Upcoming Events
WORKSHOP: Network with Confidence
Wednesday, March 18
6:30pm-8:30pm
Calvin School of Business
1810 E Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Room: BU 208
Networking does not have to feel awkward, forced, or transactional.
Students, emerging professionals, and small business owners often struggle with networking in two key ways. Their introduction feels unclear or forgettable, and they overthink conversations instead of being present, missing opportunities for real connection.
This workshop changes that.
In this interactive two-hour workshop, you will learn how to introduce yourself with clarity and confidence and how to move beyond small talk into meaningful, human-first conversations.
Led by two networking experts, this workshop combines practical tools, real-world frameworks, and guided practice so you leave feeling confident using these skills right away.
LinkedIn: Sara Barco and Leslie Fiorenzo
WORKSHOP: Pitch Principles
Wednesday, March 25
3:00pm-4:00pm
Cornerstone University
1001 E Beltline Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Building: Faber
(The primary large building facing East Beltline)
Pitch Principles is an interactive, experiential workshop designed to help students transform the way they present their ideas. Too often, pitches become rehearsed scripts delivered to slides instead of compelling stories delivered to people. In this session, students will learn how to communicate with confidence, clarity, and authentic presence.
Led by Jon VerLee, serial entrepreneur and founder of Startup Garage, this workshop focuses on practical techniques to improve delivery, storytelling, body language, and audience connection. Through live practice and real-time feedback, students will be challenged to step outside their comfort zones and develop pitching skills that resonate with investors, judges, and peers alike.
Whether preparing for competitions, classrooms, or future ventures, this session equips students to pitch like professionals, not presenters.
speaker series: Jim Mallekoote
Wednesday, April 1
6:30pm-7:30pm
Calvin School of Business
1810 E Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Room: BU 103
Jim Mallekoote spent nearly 30 years at Apple, serving as Senior Director of Retail Sales and working directly with Steve Jobs in both Apple’s early and revival eras. He played a key role in launching the original iPod team in 2002, helping Apple transition from a computer company to a consumer technology leader. Jim will share behind-the-scenes stories and leadership lessons from one of the most innovative companies in the world.
Workshop: Pitch Like A Pro
Wednesday, April 8
6:30pm-8:30pm
Calvin School of Business
1810 E Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
The Pitch Like a Pro Workshop offers an engaging, hands‑on environment for anyone looking to build confidence in their pitch - whether they’re new to pitching or simply want extra practice. Participants receive practical guidance and supportive feedback to help them communicate their ideas clearly and compellingly. While the workshop is open to all aspiring pitchers, there is a special invitation for students competing in MWest the following week, giving them a valuable opportunity to refine their pitch, strengthen their delivery, and gain added confidence before stepping into the competition.
Workshop: Build an app in two hours
Tuesday, April 21
5:00pm-7:00pm
Grace Christian University
1011 Aldon St SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49509
In this hands-on workshop, Jon VerLee will guide early-stage founders and aspiring entrepreneurs through the process of turning an app idea into a functional MVP. Using modern tools and practical frameworks, you’ll learn how to move from concept to creation quickly - no technical experience necessary. By the end, you’ll walk away with a working MVP you can begin testing, validating, and refining with real users.
speaker series: Sheena Brown
Wednesday, April 22
6:30pm-7:30pm
Calvin School of Business
1810 E Beltline Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Room: BU 103
Sheena Brown is the founder of Fatirah’s Designs and a creative visionary with over 20 years of experience designing and producing transformational events. A former special education educator turned entrepreneur, Sheena blends artistic excellence with deep care for client experience. Recognized in national and local publications, she will share her journey of building a creative business rooted in vision, purpose, and excellence.