NewU University Students Shine at DC Startup Week Reception: Bridging Connections in Entrepreneurship
DC Startup Week is a prominent event that annually draws entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and innovators together, creating a vibrant ecosystem for networking, learning, and collaboration. This year, NewU University students took on essential roles at a reception organized by
The Well and hosted by some of Washington, D.C.’s leading names in business and entrepreneurship:
Compass Coffee,
Entrepreneur,
Union Kitchen, and
Foster Garvey. The reception, held in Union Kitchen’s dynamic venue, was a platform for students to welcome attendees, manage registration, and support networking initiatives, showcasing their enthusiasm and commitment to the entrepreneurial community.
The Role of NewU University Students
NewU University aims to provide students with hands-on experience that complements their academic learning. DC Startup Week was a unique opportunity for these students to step into the startup world and connect directly with key figures in the industry. With roles ranging from welcoming guests to facilitating meaningful conversations, NewU students were on the front lines, ensuring that attendees felt welcomed and engaged.
“We believe in learning by doing,” says Stratsi Kulinski, President of NewU University. “By volunteering at events like DC Startup Week, our students gain invaluable skills and build networks that will benefit them throughout their careers.”
The Well: Bringing the Community Together
As the organizer, The Well brought its expertise in creating inspiring, impactful events that foster connections within the business community. Known for building bridges between startups, professionals, and students, The Well carefully curated the reception to ensure a welcoming environment. The Well’s role in coordinating with other partners exemplified its dedication to creating meaningful networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect, collaborate, and learn from each other.
The Well co-founder and NewU University professor Mark Nguyen blended entrepreneurship theory with practice. For NewU students like Erianne Fayad (’25) and Jesus Berlanga (’27), working with The Well provided invaluable experience in event management and community building, helping them gain insight into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into planning and executing large-scale networking events.
Compass Coffee: Fueling Networking Conversations
Founded by two former Marines, Compass Coffee has become a D.C. staple, known for its dedication to quality coffee and community building. As one of the event’s sponsors, Compass Coffee provided a welcoming, energizing atmosphere for attendees, giving them a taste of locally roasted coffee to kick off the evening.
The collaboration with Compass Coffee was a perfect fit for NewU University students. The company’s focus on community and passion mirrors NewU’s mission to create accessible, affordable education for all. Many students also took the opportunity to connect with Compass Coffee’s founders and learn about the journey from startup to becoming a well-loved D.C. brand.
Entrepreneur: Inspiring the Next Generation
Entrepreneur magazine, a leading publication for and about the entrepreneurial community, played a crucial role in the event, bringing its expertise and resources to inspire budding entrepreneurs. As an event partner, Entrepreneur contributed to a lineup of speakers who shared insights on current industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Students from NewU University who attended the event had the chance to network with Entrepreneur representatives, ask questions, and gain insights into building a business in today’s fast-paced economy. This interaction gave students valuable lessons on perseverance and creativity, two qualities essential for success in any startup environment.
A Growing Partnership Between NewU University and DC’s Entrepreneurial Community
As the night progressed, NewU University students continued to make connections, exchange ideas, and absorb the wealth of knowledge shared by the event’s seasoned professionals. By the end of the reception, they had not only gained real-world experience but also expanded their networks within the D.C. entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The partnership between NewU University and these organizations speaks to a larger vision: to create a robust, supportive environment where students can bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. By volunteering at DC Startup Week, NewU students demonstrated that they are ready to step into the professional world, equipped with both the skills and the drive to make an impact.
Looking Forward
NewU University’s involvement in DC Startup Week marks a milestone in its efforts to foster experiential learning for students. As the university continues to grow, it remains committed to offering more opportunities like this, where students can directly engage with industry leaders and gain practical knowledge that will serve them well in their careers.
Events like the DC Startup Week reception, organized by The Well and backed by organizations like Compass Coffee, Entrepreneur, Union Kitchen, and Foster Garvey, represent the future of education for NewU. In a world where hands-on experience and networking are invaluable, NewU University is at the forefront, empowering students to be proactive and engaged participants in their learning journeys.
Through partnerships with local organizations, NewU University is not only enhancing students’ educational experiences but also solidifying its role as a significant player in D.C.’s dynamic business landscape. With each interaction, NewU students are proving that they have what it takes to excel—and that they are ready to lead the next generation of entrepreneurs.
