Kalama-based graphic artist Katie Berggren and Dana Layon, owner of Vancouver-based Satsang Yoga, were honored Feb. 21 by the Women Entrepreneurs Organization of Washington.
Berggren was named WEO’s Entrepreneur of the Year and Layon received WEO’s first annual Rookie of the Year Award.
The Entrepreneur of the Year award recognizes a successful businesswoman and member who has shown dedication to WEO through volunteer efforts and leadership, and who has had a positive impact on the organization. The Rookie of the Year award is given to a WEO newcomer who inspires other WEO businesswomen in the way she launches and runs her business, navigating the hurdles of started a business as well as benefiting WEO by bringing new members, promoting WEO and volunteerism.
Berggren has worked with dozens of area businesses, including Longview Fibre, Portland-based Elephants Deli, Vancouver-based Studio 162 and Vancouver-based Aztec Mortgage Inc. She also designed WEO’s website and logo.
“The first day I came here, I didn’t know a soul,” she said. “But I paid that night and couldn’t stay away. This group is awesome.”
Layon, who joined WEO in October 2005, was recognized last year for bringing in the most new members and was one of the VBJ’s Accomplished & Under 40 in 2006.
“Belonging to this group is like having hundreds of hands there to support you and guide you,” she said, accepting her award. “They are truly, truly there for you as women and women in business. I am grateful and humble.”
The Washington chapter of WEO was established in 1996. The organization serves as a support network for its nearly 150 members who benefit from an intra-membership exchange of ideas.
