UVA Darden’s Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Technology focuses on shaping the future through experiential education, cutting-edge research and perspectives and stories of innovative impact.
This year’s Darden DC Tech Connect brought current students, alumni and industry partners together for a day of networking and immersion. The event expands students’ understanding of the technology landscape in the Washington D.C. area through panels and chats.
Growing together
Alexander Merida, Executive MBA Class of 2023, shared a highlight of his experience.
“My biggest highlight from this year’s DC Tech Connect was experiencing the momentum of progress within the Darden community. It was inspiring to see fellow alumni launching innovative startups, scaling existing ventures, and driving change at major tech companies. While artificial intelligence was a central theme, what stood out was Darden’s progress to create a position as a technology hub. The event showcased how our community is actively shaping the future of tech, positioning Darden as a thought leader in this space.”
For Susan Singer, MBA Class of 2003, “the most meaningful highlight was connecting with students who are questioning whether to follow the traditional path or take a leap into something more aligned with their values and passions.
Several students approached me after my talk about founding Salura Health. I was struck by how many were wrestling with the same self-doubt I had (“I’m not a visionary person, I’m just tactical”). Being able to share that I’ve learned those assumptions about ourselves can be wrong – that we’re often braver and more capable than we believe – felt like a full-circle moment.
I also loved hearing from other alumnae about the diverse ways they’re building technology companies in DC. The range of problems being tackled, from healthcare to farm tech, reinforced why DC’s tech ecosystem is so vibrant and mission-driven.”
Community goes beyond graduation
Alys Herbert, MBA Class of 2026, shared why the DC Tech Connect event is so important for students.
“Part of what makes Darden so special is its engaged alumni community, whose commitment to the school continues well beyond graduation – something clearly reflected in the strong alumni turnout at DC Tech Connect.
It’s so important for students to attend events like this because you never know what new insight might spark interest in a company or career path you hadn’t previously considered. Hearing from alumni who have taken unique career journeys is invaluable, and connecting with other students who share similar interests helps strengthen the Darden community when we return to Grounds.”
Having the support to achieve your goals
Jeremy Dublon, Executive MBA Class of 2027, found a support system at Darden that allows him to grow personally and professionally.
“What makes Darden special to me is the belief the institution places in its students. As an EMBA student coming from medicine, it was a transition to think differently, let alone introduce myself by my first name.
Darden allowed me to jump into the business world with the proper tools and material before we even started real classes. The support from the career coaches has been completely unexpected and a real gem within Darden.
The professors and the makeup of the class are what makes me most proud to be a Darden student. The passion that comes from the professors and their investment in us as leaders is top notch. As our class progresses through the semesters, it’s very cool to see how people help each other outside of class to advance in their careers or even with personal things. It’s evident that Darden attracts great people and invests in them to eventually change the world.”
