Doris Lux, of Columbus, Nebraska, was chosen as the recipient of the Center for Rural Affairs 2016 Extra Mile Award. She was recognized at an award ceremony on March 10 in York, Nebraska.
The Extra Mile Award is presented annually to an individual or organization that demonstrates outstanding support to the Center and exceptional dedication to small business development in rural Nebraska.
Doris is the Entrepreneurship Center director of Central Community College - Columbus. She co-hosts training sessions offered by the Women’s Business Center at the Central Community College Business Incubator and refers business owners to the group.
“When the Center offered monthly roundtables, Doris provided a place for our local group to meet,” said Juan Sandoval, Center for Rural Affairs’ Latino Business Center director. “Doris is a great source of information for those looking to start or expand a business in the Columbus, Central City, and Grand Island areas.”
Juan and Doris have worked together to counsel clients since 2010. In 2015, the two started Table Talks, a monthly training for entrepreneurs, in Columbus and Schuyler. The partnership has hosted several lunchtime sessions including email marketing, social media, transition and succession planning, legal structures, basic bookkeeping, and contracting with the government.
“Doris has been instrumental in referring loan clients as well as providing assistance in developing a business idea or structuring a business plan,” Juan said. “Doris is an asset to her community and to the businesses she serves. In short, Doris always goes the extra mile.”
At the award dinner, Juan said he and Doris have been described as Bonnie and Clyde since they are always up to something, and helping entrepreneurs.
“She is dedicated,” he said. “She’s a great asset to the community. Congratulations, Doris.”
Doris said they could tell stories for a long time. The Center and the community college have offered a lot of joint trainings and provided assistance to aspiring business owners.
“I’ll say one tiny plan needs money. Juan is always there, willing to figure something out,” Doris said. “I appreciate the Center. I just really enjoy working with people and seeing them be successful. Thank you for this award.”
