Brown Leadership Institute (Session 2) - Leadership in Changing Business: Social Entrepreneurship

Social entrepreneurship is an exciting and rapidly growing field, which utilizes an entrepreneurial approach to address social challenges and create positive change. Companies such as Patagonia, Warby Parker, and Stonyfield Farms epitomize strong and sustainable organizations, which are creating both social and financial value. This course will provide students with an overview of this evolving field and help students understand ways in which social entrepreneurs are driving innovation and transformation in industries such as health, education, and the environment. Students will examine the opportunities and challenges associated with a variety social enterprise business models and structures ranging from nonprofits to for profit social purpose businesses. The course is based on a “learning by doing” approach and students will have opportunities to meet and learn from leading social entrepreneurs, and take field trips to a number of nationally renowned social enterprises. The course will include group projects, debates, and presentation components leading to developing and pitching your own Action Plan idea for a non-profit or for-profit social enterprise. Finally, we will explore the various types of careers available in “do well do good” fields and the education and skills needed to excel in the field. This course will particularly benefit students who enjoy hands-on practical learning, are interested in entrepreneurship, and are eager to apply business models to make the world a better place. Please Note: This course is part of the Leadership Institute, a two-week academic program that helps students cultivate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes associated with effective and socially responsible leadership. This unique program consists of three integrated elements: academic content, leadership development, and the Action Plan. Our students are thoughtful and compassionate youth who are interested in social issues and creating positive change. Participants can look forward to full days in a community of engaged and curious learners. Prerequisites: This course content is particularly relevant for students who are interested in pursuing academic study in social entrepreneurship, design thinking, organizational management, economics, sociology, development studies, and does not require prior experience or knowledge. Application process includes: online application, essay, transcript, application fee. Accepted Pre-College students may apply for Dean’s Scholarships, awarded to students who demonstrate financial need and academic merit. Need is determined by considering several factors, including family income, family size, number of siblings in college, and housing expenses.