December 21, 2017

As the year comes to an end, we can't help but reflect on the past, and create new goals and resolutions for the upcoming year. It helps us prepare for what it is about to come, for the obstacles that might bump our roads, and how to create another successful year.

We took the time to reflect on our students' successes, their growth as entrepreneurs, and their continuous improvement, and we couldn't be happier with what we have accomplished so far. Here at the Baiada Institute and the Close School of Entrepreneurship, we are thankful for each of the little moments that made 2017 such a special year!

Day of Giving

Out of 82 "areas of impact", The Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship placed in the top 15 percent of the total donations to Drexel University It was the number one academic unit that raised funding compared to any other area on campus. Not too shabby for the newest school on the block!

Startup Fest

After years of celebrating Startup Day, we switched gears and transformed it into a two-day event. We not only doubled the fun, but also the learning opportunities, networking events, and even competitions. We had amazing speakers including: KJ Dhaliwal, Anthony Gold, Patty Hillkirk, and Emily Bittenbender. Simply saying this event was one of the highlights of our year is an understatement.

Top 25 entrepreneurship program

Drexel University was ranked one of the "Top 25 Undergraduate Schools for Entrepreneurship" by the Princeton Review. Such an achievement would have not been possible without the constant work of all our faculty members, professors, and the students who are constantly giving their best. Our resolution for the next year is to be part of the Top 10 Undergraduate Schools for Entrepreneurship!

The Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship's first graduating class:

The Close School was founded in 2013 and it saw its first graduating class in spring 2017. Our graduates had the pleasure of listening to Nick Bayer, CEO of Saxbys, give a powerful speech during commencement. The day ended with the unveiling of Jackie and Stan Silverman Conference Room in the Baiada Institute.

Reflecting back on the past year, we can assure that we are very satisfied with our accomplishments in 2017. We can't wait to see what 2018 has on hold for us! Thank you all who made it possible.

Written by Orly Margulis, Communications at Drexel University.