Community Highlights: Meet Kristina Edwards of KU Small Business Development Center

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristina Edwards.

Hi Kristina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
From a tumultuous upbringing marked by adversity and scarcity to a position of leadership and advocacy, my journey has been one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of more. Despite growing up in a toxic early childhood, raised in a single-parent home, and having fewer resources than a typical family, I had a strong Hispanic mother who was determined to create a brighter future for my brother and me. She fought every day for that, and that fight was a significant part of my development. My mother showed me strength and taught me that even though bad things happen, you have the power to change your circumstances, which is a lesson that continues to inspire me. I am also a granddaughter of migrant workers; their hard work and determination were important themes in my upbringing. My grandparents had nothing and worked laborious and unsafe jobs to create a better life for my mother and her siblings. They transitioned from field laborers to blue-collar jobs, a huge step. My grandparents now own property and live a comfortable life. Again, despite a less-than-easy start, the lesson of changing one’s circumstances through hard work and resilience is instrumental to who I am. My mother also instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. With nothing but her determination, she left the toxic environment we grew up in, moved away from the small-town ties, and crafted a happy life where we had a place to call home, friends to grow up with, and the promise of a future. We never had much, but we did have a stable home.

However, growing up poor fueled my desire for more. I knew I wanted more financial stability than I was used to and envisioned a life beyond living paycheck to paycheck. But my aspirations didn’t stop there—I aimed to defy traditional gender roles within Hispanic families. I wanted an education and a career; I craved more for myself and my family. This was something I was never exposed to; the women in my family were ultimately caregivers, and I knew that was not the path for me. Education became my focus; I needed knowledge and access to resources, and new information would allow me to break cycles. However, with limited resources, I knew the financial hurdles would be daunting. After researching and exploring different programs and financial aid options, I scraped together enough to attend the University of Kansas (KU) college. Because I wasn’t exposed to a college education in my family, I was told to follow my passions and do something I enjoyed. After a few college major shifts, I discovered my passion and eventually landed on Art History. I was interested and energized by the courses and felt rewarded by the work. I felt like I was on the right path.

Upon graduation, the harsh reality of a challenging job market, especially for an Art History graduate, set in. After months of trying to find a job in the Arts, I decided to open my search, leading me to work as a financial advisor. After two years of learning, experiencing the workforce, and leveraging my work ethic, obtaining a promotion sparked a revelation—I possessed untapped strengths and talents. A desire for more again propelled me towards exploring graduate school. I wanted to expand my education and step out of my comfort zone. After much research and self-reflection, I found myself at KU again, this time pursuing an MBA. The graduate school presented its challenges. The gaps in my education and a late ADHD diagnosis made it feel like starting from scratch. But with unwavering determination, I graduated with an almost perfect GPA. Although I initially thought advertising was my calling, a small business course opened my eyes to a newfound passion.

As a student consultant on a marketing project for a small vegetable company, I discovered the joy of working with passionate individuals, combining talents to fuel business growth. The Kansas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) had a rare opening for a business advisor, and despite feeling underqualified, I took a chance. I interviewed for the role, and to my surprise, I was offered the position! As I began my job, I carried the same essence of determination and personal drive that had shaped my journey thus far. I dedicated countless hours to learning and applying everyday business skills, determined to excel as a business advisor. In addition to advising small businesses, I spent numerous hours attending trainings, participating in webinars, and participating in community efforts, all aimed at refining my craft. Though I initially felt less than qualified, I knew that with time and effort, I could become a great advisor. Slowly but surely, I became a more confident and effective advisor as time passed.

As I gained experience, I began to receive opportunities to participate in community efforts. I joined entrepreneurial and networking boards, and now I am proud to sit on two large nonprofit boards and hold leadership positions within my community. My goal has always been to do great work and help people, and by committing to this goal, I am fortunate to do so every day. Nearly six years into my role at KU SBDC, I find myself not only leading the center as the Regional Director but also discovering my voice. From a shy, quiet girl, I’ve become a passionate advocate for small businesses. Every day, I revel in the opportunity to support my community and witness businesses thrive, knowing that my journey has come full circle from a challenging past to a fulfilling present, serving as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of more.

Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Life’s journey for me has been far from smooth. Growing up in a low-income environment meant confronting numerous challenges with limited resources. Being part of a non-educated family also compelled me to find my path to education and success. The complexities deepened as I was raised in a single-parent home, where my mother, working tirelessly to care for my brother and me, instilled in us the values of independence and self-drive. A significant hurdle emerged in the form of a financial barrier to education. The absence of funds for college was a daunting roadblock. But just like I learned growing up, the cards you are dealt do not have to determine your future. I knew I needed to create a new path. I diligently researched scholarships and grants, and I was able to find funding that allowed me to go to college. In addition to external circumstances, my path to success wasn’t free from internal struggles. The discovery of anxiety and depression indeed presented their challenges, and these challenges were not easily recognizable. Mental health was never spoken about in my family; the ailments were typically defined as laziness or weakness. Thus, I went years struggling, feeling isolated and never thought there was a solution. It wasn’t until my late twenties that I recognized the need for support. I sought mental health treatment, a decision that marked a turning point in my life.

Therapy provided a safe space to confront and navigate the complexities of my emotions, becoming a crucial pillar in my journey toward success. It helped me develop coping mechanisms and resilience, revealing the strength within vulnerability and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. I finally felt like I could emerge from the shadows of anxiety and depression, knowing I had skills and resources and that I wasn’t alone in my suffering. By focusing on myself, I was able to help others.

In addition to addressing anxiety and depression, I also discovered that my brain worked differently in other aspects. In my late twenties, I was diagnosed with ADHD. I always felt like it took me longer and was more challenging to learn and process than others. When I took a step back, I realized my brain worked differently and that by altering how I navigate my life, I could leverage my neurodiversity and make it my superpower. Again, simply learning about myself and changing how I navigate the world made life easier and more enjoyable. Conquering these internal struggles has transformed me into a passionate advocate for mental health. My experiences have fueled a commitment to raise awareness and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. By sharing my story, I aim to inspire others to seek help, fostering a community where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being. This journey is a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and the support mental health treatment can provide for success.

Now, on the brink of motherhood, I am filled with excitement. The prospect of providing my child with everything I didn’t have motivates me to strive for continuous improvement. Though marked by difficulties, my journey has instilled in me a sense of purpose and a commitment to giving my child a different, more prosperous future. I am determined to break generational patterns of struggle; I aim to offer my child opportunities and advantages that were once elusive to me. Each challenge I faced has become a stepping stone, propelling me toward a future where my family can thrive and overcome the adversities that once defined our path. Although I don’t love all the challenges presented to me, I am grateful for those experiences because they have made me stronger, more intelligent, and an overall better human.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about KU Small Business Development Center?
I serve as the Regional Director of the KU Small Business Development Center (SBDC), leading a team of dedicated business advisors. Our mission is straightforward: to empower individuals on their journey to start and grow successful businesses, providing ongoing support as they pursue their passions. At the KU SBDC, we take pride in offering personalized, confidential advising services that span the entire spectrum of business development. Whether you’re just starting or looking to strategize for growth, our team, all equipped with MBAs, guides you through every step. Our center is part of a network of Small Business Development Centers across Kansas and the United States, a partnership program between the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Kansas Department of Commerce (KDOC), and the University of Kansas School of Business. The KU SBDC serves several surrounding counties, including Douglas, Franklin, Jefferson, Atchison, Leavenworth, and Doniphan. We support aspiring business owners, startup companies, existing small businesses, and those looking to sell or purchase a small business. Our advice covers a range of areas, from the startup process and business plans to marketing strategies to financial analysis, access to capital, and human resources. We operate on the fundamental principle of “Do great work and help people,” we are more than just business advisors – we are partners in your journey. We meet businesses where they are, offering tailored advice and an accessible environment to ensure you feel supported and empowered. Trustworthiness and accessibility are key aspects of our approach. We aim to be trustworthy advisors and dedicated advocates for the success of the small businesses we serve. Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but with the KU SBDC, we strive to provide guidance and a supportive community. In addition to personalized advising, we offer a wealth of resources tailored to equip small businesses with the tools needed for success. Whether a business is in the early stages or seeking strategies for growth, our resources cover a wide array of topics to meet your specific needs. Being part of the KU SBDC is more than just a role – it’s a commitment to being a community of passionate individuals dedicated to the success of small businesses.

Let’s end by discussing what matters most to you and why.
What matters most to me is positive relationships, with my family serving as the foundation of what is essential. The wisdom, support, and unwavering love from my mother and grandmother have shaped who I am today and instilled in me a commitment to extend the same encouragement and support to those around me. Being a source of love, encouragement, and knowledge and acting as a cheerleader for others are purposes I hold dear and things I learned from the two most influential women in my life.

The positive impact of my husband, Jordan, cannot be overlooked. His intelligence, ambition, kindness, and care have provided stability and love throughout our 14-year journey together. He gave me in my adult life what I lacked in my early life, and that is something I can’t express enough gratitude for. We are newly married and have four excellent pets, and the anticipation of welcoming a human baby into our lives is the current base for my joy in life. And being a classic millennial, I must include my pets in what’s important to me. My two huskies and two orange cats provide unwavering support and love, bringing me joy. Although they are just pets, it is important to note and bring attention to the things in your environment that bring you joy and take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate all they do for you. They have taught me the importance of stepping back and soaking in the wonderful aspects of life.

In addition to my internal family, I have crafted a beautiful external family. Carefully curated friendships over the years have formed another layer of positivity. Grandma’s advice to be cautious about who to let in has guided me through challenging relationships, leading me to surround myself with people who genuinely support me and want to see me succeed. It’s important to craft positive relationships, surround yourself with people who truly want the best for you, and openly reciprocate those feelings.

Beyond personal relationships, a commitment to breaking cycles and societal stereotypes is crucial to my being. Empowering women from diverse cultures is not just a cause; it’s a personal mission. Opening doors, showcasing potential, and dismantling barriers align with my vision of a world where every woman has the freedom to define her path and thrive. After telling her of my promotion to Regional Director, Kristina, my grandma told me I sometimes feel scared. Your path to success and your drive to grow as an individual are things I don’t understand, but I am proud of you. I create a new path for women in my family and showcase a different way of being that is foreign to those who raised me, and although scary, it is wonderful, new, and perhaps exciting. Mental health and wellness are crucial in my narrative and essential to me.

Overcoming the cultural stigma surrounding mental health, I invested in my well-being, battled anxiety and depression, and became an outspoken advocate to destigmatize and support others. This will continue to be an important pillar of who I am. Amidst these personal narratives, the dedication to supporting my community is a fundamental value. Actively contributing to the well-being of those around me, whether through volunteering, extending a helping hand, or fostering connections, harnesses the transformative power of community support. Recognizing that a thriving community uplifts individuals and promotes a more compassionate and connected society, I am responsible for contributing to such an environment. To complete this narrative of what is important to me, I want to end with my grandmother’s wisdom, which remains a guiding mantra: “Just be happy.” It serves as my compass, directing me toward a life filled with gratitude, contentment, and personal fulfillment. What matters most to me is the interweaving of these threads, creating a life rich in meaningful connections, personal growth, and a commitment to positively impacting the world around me.

Pricing:

• Services are FREE

Contact Info:

• Website: https://business.ku.edu/research-and-faculty/centers/ku-sbdc/partnerships
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-mease-mba-378a33125/

Image Credits
Jeff Burkhead