Finding Great Ideas: Using Creativity to Drive Innovation

David Wheeler brings an extraordinary blend of film, television, and gaming industry experience to his role as Director of Media Sandbox at Michigan State University, which he has led since 2013. After graduating with honors from The London Film School, he built an impressive career starting at CBS in Los Angeles, where he worked as a writer, director, and cinematographer in broadcast journalism and television. His pioneering work in interactive entertainment includes directing the video game "11th Hour" in 1995 and creating the groundbreaking interactive movie "Tender Loving Care" featuring John Hurt. His executive positions include Content Director at Vivendi/Universal and Senior Creative Director at Electronic Arts. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit by founding four successful media companies: Terra Nova Productions in Hollywood, Aftermath Media in Ashland, Digital Circus in Vancouver, and Here And Now Transmedia in Los Angeles. His diverse background spans traditional media, interactive entertainment, and digital innovation, making him a valuable leader in media education.

Dr. Forrest S. Carter serves as an Associate Professor of Marketing at Michigan State University's Eli Broad School of Business and holds the position of Faculty Director for the college's Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. His academic expertise spans marketing research, marketing strategy, and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on how marketing influences economic development, especially for women and minority entrepreneurs. His research and outreach initiatives concentrate on fostering environments that promote innovation and entrepreneurial success. Beyond academia, he brings practical experience as both a business consultant and small business owner. Through his Coursera courses, including "The Search for Great Ideas," "Structure: Building the Frame for Business Growth," and "Launch Strategy," he shares his extensive knowledge in entrepreneurship and business development. His work demonstrates a strong commitment to creating inclusive business environments and supporting emerging entrepreneurs through practical, research-based approaches

Ken Szymusiak serves as the Managing Director of Academic Programs at Michigan State University's Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, where he has made significant contributions since 2013. His expertise spans entrepreneurial education, business development, and innovation mentorship. At MSU's Broad College of Business, he leads curriculum development and teaches courses focused on entrepreneurial mindset, small business creation, and business model development. He directs the Hive, an innovative student idea laboratory, where he mentors students in transforming business concepts into market-ready ventures. His entrepreneurial experience includes co-founding Cold Storage Holdings LLC and previously co-owning Polka Dots Boutique for seven successful years. Before joining MSU, he served as Co-Director of the New Economy Division at the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), where he managed a technology-focused business incubator. His impact extends to developing programs like the Entrepreneur Leadership High School Camp, which helps cultivate young business minds across Michigan. He holds an MBA from Northwood University and a B.S. in Urban Planning from Michigan State University