Women in Business’ Women Making a Difference for 2022

Reprinted from Pennsylvania Business Central

Jen Marsh, Vice-President of Business Development

Bedford County Development Authority

Since joining BCDA a little over a year ago, Jen has played a significant role in the continued growth and enhancement of Bedford County. With a Bachelors in Communication coupled with her experience in a variety of business sectors from hospitality to health care administration, she uses her skills to impact her community in a big way.

Jen serves as a member of the Governance Committee for The Greater Cumberland Committee in Western MD, the I-68 Regional Alliance, and the Advisory Committee for the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies.

Part of Jen’s role involves working with entrepreneurs as the Startup Alleghenies coach. She is inspired by how they are steadfast in their pursuit of making their small business a reality.

Jen has a true sense of community and understands the strength and value of collaboration and partnerships.She is a cheerleader for all and is the behind-the-scenes person you want on your side.

 

Christa McGeary, Entrepreneur Coach

Huntingdon County Business and Industry

Christa has dedicated her career to entrepreneurship & economic development in her hometown of Huntingdon, PA. She is currently the Entrepreneur Coach for Huntingdon & Fulton Counties. During her 2 years in this position, she has helped over 100 entrepreneurs with initial startup procedures, business plan creations, financial projections/statements, marketing plans, & much more! She is an active member of various non-profit committees and volunteers countless hours to ensure the success of the projects of which she’s a part.

Prior to her current position, she owned and operated a restaurant in Downtown Huntingdon. Christa graduated from Penn State University in 2013 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management/ Marketing and a minor in Entrepreneurship. She is a proud momma to her girls, Kinley & Zayleigh. She is a huge Penn State fan and enjoys taking her girls on adventures, partaking in outdoor activities, & cheering on her favorite sports teams in her free time!

 

Debbi Prosser, Director-Business Development

Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission (SAP&DC)

Joining SAP&DC, one of PA’s seven Local Development Districts in 1984, Debbi found a home. Belief in SAP&DC’s tagline, “progress through regional cooperation” and the opportunity to design and implement interesting, impactful, and varying projects lead her to her current position as Director of Business Development, a position held for 32 years. She considers herself to be blessed to have had the ability to work on projects around tourism, workforce, business, and entrepreneurial development while crediting the SA team and partners for the success.

Startup Alleghenies, is one of her favorites, encouraging and supporting new and emerging businesses in the region. It is an honor to be included in the journey of these inspirational people resulting in stronger and more vibrant communities in the region.

With her husband of 32 years, Bob, she raised an amazing daughter and is enjoying time with her first grandchild who arrived earlier this year.