The Erin Valenti Leader in Entrepreneurship Endowed Scholarship was first awarded in the 2020-21 academic year. The recipients participate in the Lassonde Founders program, which is designed for active entrepreneurs to live, study, and launch together at Lassonde Studios, a five-story dorm, and innovation space managed by the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute.

Here are the scholarship recipients for 2020-21:

• Justine Nguyen (first year, pre-business major) – “While living and learning at Lassonde, I intend to enhance my entrepreneurial skills and learn more about how to begin and grow a company. With these skills, I hope to create a company where streetwear, sustainability, and improving the community around you, all come together.”
• Sydney Hewitt (first year, pre-business major) – “I will earn my degree in business administration and then I will own my own business or become a CEO somewhere.”
• Ella Bachorowski (first year, pre-design major) – “I’ve always had an eye for all things beautiful. From architecture to design to fashion, I am captivated by details and simplicity. I hope to discover ways to be able to share my passion with the world through the Lassonde Founders program, go Utes!”