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Market-Based Solutions to Vital Economic Issues

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Kenan Institute 2024 Grand Challenge: Business Resilience
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Market-Based Solutions to Vital Economic Issues

Background

I was born in New Orleans, LA, and after living in Louisiana during my early years, my family and I moved to Charlotte, NC where I was raised. I earned my Bachelor of Art and Design degree from the College of Design at NC State University in Raleigh, NC. During my last semester of college in August 2009, I founded my collegiate and lifestyle apparel company Olly Oxen. I have also done freelance work, including graphic design and woodworking and welding (building furniture and sculpture), for various companies and clients. For the past 4.5 years I was also the Undergraduate Student Services Coordinator (ran admissions, orientation, graduation, etc.) at NC State College of Design. During this time, I was building Olly Oxen into a larger brand and it grew into a family business with my two older brothers involved.

Career Path

I’m still working in Olly Oxen while in the full-time MBA program, and I plan to continue after graduation. My two concentrations in the MBA program are Entrepreneurship and Family Business, which are a perfect fit for me. My biggest long-term career goal is to build a portfolio of lifestyle companies. I started Olly Oxen with the intention of growing it into a lifestyle company that covers a wide range of products primarily within fashion and home. I want to be able to do all that I am passionate about through my business(es). Some of these passions include welding, woodworking, cooking, and various types of design work. I would like to leave behind supportive, entrepreneurial, collaborative environments that I’ve created. I enjoy teaching and mentoring so I would also like to incorporate that into my life as well. Sharing experiences and what I’ve learned with others, along with hearing from them is important to me.

Interests and Hobbies

The biggest is spending time with my family and friends, which often involves cooking and various adventures. I love to be outside and do anything on/in the water – swimming, sailing, surfing, and rowing. I’m a football and basketball fan, particularly the NC State Wolfpack (I know, I can’t hide my undergraduate loyalty) and Carolina Panthers. Beyond that, I enjoy doing design work outside of Olly Oxen, traveling, and learning. Finally, I also enjoy being involved in various activities and clubs within the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA community.