Missouri’s Hannibal. A $7,000 gift from the George H. Riedel Foundation will aid in the training and education of upcoming corporate executives.
In its third year, the Hannibal Area Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities (CEO) initiative unites local schools and corporate communities to provide students with project-based learning opportunities. Funding, experience, meeting space, business excursions, and one-on-one coaching are all advantages for participants.
According to a news statement from CEO chairperson Maria Kuhns, students visit local companies, listen to guest speakers, take part in a class project, prepare business plans, and launch and run their own companies. In addition to building relationships with other local professionals, it helps the students comprehend the community’s advantages and strengths, letting them know that Hannibal has a lot to offer whether they decide to stay or return.
Kendel Locke, who has experience running a business in the community, is the new CEO facilitator. The young businessman who founded Hula Bowls, which has locations in Quincy and Hannibal, is Locke. She recently received a degree from the University of Tennessee’s business school and graduated from Hannibal High School in 2022.
In his role as CEO facilitator, Locke will be in charge of organizing class days, arranging speakers and corporate visits, running the mentorship program, liaising with the board, and assisting students in starting their own companies.
“I know how important local connections and support can be because I grew up here in Hannibal and started my own business here,” Locke said. I’m thrilled to assist students in gaining practical experience and learning about the opportunities that Hannibal has to offer.
The local CEO program was established in large part thanks to the Riedel Foundation. Trustees granted $17,500 in 2022 to support the initiative’s localization. Every year, the kids have also had meetings with the administrator of the Riedel Foundation to discuss philanthropy and community service.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Riedel Foundation has given awards totaling about $7.5 million to charitable organizations that assist the people of Hannibal.
