Entrepreneurs To Share Insights at WilmU’s Innovation and Impact Talks  

Dream about starting your own business? Don’t miss “So, You Think You Can Be an Entrepreneur?” — the latest in a series of Innovation and Impact Talks from Wilmington University’s College of Business. This free online entrepreneurship forum begins at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26. 

“What an opportunity to meet someone who’s built a large, successful business,” says Dr. Patricia Claghorn, WilmU’s director of the division of management, marketing and leadership studies. “It’s opportunity. It’s networking, and it’s what’s hot and on trend.”  

Dr. Robin Weinstein, dean of the College of Business, will moderate a panel discussion with four successful entrepreneurs, including Chuck Nunan, who forged a network of SERVPRO franchises and founded Harvest Ridge Winery. 

“I have been blessed in life to have many great mentors. I hope to share some of the wisdom they imparted on me,” Nunan says. He believes people “can accomplish anything in life — as long as they know what they want and are willing to pay the price to achieve it.” 

Learn From Business Leaders 

Joining him on the virtual stage will be speaker and author Dionne Griffin McGee, president and CEO of DG McGee Enterprises and the 2024 North Carolina Rural Entrepreneur of the Year. 

“I’m passionate about supporting women in business and creating spaces where we can thrive,” McGee says. “Being a part of this panel allows me to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to an important conversation on innovation’s role in shaping the future.” 

Fellow panelist Tim Guim, founder and CEO of PCH Technologies, will explain how he grew the company from a one-person operation to an award-winning SOC 2-certified IT and cybersecurity firm. And Lisa Myers of Ceres Chill will explore how her experiences as a mother and equity partner at an international law firm led to inventing a patented breast milk-chilling thermos. 

“It’s one thing to say that you’re preparing students for business, and it’s another thing to immerse. And I think this is an immersion,” Dr. Claghorn says. “This is an opportunity to be with the people who are in the field doing the things that these students will need to be able to do. And that’s a differentiator.” 

Taking place during the University’s Virtual Transfer & Degree Completion Day, “So, You Think You Can Be an Entrepreneur?” will offer a unique chance to understand what it’s like to be your own boss. WilmU also hosted two other Innovation and Impact Talks this school year — “The Impact of AI in the Workforce” and the “Global Business Forum.” The popular series will continue in 2025-2026. 

“I hope participants walk away feeling inspired and empowered, with practical insights they can apply to their own careers and businesses,” McGee says. “I want them to understand that success is not a one-size-fits-all journey but rather a series of steps that involve growth, resilience and a willingness to innovate.” 

Join us for “So, You Think You Can Be an Entrepreneur?” — the latest in a series of Innovation and Impact Talks from Wilmington University’s College of Business. This virtual event is free and open to the public. Please register for access credentials.