William and Rita Fitzgerald Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies

In 1995, a generous gift from William and Rita Fitzgerald created the Fitzgerald Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies in the College of Business Administration. The mission of the Fitzgerald Institute is to promote entrepreneurial spirit and practices essential to the flourishing of free enterprise; instruct students and the community on entrepreneurship and provide relevant research, knowledge and tools for effective entrepreneurial participation in a free enterprise system; and facilitate new and emerging business development for the greater University of Akron community. The Institute emphasizes “experiential learning” through cooperation between industry, government, and academia in the pursuit of economic development for Northeast Ohio, the United States and the international community.

Website: William and Rita Fitzgerald Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies