Established in 2018, the Rhodes State College Alumni Circle of Excellence recognizes Associate Degree graduates of Rhodes State College and Lima Technical College who are doing exceptional work in their career field, community and for the College. One of this year's inductees is Josette R. Brinkman, Computer-Multimedia Option (1999), Owner, FASTSIGNS® of Findlay.
"Greatness is an internal quality of a person's character, which emerges in their actions. True greatness is achieved by making a difference in other people's lives. There are people from all walks of life who turn their talents, efforts, and energies toward the uplifting of other people. Josette Brinkman is one of them." - Craig Brown, Business Advisor, Ohio Small Business Development Center.
Josette has an entrepreneurial spirit, which afforded her the opportunity to start her own business, Signed by Josette, with just $350 in her pocket and a loan for a laptop from her mother in 2006. Her drive allowed her to grow this business until 2019, when she became an Owner/Operator of FASTSIGNS of Findlay.
Josette was awarded the Small Woman Business Champion of the Year in 2009, the Notable Networker Award for Flag City BNI Chapter in 2005 and 2009, and Rookie Center of the Year for FASTSIGNS Conversions in 2021. She has also served as a member of the American Red Cross, the Fremont Toastmasters, the International Sign Association, the Findlay/Hancock and Bowling Green Chambers of Commerce, the Findlay Area Downtown Design Review Board, and the Van Buren Local Schools Athletic Boosters, among many more.
About Rhodes State College
Rhodes State College is a public, state institution of higher learning which is chartered to provide degree-granting career education programs and prepares students for transfer completion of baccalaureate degrees at colleges and universities. The college also provides non-credit workforce development and consulting for business and industry.