Lou Anne Flanders-Stec, Founding Dean, David S. Congdon School of Entrepreneurship
In an interview with Invest:, Lou Anne Flanders-Stec, founding dean of High Point University’s David S. Congdon School of Entrepreneurship, shared her vision for shaping the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders. With a focus on experiential learning, life skills, and a dedicated academic school, Flanders-Stec is driving innovation in business education at HPU.
What is it about the field that inspired you to teach and foster future entrepreneurs?
The field is broad and deep. It requires business owners to understand everything about their business to succeed and that is something that is something that drives me — fully understanding a business. Taking that knowledge and sharing that reality with future entrepreneurs is what really inspires me. Making certain that my students have a full base understanding of business operations so they know what questions to ask and how to find answers is extremely rewarding — and fun!
You previously worked at HPU and led the creation of the entrepreneurship club. What were those years like and what do you most fondly remember from them?
I worked with other HPU faculty and staff to develop a concentration and minor in Entrepreneurship, as well as the Club, Honors Society, and Elevator Pitch and Business Plan competitions. We put in place the courses required to launch a major, however it was not accomplished until 2015. Those four years were a long list of firsts for me and as someone who loves to build and create, it was a great fit. Those years were awesome (which is why I’m so excited to have returned).
But really the thing that I remember most is the students. There are students I still meet for coffee or phone calls. Many of them have launched their own businesses and are highly successful. I often say when working with entrepreneurial-minded individuals, whether students or adults, the best part is watching when they “get” what you are teaching them. That “aha” moment of clarity and understanding. Hearing that great final pitch that pulls together all the learnings over the course of the program — those are the fondest memories!
What makes you excited to return to HPU?
I have watched the exponential growth of HPU from the sidelines with interest, and I am thrilled to be back supporting that growth. The majority of my previous positions have been new to an organization allowing me to build, create and grow something new. I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to have a deeper impact and develop outcomes. Students in these fields are eager to learn about every aspect of business and what it takes to succeed — this is what makes the role so exciting to me. But above all, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing students who have been supported by faculty like myself go on to succeed. Celebrating their achievements is truly the best part of the work we do. I also love the challenge that comes with a new role!
What does “entrepreneurial mindset” mean to you, and why is it important to today’s graduates?
The entrepreneurial mindset is so important in today’s ever-changing world. To me, it means being inquisitive and constantly asking questions, but most often asking “why?” – Why are things the way they are?; Why are they being done that way?; Why would you not want to make things better, easier, faster, cheaper, etc.? Also, it is adaptable and flexible – willing to change, learn, listen and adjust.
How will students further benefit from the School of Entrepreneurship, rather than a major?
More than anything, HPU’s School of Entrepreneurship will draw awareness to the fact that entrepreneurship, innovation and the entrepreneurial mindset are critical topics to learn and understand. Also, that entrepreneurship is vital to the success of a community—between job creation and wealth creation, entrepreneurship and the support of entrepreneurs is vital to the growth of a community and the individual. By creating a new school, beyond just a major and minor in the subject, HPU indicates that the university sees it as important and raises awareness of the impact of entrepreneurship.
What will set HPU’s School of Entrepreneurship apart from similar programs at other universities? And, how do existing resources, such as the Entrepreneurship Center and Access to Innovators, contribute to the unique experience of entrepreneurship at HPU?
Our focus on life skills, experiential learning, and broad course offerings will provide a great foundation for our students. Although there are many entrepreneurship programs and majors, there are very few universities that have a dedicated academic school—this will set HPU’s School of Entrepreneurship apart. Our faculty has also determined that a key differentiation point will be connecting students in our programs, specifically entrepreneurship students, with mentors and additional sales and leadership skills, all while building a culture of innovation across the Congdon School of Entrepreneurship. Additionally, leveraging connections with our HPU’s In-Residence faculty, part of the Access to Innovators program, to share their expertise with the students in our school is an amazing opportunity as well.
What is your favorite quote?
One of my favorite quotes is a paraphrased statement made by my parents: “You can be anything you want; you just need to work at it.”
What is one thing you want students and parents to know?
Through the classes and extracurricular opportunities provided by the Congdon School of Entrepreneurship, students will gain hands-on experience in creating, building and supporting products and services that have impact. Through the development of an entrepreneurial mindset and innovative spirit, the students will build the life skills to thrive as successful entrepreneurs or intrapreneurs in any field.
