Recent Babson Alumnus Advocates for Destigmatizing Autism
Who is Jacob Nyamu? Jacob Nyamu is the founder of Kipekee, an organization dedicated to supporting adults with autism. Kipekee was selected into the Fast Track cohort at Babson College’s Arthur M. Blank Center, enabling its community to grow to over 180 members. The program has helped Jacob and his team run bi-weekly support group […]
An App by First-Gen, For First-Gen. Meet the Founder of Connect+
Who is Rachel Li? Rachel Li is the founder and executive director of Connect+, a platform dedicated to fostering community and storytelling among first-generation immigrants and college students. Rachel’s achievements include winning the National Diversity Case Competition, the BU Demo Day Innovation Awards, and being a finalist in the 2024 New Venture Competition. A Journey […]
Unlocking Leadership: Transforming Anxiety into Empowerment with Morra Aarons-Mele
Who is Morra Aarons-Mele? Morra Aarons-Mele is the author and host of “The Anxious Achiever.” She works with leaders and teams to turn their anxieties into their superpower, enabling them to lead at their highest level. Morra’s ongoing work has been recognized by Mental Health America with their Media Award (2023). She is also a […]
Meet the Founder on a Mission to Make Data Your Best Friend
Who is Milan Tahliani? Milan Tahliani is the Co-founder and CEO of OpenLake, a data integration platform dedicated to helping businesses achieve data-driven excellence and growth. Having graduated from Boston University in 2024 with a degree in Computer Science, Milan has demonstrated leadership and analytical skills through his approach to data management. OpenLake’s mission: Empower […]
How ZipperBuddy is Enhancing Fashion Accessibility
Who is Sandi DeRuntz? Sandi DeRuntz is the CEO and founder of ZipperBuddy, a company dedicated to enhancing clothing accessibility for individuals with mobility differences. Sandi has earned the Contribution to a Healthier Lifestyle award in the Wrist DifferenceMaker $50k Idea Challenge. The Journey of ZipperBuddy ZipperBuddy is a device that transforms traditional zippers into […]
Meet the Founder Using Punchlines and Philosophy to Change Up Boston’s Comedy Scene
Who is Bella Ramirez? Bella Ramirez is the CEO and founder of Wicked Smaht Comedy LLC (WSC), a company that brings sketch variety shows to life with collegiate talent from the Boston area. The shows not only provide a platform for aspiring comedians, but also donate a percentage of ticket sales to local charities. Bella’s […]
EduPrev: Because Who Wants Kids to Have Cavities?
We are excited to introduce one of IDEA Con 2024 emcees: Lauren McLeod! Lauren is an entrepreneur and advocate whose insights into health education you won’t want to miss. Join us at Boston University on Saturday, October 26, to hear her story! Get your free ticket now Who is Lauren McLeod? Lauren McLeod (Questrom’27) is […]
Tickets to IDEA Con 2024 Are Now Available!
Great news! 🎉 Tickets for IDEA Con 2024 are now available, and they’re free! This is your chance to be part of an incredible event that brings together innovators from over 20 schools across New England. Why You Should Attend IDEA Con isn’t just about sitting through talks; it’s about connecting with like-minded individuals who […]
Exciting Opportunity for Artists: Showcase Your Talent at IDEA Con 2024!
We are thrilled to announce that Innovate@BU is gearing up for the much-anticipated IDEA Con 2024, the leading student innovation conference in the Northeast! Scheduled for October 26, 2024, at the George Sherman Union, this year’s event promises to be the largest iteration of the conference yet! With 10 higher education partners and an attendee […]
Multi-Year Gift from Cynthia Cohen Supports IDEA Con’s Continued Growth
Innovate@BU is thrilled to announce a significant multi-year gift from Cynthia Cohen (above, left), Founder of IMPACT 2040 and Vice Chair of the Boston University Board of Trustees. The donation will power IDEA Con, the largest cross-college innovation conference in the country, for five years. “Innovation is a critical driver of economic growth and societal […]