PLACEHOLDER PAGE
THE ARTHUR M. BLANK SCHOOL FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP
Cultivating Entrepreneurial Growth
Babson College’s rise to No. 2 in The Wall Street Journal rankings, along with its legacy of leadership in entrepreneurship recognized by U.S. News & World Report, highlights our distinct entrepreneurial approach and reflects our dedication to nurturing talent and innovation.
Student experiences are key to the ranking methodology, and the Arthur M. Blank School for Entrepreneurial Leadership has been crucial to this success. By fostering hands-on learning, valuable networking, and industry connections, the ranking demonstrates the profound impact of Arthur Blank’s investment.
WE’RE NUMBER TWO BECAUSE OF YOU!
The State of Babson
In Entrepreneurship Undergraduate Programs
28 consecutive times
– U.S. News & World Report, 2024
MBA in Entrepreneurship 31 years in a row
– U.S. News & World Report, 2024
In Entrepreneurship Northeast Graduate and Undergraduate Programs
– Entrepreneur magazine / The Princeton Review, 2024
Undergraduate Business School by salary potential
– Payscale, 2023
For Return on Investment, Business Schools
– Payscale, 2024
In career preparation
– The Wall Street Journal, 2024
Best College in the United States
– The Wall Street Journal, 2025
Innovation in Bloom
Through inspirational graduation ceremonies, innovative classroom initiatives, and a vibrant hub for entrepreneurial collaboration, we are cultivating an environment where innovation flourishes.
Inspiring Leadership and Values at Babson’s 2024 Commencement
As the undergraduate Class of 2024 prepared to cross the stage at this year’s Commencement ceremony, they were reminded of the importance of establishing and holding to values by the renowned and familiar entrepreneur delivering the keynote address: Arthur M. Blank ’63, H’98, ADE’95.
In his keynote address, Blank drew from his own Babson experience, reflecting on his journey from uncertain beginnings to a successful entrepreneur. He shared with the graduates how his time at Babson instilled in him the confidence and readiness to embrace the future.
“You should all leave here confident knowing that the lessons you have learned during your time at Babson is the spirit that will drive you forward as you navigate the world beyond this campus,” Blank said. “You already have what it takes to achieve greatness; you being here today proves that.”
Blank’s presence at Commencement was more than a ceremonial gesture—it was a powerful affirmation of the principles that drive both Babson and its graduates. His address served as a meaningful reminder for the students as they embark on the next stages of their lives, underscoring the far-reaching influence of his commitment to values and leadership. For this class, hearing from Blank meant more than just receiving advice; it was a testament to the deep, lasting impact of his involvement at Babson, extending far beyond his generous gift.
Impact in Action
4,000+ CEREMONY ATTENDEES
1,300+
15,000+ VIEWS IMPRESSIONS
Across the YouTube video of Arthur’s speech and the Commencement highlight reel performance was high
159,400+ TOTAL IMPRESSIONS Across LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
>1,600 TOTAL BT&A PAGEVIEWS
This profile of Arthur Blank has been one of BT&A’s topperforming articles since May 2024 (916 views)
Where Theory Meets Practice
Babson College provides unparalleled classroom experiences that create a powerful learning environment, setting it apart from other institutions. Its commitment to experiential learning equips students with practical skills that extend beyond the classroom, fostering critical thinking and problemsolving abilities essential for today’s dynamic business landscape. By engaging with real-world challenges, students develop innovative solutions that drive economic and social change.
Classroom Highlights
Foundations of Management & Entrepreneurship
A landmark study published in the Academy of Management Learning & Education highlights how Babson’s Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship (FME) course equips students with resilience and an entrepreneurial mindset. By immersing students in real-world business challenges, FME fosters critical reflection and provides support from experienced mentors. This hands-on approach enhances students’ ability to navigate setbacks and reinforces the value of experiential learning in academia. Recognized as a defining aspect of a Babson education, FME contributes significantly to the College’s unique standing in The Wall Street Journal rankings, showcasing its commitment to preparing students for success in today’s dynamic business environment.
DeLorean Next Gen
A unique collaboration between Babson students and DeLorean Next Generation Motors (DNG Motors) as part of a brand management course. Under the guidance of Associate Professor Anjali Bal, students engaged in experiential learning by rebranding the iconic carmaker, known for its DMC-12 model and its cultural significance in “Back to the Future.”
The focus of the project was not only on the brand’s nostalgic value but also on its future direction, which emphasizes educational initiatives alongside automotive innovation. By collaborating with Babson students on rebranding efforts, DNG Motors emphasizes the importance of creativity and real-world application in education.
New Technology Ventures Course
This course, taught by Assistant Professor of Practice Stephen Brand, explores the unique challenges of creating technology-based ventures, including intellectual property protection, team building, and funding opportunities. It features weekly guest speakers who are leaders in the tech industry, providing students with valuable insights into entrepreneurship. Students also share their experiences and insights through a New Tech Ventures Blog in Babson Thought & Action, enhancing their learning journey as they develop a technology-based business plan and investor presentation in teams.
Advancing Values-Based Research
Jeffrey P. Shay, a Babson alumnus and professor, has made history by becoming the first member from Babson to chair the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) after years of involvement. His threeyear term will focus on enhancing GEM’s impact through improved data collection and fostering collaboration among global entrepreneurship teams, building on the organization’s extensive research network established since its inception in 1999.
Scott Taylor, professor of organizational behavior and the Arthur M. Blank Endowed Chair for Values-Based Leadership, has been instrumental in embedding values-based and entrepreneurial leadership into Babson’s curriculum. Through course redesigns and research, Taylor is driving innovation and shaping the next generation of responsible leaders. For example, MOB 6110, a required course in the MSEL program, was recently redesigned with a greater focus on these leadership styles, resulting in significantly higher student ratings and positive feedback.
Published/Presented
This first reference is a book chapter that explores Babson’s unique approach to values-based entrepreneurial leadership education in our core/required first-year undergraduate course, FME and its impact on both students and faculty.
Hunt, J., Turner, L., Taylor, S.N., & Greenberg, D. (2024). Building sustainability leadership: Rethinking curriculum design and the role of the faculty. In L. Caporarello, P. Kumar, & A. Agrawal (Eds.), Higher education for the sustainable development goals: Bridging the global north and south (pp. 127–143). Bingley, UK: Emerald Publishing Limited.
This second reference is a paper that was presented at the premier conference for management faculty, the Academy of Management Conference. This paper is exploring a well-researched topic, accountability, and ways in which we believe values-based leaders approach is different.
Terekhin, R., Van Oosten, E., & Taylor S.N. (2024, August) How collaborative accountability in workplace coaching impacts employee sustained change. Paper presented at the Academy of Management Conference (Conference (Management Education & Development Division), Chicago, IL.
This third reference is a book chapter that looks at ways in which we believe values-based entrepreneurial leaders unleash capability in those they lead through coaching and some of the challenges in doing so.
Passarelli, A.M & Taylor, S.N. (In press). Coaching for positive leader development: Dynamic balancing of paradoxical forces in intentional change.
Herring Family Entrepreneurial Leadership Village
This fall marked the opening of Babson’s new Herring Family Entrepreneurial Leadership Village (HELV), a vibrant living and learning community that has quickly become a hub of student activity, engaging participants through diverse events and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit.
A New Era of Education
With cutting-edge classrooms, HELV represents a transformative leap in educational technology, offering interactive and accessible learning experiences.
Innovation
Visitors may encounter ELVis, a telepresence robot that allows remote participants to engage in physical spaces—symbolizing the Village’s innovative nature.
40+ Residents, full menu cafe, lounge areas, global outreach studio Community
Academics
Academic life is thriving, with all sections of the Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship (FME), Babson’s flagship first-year course, alongside a total of 32 class sections this semester.
Special Guests
The HELV has also welcomed special guests like Brett Jewkes and Deja Tingling, who joined the Good Company, Good Game course for student presentations and a sports marketing panel discussion.
Expanding Entrepreneurial Leadership on Campus
HELV embodies Babson’s Live, Gather, and Learn ethos, fostering collaboration, innovation, and leadership development. This dynamic environment expands Babson’s mission of entrepreneurial leadership and innovation across campus.
Impact in Action
Cultivating Growth
Setting the stage for a year of innovative change, the Blank School is welcoming new scholars, advancing AI and technology to shape the future of entrepreneurship, and celebrating recent media recognition of our leaders.
The 2028 Blank Leadership Scholars
Exemplifying the values and qualities that define outstanding leaders, we’d like to introduce the newest cohort of Blank Leadership Scholars. Each scholar brings a unique perspective and passion to their journey. They represent the diverse and forward-thinking spirit of the Blank School, united by their commitment to making meaningful impact.
What does being a Blank Scholar mean to you?
“It’s similar to what being a good leader means. It all starts off with a good sense of empathy, because every business, every idea must come with involving others in some way, in some aspect or another. Putting others first and listening, making sure you are hearing others and having good communication skills and communicating effectively is so important and is reflected in the Blank Scholars.”
Of Blank’s six leadership qualities, which one do you most identify with and why?
“Whatever I’m doing, I am constantly seeking ways to improve and create solutions that address real-world problems. Innovation isn’t just about creating something new; it’s about continuously refining, adapting, and finding better ways to meet the needs of those around us. This mindset drives me to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and never settle for the status quo. By focusing on continuous innovation, I strive to make a lasting impact and contribute to meaningful change.”
What
are your career goals?
“All throughout high school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do until like the last year. But, what really made me think about business was the fact that I like to design a lot. I like to create things, whether it’s as a web developer or making clothes or just designing graphics. I want to flex my own creativity, and I think business allows me to do that. That’s something I admire about Babson’s curriculum.”
Mya Kelleher ’28 Salem, MA
Edwin Wang ’28 Toronto, ON
Jerry Du ’28 Rockville, MD
Of Blank’s six leadership qualities, which one do you most identify with and why?
“Mostly because of my mom, it’s Give Back to Others. I know wherever I am, I will always have something that somebody else could probably benefit from because they don’t have it or they just might need it more. I’m so grateful to be in the position that I’m in because I feel like so many resources have been poured into me, and I like to do the same for others.”
What is the proudest moment of your life so far?
“As part of the personal investment club I created at my high school, we had a live investment account that generated funds for altruistic causes. Our most notable initiative was showing appreciation to our school’s caretakers by giving all 45 custodians a gift card with a personalized thank you note. We were able to show gratitude to those who often go unnoticed, those who tirelessly work to maintain our community’s cleanliness and are often treated with disregard. Seeing their surprised and appreciative reactions was incredibly heartwarming and reinforced my belief in the power of giving back. Entrepreneurship can be used for more than just generating personal profits; it can be a powerful tool to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
What drew you to Babson?
“Babson was the only business school I applied to. Every other university I applied to was for engineering, but what drew me to Babson is the focus Babson has on entrepreneurship. The more I thought about it, Babson provides the environment I need to thrive. Babson’s hands-on approach, drive for change, collaborative environment, and supportive professors are all necessary components for me to have an impact with technology.”
Kimberly Joachim ’28 Orlando, FL
Aarav Dogra ’28 Toronto, ON
Amy Pan ’28 Bowling Green, KY
Increasing Access & Cultivating Opportunities
The Blank Scholarship has also been crucial in broadening access to education by offering needs-based financial support to a diverse range of students, thereby fostering a more inclusive academic environment. The impact of this initiative is illustrated in the accompanying graph, showcasing the diversity of the recent Blank Scholars cohort.
31
2021-2024
108 UNIQUE NEED-BASED SCHOLARS
Advancing the Future of Entrepreneurship with Tech and AI
This year, The Blank School has made significant progress in leveraging AI, with the Blank Center’s Butler Institute for Free Enterprise Through Entrepreneurship and the Tariq Farid Franchise Institute leading the charge. The Butler Institute has hosted thought-provoking events, including discussions with AI experts like US Science Envoy, Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Rumman Chowdhury and student forums that delve into the ethical, societal, and governmental implications of AI, while the Tariq Farid Franchise Institute has innovatively repurposed content from its popular franchising podcast using AI technology to enhance its online certificate programs.
Seeking New Ways to Move Above and Beyond What Seems Possible
Building on these foundational efforts, the launch of the C. Dean Metropoulos Institute for Technology and Entrepreneurship and its AI lab, The Generator, represents a transformative leap forward for The Blank School and Babson College. These initiatives will not only advance the current exploration of AI but also align with Babson’s broader mission to innovate and lead alongside the latest technology. By empowering students to harness AI’s potential within an entrepreneurial framework, the Metropoulos Institute for Technology and Entrepreneurship, and The Generator will prepare Babson students to become leaders who drive meaningful change, making a lasting impact on their careers, society, and the world.
C. Dean Metropoulos ’67, MBA’68, ADE’17
made a multimillion-dollar gift to establish the institute, underscoring his dedication to advancing tech entrepreneurship education at Babson.
From intimate discussions to packed halls, our AI EVENTS have engaged over
200
ATTENDEES
By Spring 2025, The Generator will have peer-trained
80%
OF BABSON’S FACULTY IN AI CONCEPTS AND TOOLS,
significantly enhancing the college’s pedagogical approach to AI.
Arthur M. Blank School in the Spotlight
The leaders of the Blank School are setting the standard in entrepreneurship and extending their influence beyond Babson College to the global landscape. Their insights inspire innovation and drive impact, showcasing the transformative work at the Blank School and reinforcing our reputation as a premier hub for groundbreaking ideas and exceptional leadership.
Entrepreneur Magazine
Joining Boards Early in Your Career Can Change Your Trajectory for the Better — Here’s How to Harness Their Power
Successful Businesses Have This One Thing in Common
Great Leaders Must Be Great Coaches —Here’s How to Become One
Entrepreneur Magazine Total Reach
>177,000
Do You Own or Manage Your Business with Family Members? Here Are 3 Essential Tips to Create Value Together.
3 Common Myths About Franchising That You Need to Stop Believing
Other Media Awards
Media Reach
1.6M+ TOTAL IMPRESSIONS
Shakenna Williams ‘94receives 2024 Women Songwriter’s Hall of Fame Educator of the Year Award
Donna Levin receives 2024 Pinnacle Award in the Achievement in Arts and Education from the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.
Cheryl Kiser Receives Lifetime Achievement Award for Education
Building Impact Together at West Creek Ranch
For the seventh consecutive year, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has made a transformative impact by supporting Babson College’s Nonprofit Entrepreneurial Leadership executive certificate program at West Creek Ranch. The skills and insights gained through this program enhance the capabilities of nonprofit staff, invigorate Babson College’s educational offerings, and inspire the dedicated team at West Creek Ranch.
“I consider myself to be a creative person. However, my visit to West Creek Ranch in ‘Big Sky’ Montana opened my heart and mind in ways that I never thought possible. The 50/50 approach, coupled with top-notch nonprofit leaders and cutting-edge curriculum, helped me rethink how I teach and live. I am now reimagining my teaching approach. Cheryl is a visionary and I wish that everyone could attend her program.”
– Dr. Tina Opie who co-taught this year’s program alongside Cheryl Kiser. “I feel that we have grown together on this adventure of learning the 50/50 and continue to improve and make the outcome better every year. Thank you [Babson] for your willingness to join us on this journey and to help spread a different way of teaching, learning, and caring for people.”
– Becky Saunders General Manager of West Creek Ranch
Through this partnership, we are not only transforming the nonprofit landscape but also fostering a community of growth and excellence that resonates throughout every level of engagement. This enduring commitment exemplifies the profound and far-reaching impact of investing in leadership and innovation.
To date, 91UNIQUE NONPROFITS HAVE BENEFITED FROM THIS INITIATIVE, reflecting the breadth and depth of its reach.
Values Deeply Rooted
Arthur Blank’s values illuminate our journey, guiding the Blank School from local initiatives to global platforms and solidifying our commitment to leading with purpose and vision.
Entrepreneurial Leadership on a Global Stage: Singapore
Babson Connect Worldwide (BCW) is the premier summit for visionary founders, accomplished executives, and emerging leaders in entrepreneurial leadership. In 2024, Babson College brought BCW to one of the world’s major entrepreneurial hubs: Singapore.
“The best thing about Babson Connect Worldwide is that it gives you the chance to reconnect with Babson community members who reignite the flame of entrepreneurship in you. You return from the weekend so enthused to be an entrepreneur, and a part of Babson.”
–
Cyril Camus ’91, P’26
President, Camus
Cognac
Impact in Action
This year’s theme of Shaping the New Tomorrow created space for discussions of pertinent business topics like leadership, sustainability, and artificial intelligence, while recognizing Singapore’s vital role as a gateway to Southeast Asia’s fastgrowing markets and a center of entrepreneurial excellence.
Blank School leadership played a key role in driving these conversations, guided by the core values of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation that prioritize leading with courage and compassion. Executive education workshops, focused on providing attendees with the knowledge that will allow them to remain at the forefront of entrepreneurial innovation, were led by Lauren Beitelspacher, the Ken and Nancy Major Romanzi Senior Term Chair in Marketing and member of the Tariq Farid Franchise Institute’s Academic Integration Committee, and Scott Taylor, the Arthur M. Blank Endowed Chair for Values-Based Leadership.
Leaders from three of the Blank School’s Centers and Institutes facilitated conversations offering insights on the keys to success in various sectors of entrepreneurship, including:
Ab Igram MBA’96, who moderated a panel on the power of franchising
Dr. Shakenna Williams ’94 moderating a panel on how women can break down barriers and succeed as entrepreneurs
Lauri Union, who moderated a panel on how to build a familyowned business
300 45 ATTENDEES FROM
MORE THAN NEARLY COUNTRIES
“Unlike the world where some leaders are deglobalizing, Babson believes in globalizing, and it is connecting the world. Babson generates the highest number of entrepreneurs, and therefore generates innovation, enthusiasm, and a better future for the globe in general.”
– Harsha Agadi, Trustee
Embodying Arthur Blank’s Values Through Unique Learning Experiences
Our centers and institutes infuse Arthur Blank’s core values into their signature learning experiences, ensuring that his principles of inclusion, leadership, and continuous innovation shape everything we do. In this section, we highlight key programs and initiatives from each of our centers and institutes, showcasing how they bring these values to life through transformative educational experiences.
Include Everyone International Society of Franchising Conference at Babson
The Tariq Farid Franchise Institute proudly hosted the 37th Annual International Society of Franchising (ISoF) Conference at Babson College, a distinguished event that united scholars and practitioners from around the world to explore and advance the franchising industry. Through a series of panel engagements, keynote addresses, and research sessions, participants engaged in networking, innovation, and collaboration, gaining valuable insights and practical tools to drive their franchising endeavors forward.
Celebrating Diverse Ideas
In bringing together scholars and practitioners from various backgrounds and disciplines, the ISoF Conference sought to include everyone and create a rich tapestry of perspectives that enhanced the collective understanding of the franchising industry. This environment, where diverse ideas, skills, and experiences were encouraged, celebrated, and shared, ensured that all voices were heard, empowering attendees to leave with new strategies and a deeper appreciation for the value of diversity in driving innovation and success in franchising.
“The ISoF is the leading global research organization focused on advancing thought leadership in franchising scholarship. Our members, from leading business schools and universities around the globe, come together each year to share cutting-edge research that enriches our understanding of one of the most prolific forms of distribution. Partnering with Babson to host our 37th Conference was an exciting opportunity to collaborate with a school renowned for its leadership in entrepreneurship and innovation. Babson’s longstanding commitment to advancing entrepreneurial education, combined with its expertise in franchising, made it an ideal partner to foster groundbreaking discussions and research in this field.”
–
Benjamin Lawrence Aziz Hashim Professor of Franchise Entrepreneurship at Georgia State University and President of ISoF 90
Impact in Action
Academics and industry practitioners from around the world ATTENDED THE ISOF CONFERENCE AT BABSON’S BOSTON CAMPUS
Put People First
Global Family Entrepreneurship Network
Using their expertise to support entrepreneurial families in strengthening both their business acumen and family relationships, the Bertarelli Institute for Family Entrepreneurship has launched the Global Family Entrepreneurship Network (GFEN), a member-only, lifelong learning program. Recognizing that family dynamics often present unique challenges in family businesses, GFEN provides members with connections, education, and customized learning plans designed to address these dynamics, ultimately fostering more successful and cohesive family enterprises.
Taking a Family-Centered Approach
The network emphasizes the importance of family in entrepreneurship, recognizing that successful family businesses are built on strong relationships, trust, and shared values. By supporting the people at the heart of these businesses, GFEN puts people first, helping to build strong relationships and communication, ensuring that family members feel respected, appreciated, and valued. This approach not only enhances the success of their ventures but also contributes to a healthier and more resilient family foundation.
“Our
family’s experience with The GFEN custom learning program has been transformative. This program has fostered a new level of growth in our family relationships, equipping us with the tools to collaborate more effectively and envision a shared future with greater confidence and unity.”
– Charly Rojas MBA’11
Custom Learning Programs Achieved An Exceptional reflecting unanimous satisfaction and strong advocacy from all surveyed member families.
100
75
Family business members already engaged in FY24
GFEN is poised to harness its network to drive transformative change across the
81% of global businesses that are family-owned
NET PROMOTER SCORE OF Impact in Action
Founding Family Member; CEO, Grupo Rotoplas in Mexico
Lead by Example
Summer Venture Program
Known as one of the signature accelerators at The Arthur M. Blank Center for Entrepreneurship, the Summer Venture Program (SVP) is a 10-week intensive experience that provides essential resources designed to propel business ventures forward and build entrepreneurial skills. Participants have excelled in national, local, and Babson business competitions, secured spots in top-tier accelerator programs like Y Combinator and TechStars, and gained national exposure through features in major publications and appearances on television shows like “Shark Tank.”
Nurturing the Entrepreneurial Mindset
SVP participants are challenged to take the lead in their entrepreneurial journeys, demonstrating initiative, resilience, and adaptability. The program fosters an environment where students learn to lead by example, not only within their own ventures but also in the broader entrepreneurial community, inspiring others through their actions and achievements.
$175M
400+ Impact in Action SVP VENTURES HAVE RAISED IN EQUITY INVESTMENT AS REPORTED BY PITCHBOOK. STUDENTS AND ALUMNI FOUNDERS ADVANCED AND SUPPORTED OF THESE VENTURES ARE PLANNING TO GROW IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS
88% OF SVP VENTURES ARE OPERATIONAL TODAY
52%
Innovate Continuously
Women Innovating Now Lab
Created by the Frank & Eileen™ Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership, the Women Innovating Now (WIN) Lab® provides women entrepreneurs and allies with an inspiring community and a rigorous, experiential process that catalyzes innovative thinking and enables them to successfully scale their businesses.
Overcoming Barriers to Foster Innovation
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in a male-dominated profession, the WIN Lab encourages participants to think creatively, challenge norms, and develop innovative solutions in their industries. Through mentorship, resources, and a supportive community, the program helps participants continuously refine their ideas and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
SUCCESS STORY
Chloe Samaha ’25 is the co-founder and CEO of BOND App, a SaaS B2B AI-powered platform for Millennial and GenZ founders and team leaders looking to create a revolutionary company culture and maximize employee morale, productivity, and engagement. While in the WIN Lab, Chloe has won several pitch contests including Pitch-AThon, Seed Fund, and the Babson Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® (B.E.T.A) Challenge, raising a total of $37,250 for BOND. BOND also launched a new product/service, expanded to a new market segment/ customer group, increased sales, and expanded their online presence. In addition, they were introduced to valuable connections and partnered with other companies.
Chloe Samaha, BOND App
Accolades
Designated as one of the top two specialty programs for Excellence in Entrepreneurship Education by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship, it earned BostInno’s recognition as one of Boston’s ‘50 on Fire’ innovators and visionaries, and was honored by the prestigious Rosoff Awards for Diversity. Impact in Action
Listen and Respond Substance Use Disorders Sprint
The Kerry Murphy Healey Center for Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship is where innovation and entrepreneurship converge to advance health outcomes. With a strong commitment to health equity and justice, the center has developed the Substance Use Disorders (SUD) Sprint—a focused six-day program that equips scientists and researchers with the entrepreneurial skills needed to create effective treatments for substance use disorders. Supported by a $1.5 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this is the first NIH grant awarded to Babson.
Answering the Call for Change
Since the late 1990s, over 1 million Americans have died from drug overdoses, including more than 100,000 per year in the last few years, according to the CDC. The SUD Sprint addresses the need for more impactful innovations to tackle the overdose epidemic with a curriculum designed to respond with solutions that tailor to real-world needs.
60
INNOVATORS TRAINED IN EACH COHORT
$100K
FOLLOW-ON FUNDING SECURED BY TWO PARTICIPANTS THUS FAR
“I got the equivalent of a Master’s Degree in SUD innovation and market acceleration in one week.”
– Denise Hummel Isaacson Founder and CEO, RevMyLife
Impact in Action
Give Back to Others
Youth Entrepreneurship Program
Led by the Institute for Social Innovation, the Youth Entrepreneurship Program gives teams of Babson volunteers—students, alumni, staff, faculty, and friends—the opportunity to teach entrepreneurship to youth in under-resourced communities in the U.S. and abroad.
45
450
07
04
1,470 Babson Students Taught Youth in Underserved Communities Schools & Organizations Involved
Hours of Service Provided Countries Tanzania, South Sudan, Brazil, and U.S.
Cultivating the Entrepreneurial Spirit in Tanzania
Each January, a Babson team of volunteers visits Tanzania to teach our patented Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® (ET&A™) methodology to students and teachers living in and around Karatu, Tanzania. In January 2024, more than a dozen students, alumni, and faculty took part in this one-week intensive program, sharing their entrepreneurial know-how and bonding with students from 20 schools and more than a dozen communities in the Karatu area.
“Although we were there to teach entrepreneurship, the students taught us all so much each and every day,” said Babson alumna Colby Thomson ’23. “Every student I had the privilege of talking with was beyond inspiring and dedicated to making a positive impact within their communities.”
The new Social Innovation Fund covered the costs of this trip for two students. This fund was designed to ensure equitable access to opportunities that develop empathy and leadership in addressing social and environmental issues, with support from KP and Priya Balaraj P’25 and the KPB Investments Board.
The students were given cameras provided by Canon to document the multifaceted, servicecentered 10-day program.
With Gratitude
Thank you for believing in our mission, for sharing our values, and for empowering our community to dream bigger and reach farther.
“Thank you, Mr. Blank, for giving me the opportunity to attend one of the best business institutions in the world. The impact Babson has had on my life cannot be understated. Because of you, I have been given a rare gift: the ability to see business as it could be, and a path toward more compassionate corporate models.”
“I applied to Babson because I wanted to be like you, I’m studying accounting, will soon sit for my CPA, and have aspirations to start my own business just like you did. Your generosity has opened doors for me and empowered me to pursue my dreams with confidence and determination. I am truly grateful for the opportunities your foundation has afforded me and am committed to making the most of them as I embark on this exciting new chapter in my life.”
Madison Grogan ’24
Demarre Johnson ’24
“This [AMBSEL] scholarship has not only alleviated the financial burden of higher education but has also provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through the program, I have engaged with the Blank Family of Businesses, learning firsthand about their exceptional culture and values. These experiences have not only strengthened my passion for entrepreneurship but have also equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in my future career. Thank you for your generous support and investment in my education.”
“Your support has allowed me to pursue every opportunity for learning, travel, and social innovation without the constraints of financial worry. I am immensely thankful for your belief in me and your investment in my future, as well as the futures of many others. With your help, I have not only paved a pathway for my siblings but also maximized every opportunity presented to me, ensuring that the privilege of education bears fruit for my community and beyond.”
Michael Agard ’24
Maria Inzunza ’24