Betty Brennan Named 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year
Betty Brennan, co-founder and former owner of Taylor Studios, named 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year
The Parkland College Foundation recently announced its selection of Betty Brennan, co-founder and former owner of Taylor Studios, as the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.
Ms. Brennan will receive the V. Dale Cozad Entrepreneur of the Year Award during Parkland College's 13th annual Entrepreneur of the Year Banquet. An annual fundraiser for the Parkland College Entrepreneurial Program, the banquet will be held Thursday, June 13, at the I Hotel and Conference Center in Champaign. The banquet reception begins at 5 p.m., with dinner/program starting at 6 p.m.
Sponsors include Cozad Asset Management, First State Bank, Jeanene and Rick Stephens, Murray Wise & Associates, Inc., Frasca International, Downey Group, Illinois American Water Company, Busey Bank, First Mid Bank, Illini Nissan/Ford, Bodine Electric, Black & Company, Meyer Capel, Taylor Studios, Inc., Martin Hood, and the United Union of Roofers Waterproofers & Allied Workers Local 97.
As Taylor Studios' co-founder and owner, Brennan led the Taylor Studios team from 1991 to 2023, creating timeless exhibits for museums and nature centers. With her oversight, Taylor Studios completed over 700 projects in 45 states and four countries. As president, Brennan implemented the strategic goals and objectives of the company while giving direction and leadership toward the achievement of the company's mission and vision. She oversaw all departments, ensuring the entire organization ran in accordance with Taylor Studios' high standards.
Brennan has been an active contributor in the nature and business communities. She has been honored to be on the Inc. Female Founders 100 list, nationally recognized on the Inc. 500, and regionally famed as an Outstanding Woman You Should Know by local media and published in a confetti of other resources.
In 2021 Brennan sold Taylor Studios to Reggie Binford of Innovative Companies, Inc., a Proviso Capital portfolio company. Betty continued as president until September 2022, assisting with the transition before handing the reins to her leadership team to continue the growth and success of the company.
The Parkland College Entrepreneurial Program is the result of a partnership between the college and community members committed to developing strong, educated leaders for today's workforce. The program provides scholarships to students demonstrating potential for growth as future managers, leaders and innovators, for immediate entry into District 505 industries and companies. Ultimately, the Entrepreneurial Program aims to increase the number of graduates with a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence that supports existing industry, creating a more attractive community to future employers.