Proposal for Director of the Charles H. Diller Jr. Center
Dr. Mark Lennon proposes to lead the Diller Center at Shippensburg University. The center fosters entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development through competitions, mentorship, and incubation programs.
Qualifications & Experience
Academic Background
20+ years in education, specializing in entrepreneurship, innovation, and AI applications.
Industry Expertise
10 years in IT, experienced in generative AI, FinTech, blockchain, and startup ecosystems.
Professional Network
Strong relationships with industry leaders like IBM, Google, Amazon, and Snowflake.
Key Achievements
Developing AI educational portal for Pittsburgh region
AI Curriculum
Created AI-integrated entrepreneurship curriculum
Creating AI portal to streamline AACSB accreditation process
Strategic Vision for the Diller Center
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Enhance Core Programs
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Implement New Initiatives
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Secure Funding & Sustainability
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Expand Regional Impact
Enhancing Core Programs
Ship Tank Expansion
Attract external judges, corporate sponsorships, and broader media coverage.
Mentorship Programs
Recruit experienced entrepreneurs, VCs, and tech industry leaders.
Makerspace Enhancement
Secure additional funding to create a premier prototyping hub.
Implementation Timeline
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Phase 1: Transition
Establish leadership, assess programs, meet stakeholders (0-3 months).
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Phase 2: Expansion
Implement AI incubator, expand Ship Tank, launch certifications (3-6 months).
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Phase 3: Funding & Scaling
Secure grants, partnerships, and sustainable revenue models (6-12 months).
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Phase 4: National Positioning
Grow reputation as a regional and national innovation leader (12-24 months).
Vision for the Diller Center
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Expand Opportunities
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Enhance Innovation
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Strengthen Engagement
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Expand Involvement
Expanding Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Ship Tank Pitch Competition
Increase funding, sponsorships, and post-event mentorship for winners.
Startup Incubator Program
Support students in turning business ideas into fully operational ventures.
Entrepreneurial Fellowship
Students work on high-impact projects with business leaders.
Qualifications & Expertise
Academic Background
Full Professor of Innovation, Entrepreneurship & AI at Pennsylvania Western University.
Industry Partnerships
Extensive collaborations with IBM, Google, Snowflake, and other tech leaders.
Research Focus
Expert in Generative AI, FinTech, Blockchain, and Emerging Business Technologies.
Conclusion
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Transform
Make Diller Center a national leader in entrepreneurial innovation.
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Integrate
Implement emerging technologies and expand partnerships.
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Engage
Enhance student and community involvement in entrepreneurship.
