SOCIETAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABILITY LUNCHEON Entrepreneurship Week concluded with a sustainability and societal impact panel, which featured Chris Flynn, Jon Escueta, Murtaza Jaffer, and Renée Baran. Chris is the owner of Energy Transfer Services, LLC. Jon is the founder of City Cuts Barbershop, located on Kutztown’s Main Street. Murtaza is the owner of EBC Printing & Signs. Renée is the Dean of Education at Rodale Institute. COMMUNITY IMPACT Jon’s passion for community outreach began with his time in different barber shops when he was an apprentice. “I wanted a space that was so much more than a barber shop.” Through his “Books for Kids” program, young customers are given $3 for reading a book while they sit in the barbers chair and receive a haircut. Renée spoke about Rodale’s impact on the community of farmers near the area. “We invite farmers and local students to visit our campus, which promotes our regenerative farming education.” Chris says curiosity prompted him to investigate renewable energy sources when starting his business. “I was curious about how energy conservation can transform a local economy.” “Community is a way of life,” said Murtaza. “Giving back comes naturally to me.” Murtaza explained his own upbringing and the people who took chances on him, and always wants to forward those same opportunities to others. LESSONS IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP Prior to her role with Rodale, Renée worked with Lehigh University’s entrepreneurship programs. “We’ve got to rethink the definition of failure; it’s just a different opportunity. Entrepreneurship is never a linear path, and for every letdown there is a future success.” Murtaza explained how his career led to entrepreneurship and owning his business. “I took a chance and put in my two weeks’ notice at a stable job, which is one of the toughest decisions of my life. And I never looked back.” Jon always operates with a “Why not?” mentality, which has paid off in his business ventures. “Anybody can come into my barber shop, and no matter who they are, we treat you with respect.” Chris offered some key insights into the struggles of entrepreneurship. “When you’re an entrepreneur, you’re going to strike out a lot. But when you see an opportunity, you’ve got to go and chase it.” Chris Flynn Renewable energy leader, professor, and entrepreneur driving sustainable solutions in energy development and education Murtaza Jaffer Co-owner of EBC Printing & Signs, dedicated to quality printing, community support, and sustainable business solutions Renée Baran Dean of Education at Rodale Institute and passionate about education, leadership, and regenerative organic agriculture Jon Escueta Owner of City Cuts Barbershop, empowers youth through literacy and mentorship—one haircut at a time SPRING 2025 | 29
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzcxOTE=