In 1998, the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship (then, the H.N. & Frances C. Berger Entrepreneurship Program at the Karl Eller Center, College of Business of Public Administration) established the Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame. Established to formally recognize the significant achievements and contributions of alumni and associates of the Karl Eller Center and Berger Entrepreneurship Program, past inductees have included CEO’s, founders, presidents and educators encompassing a wide variety of private enterprise, public service and learning initiatives. Seven years later, the Hall of Fame is being reintroduced, kicking off with a reception on April 24th, 2019.
In preparation for the Awards Reception, we will be highlighting our 2019 inductees. The Legacy Award takes the place of the Founder’s Award that was created and given to Karl Eller in 1998 for his unparalleled commitment to excellence in entrepreneurship, education and economic growth. This award is given to an alumnus or alumna or friend of the center who exemplifies the qualities of Karl Eller; integrity, generosity, compassion, leadership, and a commitment to entrepreneurial education. Like Karl, the recipient has the ability to instill vision in those around them and create an impact within their community.
Legacy Award: Sherry Hoskinson
Sherry Hoskinson has three decades in university entrepreneurship, technology commercialization, ecosystem optimization, and now company leadership. Sherry served as associate director then director of the University of Arizona’s premier McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship for 20 years, then went on to develop and roll out commercialization assets for Tech Launch Arizona, receiving multiple awards, model program designations, and numerous top national rankings.
Q. How did your involvement with the McGuire Center impact your life/career?
A. The ability to engage with and advance entrepreneurial goals of students, faculty, and community members has been life-changing. Seeing the impact of each success–however defined, fueled by UA entrepreneurship offerings is gratifying. I have learned more than I ever thought I could, and have been exposed to ideas, people, and places than I ever thought possible.
Q. What is your favorite memory of your time at the McGuire Center?
A. Being ranked #1 (thats not #1 behind Babson, or #1 among public universities. #1.)
Q. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A. If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you find time to do it over?
Bonus Fact:
“When I started at the [then Karl Eller Center, now McGuire Center], I didn’t even know how to spell entrepreneurship”