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Aidan Fitzhugh

Major: Mechanical Engineering | jftzhgh1@memphis.edu 

Aidan Fitzhugh is a current freshman at the University of Memphis pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Herff College of Engineering. He actively participates in various campus organizations, including the Industrial Training and Assessment Center, Weil Scholars, Marching and Pep Bands, the Engineering Living and Learning Community and Campus Outreach. Aidan is passionate about fostering growth in those around him and views teamwork as a powerful tool for tackling complex challenges. His future aspirations include working in product manufacturing and enhancing energy efficiency for businesses nationwide.

 

Syd McKissack

Major: Fashion Design | smckssc2@memphis.edu 

Syd McKissack is a sophomore at the University of Memphis pursuing a degree in Fashion Design. They participated in the ImagineU Summer Accelerator internship hosted by the Crews Center of Entrepreneurship in Summer 2024. Syd is interested in and dedicated to creative problem-solving and community engagement. They hope to better support likeminded individuals through their work as a student ambassador at the Crews Center for Entrepreneurship.

 

Gloria Obeng

Major: Computer Science | Minor: Entrepreneur | goobeng@memphis.edu

Gloria Owuredua Obeng is a sophomore honors student at the University of Memphis, majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Science and a minor in Entrepreneurship. A proud recipient of a scholarship from the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, Gloria is passionate about learning, innovation, and making a positive impact.

She serves as a Student Ambassador for the Crews Center of Entrepreneurship, where she loves transforming ideas into creative solutions. Gloria is also deeply involved in her campus community as a member of Black Scholars Unlimited, The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and a volunteer with Global Friends, helping foster connections among international students.

For Gloria, entrepreneurship is more than just business—it’s about using her skills and ideas to solve problems and shape a better future.

 

Preet Patel

Major: Business Management | Minor: Environmental Studies | pmpatel6@memphis.edu 

Preet Patel is an Honors student at the University of Memphis, pursuing a degree in Business Management as well as a minor in Environmental Studies. With a keen enthusiasm for fashion, fitness and business, she enjoys being a student leader on campus and helping her peers become their best selves. Patel was co-chair of the First Year Senate for the Student Government Association during her Freshman year and is currently the vice president of Communications for the American Marketing Association, Memphis chapter. She is also involved with the National Society of Leadership and Success as well as Fogelman Women in Leadership. After graduating from college, her goal is to become a successful entrepreneur with an extensive investment portfolio.

Daryl Rojas

With a distinguished background in the arts and a passion for innovation, Daryl Rojas is an MBA candidate at the Fogelman College of Business & Economics, actively exploring opportunities at the intersection of entrepreneurship, business strategy, and creative problem-solving.

A graduate with highest honors in Piano Performance from the University of Costa Rica, with a minor in Business Administration, Daryl lived and pursued further studies in Colombia, Germany, and the U.S., earning a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) from the University of Memphis. His career has spanned teaching, performing, mentoring, and collaborating in academic and professional settings internationally, fostering a strong foundation in pedagogy, leadership, adaptability, and strategic thinking.

From 2013 to 2016, he was the founder and owner of Roma Musik, an online music bookstore and the only authorized dealership in Latin America for the most prestigious German music publishers.

Now transitioning into the business world, Daryl leverages his global perspective, analytical mindset, and creativity to develop innovative business solutions. At the Crews Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, he is eager to collaborate on startup initiatives, business development, and venture creation, applying his diverse and multicultural expertise to drive new ideas and impactful ventures.

Fluent in Spanish and English, Daryl brings an international mindset and a multidisciplinary approach to solving challenges in today's evolving business landscape. He hopes to support and collaborate with the team members at the Crews Center and with the University of Memphis community. Daryl strongly believes in assisting young professionals and in giving back to the community.

Samaneh Mohebalizadeh

Samaneh brings a wealth of expertise to the Crews Center for Entrepreneurship. With years of experience in entrepreneurial finance, specializing in banking and venture capital, she is dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs in strategic management and corporate development. Samaneh focuses on developing financial planning strategies, helping startups address challenges, and promoting financial literacy to support business growth. In addition to her industry experience, she has an academic background in entrepreneurial finance, teaching graduate students at the University of Memphis and contributing to entrepreneurship research through conference presentations and journal publications. She is committed to fostering innovation and financial acumen in the Crews Center.

She will serve as a Strategic Management Consultant at the Crews Center. Entrepreneurs can schedule appointments to meet with her and receive financial and business development advice for their startups.