Skiljan Receives Top Corporate Entrepreneur Award

Michelle Skiljan, the executive director of Cal State San Bernardino’s Inland Empire Women’s Business Center, was named Corporate Entrepreneur of the Year by the National Association of Women Business Owners, Inland Empire, in April. Skiljan received the award because of her outstanding leadership and energy in developing superb programs for the CSUSB campus and local communities. Local women business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders are honored at the annual Amazing Women Event, “Diamonds in Our Own Backyard.” Nominees must reside in and/or have a business with headquarters in Riverside or San Bernardino counties. “To be recognized for what I enjoy doing is a privilege,” said Skiljan, who was surprised by the award. “I had been nominated with three incredible women and was extremely honored when awarded. It is a pleasure to serve as executive director for the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley Women’s Business centers.” A contributing author of the best-selling book “Selling with Synchronicity,” Skiljan earned her M.B.A. in entrepreneurship from CSUSB. In addition, she has an extensive business background, which includes more than 10 years working closely with small business owners. Skiljan is an instructor of the nation’s largest and most effective entrepreneurial training network, NxLevel. She has taught both short and long-term training courses throughout San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Her course subjects cover the spectrum of business topics at levels ranging from beginner to advanced. Other honors Skiljan has received are the NAWBO-IE 2007 Community Bridge Builder and the U.S. Small Business Administration District IX Women’s Business Center Director of the Year. The National Association of Women Business Owners is the only dues-based national organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs in all industries. It currently boasts more than 8,000 members and 80 chapters nationwide. The organization propels women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power.