NOVEMBER 2024 EDITION

Princeton Review ranks Rowan University #1 in New Jersey for undergraduate entrepreneurship, and climbs national and regional rankings

Rowan University has once again been recognized as the leading institution in New Jersey for its interdisciplinary, innovative, and experiential entrepreneurship program. For the second consecutive year, Rowan has claimed the top spot in the state, while also rising nationally to #37—an impressive climb of 14 places over the past four years. Regionally, the program also advanced, moving from #5 to #4 in the Northeast.


Through dynamic classes, workshops, pitch competitions, and hands-on events, Rowan students gain real-world experience and develop the skills needed to become change agents and leaders in their communities. “We equip Rowan students with the tools and confidence to think and act entrepreneurially,” said RCIE Director Jessica Vattima. “By the time they graduate, our students are ready to innovate, to lead and to make a meaningful impact wherever they go.”


Beyond the classroom, Rowan supports students in turning their ideas into reality through seed funding and mentorship opportunities. Over the past year alone, more than 550 students developed actionable business plans, and the program awarded nearly $60,000 in funding to help bring those ideas to life.


To learn more about Rowan’s entrepreneurship program and its Princeton Review rankings, read the full story on Rowan Today.

CONSIDER SHOPPING ROWAN STARTUPS THIS SEASON

UPCOMING EVENTS

The 2024 Idea Challenge will take place on Friday, December 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Business Hall 104. Hosted by RCIE and the Rowan Innovation Venture Fund, the competition invites students from all Rowan colleges to showcase their ideas and pitch to a pool of judges from the Rowan community, all while competing for the $4,000 first-place prize.


For pitching tips and competition advice, check out the RCIE's ProfStop series on YouTube!

E-NEWS TO KEEP YOU IN THE KNOW

Freshman tackle global issues in RU Innovative Challenge

This month, freshman students participated in the RU Innovative Challenge, presenting business and non-profit ideas aimed at addressing world hunger, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture. “I am proud of my students for exceeding all expectations by demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills and a passion for making a difference,” said Professor Greg Payton.

Arlene Felder talks branding at Coffee with an Entrepreneur

Arlene Felder, CEO of Glassy Brown Cookies, shared her expertise on branding and marketing with students during Coffee with an Entrepreneur. She emphasized the importance of taglines, consistency, and effective social media strategies in reaching broader audiences and building a successful brand.

Rowan entrepreneurs shine at CEO Global Conference

Professor Greg Payton and 14 students traveled to Tampa, FL, for the CEO Global Conference and Pitch Competition, where six Rowan entrepreneurs were recognized in the Top 100 for their innovative startups. The event offered invaluable lessons on authenticity, leadership, and creating impact, as shared by freshman Samantha Tamtama: "Leadership is not about being in control but about empowering others." Congratulations to our talented entrepreneurs on these incredible achievements!

Entrepreneur Rustin Cassway inspires CEO Club students

Rustin Cassway, President of Demountable Concepts, Inc., shared his entrepreneurial journey with Rowan's CEO Club, emphasizing the importance of decisiveness in achieving success. Through stories of challenges and perseverance, he inspired students with a firsthand look at the determination it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur.

Spotlight Speaker Series highlights social media strategies for startups

Kaede De Palm Kunesch and Lindsey Sheard of Smartly joined students for RCIE's Spotlight Speaker Series, moderated by Leah Fisher (Entrepreneurship '26), to discuss how startups can stand out on social media. The panel explored how emerging businesses can leverage social media to drive engagement, increase retention, and compete with larger, more established companies in a crowded marketplace. 

Student entrepreneur reflects on pivoting and persevering

Aiden Tahmazian (Mechanical Engineering ’26), co-founder of Circlez, spoke with students about his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges of pivoting a startup. Originally designed to help college students achieve their goals, Circlez is now shifting its focus to improving company productivity. Tahmazian emphasized the importance of maintaining an open mind and a positive outlook throughout the entrepreneurial process.

Rowan startups showcased at Homecoming

Students and alumni represented the Rowan Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Rowan University's homecoming. Halfday Iced Tea (Kayvon Jahanbakhsh ’19 and Mike Lombardo ’18), La Belle Vie Bakery (Danielle McManus ’25), and Bobica Bars (Harrison Nastasi ’26 and Justin Ianneli ’26) showcased their products and shared their entrepreneurial journeys with attendees.

Gianna Intile inspires students with sustainable fashion journey

Rowan alumna Gianna Intile shared her experiences as a sustainable fashion designer during Coffee with an Entrepreneur. Her brand, Feelin' Blue, upcycles old denim into new items like bags and accessories. Intile discussed the importance of delegating tasks as a leader and navigating the challenges of scaling her business.

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The RCIE is dedicated to supporting Rowan students, faculty and staff.


Curious about upcoming competitions, funding, or scholarships? Need pitch feedback or mentorship to advance your business idea? RCIE is here to help. Email rcie@rowan.edu for more information.


Interested in mentorship opportunities, hosting an event, joining the Entrepreneurship Advisory Council, or supporting entrepreneurship at Rowan? Reach out to Jessica Vattima to learn more.

Join Rowan's Startup Ecosystem on StartupTree

Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Business Hall 209

201 Mullica Hill Road | Glassboro, NJ 08028

ent.rowan.edu/rcie | rcie@rowan.edu

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