Staff

What We Do Best

The Small Business Development Center is a program of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Texas, and Trinity Valley Community College supplying no-fee and confidential advice for start-ups and existing small business.

Click here to schedule an appointement with Eddie.

Eddie Hanson, is a East Texas native with roots in Athens and Tyler. Eddie holds a Bachelor degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. His background includes self-employment and a strong involvement in community leadership and volunteer roles, including board service with organizations focused on job skills training and community enhancement. He is known for his genuine, service-oriented approach and ability to connect with business owners on their goals and challenges.

At Trinity Valley SBDC, Eddie provides one-on-one advising to help clients with planning, financial readiness, marketing strategies, and other key areas of business growth — combining practical insight with a commitment for a positive impact.

Eddie Hanson

Business Advisor

Click here to schedule an appointment with Miranda.

Miranda Perry is a former TVCC student, Trinity Valley SBDC client, and a Henderson County native. Her father opened a small business during her childhood, and she later opened a small business in the exact same location in downtown Athens. She has observed the business environment in our region for several decades.

Miranda spent several years teaching local high school students economics as well as other subjects. She is currently studying to obtain a Master of Science in Finance and Economics through West Texas A&M.

As a business advisor, she is passionate about helping entrepreneurs start their company, to take a dream and turn it to reality. She has helped numerous start-ups secure financing. She enjoys researching and providing guidance on business plan development.

Miranda holds office hours in Athens and Kaufman supporting the start-up and exisiting businesses.

Miranda Perry

Business Advisor, miranda.perry@tvcc.edu

Kris Midthun

Coordinator, kristine.midthun@tvcc.edu

Click here to schedule an appointment.

Jennifer Johnston has served as the Director of the Trinity Valley Small Business Development Center (Trinity Valley SBDC) since 2023, she has been with the SBDC program since 2016.

Jennifer is a TVCC alumni who furthered her education Texas A&M Commerce. Jennifer has a Master Degree in Business with a minor in Business Anayltics. She also holds serveral certifications: Economic Development Finance Professional Certification, Coleman SBA 7a Loan Underwriting; NAV Credit/Lending; and QuickBooks Online certifications. She recently added a certification with Google AI and NorthStar Cybersecurity. She maintains the continuing education in areas which support the business advising of the SBDC for small businesses. The mission and goals of the SBDC, SBA, and the college are collaborative efforts to build businesses and community.

Jennifer holds office hours in Athens, Terrell, and Palestine concentrating her efforts in assisting small businesses and entrepreneurs located in the 5 counties we serve.

Jennifer Johnston

Trinity Valley SBDC Director, jennifer.johnston@tvcc.edu