Meet Our Consultants

Bernard J. Meineke, Regional/Area Director
B.B.A. in Finance, University of Iowa
M.B.A. in Finance, Emory University
Mr. Meineke held management positions in insurance, retail, and wholesale businesses prior to joining The Georgia SBDC Network in 1993. In seven years as vice president and general manager of a start-up wholesale distribution company, he led efforts in finance, marketing, and operations for this rapidly growing business. His specialties include financial forecasting, cash flow management, loan packaging, and creative financing. Mr. Meineke received the Georgia SBDC Network's 1999 Consultant of the Year award for excellence in business consulting.

Lloyd P. Atkins, Business Consultant
B.S. in Political Science, Hampton University
Prior to coming to the SBDC, Mr. Atkins was an experienced commercial banker.  This experience has given him a strong foundation as a small business consultant. Mr. Atkins works with a number of community and business groups. He is a member of the Economic Development Corporation of Fulton County as well as a member of Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Atkins is also a certified facilitator for GSU SBDC's FastTrac® program, an award winning training program for entrepreneurs.

PeterJ. Rassel, Business Consultant
B.A. in Asian Studies, University of Michigan
M.S. in Marketing, Georgia State University
Mr. Rassel is an experienced business consultant with specialties in marketing, market research, loan assistance and government procurement. He is the project manager and certified facilitator for GSU SBDC's FastTrac® program, an award winning training program for entrepreneurs.  Mr. Rassel is also certified as an Economic Development Finance Professional by the National Development Council.

Erica W. Bracey, Business Consultant
B.S. in Business Administration, SUNY Albany
M.B.A. in Marketing, Georgia State University
Ms. Bracey's professional background includes business management and marketing positions within retail, academia, e-commerce and banking.  As an entrepreneur, she has ongoing experience in the areas of real estate, public relations, event planning and special events.  While attending GSU, Ms. Bracey was a recipient of the Marketing Award for Excellence.  In addition, she is a member of the National Black MBA Association, South Fulton County Chamber of Commerce, GMSDC and GSU Alumni Association.