celebration held on Friday, May 19, 2006, is in recognition of Sharon's contributions to the VA industry and providing a positive impact on many others, helping them to build a successful business.

In conjunction with the IVAD celebration, the VA industry acknowledged the DEEDS of VAs, recognizing and celebrating"... the Dedication, Experience, Expertise and Determination to Succeed of professionals providing administrative and other business support services, virtually.

Sharon's peers had the following to say about her dedication to the VA industry.

"Sharon has always given of her time freely, without expectations.  She has been extremely active in mentoring aspiring VAs for many years.  Sharon promotes the VA industry by attending networking groups, tradeshows and participating in various message boards and groups dedicated to the VA industry as well as those outside of the industry.  She is forever sharing her knowledge about the profession via various articles and through the media."

"Sharon has written numerous books too that aid the VA community by teaching them about marketing, branding, etc. In addition to her VA business Sharon spends countless hours every week helping others succeed."

"Sharon is at the forefront of making Virtual Assistants a household name through media (print and radio) and advocacy in general."

"In addition to ebooks and print ebooks, which are a mentor all in themselves, I have never known Sharon to turn a deaf ear to those who need assistance.  Whether she is in her office, in her car or on a listserv, both new and veteran VAs glean information from everything she speaks and writes.  Sharon makes herself available whenever any VA wants advice about an issue or wants to share a triumph."

"Sharon has positively impacted the VA industry by actively promoting it in all her endeavors. She presents virtual assisting as a viable alternative to entrepreneurs, honestly describing the pitfalls and benefits of being a business owner. Her frank assessment has helped many aspiring VAs in their evaluations and decision-making processes."

Visit the OIVAC site to read Sharon's acceptance speech and learn more about all the award nominees.

The Online International Virtual Assistants Convention (OIVAC) is sponsored by the Alliance for Virtual Businesses, an international VA advocacy organization supporting the virtual assistant community through promotions and education, supporting VA organizations, and the supporting small businesses.

The next IVAD celebration will be conducted Friday, May 18, 2007, in conjunction with the annual international VA industry convention.