How did VentureWell contribute to your leadership development and your professional trajectory?
VentureWell opened the door for me to connect with a national community of innovators during the pandemic, when isolation could have stalled progress. Attending OPEN 2020 connected me with like-minded faculty seeking to solve complex, real-life problems. From there, my role expanded—as a grantee, community of practice participant, OPEN conference presenter, and grant reviewer—each experience strengthening my leadership as an educator and advocate for underrepresented innovators. VentureWell empowered me to view entrepreneurship not only as business creation but as a pathway for sustainable and inclusive impact.
What’s the biggest change or milestone your institution or venture has experienced since participating in VentureWell programming?
The most moving milestone has been witnessing my students at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley—many of whom are first-generation and underserved—launch ventures such as chemical-free skincare products and cancer patient meal preparation, proving that with support, they can innovate in ways others once thought impossible.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself at the start of your journey?
I would tell myself: “Trust that your challenges will become your strength.” When VentureWell recognized me for the Sustainable Practice Impact Award, I was also undergoing cancer treatment and teaching classes from the chemo chair. At the time, it felt like a burden, but it became a testimony to resilience for my students. I’d advise myself to lean wholly into community, because it is through collaboration—with students, colleagues, and networks like VentureWell—that fundamental transformation happens.
Read more about Sylvia’s innovation journey.