The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa has joined KEEN: The Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network, a partnership of more than 60 colleges and universities across the United States focused on reaching “all undergraduate engineering students with an entrepreneurial mindset (EM) so they can create personal, economic, and societal value through a lifetime of meaningful work.”

One of the goals of this partnership is to enhance education and teaching by integrating EM outcomes into curriculum, student immersive experiences, and a broad spectrum of co-curricular or extra-curricular programs. In addition to the college’s emphasis on excellence in applied engineering research and teaching, KEEN will complement the college’s ongoing focus on improving written and oral communication skills and discovering and confronting ethical and societal dilemmas.

“Creating value is at the core of our work in the College of Engineering at the University of Iowa,” said Ann McKenna, dean of the College of Engineering. “Through our membership in KEEN, we will enhance our connections to build on the entrepreneurial mindset of our faculty, staff, and students who are using their curiosity to develop ground-breaking and life-changing research which will steward our environment, improve healthcare delivery, and deploy smart technology systems throughout Iowa, around the country, and across the globe.”

Among the many resources available through KEEN, faculty members will have access to adaptable activities and hands-on practices through other KEEN university partners. Faculty members will learn more about how to embed EM learning in their coursework and student activities as well as engage with colleagues across the KEEN network through working groups and national workshops.

“The University of Iowa's entry into the KEEN network is a significant step forward in advancing the mission of reshaping engineering education,” said Douglas Melton, program director at the Kern Family Foundation. “With their strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and innovation, the University of Iowa is uniquely positioned to empower students to think creatively, connect ideas across disciplines, and focus on creating meaningful value in the world. This collaboration enriches the KEEN network's collective impact, preparing engineers not just for the challenges of today, but for the opportunities of tomorrow.”

KEEN is supported by the Kern Family Foundation. The Kern Family Foundation’s mission is “to empower the rising generation of Americans to build flourishing lives anchored in strong character, inspired by quality education, driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, and guided by the desire to create value for others.” The foundation was established in 1998 by Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern, founders of Generac Power Systems.