Patrick of No. 95 business Insight Strategic Communications insight-communication.com
N othing has helped the state of Georgia’s economic revival over the last several years quite like UGA alumni — because their businesses are booming.
Since the financial crisis lasting from 2008 to 2010, Georgia’s recovery has been significant to say the least. At its peak in 2014, the state had added about 200,000 jobs since January 2010, according to information from the U.S. Department of Labor. Now, the state is reporting its lowest levels of unemployment totals and unemployment rate, nearing pre-crash levels. As a land-grant institution, UGA improves the lives of Georgia residents. Thus, the university and its alumni are an important piece in the economic recovery process, and will continue to be the lifeblood of the state’s economy for years to come. Just look at the Georgia General Assembly — those public officials who set the table for businesses. As of January 2015, more than one-fourth of state legislators are UGA alumni, including House Speaker David Ralston (JD ’80). Even more importantly, the university’s 175,000 in-state alumni serve as an economic engine, creating innovative technologies and businesses that foster economic growth. More than 525 commercial products have originated from UGA research, and 132 startup companies are based on UGA technology, including 96 in Georgia, according to UGA’s Economic Development Office. Looking even closer at these 132 businesses, UGA says it has generated $30.1 million in sales revenue, and 900+ jobs (750+ in Georgia), totaling more than $100 million in total economic impact.
So what is it about UGA that leads its alumni to be so successful? A quality education for starters, but the support that the university gives to former students is significant as well. Chris Hanks (BBA ’90), former director of UGA’s Entrepreneurship Program, housed in the Terry College of Business, is adamant that entrepreneurs aren’t created in a classroom. “The most effective method for our program is not in a classroom or a seminar, because you can’t be lectured to about entrepreneurship and expect real transformation in your business.” Hanks explains. “We’ll meet with you to talk about who you are as a leader, what you’re struggling with, set up an action plan, and hold you accountable.” The Entrepreneurship Program caters not just to undergraduates, but also to existing business owners seeking professional development opportunities. In fact, Hanks says he’d met with certain Bulldog 100 honorees on a regular basis for years to provide them with support. “It’s about removing that isolation that you feel as a CEO of a rapidly growing company,” Hanks says. “That person has to be the leader and at least pretend to know the answers to all problems. But what if they don’t know? There are very few places that CEOs can go for support, but that’s why we’re here.” Support for business owners isn’t just limited to the Entrepreneurship Program. In keeping with its core value of serving the state, UGA offers a variety of post-graduate resources to help businesses thrive. Grant-funded support centers like the Small Business
With 17 locations across the state of Georgia, the SBDC’s goal is to enhance the economic well-being of Georgians by providing a wide range of educational services for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Visit georgiasbdc.org for more information. 24
“That’s a real hallmark of a graduate in general from the University of Georgia. You have type-A personalities who are not only committed to obtaining a degree, but entering the workforce and doing great things for their communities, the state and the nation.” Brian Dill (AB ’94), Bulldog 100 Chair, COO of GA Dept. of Community Affairs Development Center (SBDC) and the Cooperative Extension Service offer no-direct cost support to anyone needing help. “People, business owners, will come to us with self-identified issues they’re having and we will offer them consultation and help them however we can,” says Allan Adams (AB ’82), Georgia SBDC director.
Brian Dill (AB ’94)
The SBDC is a tax-funded program that runs out of 17 offices throughout the state, but arguably is the most impactful of Georgia’s Public Service and Outreach programs. According to UGA’s Economic Development Office, the SBDC has helped create $7.2 billion in sales and 1,405 new businesses, which has created 9,777 new jobs since 2010. “Sometimes they don’t even have problems — but they just want to improve overall — so we can place them in an appropriate workshop or seminar. And they’re always welcome back in the future, too.” It’s this kind of support that is helping UGA alumni stand at the forefront of the state’s economic turnaround. Georgia Department of Community Affairs COO Brian Dill (AB ’94) has worked in the state’s economic development circles for 15 years, and he says UGA alumni help prevent the state’s economy from stagnating. “One of the things I’ve started noticing is that you’ve got local companies and local firms who are in positive cash positions that are making competitive business decisions to take risk and grow,” Dill says. “And this isn’t something you’re seeing in localized pockets. You’re seeing this in small businesses across the state. There’s a new norm now when it comes to Georgia’s economy, but the strength of the surge we’re seeing now is on the backs of these companies and their owners.” Those owners, the ones with their UGA diplomas hung proudly in their offices, have some noticeable similarities, according to Dill. They are the products of an outstanding education combined with invaluable career support. “In working with candidates from the Bulldog 100, I’ve noticed them to be effective leaders with a real spirit of entrepreneurship. They’re never content to rest on their laurels and always want to continue to grow,” Dill says. “That’s a real hallmark of a graduate in general from the University of Georgia. You have type-A personalities who are not only committed to obtaining a degree, but entering the workforce and doing great things for their communities, the state and the nation.” Or in other words, they’re Bulldogs.
SAVE THE DATE 2016 BULLDOG 100 CELEBRATION
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Jeff Dunn (BBA ’80) President C-Fresh, a division of Campbell Soup Company
JANUARY 30, 2016 ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS alumni.uga.edu/b100 25
GO DAWGS!
Dr. J. Matthew Valosen
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