Program Overview
Big ideas require big plans.
Pursue your passion and turn thoughts into action with the support of the Innovation & Entrepreneurship program. Learn the ins and outs of starting a business and learn from entrepreneurs in many fields. Combine the powerful hands-on lessons you learn with focused opportunities in nonprofit management, arts entrepreneurship, and more. You’ll also get real world opportunities to shine your light.
Business & Entrepreneurship Center
Lawrence is forming strategic partnerships with community organizations to develop innovative living-learning spaces where students can collaborate with businesses and non-profits for hands-on experiential learning.
Spotlight
Lawrentian Spotlight
Student Perspective
“I’m grateful to Lawrence University for their collaboration with one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, Harvard Business School. It’s incredible to see how this partnership opens doors for students like me to gain transformative experiences.”
Cristian Tallarico ‘26 Economics, Data Science (Harvard CORe program) Muri, Aargau, Switzerland
Throw out The Pitch
Bring your best idea to LaunchLU and pitch it to business leaders, investors, and alumni for a chance to kickstart your plans with seed money as prizes.
KidsGive
Explore the world of social entrepreneurship and nonprofit outreach through KidsGive, Lawrence’s model nonprofit that promotes global education in Sierra Leone.
Learn from Entrepreneurs
I&E frequently invites entrepreneurs to share insights on their careers and building an entrepreneurial life. Some recent speakers and topics include:
- Tony Vernon ’80
- Jill Enos – building an entrepreneurial life
- Dr. Richard Fessler ’74 – medical entrepreneurship with emphasis on intellectual property
- Toni Sikes – entrepreneurship in arts
The Chandler Senior Experience
You will work closely with the innovation and entrepreneurship faculty to develop your Senior Experience in an interdisciplinary manner with your major.
Recent Senior Experience projects include:
- Theatre Education in Appleton, Jamaica, and Sierra Leone
- Reinvesting in the Social, Economic and Health Benefits of the Conservation Corps
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Spotlight on Start-ups
Combine your talents and explore the business of theater and music through Startup Theatre and the Entrepreneurial Musician programs.
Showstopping Showcase
Make your mark on Rabbit Gallery by planning and executing a pop-up art gallery featuring student works in a storefront in downtown Appleton.
Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with professors who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chairs
Claudena Skran (she/her)
Edwin & Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science and Professor of Government
Claudena Skran is Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program and Professor of Government and the Edwin and Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science.As a the Director of…
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Michael Clayville (he/him)
Instructor of Music in Entrepreneurial Studies and Social Engagement
michael.clayville@lawrence.edu
I am a musician, educator, and entrepreneur whose work moves between the concert hall, the classroom, and the community. As a performer, I am passionate about drawing audiences deeply into…
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Adam Galambos (he/him)
Dwight and Marjorie Peterson Professor of Innovation and Associate Professor of Economics and Special Assistant to the President
My research experience is in microeconomic theory and game theory, and these are fields that I teach as well. I also enjoy teaching in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship program. I…
View Full Profile Claudena Skran (she/her)
Edwin & Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science and Professor of Government
Claudena Skran is Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program and Professor of Government and the Edwin and Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science.As a the Director of…
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Timothy X. Troy (he/him)
J. Thomas and Julie E. Hurvis Professor of Theatre and Drama and Professor of Theatre Arts
Timothy X. Troy (playwright & stage director) is the Hurvis Professor of Theatre and Drama at Lawrence University. Regular teaching areas include acting, directing, script analysis, and playwrighting. Professor Troy’s…
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