The Rowan Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship hosted the Rowan Roots Market for the first time, where students and alumni were able to showcase and sell their own products.
On Nov. 4, numerous student and alumni-led businesses were able to present their products, allowing some businesses to engage with customers for the first time. The event was held in Business Hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., where over 30 vendors were present to sell to students and the community. Arts and crafts, food and beverages, fashion, wellness and beauty, and even book vendors were available at the event.
“I think shopping small is really important, but when you can give that back to the community you’re a part of, whether you’re faculty supporting students or student supporting students, I think it builds a really strong sense of community to know what your fellow students are out here doing and making,” said Bethany Oliveri, an art education senior with a concentration in metals and jewelry and owner of Bethany Rose Jewelry.
There were many businesses at the marketplace that were presenting their products for the very first time, as well as others who have been running their business for quite some time. The market allowed for many of the students and alumni to bring awareness to their company and share their products with their fellow classmates.
“I actually started my company at sixteen. Ever since I’ve been at Rowan, I’ve been debating, should I continue? Should I not? A part of it was also will I ever be successful? But honestly, being here has boosted my confidence. So I decided to launch today. It’s a great trial run to see if my company goes really well and to get some great feedback,” said Shaila Saini, a marketing and entrepreneurship senior and owner of Lushious Beauty.
The event supported businesses of all kinds, showcasing businesses that were built upon personal experiences that many people can relate to, which allowed shoppers to support different causes associated with different companies.
“We are a veteran-owned company dedicated to funding cancer research, dementia research, and a safe place for victims of domestic violence. We are survivors and have relatives that have passed away from cancer. So that’s what really got us into this,” said Angela Steward, a psychology junior, administrative assistant for the dean’s office, and owner of Purple Muzic.
Rowan Roots created a space where students and the community of Glassboro were able to come out and support the students and alumni on campus. Many students and Glassboro locals were present at the event and showed great support for the companies, creating a strong sense of community on Tuesday morning and afternoon.
“It’s a great way to bring the community together and support Rowan students and see these little small businesses, the things that they can do, and allow them to grow,” said Kassidy Gernet, a freshman elementary education major.
The market has proven to be a great opportunity for Rowan students and alumni to share their business with their peers and the community. Rowan Roots was greatly successful in sharing the creativity and ambition of small businesses while allowing vendors to receive honest feedback from genuine customers.
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