Evie Zerefos

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Delaware Tech?

"My favorite part of working at Delaware Tech is being in the classroom with the students. I enjoy hearing about their dreams of owning their own business and watching them formulate it into a business plan. Many times I've had the opportunity to see that vision turn into a viable business at the end of their educational journey."

Q: Why was it important for you to work at Delaware Tech?

"I've been an entrepreneur since the age of 18. There was no or very little formal education on starting your own business at that time, so everything I had accomplished was learned by trial and fire. When the entrepreneurship program was being designed at Delaware Tech, I wanted to be a part of this much-needed education. I knew first hand of the need and importance of having a clear, well-researched business idea before moving the wheels forward. I wanted to pass on to others all the great things and resources that worked for me as well as all the costly mistakes I made along the way. I guess I wanted to make a difference and encourage that creative spirit rather than having good ideas die due to the process."

Q: What did you do before working at Delaware Tech?

"Before Delaware Tech, I was a true Entrepreneur/Small Business Owner. At the time, I owned a few rental properties and operated two small businesses."

Q: Describe your first day at Delaware Tech. What was that experience like?

"My first day at Delaware Tech was incredible. I would describe it as the same feeling I get when starting a new business venture. The entrepreneurship program was being developed at the time, so my first six months was based on compiling research, identifying a market, developing classes, securing textbooks, and creating syllabi. These were all the steps I'd take when beginning a new business. I was on cloud nine knowing this program would help others begin their own business and achieve their dreams."

Q: What hobbies or interests do you have outside of the College?

"When I am not at Delaware Tech, I am working and managing my businesses. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, spending time with the family and boating on the Sassafras and Chesapeake Bay."

Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Delaware Tech?

"I believe my favorite memory at Delaware Tech was during my first year. I was working with a student who started a landscaping business and wanted to learn how to properly run it and eventually grow it. By the beginning of his second year, the student was nominated as the Small Business Administration (SBA) Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. It was so rewarding and empowering to see how his education at Delaware Tech not only made him successful in his business, but also resulted in him being recognized by the SBA."

Q: What's something people may not know about you?

"Most people know I am Greek (last name is a giveaway), however many don't know I was born and raised in Greece. My husband is Native American so our children are multilingual with dual citizenship that carry Native American cards ... Funny if you ask me."

Q: How do you define student success?

"Student success is when a student achieves the goal they have set out. This could mean graduating with a degree, taking a few classes to obtain knowledge to complete a task or obtain a new position, or just earning enough credits to transfer to another institution. To me, all of these avenues allow a student to reach their goal. Without Delaware Tech, that goal may not have been obtainable. Thus ... Success!"

Q: What are your future goals?

"Retire, enjoy the kids and future grandkids. Slowly start selling off my businesses and watch others with the passion and drive to continue what is known as the heartbeat of America ... small business."