University Innovation Fellows - User contributions [en]

Priorities:Iona University Student Priorities

2025-10-17T15:56:01Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: /* Overview */

=Overview=
<div>
Iona University is a private, four-year Catholic university in New Rochelle, NY. In 1940, it was founded by the Congregation of Christian Brothers and today offers more than 60 bachelor's programs and 40 minors. Iona is comprised of the School of Arts & Science, the LaPenta School of Business, & The Kelly School of Health Sciences. The institution has approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in it.
</div><div></div><div>The Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was established in 2017 due to a generous $15 million gift to Iona from James Hynes, '69, '01H, and Anne Marie Hynes. The Hynes Institute is an emerging force that strives to prepare the future generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders to move the world. It also ensures that students develop the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to create, lead, and innovate in an ever-changing global economy. </div><div>At the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, their mission is “to create and foster an interdisciplinary community of Iona students who engage in entrepreneurial learning opportunities to develop an entrepreneurial mindset."

'''Strategic Priorities 2025'''

Strategy 1: Enrich Student Event Ecosystem

Objective: Boost number of student events on campus by at least 15% from 2024.

Actions:

* Identify Existing Planning Resources: Create a compiled list of all event planning resources (Microsoft Forms for event submission, Student Government Association event guidelines, etc.)
* Consolidate Resources: Design a mockup of a web-based UI which contains all existing event planning resources in an itemized, step-by-step ordering.
* Demystify Event Planning Process: Coordinate with Center for Student Engagement and Student Government Association to pilot and explain the consolidated event planning process to student leaders.

Strategy 2: Increase Student Leadership Participation

Objective: Increase student leaders on campus by at least 10% from 2024.

Actions:

* Engage Students with Leadership: Host panels and other interactive events connecting current student leaders with students interested in leadership.
* Amplify Student Perspectives: Collect testimonials from current student leaders and share on social media and other communication channels.
* Provide Institutional Support: Have university umbrella organizations conduct regular check-ins with student leaders.

Strategy 3: Facilitate Student Connections Through Academic Studying

Objective: Increase study room reservations on campus through 25 Live by at least 15 from 2024.

Actions:

* Expand Reservable Space Options: Ensure all study rooms on campus can be reserved in 25 Live.
* Clarify 25 Live Interface: Release recorded demos explaining how students can navigate 25 Live and reserve a study room.
* Connect Like-Minded Students: Identify students with common academic interests and bring them together in study spaces.

Strategy 4: Reimagine Student Leader Training for Hands-On Skills

Objective: Incorporate at least 5 hard skills into the university's student leadership training curriculum, Leadership Wednesdays.

Actions:

* Student-Led Workshops: Identify student leaders who possess hard skills (e.g. video editing) and incorporate their perspective into how a Leadership Wednesday workshop is designed.
* Validate Student Concerns: Request student leader feedback on what they gained from Leadership Wednesday workshops on a regular basis (e.g. semesterly).

'''Strategic Priorities 2024'''

Strategy 1: Enhance Student Engagement

Objective: Increase student participation in campus events by 20% by the end of 2024.

Actions:

*Schedule Events on Weekends: Plan events during weekends to maximize attendance, as students prefer socializing without academic pressures.

*Create a “FOMO” Factor: Incorporate unique performances and interactive experiences that generate excitement and anticipation.

*Targeted Marketing: Use strategic marketing campaigns to reach a broader student audience, ensuring they are aware of and excited about upcoming events. Example, Instagram is a popular platform, and with reels it would a quick and effective strategy to advertise the event. Flyers hanging around to gain attention.

Strategy 2: Promote Cultural Awareness and Inclusivity

Objective: Ensure representation from at least 10 different cultural groups at the International Festival.

Actions:

*Collaborate with Student Clubs: Work with student clubs and cultural organizations to ensure diverse participation.

*Invite Ambassadors and Cultural Groups: Bring in ambassadors and cultural groups to showcase their traditions and customs.

*Diverse Activities: Include a variety of cultural performances, food stalls, and interactive booths to reflect the multicultural nature of the student body.

Strategy 3: Strengthen Community Partnerships

Objective: Establish at least 5 partnerships with local organizations and businesses.

Actions:

*Engage Community Organizations: Partner with local organizations to provide resources and cultural expertise, exposure to different cuisines that our school may not offer.

*Seek Sponsorships: Obtain support from local businesses to enhance the event. Example, showcasing music, dancing, and other traditions from around the world.

*Foster Long-Term Relationships: Build lasting relationships with community partners to support future events.

Strategy 4: Improve Institutional Reputation

Objective: Enhance Iona’s ranking in cultural inclusivity metrics by 10%.

Actions:

*Highlight the Festival: Promote the International Festival in university marketing and promotional materials.

*Showcase Success: Use social media and university platforms to highlight the event’s success and impact.

*Publish Testimonials: Gather and share testimonials from participants and partners to demonstrate the festival’s value.

Strategy 5: Ensure Sustainable Growth

Objective: Develop a scalable model for the International Festival that can grow annually.

Actions:

*Start Small: Utilize the first event as feedback and gradually expand each year.

*Continuous Improvement: Implement a process to refine the event each year based on participant feedback.

*Data Analysis: Collect and analyze data on student engagement and satisfaction to inform future planning. Example, send out surveys through email post event.

By focusing on these strategic priorities and implementing the outlined actions, Iona University can effectively enhance student engagement, promote cultural awareness, strengthen community ties, improve its institutional reputation, promote international cooperation between companies and ensure the sustainable growth of the International Festival.
 </div>'''Strategic Priorities 2023'''

Strategy 1: Classes offered with Innovation & Experience, the introduction into more entrepreneurial mindset and innovative classes that set students up for success.

Work with Iona University and the Hynes institute on creating class options for students who want a more catered experience into entrepreneurship and innovation mixed with real world class options to give students the hands on experience they need. We would need to reach out and work with the provost and IT offices to create an option on Peoplesoft. This will also give students the option to request class options that might no be available at Iona.

Strategy 2: Gaels on the Go; an app that connects all activities on campus in one centralized location.

Create an app that consists of campus news/events, student news/events, academic calendar, student life calendar, athletics, blackboard, and office 365. This will be done through the collaboration of the IT department, provost office and Center for Student Engagement. Students would also have access to a feedback channel that allows departments to know what's missing. This will be promoted across all of campus screens as well as a part of the orientation package given to incoming students. This creates a simple and central place for students to remain informed.

Strategy 3: Gael Report, a survey that collects feedback on new campus policies and lets students voice their opinions

Seeing what ideas the campus has in store that will directly impact students, giving the students the appropriate information as to how President and those in charge came to that conclusion and allowing them to either choose from options and or giving them the chance to write an idea that might be used in place of the existing one. This will be implemented through the CSE and those in charge.

'''Strategic Priorities 2022'''

*Strategy number 1: Create internal connections: On Campus Network building. Collaborate with the center for student engagement and Gael Activity Board:

Plan and execute networking event: Part 1: Informational session regarding the importance of community in developing networks and careers. Students will be given tips on how to optimize their linked in/indeed profiles. Part 2: Student networks will be formed by a facilitator or event host. Interactive games and activities will give students an idea of who they wish to connect with and form their networking teams.

*''Strategy number 2:Create external connections:'' Connect networks to the Gaels Go further Mentoring Program

Once student networks have been formed, each student will create a Gaels Go further profile. These teams will have access to Iona's Alumni and industry leaders. Instead of each student being assigned one mentor, the network teams will be able tot talk with multiple mentors from different sectors.

*''Strategy Number 3:'' Application: The main objective of each network is to control and execute a site visitation. With the assistance of department chairs, professional alumni, and networks, students will engage with one organization that they will visit at the end of the semester.

Engage external partners to provide insights. Part 1) Cite visitation by the network Part 2) Present to stakeholders their visitation learnings.

*''Strategy Number 4:'' All the networks will have a closing dinner in which they will discuss each network's experience and findings. Students will also share their personal experiences in the program and how they benefited from their communities.

<div>

'''Strategic Priorities 2021'''

''Strategy #1:'' Creating Event Portal to increase accessibility to students about student activities.

Reaching out to the VP of Marketing and Communications.

*<big>After stakeholder meeting with Mary Clare Reilley, has already gone out live on the student portal.</big>

*<big>Graduate students will now be added to the Listserv for campus activities.</big>

 ''Strategy #2:'' Bridging the gap between cohorts of undergraduate and graduate students.

There is a lack of communication regarding campus wide collaboration. We would like to help students have a sense of belonging to their campus.

''Strategy #3:'' Fully utilize campus resources (campus screens throughout campus) to instantly communicate events and increase awareness. 

Overall, IONA is known for its sports and connecting students through campus screens and social media. There is under-utilized dead space on campus and a lack of awareness. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ho9CIbuEzI&feature=youtu.be&ab_channel=LeahFigueroa

'''Strategic Priorities 2020'''
</div>''Strategy #1:'' Creating community by increasing interdisciplinary programs and events that incorporate a wider range of knowledge.

Reaching out to OSD and propose a virtual or in-person event when all disciplines are welcome to showcase their field.

''Strategy #2:'' Increase communication between professors and students regarding research opportunities and events 

There is a lack of communication regarding professor's outside endeavors and research that could be more beneficial for students and connecting them to other professionals in their field.

''Strategy #3:'' Facilitate all of the information regarding campus organizations and club events into one, simple, easy access hub or app.

Reach out to key stakeholders on campus (James Mustich, Provost Wheeler) and propose the idea for an all-inclusive app that allows clubs to post their events for that week and allow for interaction of students and convenience in seeing all events happening on campus 

===Strategic Priorities 2019===

{{#Widget:Youtube|id=1Ygsz43cXpk}}

''Strategy #1:'' Academic Social Media

Develop a platform for Iona students to build relationships with each other and gain mentors through faculty and successful alumni.  It will be promoted through acceptance letters/emails, orientation, promotional events and fliers.  Students will then sign up to our schools platform to stay connected and receive support on their track towards their diploma.  This platform will be using an existing website implemented by the Hynes Institute called startup tree.

<big>Strategy #2: Introduce “Design Thinking Tasks” at Freshmen Orientations</big>
<div><big>Orientation leaders would be trained with premade lesson plans facilitated by us.  Our lesson plans will be concise and consist of design thinking tasks/challenges.  Ideally, the freshmen would work together in groups to figure out creative ways to solve problems through multiple design thinking methods and challenges.  This will be used to introduce entrepreneurship and help motivate them to get more involved with entrepreneurship on campus in the future.   </big></div><div><big>Initially, we would train our orientation leaders with what the lesson plans we made consist of along with actually teaching them about entrepreneurship to ensure an authentic reciprocation from the orientation leaders to the incoming freshmen.  We would collaborate with the orientation leaders and faculty and explain to them the lesson plan and how it could be incorporated with their activities.  Through prior training of the orientation leaders before the actual orientation this would ensure the feasibility of it continuing annually.  </big></div><div><big>''Strategy #3: Mix it Up…''</big>
<big>The syllabus is arguably the most important part of any course or lecture at any college or university setting. If it is the first thing that is reviewed and/or looked at to get a general idea of the lecture/course structure, why not incorporate entrepreneurship and innovation in some way and tie it into the task at hand. Keeping in contact with faculty as well as the administration would allow the students to produce and think outside the box despite the major.  Working along the side of professors to ensure clarity of how we could collaboratively integrate entrepreneurship within their preset topics on their syllabus or how we can incorporate a design thinking method to fit their lesson.  This is mixing up the traditional ways of lecturing to a more fun, interactive and creative way to learn. </big>
</div><div><big>''Strategy #4: Introducing Innovative Games''</big>
<big>After overviewing the orientation schedule, we are able to see that innovative games aren’t being introduced to incoming students. Playing innovative games are a  fun way to build confidence, be creative, collaborate and  find your passions. Some games that can be played include giving  students legos or jenga pieces in to spark creative building. Giving students “The Big Creativity Can”, or  Play-Doh that can help them  prototype ideas they may have already. A Marshmallow Challenge where students work in teams to create the tallest tower with only string, tape, spaghetti and marshmallows. The Wallet Challenge were students team up to design a wallet suitable to the partners needs, These innovative games  allow  students to be introduced  to creative thinking  through simple objects. </big>
</div><div><big>''Strategy #5''</big>
<big>We can ideate with our stakeholders the mapping of executing a design challenge program at orientation. We can pitch this program glimpse into entrepreneurship during freshman orientation. So that new students on campus are more comfortable by being exposed to entrepreneurship in a fun, creative and challenging way. Also incorporating an activity like this will provide variety to the current schedule on campus where incoming freshmen are simply consuming information. This program will be a hands-on activity that will be effective towards community building and communication.</big>
</div><div><big>''Strategy #6: Live Questionnaire with...''</big></div><div><big>Orientation at Iona is a 2-day event allowing students to get situated and comfortable with the environment around them. There are 6 sessions that tackle different events on the first and  on the second day. This strategic priority would be great as it is very inexpensive and only requires fitting in with the schedule already provided for orientation and sitting in a designated area to engage the freshman. These activities will be taken out strategically and in a way that would engage the freshman’s recollection of their favorite changemakers or entrepreneurs what they liked about the entrepreneurs’ innovative solution to their problem. </big></div><div><big>This in turn, would create a sense of possibility at the campus with the students constantly being reminded that they have a career ahead of them and should decide to use it wisely. With these questions and activities and activities at the orientation they would be asked what they would have done if they were in the shoes of the entrepreneur being described at hand. Thus, creating more senses of self-empowerment, opportunity and the ability to envision.</big></div><div>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ygsz43cXpk</div>

===Strategic Priorities 2018===

''<big>Strategy #1: Introduce a campus wide Club Competition</big>''

<big>Team Leader: CEO at Iona - The Entrepreneurship Club</big>

<big>Reach out to the Office of Student Development and collaborate with the Hynes Institute to create competition guidelines</big>

<big>Submit a funding proposal to the Office of Student Development and the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation to secure funding for the prize(s)</big>

<big>Reach out to club presidents and have them organize teams within their club</big>

<big> </big>

''<big>Strategy #2: Introduce a "Flip It to Win It" Challenge</big>''

<big>Team Leader: TBD</big>

<big>Incorporate this challenge into the Columba Cornerstone class, a class all freshmen or first-year students take</big>

<big>Have professors include this challenge into the course in a way that relates to the theme of the Columba Cornerstone class</big>

<big>In one class session, have the professor guide students through an ideation session, teach them how to analyze an environment, and have them identify a problem(s). In another class, have the professor teach students about how to pitch and sell an idea, product, or service.</big>

<big> </big>

''<big>Strategy #3: Community Sales Initiative for a Sustainable Future</big>''

<big>Team Leader: TBD</big>

<big>Residential Hall Directors will be contacted in order to implement this plan on campus; They will then relay the message to their students for at least a week, and then the project will begin.</big>

<big>Post Flyers in all residence halls and buildings, making everyone aware of the campus-wide competition</big>

<big>Residential Hall Directors let tell RA’s to spread awareness at floor meetings</big>

<big>Get list of all competing floors throughout campus</big>

<big>RA’s must bring recyclables from each day to a pickup location in their building</big>

<big> </big>

''<big>Strategy #4: Giant “Marshmallow Challenge”</big>''

<big>Team Leader: CEO at Iona - The Entrepreneurship Club</big>

<big>Students participate in this activity through campus events already in place. Examples include homecoming, spring weekend, and involvement fairs.</big>

<big>Students participate through a specifically organized event for this exercise on campus. This event can take place in during the grand opening ceremony for the new location of the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. </big>

<big>This could be part of a larger exercise which also connects other students on campus such as Greek Life. This activity can serve as a unification process during events typically known as “Greek Week.”</big>
<div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>


[[Category:Iona_University]]
[[Category:Student Priorities]]
{{CatTree|Iona_University}}

School:Iona University

2025-09-19T02:20:57Z

Adrian.james.vazquez:

='''[[File:Iona college.jpeg|frame]]About Iona University'''=

Iona University is a private, four-year Catholic university with two campuses in New Rochelle and Bronxville, NY located 22 miles from Midtown Manhattan. In 1940, it was founded by the Congregation of Christian Brothers and today offers more than 60 bachelor's programs and 40 minors. Iona is comprised of the School of Arts & Science, the LaPenta School of Business, Hynes Insitute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Kelly Health Center. In addition, the institution has approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in it.

==''' About the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation'''==

The Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was established in 2017 due to a generous $15 million gift to Iona from James Hynes, '69, '01H, and Anne Marie Hynes. The Hynes Institute is an emerging force that strives to prepare the future generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders to move the world. It also ensures that students develop the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to create, lead, and innovate in an ever-changing global economy.
[[File:Hynes Institute.jpg|thumb|Hynes Institute at IONA College|link=Special:FilePath/Hynes_Institute.jpg]]
At the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, their mission is “to create and foster an interdisciplinary community of Iona students who engage in entrepreneurial learning opportunities to develop an entrepreneurial mindset." The Hynes Institute also includes GaelVentures, the start-up incubator space, which was created to “support student programming at Iona University and to serve the New Rochelle and greater Westchester area as a resource for its local entrepreneurship and business ecosystem.” GaelVentures was temporarily the home of the Hynes Institute and was the physical space for the majority of curricular and co-curricular programming. Now, the Hynes Institute is located at the center of campus, Spellman Hall where students and faculty are able to cowork and work on their business ventures. CEO, the Entrepreneurship club runs out of this space, alongside with the activities and workshops offered. GaelVentures located in downtown New Rochelle is our student and community incubator for students of all majors and backgrounds.

='''Promoting Student Entrepreneurship & Innovation'''=

==''School of Business & School of Arts and Science''==

With the LaPenta School of Business being one of the more prominent schools at Iona, often, it's easier for students to intertwine their business mindsets/endeavors with entrepreneurship and innovation. However, outside of the business school, there are departments in which an entrepreneurial mindset is also encouraged such as in the School of Arts and Science with the graduate occupational therapy and computer science program. Iona also offers a wide selection of courses that can be a foundational step for the student innovative process. With an entrepreneurial approach, one can use the skills learned from E&I courses to innovate within their chosen field. Some of the tools used in these workshops include design thinking through the use empathy mapping to identify the problem using problem-solve and prototyping to come up with solutions.

==''Technology''==

A few of the workshops the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation hosts include 3D Printing and Storytelling with our design in residence Mr. Rob Kissner. 3D printing is a relatively new technology that disrupts the traditional way of prototyping and 3D printers can be used for making gadgets out of PLA filament. In addition to the 3D workshops, the Hynes Institute also offers Arduino workshops where students learn to interact with different open-sourced electronic objects.

==''Speaker Series''==
The Hynes Institute also hosts speaker series and E-talks that encourage entrepreneurs to pursue their aspirations wholeheartedly and despite failure, to persevere. The newest edition to this program is Coffee with Christoph where students are presented with the opportunity to connect and chat with Hynes Institute's founding Director.

Outside of the Hynes Institute, the LaPenta School of Business hosts "View From the C-Suite" where students are able to listen and learn from CEOs from different companies.

==''Entrepreneurship Classes''==

The entrepreneurial mindset has recently amplified at Iona in which multiple new entrepreneurship and innovation courses have been introduced to our students. Introduction into Ideation and Design Thinking, Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Practice and Mindset, as well as Ethics and Entrepreneurial Leadership are 3 courses that have boosted entrepreneurial thinking throughout campus. We also have 5 new graduate courses that study Ideation and Design Thinking, Business Modeling, Financing and Sustaining Entrepreneurial Ventures, and a Studio Course that facilitates the process of developing an entrepreneurial venture, from idea to launch, with the help and support of Iona University’s incubator space, GaelVentures.

==''CEO at Iona - The Entrepreneurship Club''==

Another feature of Iona University and the Hynes Institute is the extracurricular club that promotes entrepreneurship. CEO (Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization) at Iona - The Entrepreneurship Club, formerly known as Iona’s Entrepreneurship Club, gives students the ability to network with like minded peers from different focus areas. This helps students build teams in which each person can effectively contribute under a role,and heavily focuses on co-working and problem solving.

==''Competitions''==

The Iona Innovation Challenge and the Pizza Pitch Competition were two campus wide competitions in which students could pitch their business/entrepreneurial ideas to a panel of judges. This gave students a “Shark Tank” like experience where they could get feedback on their ideas and prepare for future opportunities.

 The Idea Hackathon, hosted by the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, was a successful event as well. Students were able to develop skills in problem solving, design thinking, and collaboration. There were also many alumni and mentors present for students to obtain knowledge from. The 2020 theme was centered around how the university could promote student engagement amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The IdeaSpark Program was a collaborative effort between Hynes Institute and the Viscardi Center. The 6 week long program was for entrepreneurs with disabilities. Throughout the 6 weeks these entrepreneurs would be paired with mentors who would give feedback to their business idea. This all came to the final event which was a pitch competition that took place at the Hynes Institute.

==''Spaces on Campus''==

Spaces at Iona University where students can prototype, collaborate, and innovate is a GaelVentures located in right off-campus, the incubator space, the Hynes Institute filled with a design classroom as the new co-working space, Ryan Library, a library that has private rooms for discussion and ideation, and Arrigoni Library, another library that has private spaces for discussion, innovation, and technological creation.
[[File:HynesInstituteMajors.jpg|thumb|link=Special:FilePath/HynesInstituteMajors.jpg]]

==''Internships''==

Internship opportunities are not scarce at Iona. Being less than 22 miles from Midtown Manhattan, world-class internships and job opportunities are within reach as well as opportunities outside of New York City. The opportunities at Iona University are limitless and with an entrepreneurial mindset, one can take advantage of Iona’s resources and embark on a journey to success. The new Hynes Institute offers internships as well.

==''Scholarships''==
The Hynes Institute frequently networks with organizations through our founder of the Hynes Institute Dr. Christoph Winkler. One of these scholarships includes the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship Minority & Women Entrepreneurship (MWE) Special Interest Group which also hosts a convention. The Hynes Institute also offers scholarships to IONA University students who show exemplary achievement on their campus and community.
 

==''Study Abroad''==
For students who have participated in the Idea Innovation Challenge hosted every spring are invited to apply for the study abroad program in Italy at the European Innovation Academy!

=Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship=

==''Hynes Faculty Fellowship Program''==

The purpose of this program is to allow full-time Iona faculty with the opportunity to cultivate and enact learning innovations that align with the mission of the Hynes Institute. Faculty will implement learning innovations through experiential exercises, design thinking, incorporating entrepreneurial subject matter and innovative teaching methods into an existing course, and establishing a new course in any discipline. Faculty also have the opportunity to start a student club or work with an existing club to develop a project, organize a co-curricular program such as a speaker event, organize a student workshop, and engage in service learning projects in relation to entrepreneurship.

==''Lunch & Learn ''==
[[File:Designerly knots.jpg|thumb|Clinical Lecturer Johnathan Williams teaching design thinking through designerly knots. |link=Special:FilePath/Designerly_knots.jpg]]
The purpose of this series is to establish and maintain faculty members and administrators engagement in entrepreneurship. Many of these series include workshops, speaker events, and experiential learning exercises. Our new clinical lecturer Johnathon Williams has created a program designed towards learning design through designerly knotting; this explores how designerly knots in a learning environment begin to function.

=Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function=

The university maintains an Intellectual Property Policy that defines ownership rights and revenue-sharing for inventions created with university resources. While Iona does not operate a large-scale patenting and licensing infrastructure typical of major research universities, it advances commercialization and innovation primarily through entrepreneurship education, incubator-style programming, and partnerships with local businesses and community organizations.

=Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration=

Iona University is proud to partner with over 100 industry professionals across nine different departments. These programs are offered through the university’s Office of Career Development. In addition to connecting students with these industry professionals, the Office of Career Development offers plenty of workshops. These workshop subjects range from Linkedin to networking.

=Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Efforts=

USASBE, the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship USASBE is an inclusive community that advances entrepreneurship education through impactful teaching, practice, and scholarship. This association also provides many opportunities to network with researchers, policy makers, educators, entrepreneurs, and management professionals. As of March 2017, Iona University was welcomed to their family of more than 600 college and university members. The Founding Program Director of the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Dr. Christoph Winkler, is also a contributing editor of Entrepreneurship Education & Pedagogy, a journal for USASBE.

==Iona StartupTree==

StartupTree is the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation’s entrepreneurship network. On this platform, students can network with the Hynes Institute's network of entrepreneurs from many different industries, add their venture or project, and participate in various competitions and challenges.

''GaelVentures Incubator''

One of our recently popular programs is the incubator running out of GaelVentures. Here students and people in the Westchester area can come with their business ideas or formed businesses and receive resources from Iona staff. This is a great opportunity for business owners to gain knowledge and feel supported in the journey.

=Related Links=

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Iona_University_Student_Priorities Iona University Strategic Priorities]

Fall 2018-[https://drive.google.com/open?id=13bZcVClnIIXztW5nW7xPrVZEgC_bIpLjDW8ug9MyfpI Landscape Canvas]

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15YL_e2c24kUtZNmkY0YKtPSkntfsXjO4AvHI6J4Ssog/edit?usp=sharing Fall 2021- Landscape Canvas]

[http://bit.ly/2QfSPCm Landscape Canvas Presentation]

[https://www.iona.edu/academics/schools-institutes/hynes-institute-entrepreneurship-innovation Hynes Institute]

[https://www.instagram.com/hynesinstitute/ Hynes Institute Instagram]

===University Innovation Fellows===

===<big>Fall 2018</big>===

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Alberto_Goncalves Alberto Goncalves]

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Tiara_Griffith Tiara Griffith]

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Elijah_Ware Eljah Ware]

===='''Fall 2019'''====

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Lisbeth_Baez Lisbeth Baez]

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Avery_Burgos Avery Burgos]

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Riana_khan Riana Khan]

'''Fall 2020'''

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Enjay_Brown Enjay Brown]

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Joanna_falisi Joanna Falisi]

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Juan_Cadile Juan Cadile]

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Melissa_Juarez Melissa Juarez]

Fall 2021

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Aishani_Nalla Aishani Nalla]

[https://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Fellow:Leah_Figueroa Leah Figueroa]

[[Category:Schools]]
[[Category:Iona_University]]
{{CatTree|Iona_University}}

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-09-07T04:46:43Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: /* Social media profiles */

[[File:Adrian Vazquez headshot.jpeg|500px|thumb|Adrian Vazquez]]
{| class="wikitable" style="border: 5px ridge grey; float:right;"
|-

|-
|
;Name:Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort):Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in:Criminal Justice
;Country:United States
;Email:[[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025); Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/

https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-09-07T04:21:17Z

Adrian.james.vazquez:

{| class="wikitable" style="border: 5px ridge grey; float:right;"
|-
[[File:Adrian Vazquez headshot.jpeg|500px|thumb|Adrian Vazquez]]
|-
|
;Name:Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort):Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in:Criminal Justice
;Country:United States
;Email:[[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025); Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/
https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

File:Adrian Vazquez headshot.jpeg

2025-09-07T04:02:42Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: Adrian.james.vazquez uploaded a new version of File:Adrian Vazquez headshot.jpeg

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-08-29T13:36:55Z

Adrian.james.vazquez:

{| class="wikitable" style="border: 5px ridge grey; float:right;"
|-
|[[File:Adrian_Vazquez_headshot.jpeg|300px]]
|-
|
;Name:Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort):Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in:Criminal Justice
;Country:United States
;Email:[[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025); Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/
https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-08-29T13:36:06Z

Adrian.james.vazquez:

{| class="wikitable" style="border: 5px ridge grey; float:right;"
|-
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|-
|
;Name:Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort):Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in:Criminal Justice
;Country:United States
;Email:[[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025); Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/
https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-08-29T13:33:07Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: /* Bio */

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;Name:Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort):Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in:Criminal Justice
;Country:United States
;Email:[[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025); Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/
https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

User:Adrian.james.vazquez

2025-08-29T13:32:07Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: Redirect to Fellow Page

#REDIRECT [[Fellow:Adrian Vazquez]]

Fellow:Adrian Vazquez

2025-08-29T13:32:06Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: Created Fellow Page - 2025

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|-
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;Name: Adrian Vazquez
;School (Cohort): Iona College (2025 cohort)
;Majoring in: Criminal Justice
;Country: United States
;Email: [[Special:EmailUser/Adrian.james.vazquez]]
|}

==Bio==
Aspiring lawyer, community advocate, and passionate humanitarian. I am a third-year student at Iona University, and I plan on graduating with a B.A. and M.S. in criminal justice. After I graduate, I am interested in attending law school and using legal advocacy as a positive force for change in the criminal justice system and society.

My passion for humanitarian causes started with Model United Nations Club, an advocacy-based activity which simulates the United Nations and facilitates multilateral dialogue addressing international humanitarian issues like food insecurity and climate change. I found my calling in legal advocacy through mock trial, assuming the role of an expert witness who provides specialized knowledge in complex legal cases. As the sitting Administration Chair, I coordinate the mock trial team's practice schedule and ensure the team is prepared to do well in trial.

Striving to practice advocacy in my local community as well, I currently represent the Class of 2027 as an Iona University Student Government Association (SGA) Senator. As a senator, I transform student feedback into actionable proposals to improve student life on campus. Some proposals I have drafted and presented to the SGA legislature include a campuswide student feedback form and club event funding council to administratively support the Vice President of Finance.

My experience interning at the nonprofit Witness to Mass Incarceration taught me that criminal justice must rehabilitate the whole person to be effective. I aim to use my experience as an advocate to address humanitarian issues in criminal justice and create a more humane criminal justice system.

==Achievements==
Edmund Rice International U.N. Human Rights Council Independent Study Researcher (2025)
Class Senator of the Year (2024)

==Social media profiles==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-j-vazquez/
https://www.instagram.com/adrianvazquez_1/

[[Category:Iona College (2025 cohort)]]
[[Category:Student Contributors]]

{{CatTree|Iona College}}

File:Adrian Vazquez headshot.jpeg

2025-08-29T13:31:56Z

Adrian.james.vazquez: