The Michael E. McPhee Lectureship in Engineering Entrepreneurship was established to strengthen the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within the College of Engineering by connecting students with accomplished UConn alumni entrepreneurs. The series provides students with opportunities to learn from real-world experiences, gain practical insights into entrepreneurship, and engage with alumni leaders who are driving innovation across industries. The lectureship also serves to build community, elevate the visibility of entrepreneurship at UConn, and strengthen connections among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.
Event Series
Kim Irving, Entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer
Kim Irving is an entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Minerva Cyber Technologies. As CEO, Irving leads the strategic direction and operations of a full-spectrum cybersecurity company that delivers innovative security solutions and services to government and commercial clients.Drawing from her experience leading a growing technology company in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity industry, Kim will share insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and building successful ventures.
Rashi Akki, Entrepreneur and Clean Energy Leader
Rashi Akki is an entrepreneur and clean energy leader who founded Ag-Grid Energy to turn agricultural and food waste into renewable energy. With a distinguished career spanning DuPont and the renewable energy sector, Akki combines technical expertise with entrepreneurial vision to create sustainable solutions with real-world impact.
Michael Cocuzza, Technology Executive
Technology executive focused on developing and bringing cutting edge technology products to market, with a proven track record of designing, developing, and commercializing products in multiple sectors including health care, power generation, and transportation. Cocuzza also brings experience in management, leading design teams, and applying innovation to corporate strategy. He has a successful history of fund raising for disruptive technology and bringing them to market from seed to Series A rounds.