Page 59 - Innovation Delaware 2019

As the entrepreneurial wave crests, the state Department of Education is devel- oping what it calls a “program of study” in marketing, a three-year high school sequence that will be heavy on entrepre- neurial themes. Students would take one class a year in traditional high schools, or two at vo-tech schools, on topics like in- troductory marketing, digital marketing, social media, how to use graphic-design software and how to start a new business, says Lisa Wilson, a career and technical education associate in the department.
Once the curriculum is developed, it will be sent to school districts so teacher training can begin, with a goal of offer- ing these classes for the first time in the fall of 2020, Wilson says.
Back at Horn, the program’s leaders continue to build offerings that inspire entrepreneurial thinking throughout the
LISA WILSON
MELISSA HARRINGTON
VICKI GEHRT
HORN PROGRAM EXPANDS
THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION
university, not just in the business school. “That’s the beauty of Horn,” says
Vincent DiFelice, a senior instructor and manager of venture support. “We’re associated with the entire university. All seven colleges take advantage of what we have to offer.”
DiFelice guides Hen Hatch, a startup funding competition for university stu- dents, staff and alumni that runs much
like the Diamond Challenge. Teams pitch their business ideas, first online and then in person, with finalists battling for a share of $100,000 in prize money. Successful entrepreneurs not only do the judging, they also provide feedback to the entrants.
DiFelice also teaches a three-credit Startup Experience class, in which students work in teams to develop viable
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