​In December 2023, Amy McMunn founded Letter & Board Spelled Communication Solutions LLC , an LLC with a mission that goes far beyond traditional business objectives. Amy is not just an educational consultant—she's a dedicated advocate for individuals with autism and motor differences who struggle to communicate purposefully and reliably. Specializing in motor-based communication instruction, Amy empowers those who are nonspeaking, minimally speaking, or unreliably speaking by teaching them to use letterboards to spell out their thoughts.
 
But Amy’s journey to this work didn’t start in the classroom. In fact, it began in a courtroom—or at least, that’s where she thought it would begin. Armed with a law degree from the University of Pittsburgh, Amy imagined a life of practicing law. However, her plans shifted when she became a mother to two sons, both later diagnosed with autism. Her eldest, in particular, faces significant challenges, including the inability to speak due to motor difficulties and the loss of most of his vision during his teenage years.
 
From early on, Amy’s life became intertwined with the world of therapies and medical care. Both of her sons entered the Early Intervention system as babies, and for the next two decades, her focus was on supporting their development. Then, in 2017, everything changed. A fellow autism mother introduced her to spelling as a form of communication, suggesting Amy travel out of state to learn this method for her son. It was during one of his initial sessions that her son spelled the word "photosynthesis," a moment that fundamentally shifted her perspective on nonspeaking individuals. She realized that the potential for communication was vast, even for those who struggled with motor function.
 
Since then, Amy has been on a mission to share this transformative approach with other families, just as it was shared with her. But the journey to entrepreneurship wasn't a solo effort. In November, Amy began working with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SUNY Brockport, particularly with business advisor Kristine Rudgers. Kristine has helped guide Amy through the complex process of setting up a legal structure, navigating accounting software, planning for the future, and marketing her services. Reflecting on her experience, Amy expressed deep gratitude: “They are a well-oiled machine. Each step of the process has been explained to me, and I have been able to gain advice and direction on everything from setting up a business plan to identifying banking needs to exploring invoicing software and future areas for growth. I couldn't imagine doing all of this without the support of Kristine, from the SBDC.”
 
Today, Amy provides her services at two locations in Rochester, New York. On weekday evenings, she offers her expertise at the Golisano Autism Center within Autism Up on 50 Science Parkway. Her weekends are spent at Homesteads for Hope, a nonprofit located on Manitou Road, which recently received a grant that will allow Amy to expand her spelling community.
 
Looking ahead, Amy envisions even greater growth for Letter & Board Spelled Communication Solutions LLC. Her dream is to create a community where all modes of Communication are accepted. She hopes to offer group classes and hire occupational therapists who can support her mission of teaching gross motor skills, enabling more individuals to engage in this empowering method of communication.
 
“I want to grow my business to support our community,” Amy said, her vision reflecting the same passion and dedication that first brought her to this work. “We all have a right to communicate and be heard, no matter what challenges we face.”
 
Through Letter & Board Spelled Communication Solutions LLC, Amy is turning her personal journey into a beacon of hope for countless other families facing similar struggles. And as her business grows, so does her impact on the community she serves.

​Amidst the aroma of diverse cuisines, there exists a culinary oasis known as The Taste of Kay, LLC. Owned and operated by the passionate Kayjona Rogers, this independent catering food service business isn't just about feeding hungry souls; it's a journey of flavors and entrepreneurship.

Kayjona's venture into the world of culinary delights began three years ago when she decided to share her love for cooking with the world. Starting with private parties and pop-up venues, she quickly gained recognition for her mouthwatering creations and unique seasoning blends. However, it wasn't until March 2022 that her dream truly took shape when she officially registered The Taste of Kay as a domestic limited liability company with the New York State Department of State.

Despite her culinary prowess, Kayjona faced the common challenge that plagues many entrepreneurs – the daunting task of managing the business side of things. While she thrived in the kitchen, navigating through bookkeeping, tax filings, marketing, and banking proved to be a different kind of challenge altogether.

Enter Gina Mangiamele, a certified business advisor within SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center, a passion for helping entrepreneurs like Kayjona turn their dreams into reality. Through the Good Biz 101 program, a collaborative effort between the Rochester Commissary, Foodlink, and the SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Gina became Kayjona's guiding light in the intricate world of business management.
Recognizing the importance of working "on" the business as much as working "in" it, Gina set out to empower Kayjona with the knowledge and tools she needed to succeed. From demystifying accounting processes and financial statements to providing insights into sales tax requirements, Gina's guidance was invaluable.

Today, as patrons indulge in the delectable offerings of The Taste of Kay, they're not just savoring delicious food; they're experiencing the culmination of Kayjona's culinary passion and Gina's unwavering support. Together, they've turned a simple food service business into a beacon of culinary excellence and entrepreneurial success, one flavorful dish at a time.

​In the heart of the Village of Webster stands an automotive repair shop, its doors open to the community since 1939, weaving a tapestry of history and tradition. Recently, this storied establishment found itself at the center of a remarkable journey, one fueled by passion, determination, and the invaluable support of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
 
A Vision Takes Shape:
It all began in February 2022 when a determined individual walked through the doors of SBDC, eyes set on a bold endeavor - acquiring the beloved Automotive Repair Shop. With aspirations of ownership, the client sought guidance in navigating the complexities of purchasing both the building and the business. Armed with ambition and a clear vision, they embarked on a journey that would shape the future of this cherished establishment.
 
Navigating the Path to Ownership:
Collaborating closely with SBDC, the client embarked on a journey of discovery and preparation. Together, they meticulously crafted a comprehensive business plan, meticulously addressing every aspect of the venture. From financing options to staffing considerations, from tax obligations to marketing strategies, no stone was left unturned. With SBDC's expert guidance from business advisor, Tim Bock, the client navigated through the intricacies of the process, ensuring a solid foundation for their future endeavors.
 
A Partnership of Progress:
As the journey unfolded, SBDC emerged as a steadfast partner, offering unbiased advice and unwavering support every step of the way. From reviewing business plans to providing insights on financial matters, SBDC served as a beacon of knowledge and expertise, guiding the client towards their goal with confidence and clarity.
 
Embracing Tradition, Embracing the Future:
Today, as the client takes the reins of the Automotive Repair Shop, they do so with a deep sense of pride and excitement. Eager to carry forward the legacy of the business, they embrace its rich history while charting a course towards a bright and prosperous future. With the support of SBDC and a steadfast commitment to excellence, the client is poised to write the next chapter in the story of this cherished establishment.
 

​Success is often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable. This is the case for 37-year-old Latisha McKellar, originally from Bronx, NY. Throughout her professional career of 15 years in accounting and customer service, Latisha decided to establish her tax firm with her mom as a silent partner in 2019. With the assistance from a business advisor within the Small Business Development Center, Latisha and her mom were able to launch the business. Latisha quickly realized a limitation in her potential growth due to not having her CPA certification. She decided to change gears and head back to school to pursue a degree in higher education.

Latisha decided to further her education at SUNY Brockport within the School of Business Management, while raising her four children. When a student work study position became available at the Small Business Development Center within SUNY Brockport, Latisha knew this would be opportunity for her to give back by serving within the Center. She applies her expertise and fosters growth and management of the Small Business Development Center’s social media presence as well as connects with Small Business Development Center clients in sharing their success stories on a media platform.  Latisha’s diverse background enriches the SUNY Brockport community as well as the small business community by offering a perspective steeped in resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering pursuit of educational opportunities amid adversity.

This CPA credential and her pursuit for high education stands as a pivotal milestone in the advancement of her career goals, equipping her with the knowledge, credibility, and leadership acumen necessary to thrive in the competitive realm of accounting and finance. As Latisha embarks on this transformative journey, she is beyond prepared to confront challenges, broaden her horizons, and emerge as a more skilled, accomplished, and impactful professional.