Meet Courtney Garrett
Courtney Garrett
Diversity + Business Development Director CMURC (Central Michigan University Research Corporation) 203 S. Washington Ave Suite 260 Saginaw, MI 48607 (989) 824-1062 [email protected] www.cmurc.com |
Q: When did you begin working at your company?
A: I began working for CMURC in January 2019.
Q: When did you become a Chamber Ambassador?
A: I became an Chamber Ambassador in 2025.
Q: What motivated you to become an Ambassador?
A: I was motivated to become a Chamber Ambassador because I am committed to supporting local businesses and building strong connections within our community. While our community is rich in resources, it’s essential for people to be aware of what’s available to them and to know that these opportunities are accessible to everyone. My goal is to help pave the way for successful entrepreneurship by ensuring individuals in our community are informed, empowered, and equipped to thrive.
Q: What Chamber event do you look forward to the most and why?
A: The Chamber event I always look forward to is the Chairman’s Ball — it’s like an elegant business prom for adults. We all come dressed in themed attire, ready to enjoy each other’s company in a festive atmosphere. It’s a perfect blend of celebration and connection, where we not only have fun but also find meaningful ways to collaborate and advance the missions of our organizations.
Q: What’s one networking tip you’d share with new Chamber members?
A: Focus on building genuine relationships rather than just exchanging business cards. Take the time to actively listen, ask thoughtful questions, and find ways to provide value to others. Authentic connections lead to lasting partnerships and open doors to opportunities you may not have anticipated.
Q: Tell us one fun fact about you that might surprise people.
A: I’m a huge fan of karaoke! I’m not a professional, but I love grabbing the mic and having fun with my favorite songs—it’s all about the energy and good vibes!
Q: What was your first job?
A: My first job was at Target — I was your go-to Target girl! For some reason, everyone seems to remember me from working there, and it’s always fun when people bring it up.
Q: What was your dream job as a child, and how does it compare to what you’re doing now?
A: As a child, my dream job was to be a DJ because of my huge love for music — any kind, any genre. While it doesn’t align with what I currently do in my career, music has always been, and will always be, a big part of who I am.
Q: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
A: The most adventurous thing I’ve done was in 2015 when I packed up all my belongings and moved to a city I’d only visited once. It was a leap of faith, but I absolutely loved the experience and the opportunities it brought into my life!
Q: What inspires or motivates you to keep giving back to the community?
A: What inspires me to keep giving back to the community is seeing the positive impact it creates — whether it’s helping a small business thrive, empowering individuals to pursue their dreams, or fostering a sense of unity and collaboration. Knowing that my efforts contribute to building a stronger, more vibrant community motivates me to keep going. It’s the people—their stories, resilience, and passion—that truly inspire me to continue making a difference.
Published: January 2025
A: I began working for CMURC in January 2019.
Q: When did you become a Chamber Ambassador?
A: I became an Chamber Ambassador in 2025.
Q: What motivated you to become an Ambassador?
A: I was motivated to become a Chamber Ambassador because I am committed to supporting local businesses and building strong connections within our community. While our community is rich in resources, it’s essential for people to be aware of what’s available to them and to know that these opportunities are accessible to everyone. My goal is to help pave the way for successful entrepreneurship by ensuring individuals in our community are informed, empowered, and equipped to thrive.
Q: What Chamber event do you look forward to the most and why?
A: The Chamber event I always look forward to is the Chairman’s Ball — it’s like an elegant business prom for adults. We all come dressed in themed attire, ready to enjoy each other’s company in a festive atmosphere. It’s a perfect blend of celebration and connection, where we not only have fun but also find meaningful ways to collaborate and advance the missions of our organizations.
Q: What’s one networking tip you’d share with new Chamber members?
A: Focus on building genuine relationships rather than just exchanging business cards. Take the time to actively listen, ask thoughtful questions, and find ways to provide value to others. Authentic connections lead to lasting partnerships and open doors to opportunities you may not have anticipated.
Q: Tell us one fun fact about you that might surprise people.
A: I’m a huge fan of karaoke! I’m not a professional, but I love grabbing the mic and having fun with my favorite songs—it’s all about the energy and good vibes!
Q: What was your first job?
A: My first job was at Target — I was your go-to Target girl! For some reason, everyone seems to remember me from working there, and it’s always fun when people bring it up.
Q: What was your dream job as a child, and how does it compare to what you’re doing now?
A: As a child, my dream job was to be a DJ because of my huge love for music — any kind, any genre. While it doesn’t align with what I currently do in my career, music has always been, and will always be, a big part of who I am.
Q: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
A: The most adventurous thing I’ve done was in 2015 when I packed up all my belongings and moved to a city I’d only visited once. It was a leap of faith, but I absolutely loved the experience and the opportunities it brought into my life!
Q: What inspires or motivates you to keep giving back to the community?
A: What inspires me to keep giving back to the community is seeing the positive impact it creates — whether it’s helping a small business thrive, empowering individuals to pursue their dreams, or fostering a sense of unity and collaboration. Knowing that my efforts contribute to building a stronger, more vibrant community motivates me to keep going. It’s the people—their stories, resilience, and passion—that truly inspire me to continue making a difference.
Published: January 2025