The Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs has announced Laken W., a student at Duquesne University, as the recipient of its 2026 national award. The selection committee chose Laken from a competitive pool of undergraduate applicants from accredited colleges and universities across the United States. Her winning submission was an essay detailing an innovative entrepreneurial venture designed to address key community challenges with purpose and practical feasibility.
The award was founded by Dr. Wade Newman, a respected dental professional, entrepreneur, and former Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, to recognize and empower undergraduate student leaders who demonstrate vision, ethical leadership, and a commitment to community impact. "True entrepreneurship blends innovation with a distinct purpose to improve the lives of others," said Dr. Wade Newman. "Laken W.'s submission perfectly embodies the drive, resilience, and problem-solving mindset we aimed to champion through this initiative. We are thrilled to award this recognition to a student whose vision reflects the highest standards of purposeful leadership."
Applicants in the 2026 cycle were evaluated on an original essay responding to the prompt: "Describe an entrepreneurial idea or venture you are passionate about. Explain how this idea can make a positive difference in your community or industry, and discuss the challenges you may face and how you plan to overcome them." The panel judged entries based on creativity, strategic foresight, community value, and practical viability. Laken's submission distinguished itself through a compelling combination of clear operational planning and meaningful social impact.
The Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs provides a one-time financial grant to assist the winner with academic and venture-related expenses. By highlighting outstanding young innovators like Laken W., the program aims to cultivate a new generation of business leaders capable of creating lasting, positive change in their fields. The award is part of a national scholarship initiative dedicated to fostering the next generation of business leaders, inspired by Dr. Newman's values of service, integrity, and entrepreneurial excellence.
