Community Colleges as Incubators of Innovation: Unleashing Entrepreneurial Opportunities for Communities and Students

This book addresses the urgent need for community colleges to prioritize entrepreneurship education both to remain relevant in a changing economy and to give graduate students the flexible and interdisciplinary mindsets needed for the future of society.

Rebecca A. Corbin has served in leadership roles in the community college system for the past decade, as president and CEO of NACCE, and as vice president of institutional advancement and executive director of the Foundation for Rowan College at Burlington County in New Jersey. Her passion is fundraising, and sharing thought leadership and practical applications for infusing entrepreneurship on campus and in communities by writing articles and presenting at national and international conferences. She has an Ed.D. in innovation and organizational leadership from Wilmington University in Delaware, a master’s of public administration from the University of Akron, and a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University. Ron Thomas served for 17 years as president of two-year colleges. He joined the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship in 2003, serving as a board member and chairman for two years. During his tenure as chairman Thomas was instrumental in the launch of the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge (PFEP) in 2011. His passion for entrepreneurship includes writing articles, presenting at national conferences, and working to create entrepreneurship programs and opportunities. He has a Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale, a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville, and an undergraduate degree from Truman State University.