Heritage Magazine: Small Business, Big Impact

Small Business, Big Impact

The Journey of Willis Urgent Care with SHSU SBDC

For Brian and Jennifer Kempton, the owners of Willis Urgent Care, opening their own clinic wasn’t just a business decision, it was the realization of a lifelong dream. With Brian’s three decades of experience as a board-certified emergency physician and Jennifer’s background as a teacher and school counselor, the Kemptons shared a vision of bringing expert, compassionate medical care to Willis, Texas.

Like many entrepreneurs, they discovered that building a successful business requires more than expertise in their chosen profession, it also takes sound business strategy, financial guidance and marketing know-how. That’s where the Sam Houston State University Small Business Development Center (SHSU SBDC) stepped in.

The SHSU SBDC, part of the Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network, provides no-cost, confidential business advising and training to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in Walker and Montgomery counties. For the Kemptons, the center became a trusted partner, offering resources that made the difference between a daunting process and a manageable path to success.

“Before we opened, I took a class on QuickBooks at SBDC and learned valuable skills that taught me bookkeeping and how to manage payroll,” Jennifer said. “SBDC also helped immensely in marketing advice and provided an expert in web design who gave great tips on our web page and marketing.”

Beyond training, the SBDC’s advising team went a step further, guiding the couple through critical financial challenges.

“At one point we were having trouble with our bank loan and the center director worked hard in getting us in contact with the right people to help us secure a better loan,” she said.

Opening during the height of the pandemic presented unique challenges. Many small businesses were struggling to stay afloat, but the SHSU SBDC remained a steady source of guidance. The Kemptons’ advisor checked in regularly, offering updates on loan forgiveness programs, marketing strategies and employee retention resources. That hands-on support gave the clinic stability during an uncertain time.

“Thankfully, we are approaching our fifth year as small business owners, and have now opened a second clinic in Conroe. We could not have made it without the guidance of the SHSU SBDC,” she said. “Willis Urgent Care is profoundly grateful to the center for helping us make our dream come true.”

The Kemptons’ story is just one example of how the SHSU SBDC empowers local entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into thriving businesses. By offering training, personalized advice and connections to vital resources, the center is strengthening the fabric of the regional economy; one small business at a time.

For more inspiring stories about all things Sam Houston State University, read the Fall/Winter 2025 edition of Heritage Magazine here.