Entrepreneurship@NCSSM

As part of our ongoing Lunch & Learn series, the Colopy Entrepreneurship Program welcomed Ryan O’Donnell, founder of SociCircle, for a powerful conversation on leveraging storytelling for social good. A seasoned social entrepreneur and creative director, Ryan shared how narrative and design can be used to spark empathy, mobilize communities, and drive meaningful change. Drawing from his personal journey, from early grassroots campaigns to leading national initiatives, Ryan encouraged students to view storytelling not just as a communication tool, but as a force for impact.

During the session, students explored the intersection of media, mission, and entrepreneurship. Ryan discussed how founding a purpose-driven venture requires clarity of values, deep listening, and a willingness to stay curious. He also offered practical advice on how to build compelling narratives around social ventures and helped students think critically about the stories they tell through their own work. The session inspired students to think beyond conventional business models and embrace the power of creativity in addressing real-world challenges.