Michael Oher Inspires and Uplifts in Fireside Chat at The Wond’ry

In an inspiring Fireside Chat moderated by Joanna Moss from Team Arthur Books, NFL champion and author Michael Oher shared his journey from adversity to advocacy. He discussed the importance of education, mentorship, and building a legacy that serves others. Read the full article to learn more about how his story continues to impact disadvantaged youth and communities.

Vanderbilt and Investment Fuel Honduran Chocolate Expansion

Discover how Vanderbilt alumnus Matthew Ingram and his wife’s family are actively expanding their chocolate business, Chocolatepeque, from a small village in Honduras to the U.S. market. With support from the Wond'ry and new investments, the company is furthering its mission, creating sustainable jobs, providing clean water, and making an impact in both communities. Read more about their journey and mission here.

Stuart Weitzman: An Entrepreneurial Journey on the Road Less Traveled

September 10 | 5:30-7 PM CT (Doors open at 5) Engineering & Science Building, Room 044

This event has reached capacity, but you can join the waiting list here. During this talk, Stuart will share stories from his 40+ years in the fashion industry.

Founder program adds two new ventures to its Launch Space

Couture Technologies provides AI-powered solutions that empower brands to provide memorable, engaging customer experiences, including a virtual try on experience, a body measurement service, an interactive lookbook, and 3D product visualizations at scale.

Clab AI is designed to empower students and counselors with personalized, AI-driven guidance through the college application process, ensuring each student maximizes their potential and opportunities for higher education success.

Learn about Founder Program.

Upcoming Programs & Events:

TN Maker Fest is this month!

This is a free, indoor event with exhibits ranging from art, to candle making, to fabrication, to robotics, and more. Tennessee is full of incredible makers of all kinds. From fabrication to robotics and everything in between, you won't want to miss TN MakerFest! Learn more

Applications for the Space-Edge Biomedical Accelerator close on September 8th. Don't miss out on this chance to join a nationwide group of entrepreneurs and innovators to expand the space health community with your business ventures. Apply now for a competitive edge in the new space economy. Apply today

Circularity Summit, September 16—a half-day event that brings together leaders from the private sector, public institutions, and sustainability experts to explore the future of circular economies. This is a free event but registration is required, seats are limited, networking and happy hour directly after the sessions!

Speakers Include:
Pategonia, Bridgestone, Urban Green Lab, Renas, TN Department of Human Services, Nashville Mayors Office, Liquidonate, ERS, Sustainserve

The Innovation Fellowship Program at Vanderbilt University is an educational initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Apply Here

Fall 2024 Map The System - Apps. close tonight at 11:59pm.

A systems thinking competition that engages students in deeply understanding and working within complex social and environmental problems.

Apply Here
Tuesday Afternoons, 4:30-6 PM
Sept. 17 - MTS Kickoff

Unlock the

Power of User Experience Design:

This fall, the Wond'ry opens its application for its cutting-edge Introduction to UX Design Program - a dynamic initiative redefining problem-solving and innovation. Learn more and Apply.

Dive into our workshops to gain a deeper understanding of pivotal subjects in Social Innovation. Learn more.

Climate Action: Sept. 20th

Biomimicry: Oct. 18th

SI Bootcamp: Nov. 1st

Systems-Led Leadership: Nov. 15th

Makerspace Workshops

Our Wond'ry makerspaces have kicked off workshops in both the electrical makerspace and fiber arts build lab. Make sure to take advantage of this free resource! View all dates.

Partner Events:

Launch Blue Pre-Seed Accelerator Applications Open

Launch Blue’s 7-week pre-seed accelerator focuses on training and developing deep tech, technology that transforms industries and innovative societal solutions startups to create a funding strategy for success. Learn more.

Challenges and Opportunities:

VentureWell Aspire Medtech | Deadline: Sept. 8th
Vanderbilt Community Impact Fun | Deadline: Sept. 16th
2024 UCSF Rosenman ADAPT Program | Deadline: Sept. 25th
VentureWell Ecosystem Futures Fellowship | Deadline: Oct. 23rd
Global Student Entrepreneur Awards | Deadline: Jan. 24, 2025

In the News:

Support Our Students

By making your tax-deductible gift to our Wond’ry Student Project Fund, you help us award students with the funding they need to turn their ideas into reality. Donate here.