Miller Slaughter, Western Kentucky University Small Business Development Center director, was named the Sutton Landry State Star by the American Small Business Development Center.

Annually the center awards the title to one member from each of the 63 national networks. Award recipients are selected for their significant contribution to their center’s program and dedication to assisting small businesses.

Slaughter was selected as this year’s Kentucky Small Business Development Center’s State Star due to his efforts and willingness to take on pilot programs, support the statewide network and help his peers.

“He is the first to offer help and do everything in his power to help small businesses succeed.  His dedication and commitment has led to strong growth for both WKU SBDC and KSBDC. We are proud of his achievements,” said Becky Naugle, state director.

Slaughter will be recognized at a private reception during the American Small Business Development Center conference in September in Nashville, Tennessee.

Slaughter has been with the Western Kentucky University Small Business Development Center since October 2011. He brought to the center more than 30 years of experience in marketing and general management. In addition, Miller spent six years in economic development working with the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Kentucky and a master’s degree in management from Northwestern University. Miller has his Export and Trade Counseling Certification from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Outside of the office Miller serves as a fellow in the Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute.

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center, part of the UK’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, is a network of 13 offices located throughout the state. The center helps existing and start-up businesses succeed by offering high quality, in-depth and hands-on services. KSBDC is an accredited partner program with the U.S. Small Business Administration. For more information on KSBDC visit http://www.ksbdc.org.