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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In keeping with Chatham Hall’s commitment to distinguish itself as a leader among independent girls’ schools, we are pleased to share that Global Entrepreneurship is now a required class for graduation beginning with the class of 2029. In this course, students learn how to create real value at the micro and macro levels, first exploring opportunities to enhance our school and then expanding to the local community and wider world.

In all phases of the curriculum, the development of ideation, communication, presentation, and analysis skills supports the finer points of persuasion and negotiation, as well as the creative, financial, and managerial skills necessary to formulate and deliver on a project plan. Our proprietary entrepreneurship program was founded and designed by Beth Barksdale, a former CEO of a nationally renowned healthcare company.

Global Entrepreneurship in the News


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  • 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."

Program Modules

List of 3 items.

  • Unit 1

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

  • Unit 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.

  • Unit 3

    Ideas for the Wider World: Students develop pitches that would add value anywhere in the world.
“Gaining hands-on experience and working with ‘real-world’ problems has led me to appreciate my project even more.” Sophia Hurst '24 (UNWIRED, launched in 2024 as a tech-free, two-night excursion in the woods)
 
“This class has taught me how to be confident in myself and my presentation skills. I have learned what it takes to be a young woman entrepreneur in today’s modern society. This class has been vital to my success at Chatham Hall and the development of my personal self.” Zoey H. ‘22
 
“The Entrepreneur 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.” -Christine C, ‘20
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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