UVBA's Business Success Advocates are a group of mentors for our members, helping fellow members to leverage our resources, find answers to questions and make the most of their membership. BSAs also act as a mentor for businesses to feel connected to each other and their community. We want every business to succeed and our BSAs are here to help!
Meet Our Business Success Advocates
Claire Geno, Outreach Coordinator, AVA Gallery
Claire is the Outreach Coordinator at AVA Gallery and Art Center in Lebanon, NH. She loves meeting new people at networking events, traveling, and painting watercolor scenes from her travels. In her free time, Claire can be found outside in New England with her husband, Aaron, and corgi, Petey.
Dan Bessette, Digital Marketing Consultant, NNE Digital
Dan is a father of five and currently resides in Enfield, NH. He started his marketing career in 2004 and has worked in print media, radio advertising, and now exclusively works in the digital space. Dan is a self-described “sports nut” and in his spare time he enjoys traveling, coaching youth sports and spending time with his family. NNEdigital, a NH-based, full-service digital marketing agency, is a division of the parent company of the Valley News and Concord Monitor, as well as several other New England media outlets.
Chuck Sink, Owner and Brand Strategist, Chuck Sink Link
Chuck Sink is a brand strategist, content creator, and writer with over 30 years of experience in sales and marketing. He has led multiple companies to record growth and implemented successful business development programs in competitive markets. Since 2011, he has operated Chuck Sink Link, specializing in websites, social media marketing, video production, and digital advertising. Chuck also teaches management communications at Plymouth State University and is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, supporting local charities through fundraising and volunteer work.
Tim Rumrill, Business Relationship Manager, M&T Bank
Tim is a Business Banking Relationship Manager at M&T Bank. His banking career started at People’s United Bank in 2018 and continued with M&T when they merged in 2022. Tim grew up in Ludlow, VT and has strong ties throughout the Windsor County and Upper Valley. In his time outside of work Tim enjoys hunting and being outdoors with his family and two dogs, Nanni and Zola.
Lucy Wagner, Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch
Lucy grew up in the Upper Valley and recently returned to the area after spending the past 20 years living in New York City. Lucy’s love for travel, wine and learning about other cultures was ignited during a college semester abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She began her career at Merrill Lynch as an intern in college before joining the company fulltime in 2007. She is now a financial advisor with The SWP Group, a wealth management team with over 75 years of industry experience. Outside of work, she enjoys being active in the community and being outdoors all four seasons through skiing, hiking, biking, and golf.
Jenny Ruffin, Account Executive, Commercial Lines Cross Insurance
Jenny Ruffin is a Commercial Insurance Business Advisor specializing in protecting businesses throughout the Upper Valley and surrounding regions. With a practical, relationship-driven approach, she helps business owners navigate risk, uncover coverage gaps, and build insurance programs that align with their operations. Jenny brings clarity to complex insurance needs, offering trusted support to businesses that power the local economy.
Jessica Dunn, Licensed and Certified Medicare Advisor, Core Benefits Group
Since 2001, Jessica has been a vibrant part of the Upper Valley community, capturing cherished moments through her lens as owner of Beltrami Photography Studio. While photography remains close to her heart, she’s now channeling her passion into helping others navigate the complexities of Medicare. As a licensed and certified Medicare advisor, Jessica offers free, unbiased guidance to those eligible, ensuring they understand their options and feel confident in their choices.
Community, and helping local businesses thrive is something that is near and dear to her heart. Along with her 2 amazing college kids Gavin and Garrett!
Keegan Carpenter, Branch Manager, Claremont Savings Bank
Keegan has spent over 15 years managing restaurants in the Upper Valley, where he built a reputation for strong leadership, customer service, and community connection. Now making an exciting transition into the banking industry, Keegan brings the same dedication and people-first mindset to helping clients and supporting local growth. Passionate about community involvement, he’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact. When he's not working, you’ll find him camping, golfing, or enjoying quality time with his wife, Taylor, and their two children.
Mission of the Business Success Advocate
Operating Principles
The Business Success Advocate program operates under the guiding principles of UVBA’s mission:
- Strengthen the Upper Valley's economic vitality by supporting businesses of all sizes.
- Promote collaboration and connection among businesses, organizations, and the broader community.
- Advocate for policies and programs that enhance economic opportunities in the region.
These principles are the foundation of the BSA program and reflect UVBA’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving Upper Valley.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Business Success Advocate program is to foster meaningful connections with UVBA members by:
- Promoting active engagement in UVBA programs and benefits.
- Strengthening relationships within the Upper Valley business community.
- Encouraging members to utilize the resources and opportunities UVBA provides.