Entrepreneurs embrace new ways of thinking. Where some see challenges; they see opportunities. Some are destined to start businesses; others infuse passion and creativity into the workplace.
The Haller Enterprise Institute at Thiel College aims to cultivate entrepreneurial-minded students by providing an intensive, high-quality educational experience to a select cohort of undergraduate students, regardless of major.
Program Benefits
Members of the Haller Enterprise Institute actively engage with like-minded students, as well as network with respected business leaders from across the region -- many of whom are influencers within their fields. Haller Institute members are also encouraged to become involved in our region’s economic development efforts and to gain valuable connections and experience as they begin to apply principles of entrepreneurship in real-world settings. Other benefits include:
Each year, first-year and upper-level students apply and interview for a number of highly sought-after positions in the Institute, which include eligibility for generous scholarships.
The ability to earn a Certificate in Entrepreneurship by taking a three-course program which is designed to encourage and support individuals who are considering going into business for themselves. These courses focus on developing the entrepreneurial mindset, identifying business opportunities, developing a business plan, and learning from successful entrepreneurs in a seminar format offering.
An invitation to the annual banquet which spotlights the Haller “Entrepreneur of the Year” and “Student Entrepreneur of the Year” awards.
Access to the Haller Institute’s Advisory Board, a distinguished team of business professionals and educators who are committed to providing support, guidance, and encouragement to Thiel’s student-entrepreneurs.
About the Haller Enterprise Institute
The Haller Enterprise Institute celebrated its 25h anniversary in 2020. The Institute is named after Henry E. and Grace Mary Haller, major benefactors to the College with a keen interest in entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneur of the Year and Student Entrepreneur of the Year Awards
Each year, the Institute honors an influential member of the business community who epitomizes the spirit of the Institute and also honors an undergraduate student or students who best implements a new business venture or who otherwise exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Haller Leadership
Haller Enterprise Institute Executive Director - Gary J. Witosky '79
Professor Witosky has served as Executive Director of the Haller Enterprise Institute since 2020. He is a professor of Economics and Business Administration and the David M. Miller Endowed Chair of Accounting. He has extensive experience working with and advising entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial companies.
Haller Enterprise Institute Assistant Director – Steven Kandray
Professor Kandray has served as Assistant Director of the Haller Enterprise Institute since 2021. He is an Assistant Professor of Business and Marketing and teaches several entrepreneurship classes at Thiel. His entrepreneurial experience includes managing a freelance marketing agency with his wife, as well as being involved with their family farm.
The Institute’s Advisory Board is comprised of local business leaders and Thiel faculty and administration. Current members are:
Gary J. Witosky, C.P.A., M.Acc. ’79* Executive Director - Professor of Business and Accounting, David Miller Endowed Chair of Accounting, Thiel College
Steven Kandray, M.B.A.* – Assistant Director – Assistant Professor of Business and Marketing, Thiel College
Amy Arbogast* – Vice President for Finance and Administration, Thiel College
Joel Bussard ’09 - Operations Project Manager, The NPR Group LLC
Greg Butcher, Ph.D.* - Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College, Thiel College
Jeannie Carey* – Accounting Manager, Thiel College
Dale Deist - Founder, Deist Industries, Inc.
Patricia Ferry – Branch Manager (retired), PNC
Angelo A. Giannini, M.B.A.* - Professor of Business and Economics, Thiel College
John E. Gomolchak, Esq.* - Associate Professor of Business Administration and Accounting, Thiel College
Linda Haller H’13 – Philanthropist, Thiel College
Connie Jablonski* M.B.A.- Associate Vice President for Finance and Management, Thiel College
Dionna Kassalen, C.P.A., M.B.A.* - Assistant Professor of Business and Accounting, Thiel College
Anthony Kos, Ph.D.* - Professor of Business and Accounting, Department Chair, Thiel College
Jack Kuchcinski, C.P.A. ‘99 - Partner, Black Bashor & Porsch, LLP
Roberta Leonard* - Vice President for College Advancement, Thiel College
Melissa Oakes, C.P.A., C.F.E., M.B.A. ’03* - Professor of Business Administration and Accounting Associate Chair, Thiel College
Robert Olson, Ph.D. ’60, H’09 – President (retired), Thiel College
Richard Orr* - Vice President for Communications and Marketing, Thiel College
Richard Parker ’82 – Principal Owner, R. Alan Parker & Associates
Sandy Parker ’81 – Vice President (retired), PNC Bank
Jim Plunkett ’93 – Owner, Jim Plunkett Insurance Agency