Fox Cities News

Lawrence University has inaugurated its new Business & Entrepreneurship Center at Fox Commons in downtown Appleton. The center's opening was attended by university leaders, faculty, students, and community members, marking the start of new collaborations aimed at enhancing academic experiences across various disciplines.

President Laurie A. Carter emphasized the university's commitment to enriching student experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. "What you see today is a wonderful example of how Lawrence is being intentional in strengthening that student experience, in extending the reach of the classroom," she stated during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The Business & Entrepreneurship Center is part of Lawrence's investment in Fox Commons, which also includes student apartments and a Pre-Health Commons. These facilities are part of an ongoing redevelopment project led by Dark Horse Development. Other occupants include gener8tor, Mosaic Family Health, and Prevea Health.

Professor Adam Galambos, who directs the new center, described it as a space for learning experiences that connect campus life with the business community. "Our vision for the B&E Center is to create learning experiences through connecting the campus and the business community," he said.

Provost and Dean of Faculty Peter Blitstein highlighted how these initiatives align with Lawrence’s educational goals. "Together, these three centers represent our commitment to a contemporary education in the arts and sciences that draws on the best traditions of liberal education to prepare students to thrive in an uncertain and changing world," he noted.

Student Nico Manzanera shared his perspective on what this center means for students' futures: "As an entrepreneur, you are constantly changing your career path...the most effective way to do that is if you are constantly learning."

The center aims to foster collaboration between faculty, students, and community partners while providing practical experience through workshops and seminars. It supports a major launched two years ago focused on business and entrepreneurship within a liberal arts framework.

President Carter reiterated Lawrence's dedication to career readiness across all disciplines: “At Lawrence,” she said, “we believe deeply in the value of a liberal arts education...important partnerships are being strengthened.”