NEW KENSINGTON, Pa. — Innovation, entrepreneurship and community engagement have been pillars of Rhonda Schuldt’s expansive career and experiences. Now, Schuldt joins Penn State New Kensington as innovation coordinator in the campus innovation hub, The Corner, located in downtown New Kensington.
“I love that The Corner is not just a facility or a series of programs to support innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Schuldt. “It’s bigger than that. It represents a commitment among a number of partners to put a stake in the ground for students, small businesses and the community that says ‘we believe.’"
The Corner, located at 701 Fifth Ave. in New Kensington and one of 21 Invent Penn State hubs across Pennsylvania, opened its doors in December 2017. In addition to providing signature LaunchBox programming, the space also serves as a location for area entrepreneurs via a membership-based system through Pittsburgh's Beauty Shoppe. In addition, The Corner, under the leadership of Penn State New Kensington Chancellor Kevin Snider, has become a foundation in the revitalization of New Kensington.
“It’s an anchor in a community that is reinventing itself and is harnessing the resources of Penn State, the commitment of Penn State New Kensington, the strength and experience of key partners in Westmoreland County, and the greater Pittsburgh region to bring resources, expertise and support to those who want to embrace innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit,” said Schuldt.
While The Corner’s mission is founded upon connecting students and community members with resources to strengthen ideas and businesses, Schuldt believes it is so much more.
Schuldt, who holds a master of business administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia, explained, “In its walls there is a village. A village comprised of small businesses, startups, coaches, mentors, connections … all sparking an energy that helps fuel the development of a community full of opportunity.”
The Corner, however, isn’t just for those wanting to start a business venture.