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About

 

For nearly two centuries, Spartans have ventured to feed a hungry world, fight cancer, invent new technologies, and kindle the imaginations of learners around the globe. Here, we don't just dream about tomorrow's solutions: We create. We venture.

The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation empowers students to learn through action by providing programs, courses, and resources to foster an entrepreneurial mindset and create new ventures. Our program is designed to prime students to embrace failure mindfully, explore unknowns, and develop skills that set them apart in the job market.

So, come artists and engineers, biologists and physicists, changemakers and activists, makers and marketers. No matter the area of study. No matter the discipline or college. All your venture requires is the courage to take the first step.

What's your venture?

Meet the Team

The Burgess Institute’s team is comprised of passionate, dedicated experts, many of whom have started their own companies, advised startups, or have worked extensively with students to help them achieve success. Whether you need help with academic advising or you’re looking to connect with alumni mentors, here, you’ll be able to find out more about each staffer and connect with them on their professional channels.

STAFF

Laurel Ofstein

Faculty Director

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Christopher Sell

Associate Director of Development

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Paul Jaques

Managing Director, Venture Creation

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Lori Fischer

Director of Operations

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Ken Szymusiak

Managing Director, Academic Programs

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Sean Fochtman

Director of Alumni Venture Support

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Angela Martin

Senior Fiscal Officer & HR Manager

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Aubrey Haase

Events & Engagement Manager

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Leigh Anne Jewison

Office Manager

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Lillian Brooks

Academic Advisor

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