Learning Opportunities
Integrating Entrepreneurship Across the Curriculum
Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business—it's a mindset that can be woven into any subject area. Collaborating with faculty, our program provides tailored entrepreneurship modules and support to help teachers integrate entrepreneurial thinking into their lessons. Whether in science, technology, the arts, or any other discipline, we offer ways to make connections between course content and real-world innovation. Together, we’ll create a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity and initiative across the curriculum.
The Colopy Entrepreneurship Program at NCSSM offers a diverse array of programming designed to ignite creativity, foster leadership, and empower students to turn their ideas into action. From engaging guest speaker events featuring accomplished entrepreneurs to hands-on workshops and immersive classes like our J-Term courses, our programming provides students with unique opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. Explore our current and past offerings to see how we inspire the next generation of innovators and changemakers.
Upcoming Events & Supported Programs
Non-Profit & Social Good J-Term
Discover how to turn passion into purpose with this dynamic J-Term course on nonprofits and social impact. Designed for aspiring changemakers, the program dives into nonprofit formation, governance, and financial strategies while exploring the ethical and operational challenges of driving social good. With interactive workshops, simulations, and guest speakers, students gain real-world experience in building and sustaining impactful organizations. Whether it’s starting a nonprofit or advancing a cause, this course equips students with the skills and inspiration to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
SMathHacks: Innovate, Build, and Launch
SMathHacks, NCSSM’s annual 36-hour hackathon, invites North Carolina students to collaborate, explore new technologies, and build innovative software projects. Supported by the Colopy Entrepreneurship Program, this event goes beyond the hackathon experience by offering students the opportunity to take their projects further. Through mentorship, workshops, and grants provided by the Colopy Program, participants can continue developing their ideas into impactful ventures. With both in-person participation on NCSSM’s Durham and Morganton campuses and virtual options via Zoom, SMathHacks is beginner-friendly and provides resources to support students of all experience levels as they innovate, create, and launch.
New microlearning events coming in February!
With the conclusion of the Fall 2024 semester our programming will be on hiatus until the return of the semester spring 2025 semester. Please check back frequently for news and our spring catalog.
Past Programming
Med Tech & Pham Tech Entrepreneurship
Scott Ogle
The Colopy Entrepreneurship Program at NCSSM-Durham recently hosted its inaugural speaker event, featuring Scott Ogle, a 1993 NCSSM alum and CEO of life sciences technology company TruLab, Inc. During an engaging discussion, Ogle shared his entrepreneurial journey and insights with 13 students, answering their thoughtful questions and emphasizing the importance of taking risks and learning humility early in life.
The event, organized by students in the program, showcased the initiative’s commitment to fostering leadership and creativity. Led by junior Julianna Jones, the session also highlighted the program's diversity, with an all-female audience reflecting NCSSM’s inclusive approach to entrepreneurship. Students left inspired by Ogle's advice and the opportunity to connect with a successful entrepreneur.
