LMU’s College of Business Administration, in partnership with the Office of the Vicar for Women Religious, Archdiocese of Los Angeles, has launched an innovative entrepreneurship training program to empower Catholic sisters in the greater Los Angeles area.
Developed by LMU faculty, including David Choi, Ph.D. and Alex Glosenberg, Ph.D., with contributions from Dominic Chai, S.J., Ph.D., the program equips Catholic sisters with entrepreneurial skills to strengthen their ministries, launch social enterprises, and drive meaningful change. It also fosters a sense of fellowship and mutual support among participants.
“We are honored to create a program for our Catholic sisters that blends entrepreneurial thinking with a commitment to service,” said David Choi, Conrad N. Hilton Chair of Entrepreneurship and director of the LMU Fred Kiesner Center for Entrepreneurship. “By providing these leaders with the tools to develop sustainable solutions to pressing social challenges, we are amplifying their impact in transformative ways.”
Twenty-two Catholic sisters from diverse religious orders convened on the LMU campus from March 7-9, providing a unique opportunity for inter-congregational exchange and reinforcing the importance of shared wisdom and collaboration in their ministries. Through a series of immersive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and practical business training, participants strengthened their skills in strategic planning, adaptability, and creating innovative and mission-driven solutions, while exchanging insights and experiences to enrich their collective mission.
“We are excited to host this dedicated group of sisters for a weekend of inspiration and growth,” said Dayle Smith, Ph.D., dean of LMU College of Business Administration. “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to delivering innovative and impactful programs that drive meaningful change in our community.”
The curriculum supports Catholic sisters in expanding their leadership and mission-driven efforts through initiatives that serve vulnerable populations, including education programs, community health services, and nonprofit ventures.
“Sisters have long been a vital presence in communities, serving as educators, caregivers, and advocates for those in need,” added Sr. Maria Carlos, E.I.N., Vicar for Women Religious. “This program strengthens our ability to respond to today’s challenges with creativity, sustainability, and faith-driven leadership. We are fortunate to have received support from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to help sisters expand their ministries and sustain their critical work. Without the grant, this program would not be possible.”
According to Dominic Chai, S.J., incoming associate dean for strategy and mission at LMU College of Business Administration, this program highlights the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to service. “It was inspiring to witness the sisters’ leadership, creativity, and dedication to those they serve,” he said. “Jesuit business education encourages us to cultivate leaders who act with discernment and purpose. We look forward to strengthening partnerships that expand this engagement and help build a more just and hopeful world.”
