Looking back at all the new information that I have learned, the main and most important thing that I will take away from EPG will be a better understanding of myself, my personality and my values. Kristin Sams ‘08

Learn

• Leadership and teamwork skills
• Business planning and marketing
• Entrepreneurship and creativity
• Community development approaches in Appalachia

Engage

• Multidisciplinary faculty
• Business and community entrepreneurs
• Classmates and team members

Achieve

• Team project goals
• Two academic credits and a stipend
• Personal growth and satisfaction

At the heart of the EPG program is the EPG Summer Institute, an eight-week study of entrepreneurship, leadership and community development. Through case studies, reading, guest lectures, field trips and team projects, participants explore entrepreneurship, leadership and community development in the context of Appalachian communities. Students receive two academic credits for the program, which meets daily from 9 am to 3 pm, and includes several overnight trips within the region.

The Summer Institute includes:

• Entrepreneurship & Leadership in Appalachia — The summer begins with an integrated study of entrepreneurship and leadership in Appalachia, including a look at the region’s history, culture and community development approaches. Students learn how to develop a business/strategic plan for a for-profit or nonprofit enterprise including how to: assess needs, identify target markets, calculate costs, improve operations and management, and meet human resource needs.
  
• Field Trips — During the summer program, students travel to several communities in the Appalachian region to gain a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and leadership. Students visit for-profit and nonprofit organizations that are considered models for the region and study small businesses that build upon local resources and talents.
  
• Leadership & Creativity — Students also develop leadership and teamwork skills through activities such as a high ropes course, working with experiential learning teams and community projects. In addition, students learn the creative process from brainstorming to concept development.
  
• Student Reflections & Presentations — At the end of the summer, students present their final projects to nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, community members, faculty and fellow students. Throughout the summer experience, students participate in individual reflections as well as group presentations to a variety of audiences.

The EPG Summer Institute includes a series of guest lectures by successful entrepreneurs and community leaders. Students enrolled in the Institute received academic credit for two courses. Since the program requires a high degree of participation, students are unable to have a summer job and receive a stipend to cover time spent working on projects.