The Princeton Review, which ranks the top entrepreneurial programs in the country, has ranked Rowan University’s School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship as the #1 program in New Jersey for the second year in a row. 

Jessica Vattima is the director of the Rowan Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. 

“We’re all very proud to be recognized as the top entrepreneurship program in New Jersey for the second consecutive year. It speaks volumes about the talent, innovation, and hard work of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Vattima. 

The school was also ranked number 37 nationally, which is an improvement from four years when the program was ranked at number 50. 

Greg Payton is an assistant teaching professor of entrepreneurship and is the director of the School of Innovation & Entrepreneurship Experiential Training Program. 

“Achieving a national ranking of #37 is an important milestone for our program,” said Payton. “It underscores the quality of education we provide and the impact our students and faculty are making in the field of entrepreneurship. This national recognition motivates us to continue striving for excellence and to continuously improve our program’s standing.”

The School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship is known for being available to all students who are not involved in the business college. 

Megan Steckler is a graduate assistant for the School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. 

“I think what makes it special is it’s open and available to all students,” said Steckler. “You don’t have to be a business major to be involved in entrepreneurship or entrepreneurial pursuits across campus. I’ve had friends of mine who are psychology majors. I know someone who was literally about to go into like medicine but decided to just change course and go into entrepreneurship”. 

The school provides students with the ability to showcase their ideas and make significant contributions to the community. 

“It aligns with the University’s mission of providing students with opportunities to think critically, solve problems, and make meaningful contributions to society. Our goal is to prepare students with the tools and confidence to lead and innovate in any career they pursue,” said Vattima. 

Something the program excels at is having professors who are always looking to help students achieve their goals and passions. 

Luke Reed is a junior who is a dual major in finance and management with a minor in entrepreneurship. He is also the Executive Vice President of the Rowan CEO Club. 

“I’ve got to know a lot of professors super well, Professor Payton, and Professor Dominik, and they’re both fantastic humans and they would be there for you outside the classroom if you needed it,” said Reed. “They really care about the students and I think that means so much more than that on top of all the resources they give that allow students to be better and get further.”

Going into the future, the school aims to continue introducing more collaborations and innovative programs for all students, whether they be current or prospective. 

“Looking ahead, we plan to expand our interdisciplinary collaborations and introduce new initiatives that address emerging trends in entrepreneurship,” said Payton. “By leveraging the diverse expertise within Rowan University, we aim to offer innovative programs and resources that equip our students to navigate and lead in the evolving entrepreneurial landscape.”

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