Student Experiences
Catherine "Laney" Whitcanack
Simmons MBA '06 and Certificate Program '07
A social entrepreneur, Laney Whitcanack co-founded The Princess Project, a volunteer-powered non-profit organization that works with thousands of women and girls every year. In starting this venture, she gained first-hand experience about the scarcity of good (and cheap) technology to support grassroots community groups. Laney is a former Program Director, Facilitator and Fellow for the Coro Center for Civic Leadership where she spent several years coaching and training leaders from businesses, government agencies and community-based organizations across California.
After graduate from the Entrepreneurship Certificate Program, Laney co-founded Big Tent, an internet based networking product for the non-profit sphere. The company enables volunteer group leaders to manage and organize online communication and activities through an efficient and engaging 24x7 online connection. Big Tent has won one round of venture financing and is now in growth mode.
My experience at Simmons helped me to identify my passion for entrepreneurship. Throughout my career, I have unconsciously craved and created entrepreneurial opportunities for myself in various positions. Through my Simmons education, I have gained incredible confidence in my ability to lead entrepreneurial efforts. The Certificate Program provided a unique and dynamic space for me to reflect on my experiences and learn through the coursework and practicum as well as the amazing resources related to entrepreneurship.