Cornerstone University News
With a positive influence in the classroom and the workplace, Andrea Owens (B.S. ’08, M.S. ’10) was selected as a finalist in the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business publication.
Owens is the owner and founder of HourGlass Testing Solutions, which provides same day, onsite drug and alcohol testing services for companies and organizations. She also teaches at West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology as well as at Cornerstone University’s Professional & Graduate Studies division (PGS) in courses such as organizational leadership and management.
This award from the GRBJ that recognizes influential women-owned businesses and leaders is something she considers an honor. “I always try to do my work unto the Lord. Without Him, nothing is possible,” she said. “I strive to work with integrity, helping employers create a safe workplace, environment and community. Someone saw that in me and what I do and nominated me for the award.”
Whether in the classroom as an instructor or leading her business for the past five years, Owens is passionate about her work in empowering others to thrive, a call she’s felt God has placed on her life. She began HourGlass to make a difference in the community. Her mom was involved in a car accident caused by another driver who was under the influence. With that experience and equipped with leadership experience and a passion to serve others, Owens was inspired to begin her own company.
“That helped drive my passion,” she said. “God provides opportunities, and I truly believe that If I continue to follow His lead in what I do—whether I’m teaching or running my business—He directs my path and all those things come together.”
Her approach to her work is also rooted in a unique element often found in women-led businesses—relationships. “When I work with my clients, I want it to be a relationship,” she said, “I want to be a partner in bringing a solution to a problem. We as women can bring a lot to the table. I’m grateful to be a finalist among some great organizations and women who do what they do every day.”
