Abigail Van Gelder named new Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship

Since its inception in 2012, the Center for Entrepreneurship has allowed students to explore their innovative ideas within the Oregon startup ecosystem. However, many of the opportunities provided by the Center for Entrepreneurship for the last ten years would not have been possible without the help of all our staff.

After joining the team early 2021, Abigail Van Gelder has been one of the center’s critical staff members. Originally from Illinois, she graduated from Western Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication. Followed by a Master in Science from Southern New Hampshire University. She joined PSU after more than a decade of creating engaging and educational events for institutions and companies across North America. Her agency work can be seen in the Library of Congress Gateway to Knowledge Tour, Smithsonian’s Animal Connections and working with the Tillamook to support their national market expansions.

She brings with her expertise in crafting engaging experiences and a passion for supporting entrepreneurs. During her time at PSU, Abigail has supported various events and projects. From Kickstart Weekend to Invent Oregon, Abigail has managed the center’s events and led the efforts to support students through the innovation process. She has also been the Managing Director of Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program at PSU, a middle school innovation camp.

We are happy to announce Abigail’s transition into her new role, Director of the PSU Center for Entrepreneurship.  Please join us in congratulating her on her new role. With her strong leadership and experience, we are excited to see where she takes the Center for Entrepreneurship.