They came to learn from entrepreneurial leaders and walked away with new insight, perspective, and confidence to carry forward. In a room full of big ideas and bold thinking, CDS students stepped up to pitch their own business concepts, proving just how prepared they are to shape what comes next.
Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business arrived on our Bearss Avenue Campus not just to teach, but to work shoulder to shoulder with the next generation of entrepreneurs. What unfolded over the course of the day became a true exchange of ideas, energy, and ambition.
On Saturday, January 10, Carrollwood Day School welcomed leaders from the nationally top ranked Kelley School of Business along with IU Innovates for a full day immersive workshop on entrepreneurial thinking titled How to Find a Problem Worth Solving. From morning through late afternoon, our campus buzzed with conversations about strategy, leadership, and what it really takes to turn an idea into something real.
The workshop followed the same proven playbook that fuels Indiana University football’s success. The lessons were familiar but powerful. Hard work. Grit. Preparation. Resilience. Trust in your team. Students explored how these principles move seamlessly from the field to the boardroom, shaping not only strong athletes, but strong business leaders.
Our students came ready to learn from accomplished entrepreneurial leaders, eager to absorb insight from those who have built and scaled ideas at the highest level. It did not take long, however, for the dynamic to shift.
As discussions deepened, it became clear just how prepared our students are for a global society. They asked thoughtful questions, challenged assumptions, and ultimately stepped into the spotlight themselves, pitching their own business ideas and engaging in real time feedback with university leaders and mentors.
The event was hosted by the Entrepreneurship Business Investment Team, founded by student Bryce Wagner, and brought together high school innovators and higher education leaders for a hands on experience rooted in collaboration. Leading the workshop were Josh Perry, Associate Dean of the Kelley School of Business, and Julie Heath, Director of IU Innovates, joined by a team of Indiana University students who mentored and collaborated throughout the day.
At its core, the experience reinforced a simple truth. Success in business is built the same way success is built in sports. Preparation matters. Resilience matters. Intelligence matters. And nothing meaningful happens without a team you trust.
The day served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when top tier universities and local schools come together. It also highlighted something we see every day at CDS. When given the opportunity, our students rise to the moment, ready not only to learn from leaders, but to stand confidently among them.
