Dallas Hart is the founder and chief executive officer of Hart 2 Hart Academy, an early learning childcare center and private school in Lake City.
Hart founded Hart 2 Hart Academy almost ten years ago after recognizing the need to offer a childcare alternative in her community. Since that time, Hart has expanded her facilities three times, most recently completing a 9,500 square foot expansion project with assistance from the Florida SBDC at UNF.
Further, she has expanded her service offering from basic childcare to voluntary pre-kindergarten, K-12 education, and education for children with disabilities, and grown her workforce to 32 employees.
Hart’s name is fitting as she is passionate about making a difference in her community through childcare and education. Hart also leads a non-profit corporation that provides educational services to children with disabilities and assists families in obtaining grants, scholarships and other funding.
Hart’s selection as the 2019 Rural Business Owner of the Year for the state of Florida by the U.S. Small Business Administration is a testament to her hard work and passion to make a difference in her community.
“Success is labeled instantly, however the reality is it comes from long hours, determination, and a willingness to be courageous,” said Hart. “To me, this award is the representation of what can be achieved if you keep moving forward and keep trusting God. God has blessed this business with great people who are willing to trust me, help expound on my vision, and believe together we can create greatness. I may accept the award but so many share in it because we have walked together believing in advance that success would be waiting for us.”
