Dr. C. Adam Callery’s Post

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Managing Director of Sagesse Lumiere Chicago, IL.

Whew! A chapter has closed, and I have reached the end of this novel. It has come time to start a new one for my life’s library. Yesterday the 38th and last cohort for the Chicago site of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program was held at City Colleges of Chicago. I struggled to find a single word that would capture a journey that lasted over thirteen years. One of my 10KSB colleagues, Rashid Carter, a word smith like no other, would honor each graduate from the program with a descriptor that summarized their contribution to the cohort. I am going to attempt to do the same to summarize thousands of conversations and encounters that built me up to become a better small business advisor. I settled upon two words to select from, success and achievement. I chose “achievement”. The Webster's dictionary defines success as “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose” while achievement is defined as “a project done successfully, typically by skill, effort, or courage.” I picked achievement because it encompasses the full breadth of my experience as a contributor to the program. Skill – My skill as a facilitator and small business advisor grew tremendously due mostly to the stewardship and personal mentorship practiced by the business faculty of Babson College, the developer of the curriculum we used. They created an environment of collaboration that provided a solid foundation for us, as instructors. Business owners benefited and were able to creatively arrive at new business opportunities. Effort – Given the structure of the program, as a facilitator, we were called upon to speak competently to cohorts composed of businesses representing multiple industries all of which were at various stages of growth/sustainability. To prepare for each session, I vigorously reviewed the curriculum and participant profiles. This effort, while strenuous, resulted in many memorable win /win moments that produced personal growth and established lasting connections with many of the business founders. Courage – Courage was acquired with each session completed. Each session I delivered stood apart from the previous one. New faces, new businesses, varied ambitions, and numerous business challenges. Frankly, with each session, I had many butterflies in my stomach. When standing before an audience for the first time you never know if your words or thoughts will be accepted. But, when you allow courage to fill your spirit, courage is transformative. It truly transforms fear/hesitancy into determination/action. I applaud every founder whom I have stood before for the vibrant and constructive dialogue. My perspective about the small business ecosystem has truly expanded and I have learned so much that I will be able to carry forth in my professional career. Thank you, Babson College, and Goldman Sachs for allowing me and my colleagues to make a lasting contribution to our city, Chicago! #MakeSmallBig #smallbusinesses #10kchicago #10ksb #HaroldWashingtonCollege

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Kerry Maiorca

Somatic Therapist | Yoga, Mindfulness, Sound Baths

1mo

So grateful to have had the chance to learn from you in cohort 4! Best to you on this next chapter.

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Stephie Young

#Event Logistics Management | #Registration | #Housing Management | #EventExecutioner | On-site Event Management

1mo

Congratulations Dr. Callery. I am excited to know that many lives were changed due to your diligence and dedication. Small business owners need programs like this and people like you to support the dreams that are floating in our heads. Your commitment allowed those dreams to become a reality for so many. I pray that your next journey is as fabulous for you as the past 13 years has been for many others. Be blessed and remain encouraged.

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Angela Dodd

Director, EDLI Community Outreach

1mo

Congratulations!

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Thank you for your dedication to small businesses and know the impact your work has had on me will last a lifetime. I’m forever grateful to you.

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Kaney O'Neill

Experienced Federal Contractor (8a, SDVOSB)

1mo

Thank you for all you do for small business. I am totally grateful for everything I learned from you. Thank you.

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Randa Clark

Pet care expert who offers peace of mind for pet parents by providing customized services to enrich their furry family members’ lives with a focus on the mental well-being of the pets.

1mo

You are an incredible teacher, and I am so incredibly grateful to have been in your presence.

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Danielle Lee Engelke, Founder

Empowering Women Business Owners to Build Wealth with MoneyTherapy™ | Virtual CFO | Founder | MBA

1mo

Welcome to your next chapter🙌🏼

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Congratulations and keep up the good work as you begin to put the pen to the pages of your next chapter !

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Joyce Gye

President at S & M Plow Corp

4w

Congratulations! I was in Cohort 13 and remember the awesome presentation you gave which had a lasting impact on me. I wish you continued success in your next chapter of life and business.

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Francine Medley, CPA, MBA

Commissioned Compliance Examiner - Supervision, Enforcement

1mo

Congrats!

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