Keeping you informed and inspired. December 2025
VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 12
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
A Conversation with Donny of Donny's Diamond Gallery
COVER STORY
When Donny Maleknia and Fatemeh Nazarieh sat down for their first date on December 5, 1993, Donny shared two dreams: to visit his family in Iran, whom he hadn’t seen in 18 years, and to open his very own jewelry store. By Heather Price - Page 2
EDUCATION
Higher Education Powers Huntsville's Economy, but May Face Headwinds
At the 2025 State of Higher Education event hosted by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, presidents from the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), Alabama A&M University, Calhoun Community College, and Drake State Community & Technical College outlined how their institutions are fueling Huntsville’s economic engine while also a knowledging new challenges on the horizon. By Kaith Thursday - Page 14
ADDITIONAL STORIES • Sit Down With Success: A Conversation with Brett Pierce of The Masters Salon By Heather Price • Page 3
• Greenway Expansion, Ditto Landing Project Gain -Momentum with Council Support By Mike Easterling • Page 5
Sponsored by:
• For Alabama A&M Students, a Data Challenge Opens Doors to Careers in AI By Mike Easterling • Page 16
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BUSINESS JOURNAL Vol 8, Issue 12 December 2025 600 Boulevard South Suite 104 Huntsville, AL 35802