Venturewell Innovation in Action (VIA) Learning Series
Join us for the VIA Learning Series, webinars highlighting key conversations at the intersection of innovation, higher education, industry, and public policy.
Each session features speakers from across sectors sharing examples, insights, and lessons learned on topics ranging from research commercialization to science communication, funding partnerships, and cross-sector collaboration.
These virtual events are free and open to the broader innovation and entrepreneurship community. Participants are invited to attend one or more sessions over the next several months.
Schedule & Registration
A View From Washington: Federal Policy & Innovation in Higher Ed
Date: May 28, 2025 | 1:00 p.m. ET
Description:
As federal policy continues to evolve at a rapid pace, how can higher education leaders, researchers, and innovation ecosystems navigate the uncertainty? This session featured insights from policy experts on what lies ahead.
Speakers:
-
Leslee Gilbert, vice president, Van Scoyoc Associates
-
Ashley Huderson, senior director of programs, American Society of Mechanical Engineers
The Philanthropy Pivot: Unlocking Foundation Partnerships for Your University
Date: July 30, 2025 | 1:00 p.m. ET
Description:
Foundations are playing a growing role in supporting higher education. Learn how to build intentional, strategic relationships with foundation leaders and how to communicate your institution’s value in ways that resonate.
Speakers :
-
Ify Aduba, executive director, Entrepreneurship Funders Network
-
Kory Murphy, program officer, The Lemelson Foundation
-
David Wolf, associate vice president of major gifts, Tulane University
Passcode - 9^7?fKG%
Beyond Federal Dollars: How Science Communication Positions Institutions for New Investments
Date: August 27, 2025 | 1 p.m. ET
Description:
With federal funding becoming more competitive, institutions must reposition their research to attract new partners. This session focuses on using science communication to secure investments from foundations, corporations, and local entities.
Speakers:
-
M Jackson, senior program officer, VentureWell
-
Federico Pardo, photographer, filmmaker & biologist
Masters of Invention: Unlocking the Innovator in You
Date: September 2025 (Exact Date TBD)
Description:
Trailblazing inventors share personal stories, pivotal moments, and creative breakthroughs that shaped their careers. This session will include two TED-style talks and an interactive Q&A session.
Speakers:
-
Franziska Trautmann, CEO, Glass Half Full
-
Lonnie Johnson, inventor & engineer
Blueprint for Success: Igniting STEM Ecosystems with University-Industry Partnerships
Date: October 2025 (Exact Date TBD)
Description:
Join us as top industry leaders and university innovators share how collaborative partnerships drive research, talent development, and economic growth. Explore strategies to build thriving STEM ecosystems.
Speakers:
-
Michael Nestor, executive director, GUIPRR
-
Panelists from Microsoft, Dell, and Intel
