Ken Szymusiak

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