DECATUR, IL — Millikin University is pleased to announce the appointment of Julienne Shields as the new Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship. Shields, a respected figure in entrepreneurship education, returns to Millikin with extensive experience in developing entrepreneurial initiatives and fostering innovation. Shields returns to the position she held from 2013 to 2020, following Dr. Sara Theis stepping down after last semester.
Building on her previous contributions to Millikin, Shields brings a valuable perspective from nearly five years of establishing strategic relationships with entrepreneurship leaders and educators across national and global networks as the CEO of the U.S. Association for Small Business & Entrepreneurship. An entrepreneur herself, she recently launched an international consulting firm, Global Experiential Opportunities Group, LLC, to develop practical entrepreneurial competencies for educators and entrepreneurs worldwide. She also serves on the board of the Society for Arts Entrepreneurship Education.
"We are thrilled to welcome Julienne back to the Millikin community and are excited for her to continue the vision of the Center for Entrepreneurship," said RJ Podeschi, Dean of the Tabor School of Business. "Millikin’s students and faculty will benefit from her expertise in entrepreneurship education. In addition, she has built an impressive network of entrepreneurial leaders that will help improve our connection to the local and global communities."
As Director, Shields will focus on expanding entrepreneurial opportunities for students while fostering deeper connections between the university and Central Illinois' business community. Her appointment reflects Millikin's ongoing dedication to cultivating a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem through Performance Learning.
"I am excited to return to Millikin and contribute to its entrepreneurial vision," said Shields. "The Center for Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in preparing students for success while serving as a catalyst for innovation in our community. I look forward to building upon its strong foundation and creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth."
