EntrepreNews
Spring 2026
Greetings Alumni, Students, Friends and Innovators,
As the academic year comes to a close and spring brings renewed energy to campus, we are pleased to share highlights from another exciting semester of entrepreneurial activity. We celebrate the graduation of our Fellowship and WAVE students, whose achievements reflect both hard work and creativity.
We are also excited to introduce a new undergraduate WAVE course, expanding opportunities for students to engage with entrepreneurship in a hands-on approach. This addition reflects our continued commitment to evolving and strengthening the student experience.
This spring also marks a transition, as John Surdyk departs for a leadership role in entrepreneurship at Colby College. John has been an integral part of our community, and his contributions have left a lasting impact on our students and programs. We wish him all the best in this next chapter.
We are honored to recognize Steve Goldberg as the newest member of the Weinert Center Hall of Fame. His accomplishments and support of entrepreneurship exemplify the spirit of our community. Our Student Entrepreneur Profile features Ben Lukzsys, whose venture and initiative highlight the drive and innovation we strive to cultivate. We also share a Question & Answer segment with Lewis Sheats, offering valuable insights from his experience and perspective on entrepreneurship in his new role as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Entrepreneurship and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Entrepreneurship Hub.
This semester’s Startup Open once again showcased the talent and ambition of our students, with ventures demonstrating both creativity and strong execution. Finally, our Alumni Spotlight highlights Scott Mauer, whose journey reflects the long-term impact of the Weinert Center and the broader Badger entrepreneurial network.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Your involvement makes our work possible and helps us prepare the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders.
Warm regards,
Martin
Martin Ganco
Academic Director, Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship
Wisconsin School of Business
Highlights from our blog
The Launchpad Moment: From Classroom to What’s Next
As one chapter ends, our graduates look towards new opportunities and adventures
WAVE Practicum Offered for Undergraduates
Given the popularity of the graduate level WAVE practicum, the course is now offered to undergraduates
A Fond Farewell to John Surdyk
John is leaving America’s Dairyland for Colby College
Hall of Fame: Steve Goldberg
Steve Goldberg is inducted into the Weinert Center Hall of Fame
Student Entrepreneur Profile: Ben Lukzsys
Ben Lukszys has turned an early passion for entrepreneurship into real impact by building thriving student communities and connecting peers with startup opportunities. His own venture is helping to redefine what it means to give back.
Question & Answer Session with Lewis Sheats
Do you think you know Lewis Sheats? We asked him some questions about his three months in Wisconsin to learn more about the leader of The Wisconsin Entrepreneurship Hub. Check out his responses!
Startup Open
This 54-hour event was designed for a hands-on journey through the exhilarating early days of a startup
Alumni Spotlight: Scott Maurer
Scott Maurer has built a career by redefining what he wants and having the courage to pursue it.
Thank you for supporting Entrepreneurship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Learn more about our distinguished board members.
Thought leaders in entrepreneurship making a difference.
Be inspired by our entrepreneurial students.
Stay connected with former classmates.
Business & Entrepreneurship Clinic News
Students fuse academics and practice by assisting faculty entrepreneurs and area businesses.
Initiative for Studies in Transformational entrepreneurship fosters research and programs on campus and in the community.
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