THROUGH THE LENS

In October, Frontlines in America students ventured into the misty Appalachian coalfields, engaging with local entrepreneurs and supporting the economic efforts of the region through their partnership with Coalfield Development. This diverse team, including four MBAs and a law student, evaluated applicants for a seed fund established by the 2023 FIA group, contributing to the initiative aimed at fostering economic stability in communities grappling with poverty and exclusion. The work is part of the Meyer Business on the Frontlines program, emphasizing social entrepreneurship and community impact.

Published
A group of seven people poses with a University of Notre Dame flag against a scenic mountain backdrop.

West Virginia Coalfields

A highway disappears into mist and trees in the Appalachian mountains.


Misty Appalachian mornings greeted Frontlines in America (FIA) students while they traversed the region in October. The team visited local entrepreneurs as part of their work with partner organization Coalfield Development. The four MBAs, a Notre Dame Law student and two alumni advisors were one of three FIA teams exploring economic stability in U.S. communities affected by poverty, violence and exclusion. Coalfield asked the students to assist with the evaluation of dozens of social entrepreneur applicants for a seed fund that the 2023 FIA team helped them establish. Frontlines in America is part of the Meyer Business on the Frontlines program.

Photos by Matt Cashore (ND '94)

Type
Magazine
Magazine Issue
Spring 2024

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