WCC Panel Discussion | Entrepreneurs: Why They Start & Why They Keep Going

The Entrepreneurship Center at Washtenaw Community College (WCC) is proud to present an insightful panel discussion titled “Entrepreneurs: Why They Start & What Keeps Them Going.”

Kicking off at 3:00 p.m., the event will run from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Morris Lawrence Auditorium, followed by networking and mocktails from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Honorable Debbie Dingell, Congresswoman from Michigan’s 6th Congressional District, will deliver opening remarks to kick off the event.

A panel discussion will feature prominent entrepreneurs from diverse industries who will share their journeys, motivations for starting their businesses, and the strategies that have kept them resilient amidst challenges.

The main entrepreneur panel will include esteemed guests:

• Sassa Akervall, Chief Executive Officer, Akervall Technologies Inc.
• Lisa Bee, Founder of Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea
• Breanne Stuart, Owner of Homewatch CareGivers
• Andrea Thompson, Founder and CEO of Ladies Entrepreneur Empowerment Circle
• Moderated by Amy Cell, owner of Amy Cell Talent, LLC

An Entrepreneur Support Panel will provide valuable insights and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. Panelists include:

• Michelle Julet, Director of the Entrepreneurship Center at Washtenaw Community College
• Kristine Nash-Wong, Director of Entrepreneurial Services at SPARK East
• Jeni Olney, Director for Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship at OptiMize, University of Michigan
• Ylondia Portis, Co-founder of the Association of Businesses of Color (ABC)
• Moderated by Chernissa Williams, Economic Opportunity Manager at Washtenaw County

This event promises to be an engaging and educational experience for all attendees. Join us for an afternoon of inspiration, networking, and learning. For more information, please contact entrepreneurship@wccnet.edu.

Admission is free and open to the public. Advanced registration recommended.