Melissa Kelley discusses her role at the Institute for Entrepreneurship and their new student programs initiative.
Key Takeaways
- The Institute is expanding into student programs for middle school, high school, and college students to address the leadership skills gap
- Melissa emphasizes the importance of mentorship, vulnerability, and creating a safe space for growth in leadership development
- The Institute became a non-profit in July, enabling them to scale student programs through virtual cohorts, camps, and competitions
Topics
Institute for Entrepreneurship Background
- Founded by Chris Hanks and Melissa Kelley ~5 years ago
- Started with CEO roundtable program for business owners
- Developed executive leadership program for emerging leaders
- Recently expanded focus to student programs
New Student Programs Initiative
- Addressing 93% of business owners citing leadership/soft skills as essential, yet only 16% of students exposed to structured leadership curriculum
- Planned offerings:
- Virtual after-school cohorts
- Project-based curriculum
- In-person sessions (logistically challenging)
- Summer camps (targeted launch this summer)
- Business idea competitions
Melissa's Background and Role
- Former middle school teacher, transitioned to Institute in 2020
- Initially felt imposter syndrome, but grew into leadership role
- Focuses on building culture of support and shared wisdom
Advice for Entrepreneurs and Leaders
- Leverage mentorship both personally and professionally
- Give grace to developing leaders, recognizing the skills gap
- Create safe spaces for questions and vulnerability
- Focus on impact over impressing others
Book Recommendation
- "Atomic Habits" by James Clear - helps analyze and improve daily routines and behaviors
Next Steps
- Melissa committed to building out student programs this year
- Fundraising for non-profit to support camps, cohorts, and other initiatives
- Seeking partnerships with schools and businesses to prepare students for workforce
- Continuing to develop and scale CEO roundtable and executive leadership programs
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