John and I had the honor of returning to Adelphi University for the third consecutive year to serve as judges for the annual Business Plan Competition, a Shark Tank-style event that gives student entrepreneurs the chance to pitch their ideas, win startup funding, and take real steps toward building a better world.
And once again, we left feeling inspired, energized, and deeply hopeful.
Speaking to Entrepreneurs
Before the pitches began, John and I took the stage to share a few words with the students and attendees. Our message was simple but powerful: Entrepreneurship changes lives — not just for the entrepreneur, but for everyone their business touches.
“Being an entrepreneur gave me a chance,” John told the audience. “It gave me a way to show what I can do, and to help other people too. That’s what I love about having our business — we get to make people happy.”
We spoke about overcoming challenges, following your heart, and leading with purpose. We reminded the students that your path may not always be clear — but if you start with passion and serve others, you’re already on the right track.
The Power of Student Entrepreneurs
This year, thirteen finalists presented their business ideas to a panel of judges that included entrepreneurs, faculty, and industry leaders. Their proposals spanned tech, design, education, housing, and sustainability — each one thoughtful, creative, and mission-driven.
Here are the winners of the 2025 competition:
🥇 First Place ($5,000): Campus Trade — A peer-to-peer marketplace connecting students for textbook and item exchanges on campus
🥈 Second Place ($3,000): Campbell Postmodern Counseling — A counseling initiative that blends modern therapy techniques with accessible mental health services
🥉 Third Place ($2,000): Global Link — A platform to support international students in connecting with global education and work opportunities
🌱 Best Socially Responsible Venture ($1,000): Voice to Vision — An advocacy and storytelling platform amplifying the voices of underrepresented youth
We were especially moved by the depth of purpose behind these ventures. These students aren’t just building businesses — they’re solving real problems and creating opportunities for others.
“These student entrepreneurs are part of our tribe,” I told the crowd. “They’re taking risks. They’re finding new ways to serve their communities. And they remind us that innovation is everywhere — you just have to listen, learn, and lead.”
Why This Matters to Us
We often say that entrepreneurship is about more than profit — it’s about possibility. When John and I started our business, we didn’t just want to sell socks. We wanted to spread happiness. We wanted to show what people with differing abilities can do. And we wanted to prove that mission-driven companies can thrive.
Watching these students share their dreams and ideas reminded us of our own journey. It reminded us that the next generation of entrepreneurs is already here — and they’re building businesses that matter.
“I love seeing other people start their own business,” John said after the event. “They are so smart, and I want them to keep going. Don’t give up!”
We’re grateful to Adelphi University’s Robert B. Willumstad School of Business, to Professor Murat Sakir Erogul, Lori Carey and to all the faculty and mentors who support these young changemakers.
And of course, we can’t wait to return next year.