Academics
Signature Programs

Global Entrepreneurship


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Build ventures that matter.

In Global Entrepreneurship, a two-year course, students explore business fundamentals, develop innovative ideas, and pitch real-world solutions with social and global impact. Developed by former CEO and Chaplain Beth Barksdale and led by Dr. Melissa Mitchem, an experienced Business Management and Economics teacher, the program blends economic theory with hands-on application. Students graduate with a certificate and real experience in launching entrepreneurial ventures designed to benefit the School, local community, and the world.

Participants in Chatham Hall’s Global Entrepreneurship program don’t just dream, they do.

During the program, students test and launch their own entrepreneurial ventures that can be implemented and scaled as viable businesses. Throughout, students are gaining research, leadership, and public speaking skills, among many others. At the end of the two-year program, they receive a certificate of completion.

Recent Businesses & Organizations Started by Students
  • Bite of the World - Food Cart
  • Oak Tree - Campus Coffeehouse
  • Paw-Mento Cheese - Nonprofit
  • Copper's Cookies - Horse Treats
  • FaFo - Online Art Gallery
  • Speedy Snacks - Dorm Snack Store
  • $$$ Club - Student Investment Club

The program consists of three essential pillars that ensure our students have a hands-on learning opportunity to create value for the School, in the local community, and the wider world. 

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Global Entrepreneurship in the News



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Program Modules

List of 3 items.

  • Module 1

    Ideas for Chatham Hall: Students examine the School and develop pitches that would add value to the campus community.

  • Module 2

    Ideas for the Town of Chatham: Students research the Chatham community and propose products, programs, or services that would add economic and/or social value.

  • Module 3

    Ideas for the Wider World: Students develop pitches that would add value anywhere in the world.

  • Mary Blaire T. '25

    Global Entrepreneurship showed me that even my wildest ideas—like a nature app with trail tips and challenges—can become real with the right tools and support. I learned that feedback isn’t failure, it’s how you level up. Collaborating with classmates in a creative think tank built my confidence and inspired me to help others bring their ideas to life.

  • Stephanie C.B. '24

    "My experience in the Global Entrepreneurship program has been transformative. The program's emphasis on practical, real-world projects has inspired me to apply entrepreneurial principles effectively. Pursuing this certificate has not only clarified my future direction, but has also instilled in me the importance of innovative thinking and social impact."

  • Vicky G. '24

    “Being in the entrepreneurship class enabled me to grow in confidence, independence, and creativity. It gave me chances to practice my public speaking, critical thinking, and to actually put my ideas into action."

  • Zoey Horn '22

    "This class taught me how to be confident in myself and my presentation skills. I learned what it takes to be a young woman entrepreneur in today’s modern society. This class was vital to my success at Chatham Hall and the development of my personal self."

  • Christine Chen '20

    "The entrepreneurship program at Chatham Hall taught me to think critically and creatively, and allowed me to see and address real-life concerns. As a result of my experience, I feel endowed with a responsibility to improve my community and have the skills and confidence to put my vision into action to better the world."


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800 Chatham Hall Circle  •  Chatham, VA 24531
Main Phone
+1 434.432.2941  

Admissions Contact
+1 434.432.5516 • admissions@chathamhall.org

Boarding and day school for girls in grades 9-12 in the Episcopal tradition.

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