Research

I am deeply committed to the study and promotion of women’s entrepreneurship. My research consistently bridges the gap between theory and practice, aiming to provide actionable insights for nascent entrepreneurs, early-stage entrepreneurs, and policymakers. My work delves into various facets of entrepreneurship, from understanding the nuances of start-up ecosystems to exploring the dynamics of entrepreneurial action among diverse populations (primarily women).

My research is categorized into three main areas: (1) nascent entrepreneurship, (2) women’s entrepreneurship, (2) and social entrepreneurship. In these three streams, I aim to answer the following questions:

  • Nascent entrepreneurship: What are the most important factors that affect the probability of emergence over time for nascent entrepreneurs? What factors affect the prevalence of nascent entrepreneurship across economies?

  • Women’s entrepreneurship: Why do women engage in entrepreneurship? What are the unique factors that affect the prevalence of women’s entrepreneurship across economies?

  • Social entrepreneurship: Why do people engage in social entrepreneurship? What are the factors that affect the prevalence of social entrepreneurship across economies?


Teaching

I have been teaching courses for about seventeen years at four institutions: the University of Cincinnati, the University of South Florida, Texas Tech University, and Babson College. I have taught courses in general management, managerial effectiveness, strategic management, international management, small business management, new venture planning, business planning, global entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, technical entrepreneurship, strategic entrepreneurship, and new venture formation. My bachelor’s degree in sociology, my master’s degree in liberal studies (entrepreneurship), and my Ph.D. in business administration make me a versatile entrepreneurship educator capable of delivering well-rounded and impactful instruction that spans multiple disciplines and connects theory to practice.

My goal as an entrepreneurship educator is to inspire students to be lifelong learners and to develop a passion for critical thinking and curiosity. I want to motivate aspiring entrepreneurs to consider performance from the triple bottom line, actively protecting and advancing our economy, environment, and society. My teaching philosophy is not only to help students meet course-specific learning objectives but also to help them develop key problem-solving abilities and critical thinking proficiency that will facilitate the advancement of life-long learning skills. More specifically, by providing a solid command of organizational theory, I hope to develop a foundation of problem-solving skills that students can actively draw on as managers/entrepreneurs and organizational leaders to meet these goals. I strive to share theoretical and real-world applicable knowledge of organizations that will (1) allow students to develop a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurial theories and the business world, (2) become aware of the significant drivers of entrepreneurial performance, and (3) hopefully encourage them to be agents of positive organizational outcomes in our global society through entrepreneurship. I believe these learning objectives empower students with academic knowledge, practical skills, and the ethical awareness needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. And to make a positive impact on society through their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Media