GeJo's Owner Named Iowa Woman Entrepreneur of the Year

Pat Galasso of Clear Lake has been named Iowa Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by the Iowa Small Business Development Centers (SBDC). Pat and her husband, Gene, own GeJo’s By the Lake Italian Restaurant and Lounge.

Known as the Deb Dalziel Woman Entrepreneur Achievement Award, this recognition honors the accomplishments of a female entrepreneur who has significantly changed or improved her own life and the lives of those around her. The award is named in memory of Deb Dalziel, who was the SBDC director at Southeastern Community College from 1987 until her death in 1999.

Pat has been involved with the SBDC (now affiliated with the Pappajohn Center) on the NIACC campus since 1989. She has completed the FastTrac entrepreneurial training programs and has since taught classes for aspiring business owners across the state. She currently serves on the advisory board for the NIACC Pappajohn Center and oversees the operation of the GeAngelo’s franchise, which also includes restaurants in Cedar Falls and Ames.

Students participating in the EntrePrep Summer Institute at NIACC enjoyed dinner at GeJo’s with owners Gene and Pat Galasso. EntrePrep gives aspiring young entrepreneurs the chance to learn about successfully starting a new business through classroom interaction and tours of area businesses. They also complete internships with local businesses during their senior year.