by Leah Gorman
T
he entrepreneurial spirit is ingrained in the history of LeTourneau University, dating back to our founder, R.G. LeTourneau, and his legacy of innovation. This fall, LETU’s School of Business brings that spirit of ingenuity into the classroom in a special new program for incoming freshmen from any academic major to learn in a hands-on way what it means to start a new business. Students will develop innovative attitudes and entrepreneurial mindsets as they explore the many contexts of business, industry, social enterprise and mission. From finding a need and a unique way to meet that need, to developing a business plan, to finding funding sources, to analyzing product costs and marketing, these firstyear students will be immersed in every aspect of a business startup. One-on-one guidance from LETU business professor Dr. Kathleen Mays and mentoring from local small business owners and social entrepreneurs will help students learn the potential challenges new businesses face, as well as the possibility and costs of failure. “LeTourneau University was built with the entrepreneurial spirit as one of its cornerstones,” said LETU Dean of Business Dr. Van Graham. “It’s only fitting that we offer our students the opportunity to explore and learn more about the creativity, ingenuity and hard work that comes with being an entrepreneur.” Graham describes the new program as more than just regular classwork. “We want our students to have a hands-on understanding of the process involved in starting and running a business,” he said. Partnerships with other academic disciplines across the LETU campus, he said, should help students identify successful enterprises. “We are a resource for students in all of the other academic areas,” Graham said, “and we stand ready and willing to help.” To learn more about the School of Business and the entrepreneurship experience, go to letu.edu/entrepreneurship