Bold Ideas Take the Stage

On Thursday, May 15, innovation took the spotlight in Van Voorhis Lecture Hall as Chatham Hall hosted its fifth annual Global Entrepreneurship Symposium. During the presentation, Year One Global Entrepreneurs presented ideas that aim to make a meaningful impact not only on Chatham Hall but also on the local community and the world. These changemakers have spent the year immersed in ideation, design thinking, and startup practices and principles, while also applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations in real-world business case studies. 

Beth Barksdale, the program director and teacher, uses this hands-on approach to cultivate crucial skills essential for entrepreneurial success. “Case studies teach metaskills which enable our students to learn new concepts very quickly,” she shared. “This approach goes beyond experiential learning as there is a heightened level of curiosity and analysis about the product’s success or failure.  Each week, students apply the theories we discuss, exploring the products they use and consume, focusing on ownership, management, strategy, financials, and societal context in any given industry or niche.”  

Year One students also learn to effectively pitch their ideas to a wider audience and progressively develop skills with unique opportunities throughout the year.  In the fall, students present ideas to enhance Chatham Hall to our Administrative Leadership Team; mid-winter, students submit video-recorded value-add proposals to the town of Chatham; and finally, the symposium is a public event enabling students to engage an audience that might include potential investors. 

Mary Blair T. '25, a year one student who was accepted into the Carey Fellows Business Honors Program of The University of the South, said, “Global Entrepreneurship helped me gain the confidence to fully develop an idea…” Mastering the art of communication, storytelling, value proposition, brand identity, and audience engagement, our students demonstrated an understanding of their business models, the competitive landscape they would potentially face, and any financial requirements for the launch of their ventures, while successfully responding to questions and feedback. 

 

A free, all-in-one hiking app that empowers people to explore national parks with confidence. Includes maps, safety tips, nature ID, and eco-challenges to inspire mindful adventure.

A wellness app designed for young adults, offering personalized health journeys that encourage balance, mindfulness, and better living.

This nonprofit connects underserved youth with free access to sports, travel, and leadership opportunities—because every child deserves a chance to grow beyond their zip code.

An add-on for birding apps that fosters community, knowledge sharing, and deeper engagement for bird lovers of all levels.

Educational travel for middle schoolers, bringing classroom lessons to life through affordable, enriching adventures.

A therapeutic riding program for autistic children, focusing on non-verbal communication and the power of emotional connection with horses.

A national initiative to promote humane, healing-centered practices in animal agriculture—bridging the gap between ethical farming and animal welfare education.

A garden education program designed for youth in both urban and rural communities—cultivating life skills, responsibility, and a deeper connection to nature.

A wellness-focused design concept that draws on nature, culture, and story to create spaces that soothe and inspire.