Staff Spotlight

Celebrating Women’s History Month by Shining the Spotlight on our New Director of Recruitment - Audria Green Hawkins

Women entrepreneurs are the backbone of thriving communities. They create jobs, drive economic growth, and inspire future generations to dream big. At Sunshine Enterprises, 71% of our alumni are women - visionary leaders shaping the future of business. We are honored to support and empower women in business. In 2023 alone, we helped:

  • 38 women-owned businesses start

  • 192 women-owned businesses strengthen

  • 139 women-owned businesses expand

Audria Green Hawkins: A Champion for Women Entrepreneurs

One of the incredible women leading the charge at Sunshine Enterprises is Audria Green Hawkins, our new Director of Recruitment. With an impressive career spanning luxury brand management, small business mentorship, and higher education, Audria is deeply committed to fostering opportunities for entrepreneurs. Her journey—from managing major retail brands to mentoring small business owners—exemplifies the resilience and resourcefulness that define successful women in business. As our Director of Recruitment, Audria’s key roles at Sunshine are engaging entrepreneurs, coordinating outreach efforts, ensuring smooth enrollment in our business training programs, coordinating and attending information sessions, alumni mixers, and community events.

 Audria’s Advice for Women in Business

Audria believes financial independence is crucial for every woman. She offers these key financial insights:

  • Always have your own bank account, even if you’re married.

  • Keep a stash of money that no one knows about—just in case.

  • Cash is still king—have emergency funds in addition to your bank account.

Her wisdom reflects a core truth: financial security empowers women to make confident decisions in life and business.

Breaking Barriers & Building a Legacy

When asked why she chose Sunshine Enterprises, Audria shared:

"I believe that Sunshine Enterprises allows women to 'have a seat at the table.' Roles aren't defined by gender, which allows women to grow and rise within the organization."

Her story—and the stories of so many women in our network—highlight the importance of creating spaces where women can lead, innovate, and thrive.

Women Who Inspire

Audria credits her mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunts as her greatest inspirations—strong, career-driven women who defied expectations. Like them, she continues to uplift others, ensuring that women entrepreneurs have the resources, mentorship, and support they need to succeed.

Jeannine Skarbek-Kubas