Honoring Local Excellence: Jesse Sanchez and Andi Markee Recognized During National Small Business Week

Jesse Sanchez’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age, launching small ventures from lawn care to car accessories before ultimately finding his passion in food. In 2015, he launched The Pit BBQ as a mobile food truck, bringing Austin-style barbecue to San Angelo. What started as a small operation is now a 19-employee business, complete with a newly renovated brick-and-mortar location and a loyal customer base. With support from the ASU SBDC—ranging from business plan development to financial projections and startup consulting—Jesse transformed his vision into reality. In 2023, he opened a full-service restaurant, and in 2024, began construction on an outdoor expansion that includes a turf patio, live music stage, picnic area, and murals by local artists.

Beyond business growth, Jesse has served on the boards of the San Angelo Hispanic Heritage Museum & Cultural Center and the Minority Alliance Network Organization (M.A.N.O.). He actively gives back to his community through local sponsorships for events like the Taco & Salsa Fest, and support for Toys for Tots, SAISD fundraisers, and more. “Jesse’s story is one of heart, hustle, and heritage,” said Dezaray Johnson, ASU SBDC Director. “He’s not just building a barbecue brand—he’s building a legacy rooted in community, culture, and connection.”

In addition to honoring Jesse, the ASU SBDC is proud to recognize Andi Markee as this year’s Small Business Champion—not only for her entrepreneurial success, but for the meaningful role she plays in supporting, mentoring, and advocating for the broader business community. Her leadership goes well beyond her own agency, serving as a bridge between business development, education, and community impact. As co-owner and CEO of Media Advantage, a full-service advertising agency, Andi has used her platform to empower local entrepreneurs, elevate community voices, and inspire the next generation of leaders. Her firm provides strategic marketing, media buying, design, and branding services to clients nationwide, including locally owned franchises and nonprofit organizations.

Andi’s dedication to both business excellence and community enrichment sets her apart. She donates time and resources to causes like the Buffalo Soldier Memorial, Downtown San Angelo revitalization, and the Historic Downtown Magazine. She also contributes her marketing expertise to the ASU BizPitch Competition, the San Angelo ISD Career & Technical Education Program, and the SBDC’s Brown Bag Series. A graduate of Leadership San Angelo and a 20 Under 40 honoree, Andi serves on several boards and councils including Downtown San Angelo, the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce, the Business Factory Advisory Board, and United Way of the Concho Valley. In 2024, she was inducted as an Honorary Commander for Goodfellow Air Force Base’s 3rd cohort.

“Andi has a gift for seeing both the big picture and the small details that make dreams possible,” said Johnson. “Whether she’s launching campaigns or mentoring students, she is a catalyst for creativity, connection, and community impact.”

The ASU SBDC is proud to honor Jesse and Andi during National Small Business Week for the meaningful impact they’ve made—not only in growing strong businesses but also in strengthening the fabric of our community. Their stories remind us that small business success is not only measured in sales, but in the lives touched, the jobs created, and the legacies built through service, leadership, and grit.