Scott Zimbrick Small Business Scholarship:
Leadership Corvallis 2018-19 participant Echo Alexzander is the 2018-19 recipient of the Scott Zimbrick Small Business Scholarship, which provides financial assistance based on need and service to the community of an existing small businessperson or independent consultant. This scholarship is given in his name to a person who will be encouraged to carry on his legacy of community service.
“As a business owner, it can be hard to slow down and take time for ourselves, for personal development and community leadership opportunities,” Echo says. “I would encourage people to consider doing so and to be aware of the opportunity for financial support available to help them be involved via the Scott Zimbrick Small Business Scholarship. As businesses do more with less each year, this scholarship might just be the boost that you need to be able to participate in LC and bring back what you learn to your business and others you work with!”
What have you liked the most about participating in Leadership Corvallis so far?
“Even though I was actively involved in Corvallis before joining the LC 2019 cohort (best class EVER by the way), I have been so fascinated with everything I had to learn about the city, services and inner workings in so many areas. In each class, I’m taking notes and always thinking ‘how can I share what I am learning here with others?’”
Describe your most memorable experience volunteering or serving in a leadership position in the community.
“I began involvement in the Community Independent Business Alliance (CIBA) group in spring 2018 and quickly found myself taking a lead (volunteer) role in reviewing and reviving this great local group. Over the last year, I have been so encouraged by the work we have done locally in the small business community and how I have been able to serve them in a number of capacities from Buy Local First to a social media re-launch.
Though the group is facing challenges, I have been proud to represent them on City Club panel discussions and believe in the work they are doing. Possibly the most impactful way that I have been able to help the organization was creating a space for CIBA and other local business support groups to come together and share openly and honestly with one another in hopes of gathering strength together and evolving in a way to better serve our community, our economy and our businesses. I will look back with fond memories with all the business owners I have been able to build a relationship with and know the impact that we made together to build a stronger Corvallis day by day.”
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
“As an entrepreneur, I constantly am wearing a number of different hats in a single day. I enjoy the challenge of personal growth and innovation that is required to be successful in the business world today. I am thankful for the freedom and flexibility my businesses offer me and that I have a platform to positively impact the lives of those around me!”
What is one surprising thing about you not many people know?
“My name Echo was a prophetic gifting to echo the voice of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to share my faith with people in the world. I strive daily to speak this truth and life.”
If you could recommend one thing to incoming Leadership Corvallis participants, what would that be?
“Take the time to invest in this program! If you aren’t sure if you want to apply or are waiting for a better time, just jump in! You will meet incredible people and will be so well-equipped to be involved and serve at a higher level in our community. We need more leaders to rise up!”
More about Echo:
Echo Alexzander is an entrepreneur and small-business owner in Corvallis. She and her husband James own and operate FIRST Corvallis, a local business that is ‘The PREMIER Wellness Center in Corvallis.’ They have been growing and serving the Corvallis and surrounding communities for eight years this December.
In prior careers, Echo has worked in health care IT and project management, and traveled all over the U.S. as a senior consultant. Working with companies including the Mayo Clinic, Stanford Children’s Health, Trinity Health, Deloitte and The Advisory Board Company, she has been a part of best practice health care and process improvement in a number of ways. She now is building a Young Living Essential Oils network marketing business full time with her tribe. Combining her knowledge of wellness, empowerment of others and love of saving people money, this has been an exciting transition over the last year and perfect fit for her.
Echo has bachelor degrees in health care administration and business administration and graduated as an NCAA collegiate athlete throwing the javelin on the track team.
In Corvallis, Echo is an active member of the community through many business, civic and volunteer organizations, including the Community Independent Business Alliance (CIBA), Corvallis NBG, Red Cross, Stone Soup Kitchen, Love Inc., CARDV, Furniture Share and many more. With a heart to teach and serve, she loves being an active part of positive change.