The Shoemaker Scholars program brings together 10 Indiana University Bloomington students from a variety of academic disciplines. They encourage other students to explore their own entrepreneurial and innovative interests, and they oversee the StartupIU website that connects students with university-based startups. John and Donna Shoemaker funded the program, which awards annual scholarships to its members. Travis J. Brown launched and directs the program.
Ashley Hennessey, a senior from Buffalo, New York, majors in secondary social studies education in the School of Education. She has been a Shoemaker Scholar for two semesters.
“I’m excited to return to campus to see how our community will come together during this time. I’m hopeful that we will be able to learn from one another and get creative in building strong connections,” Hennessey said. “Also, we will be learning to use technology in new and more efficient ways that will prepare us for the future and expand our knowledge.”
Crimson Catalyst: What is the biggest impact Shoemaker Scholars have?
Ashley Hennessey: Inspiring students across different disciplines to create new things and make change. Helping students take the first step in making their ideas a reality, and helping them realize that everyone is capable of doing these things.
CC: How did you learn about the Shoemakers Scholars program?
AH: My older brother, Andrew, was a Shoemaker Scholar.
CC: What do you enjoy most about being a Shoemaker Scholar?
AH: Getting to learn from the other Scholars and their different perspectives.
CC: What is a common misconception students have about entrepreneurship and innovation?
AH: That only business majors can succeed at them.
CC: How do you share insights with others, as an ambassador?
AH: I share my own experience about how being a part of the Shoemaker Scholars program has changed my college experience, and I tell them about the experiences of others who have benefited from our services.
CC: What are your own entrepreneurial endeavors?
AH: I do not currently have my own startup, but I founded an ambassador program in high school that helped integrate new students and families into the community.
More information about the Shoemaker Scholars program is available at the following websites:
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