SBDC - Instructors

Allan F. Gardner, Attorney at Law
“Legal Issues for Businesses”

Allen is an associate with the legal firm of Potter-Minton, PC.  His practice focuses upon civil litigation, working for both Plaintiffs and Defendants.  He has represented clients in a wide variety of both private and business areas.  Although Allen has broad legal experience his focus for this class will be to provide guidance on the legal issues for starting and operating a small business in the State of Texas.

Allen is a graduate of Texas A & M University with a BBA degree.  He also holds a J.D., from Baylor University School of Law, Cum Laude.  While attending Baylor Allen was a member of the Baylor Law Review and was the recipient of several awards related to the legal profession.

Allen is licensed and Admitted to practice before a number of United States and Texas District Courts.

Robert Lewis, MBA
“Business Planning and Financial Analysis”

Robert has over 45 years of business experience with 38 years at a Fortune 500 company.  His background is in the areas of accounting, finance, business acquisitions and divestures and preparation operations analysis plans.  He also participated in a wide variety of assignments for senior management.  He retired in 2002 and came to work part-tine for the Small Business Development Center in November 2003 as Training Coordinator which includes planning and developing entrepreneurial seminars.  These seminars are part of Tyler Junior College’s School of Continuing Studies.  He also develops data bases local businesses and former students for marketing use by the SBDC and clients.

He is a native Texan and a 42 year resident of Tyler.  He holds a degree from Tyler Junior College and a BBA (Accounting) and Master of Business Administration degrees from The University of Texas at Tyler.

Tonya Page
“Insurance Issues for Small Businesses”

Tonya is a licensed insurance professional and owner of Page insurance Services.  She is licensed to sell and service Property and casualty Insurance, Life & health Insurance, and Securities.  Tonya came to the insurance industry with more than 20 years experience growing and managing small businesses.  She has a diverse background with experience in Operations, Human Resources and Technology.

Tonya received a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Texas at Tyler.  Additionally, she completed the Computer Technology Program at Southern Methodist University earning the designation of Microsoft Certified System Engineer.

Tonya was honored in 2001 as a Texas Gold Star Agency and in 2002 she was named the Commercial Insurance Line Leader for East Texas by Allstate Insurance.  In 1996 she was recognized as the owner of one of Houston’s top 50 Women-owned Businesses by the Houston Business Journal.