Cecilia Russo Turner of Cecilia Russo Marketing received the 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year from the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce during its annual business awards banquet on September 13.

The event, held at Kehoe Ironworks Building at Trustees’ Garden, honors Savannah area individuals and businesses that represent local economic drivers including hospitality, manufacturing and small business.

The Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates those who are building and leading growing and dynamic businesses. It’s presented to an individual whose creative vision, talent and innovative thinking develop opportunities for growth, not just in business, but throughout the community. Recipients demonstrate the ability to persevere in the face of adversity and overcome obstacles, learn from experience, foster teamwork and build loyalty.

“I’m truly honored to win the Entrepreneur of the Year award and to be recognized by the Savannah Chamber of Commerce, as well as my peers, with this distinction,” said Turner. “I have spent the past 10 years building my business and put in many hours of hard work, with the results being rewarding and immensely enjoyable."

Turner said she’s thankful for the opportunity to own a successful boutique public relations firm and is grateful to be leading a team of like-minded, accomplished women and men who make it possible.

Turner launched Cecilia Russo Marketing in 2008 and has grown the company from a one-woman shop to a staff of four full-time and 10 contract employees. She focuses on harnessing publicity to help organizations, businesses and individuals increase their community visibility and online positioning. She also provides executive consulting, media relations, crisis communications strategies and social media platform plans.

“My advice to anyone, especially to small business owners, is to roll up your sleeves and give your best effort in everything you do,” Turner said. “Always be an indispensable team member, and show your dedication through your commitment, conviction and some old-fashion grit.”