Entrepreneurial Leadership Award Winners Revealed

Hometown: Sidney, N.Y.
Major(s): Business Administration
Minor(s): Economics and Music Business

What inspires you about entrepreneurship and innovation? I am highly motivated by the experience and process of finding solutions to challenges. I find great inspiration from companies frontrunning the development of diesel-electric technology in industrial equipment and over-the-road trucks to reduce carbon emissions impacting the environment.

What does this type of recognition mean to you? I am extremely appreciative of this opportunity! This program is excellent in providing opportunities to experience real-world, hands-on work that has the gravity to positively impact others. I see this as a chance to apply skills and experiences gained throughout my time at Hartwick in a meaningful way.

Hometown: Trenton, Mich.
Major(s): Honors Program Criminal Justice and Political Science

What inspires you about entrepreneurship and innovation? It is amazing to see different people come together through innovation, especially when it relates to our deaf, hard of hearing and non-verbal communities. Being able to connect through applications teaching sign language and real-time text translation has been a lifesaver when it comes to my close friendships and communicating with family members. I hope to someday actively provide to these groups and lend a hand in expanding everyone’s knowledge and accessibility programs.

What does this type of recognition mean to you? During the interview section of applying for this internship, I spoke about how, during this past summer, my mother unfortunately passed due to metastatic breast cancer. During that challenging period, I became the guardian of my four younger siblings for the summer and had to manage balancing my own life and grief, along with theirs. I want to show my younger siblings that rough periods of life can be overcome, it will get better and that perseverance will triumph.

Hometown: Harlem, N.Y.
Major(s): Business Administration
Minor(s): Digital Marketing

What inspires you about entrepreneurship and innovation? For me, entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business—it’s about using creativity, resilience and purpose to create real change. I’m driven by the idea that someone from a community such as mine can spark something powerful—something that not only uplifts people but also opens doors that once felt closed. Innovation excites me because it challenges the status quo and invites bold thinking. I’m inspired by people who build with heart, hustle and a mission, especially those who turn adversity into opportunity. That’s the kind of impact I hope to make.

What does this type of recognition mean to you? Being chosen as a Baker-Simpson Fellow is truly a milestone for me. It’s a reminder that my dreams and determination are seen, valued and worth investing in. Coming from Harlem, I’ve learned the power of persistence and the importance of community. This program represents more than professional growth—it’s a chance to prove that with the right support and mindset, young people like me can break barriers and lead with purpose. I’m humbled, motivated and ready to learn everything I can to grow into a changemaker.

Hometown: New York, N.Y.
Major(s): Public Health and Philosophy
Minor(s): Political Science

What inspires you about entrepreneurship and innovation? Being selected for the Baker-Simpson fellowship feels like the culmination of so much of the work I have done since arriving at Hartwick to establish myself in an academic setting. More than anything, though, it feels like the beginning of an era in which I can make meaningful connections with experts in fields that interest me, and explore my strengths and abilities with other passionate students while taking advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.

What does this type of recognition mean to you? One of the things that excites me the most about entrepreneurship and innovation is the way it allows you to collaborate with people in ways you never thought possible. The intersection of industries and knowledge you never thought were related often leads to some of the most exciting and innovative developments in the world. I love the idea of being able to explore a variety of different topics while knowing that they all will contribute to innovation in some way, even if it’s indirect. One of my biggest inspirations is that so many people innovate by simply doing what they love and doing it well. It gives me hope that by pursuing my passions and thinking outside the box, I, too, can create something that will positively impact people’s lives.

Hometown: Springville, N.Y.
Major(s): Public Health
Minor(s): Data Analytics

What inspires you about entrepreneurship and innovation? What excites me most about entrepreneurship and innovation is the ability to solve problems in creative and meaningful ways. I think the most important thing in solving a problem is understanding the area in which the problem is occurring. For example, if the issue is related to public health in a specific community, it is crucial to engage with local residents, understand their unique challenges, and consider cultural, economic and environmental factors that influence the problem. This kind of deep understanding allows for solutions that are not only innovative but also sustainable and practical. I am inspired to create something that has a lasting impact. To me, the best innovations come from a combination of creativity and empathy, ensuring solutions are transformational but also meet the needs of the people/things affected.

What does this type of recognition mean to you? Being selected for this program is an incredible opportunity that means a lot to me. This internship is a stepping stone that has motivated me to be someone who creates something innovative and long-lasting. It also allows me to step outside my comfort zone and learn more about myself, gaining new perspectives and refining my ability to create something innovative.