Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Awarded Runner-Up in the ACEEU Triple E Awards

Ames, Iowa, (6/24/2024) – The Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship has been recognized as runner-up in the prestigious ACEEU Triple E Awards in the category of America’s Most Impactful Initiative of the Year. The award was presented at the 2024 ACEEU Americas Forum, held at the Universidade de Sao Paulo in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Judi Eyles, Director of the Pappajohn Center, attended the awards ceremony last week to accept the award. Additionally, Judi was invited to participate in an expert panel discussing “Driving Innovation and Community Impact: The Critical Role of Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities.” The panel, featuring representatives from Arizona Western College, Concordia University, and Universidad del Desarrollo, discussed the essential role universities play in catalyzing innovation and societal impact through entrepreneurship and engagement.

The three-day forum consisted of engaging activities and discussions, all aimed at promoting innovation and collaboration among attendees. The Triple E Awards, renowned for recognizing global efforts in entrepreneurship and engagement in higher education, are the first of their kind to emphasize the third mission of universities—engagement with the community and ecosystem.

Iowa State University was well-represented at the event, with Kevin Kimle (Director, Agriculture Start Something Academic Director), Mikayla Mooney (Ag Startup Engine), Andreas Schwab (Ivy College of Business Academic Entrepreneurship Director), and five Iowa State University students all in attendance. Among the students, Dakota Belling and Isaac Bradford, both CYstarters alumni, were invited to participate in a Pecha Kucha presentation highlighting Iowa State University’s entrepreneurship and innovation programs.

Dakota Belling (ISU Graduate) participating in a Pecha Kucha presentation alongside Isaac Bradford at the ACEEU Triple E Awards.

The Pappajohn Center continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and community impact. This recognition follows the Center’s success last year when it was awarded Entrepreneurial University of the Year at the 2023 awards, the highest recognition given by ACEEU.

About the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship

The Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship at Iowa State University is dedicated to enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem through comprehensive programs, resources, and initiatives. The Center supports students, faculty, and community members in their entrepreneurial endeavors, fostering innovation and driving economic growth.

About the ACEEU Triple E Awards

The ACEEU Triple E Awards are a global recognition of excellence in entrepreneurship and engagement within higher education. Focused on universities’ third mission, the awards highlight initiatives that drive societal impact and foster change within communities and ecosystems.