Biola University’s Crowell School of Business is pleased to announce a partnership with Praxis Academy for 2016. Praxis Academy, a venture group that works with entrepreneurs motivated by their faith to create ventures of significant cultural impact, aligns with Biola’s vision to prepare business students for excellence and leadership in their careers to impact the world for Christ.


“We're excited to join with Praxis in this entrepreneurial community that God is using to impact our culture and world, where Kingdom-minded entrepreneurship, deeply rooted in sound theology, best in class business practices, and inspired thinking and innovation set the stage for the next generation of high impact Christian organizations and businesses,” said Gary Lindblad, dean of Crowell School of Business.


In August, Biola will host approximately 200 top-notch students from 50 universities on campus, for Praxis Academy 2016. A select group of students are selected to attend the annual praxis academy class and convene for a 5-day experience to delve deeply into the intersection of theology, culture, and entrepreneurship.

Praxis Academy has worked with over 80 portfolio organizations and over 200 top college students over the last five years. Students are selected for Praxis Academy through an application process centered around entrepreneurship and innovation.


“Hosting the 2016 Praxis Academy moves Biola University and the Crowell School of Business into the national spotlight as a Christian university committed to a Christ- honoring, entrepreneurial mindset,” said Robert Harp, director of special projects for Crowell School of Business. “It is a great next step for those participating in the inaugural Biola Startup Competition.”


For the first time, Praxis is also bringing a condensed version of their Annual Praxis Academy Learning Experience to select college campuses — Praxis Academy Workshop. Praxis hosted one of these intensives, customized for the Biola community, on Feb. 17 on campus focusing on the question: What is the better future you see, as a Christ-follower, and what might you build to help create that better future? The event was open to all Biola students.


Speakers included Erik Rannala, Founder & Managing Principal of Mucker Labs, Jessica Rey, Founder & CEO of Rey Swimwear, Joel Newton, Co-Founder & President of The Virtual Reality Co., Jon Hart, Director of Praxis Academy, and Kohl Crecelius, Founder & CEO of Krochet Kids.


On Feb. 22, Richard J. Goossen, chairman for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Organization, spoke on the topic of “Entrepreneurial Leadership: Finding Your Calling, Making a Difference,” which is also the title of his book, released in May 2013. The event is part of signature events for students and alumni involved in Biola’s Startup Competition.

Written by Jenna Loumagne, media relations specialist. For more information, contact Jenna at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.