About The Author
MARI LYN
- Author
- Doctor
- Novelist
The author is a passionate storyteller committed to sharing her truth. Her writing illuminates the often-hidden struggles of growing up in a blended family. Inspired by her own experiences, she aims to connect with readers who may have faced similar challenges. With a writing and personal development background, she believes in the power of stories to heal and inspire.
Her journey has been shaped by resilience and an unwavering commitment to finding hope amid adversity. By sharing her life’s lessons, she hopes to encourage others to break their silence and embrace their own stories. This book is a reflection of her past and a heartfelt invitation for readers to explore their own paths toward healing and understanding. She lives with her family, cherishing every moment and continuously learning from life’s ups and downs.
Author's
Biography
Lori Smith is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and executive leader recognized for her transformative impact in federal contracting, business empowerment, and organizational development. She is the founder and CEO of Acu-Elligent LLC, founder of Sowing Our Seeds Empowerment LTD, and CEO of Focus Wyze PBC. With over 41 years of federal service and a dynamic portfolio of business ventures, Lori is dedicated to equipping organizations and individuals with the strategies and tools to thrive in complex, competitive environments.
Lori’s career began in federal service, where she gained deep expertise in acquisitions, contract administration, and government regulations. She retired after overseeing a $128 billion contract administration portfolio, demonstrating exceptional fiscal oversight and leadership. Her entrepreneurial journey includes founding and leading multiple organizations focused on business coaching, empowerment, and innovative solutions for government and commercial clients.
She holds a BS in Resource Management from Troy University, an MS in Education from the University of Oklahoma, an MA in Business from the University of Phoenix, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from National University.
- Best-selling author of WINNING BUSINESS PROPOSAL STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS: How to Give Your Business the Winning Edge, Writing to Win More Customers, Clients, And Contracts.
- Named one of the “100 Entrepreneurs To Know in 2025” by Black Impact Magazine.
- 2024 IMPACT Award Winner.
- Georgia Woman Veteran of the Year Nominee 2024.
- Multi-award-winning military and civilian professional, recipient of:
- Department of Veterans Affairs and Army Outstanding Performance Cash Award
- Meritorious Service Medal (2)
- Joint Service Achievement Medal
- Air Force Commendation Medal (6)
- Air Force Achievement Medal
- Certified in:
- NLP Practitioner Certification
- Timeline Therapy® Practitioner Certification
- Hypnotherapist Certification
- NLP Coach Certification
- FAC-C Level III
- Personality Assessment Evaluation
- Completed Doctorate in Business Administration from National University.
Lori Smith’s unwavering integrity, strategic vision, and passion for empowering others continue to inspire and drive success across industries, leaving a lasting legacy in business leadership and community impact.
- Over 41 years of federal service, specializing in acquisitions, contract management, and executive leadership.
- Founder and CEO of Acu-Elligent LLC, providing strategic guidance in federal contracting.
- Founder, Sowing Our Seeds Empowerment LTD, fostering empowerment and growth for diverse communities.
- CEO, Focus Wyze PBC, leading innovative business initiatives and providing soft skills, resume, and interview skills training to veterans, women, and underserved communities, helping them succeed in today’s workforce.
- Led contract administration for a $128 billion portfolio, delivering solutions for government contractors.
- Skilled facilitator for the Management Concepts Career Gateway: Acquisition Cohort, training federal acquisition professionals.
- Extensive experience in organizational development, strategic planning, human resources, and advisory roles.