Baltimore Power Moves: October Twenty Twenty-Four
While Baltimore’s bid for the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Tech Hub program Phase funding was unsuccessful, Charm City and its surrounding counties saw some serious leadership shakeups across various sectors. Kinda reminds you of that time your fantasy football league imploded after the draft, right? But unlike your friend who drafted a kicker in the third round, these changes are strategic. This article dives deep into the key appointments and promotions that are shaping the future of entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. Buckle up, folks; things are about to get interesting.
bwtech@UMBC Supercharges Entrepreneur-in-Residence Program
The University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s (UMBC) research and innovation park, bwtech@UMBC, just welcomed five new entrepreneurs-in-residence (EIRs). Think of them as the all-star coaches for the next generation of startup MVPs. These EIRs aren’t just here to look pretty; they’re playing a vital role in helping turn groundbreaking tech developed by UMBC faculty and students into real-world businesses. This expanded program is a testament to bwtech@UMBC’s commitment to making Maryland a hotbed for entrepreneurship and economic growth.
New EIRs: Fresh Faces, Big Ideas
Let’s meet the new kids on the block, shall we? This year’s lineup is stacked with experience, passion, and a knack for turning caffeine into code:
- Chris Haug: This guy’s the real deal. As the Founder and CEO of 360° Venture Management Group, Chris brings a wealth of experience to the table. He even co-developed an accelerator program between bwtech@UMBC and Startup Grind Maryland. Talk about a résumé builder!
- Chris White: As the Cofounder of PreSquared, Chris knows a thing or two about building something from the ground up.
- Fehmida Kapadia: Leading the charge as President of Kapamed Consulting, Fehmida brings a sharp business acumen to the table.
- Chris Ewing: As CEO of Flexicharge, Chris is plugged into the future of energy. Get it?
- Christina Holt: If you need someone who can get things done, look no further than Christina, the President of ExecuSense.
Existing EIRs: The Veterans
Of course, we can’t forget the OG EIRs who have been holding down the fort and mentoring startups. They’re like the wise old sages of bwtech@UMBC, dispensing invaluable advice and the occasional dad joke:
- Richard Chipkin from Chipkin Pharmaceutical Consulting
- David Fink from Cell Targeting
- Hillel Glazer, Principal at Entinex
Pava Center Goes All-In on Internal Talent
The Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship, a Johns Hopkins University affiliate, decided to promote from within. It’s like they say, “The best talent is often already in the building.” Or maybe that was just on a motivational poster somewhere. Either way, these two rockstars are ready to take the reins:
- Paul Davidson: After crushing it as Assistant Director for both student ventures and life design, Paul’s been promoted to Associate Director. It’s safe to say he’s got this whole entrepreneurship thing down pat.
- Sephora Saint-Armand: Moving up in the world! Sephora’s been killing it as Manager of Student Programs, and now she’s stepping into the Assistant Director role. Watch out, world; Sephora’s coming for ya!
Both Paul and Sephora have been instrumental in shaping the Pava Center’s programs and initiatives for over two years. They’ve got the experience, the passion, and probably a whole bunch of sticky notes with brilliant ideas scribbled on them. We’re excited to see what they accomplish in their new roles!