Next week, Biola University’s Crowell School of Business will host approximately 200 top-notch students from 50 universities on campus for Praxis Academy 2017. A select group of students from around the nation are selected to attend the annual Praxis Academy intensive and convene for a 5-day experience to delve deeply into the intersection of theology, culture, and entrepreneurship.

Praxis Academy, a venture group that works with entrepreneurs motivated by their faith to create ventures of significant cultural impact, aligns with Biola’s vision to prepare business students for excellence and leadership in their careers to impact the world for Christ.

“We're excited to welcome the Praxis Academy back to Biola University for the second year after such a wonderful Academy week last summer,” said Gary Lindblad, dean of Crowell School of Business. “Our partnership with Praxis continues to deepen as we find kindred spirits in this entrepreneurial community that God is using to impact our culture and world.”

Praxis Academy has worked with over 80 portfolio organizations and over 200 top college students over the last five years. Students are selected for Praxis Academy through an application process centered around entrepreneurship and innovation.

Alumna Jordan Perkins (‘17) was selected to be in Praxis’ 2017 Emerging Founders group. Perkins and her team, Illuminate International, placed first in this year’s Biola Startup Competition. Praxis describes Emerging Founders as “an inspiring group of next generation leaders applying redemptive entrepreneurship across a spectrum of sectors and problems.”

Perkins is in the Venture Track of Emerging Founders working full-time in the program on Illuminate International while being mentored by the Praxis Team. She attended Praxis Academy 2016, which was also held at Biola last year.

“Praxis and Biola are both committed to Kingdom-minded entrepreneurship, deeply rooted in sound theology, best in class business practices, and inspired thinking and innovation to set the stage for the next generation of high impact Christian organizations and businesses,” said Lindblad.

Speakers at this year’s Praxis Academy include CEO of Hope International Peter Greer, Author and Senior Strategist for Communication at the John Templeton Foundation Andy Crouch, and Founder and CEO of Rey Swimwear Jessica Rey. See a full list of speakers online.

Biola’s Crowell School of Business is offering a new Master of Management, Nonprofit degree starting this fall. The program is designed for leaders in nonprofit and faith-based organizations who want to increase their leadership and management skills, while also pursuing theological training and spiritual transformation.

Learn more about Crowell School of Business and Praxis Academy online.

Read the recent Biola Magazine story on Illuminate International online.

Written by Jenna Loumagne, media relations manager. For more information, contact Jenna at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.