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Empowering Creatives: SLU Hosts Inaugural SCALE Arts Conference

Saint Louis University and the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship recently hosted the inaugural SCALE Arts Conference at Il Monastero. In collaboration with the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Millikin University, this groundbreaking conference equipped student creatives and artists with essential skills and knowledge for launching and managing successful entrepreneurial careers.

A presenter speaks at the front of a room.

Muhammad "Mvstermind" Austin presenting at the SCALE Conference on February 23, 2024. Photo by Tyler Merkle. 

The SLU conference brought together a diverse array of speakers and panelists, each an expert in various aspects of creative business. Topics spanned the legal intricacies of running a creative enterprise, financial planning, branding, marketing and more.

Two presenters speak while the audience, seen from behind, looks on.
JerMarco Britton and Tracy Stanton presenting at the SCALE Conference on February 24, 2024. Photo by Tyler Merkle.

Day one of the conference kicked off with a keynote address from St. Louis' own Muhammad "Mvstermind" Austin. Over the two days, students had the opportunity to hear from 25 different presenters spread among 17 panels, workshops and presentations.

"We could not be more thrilled by the success of our inaugural SCALE conference," said Hayley Johnston, program manager for the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship. "The energy from over 80 passionate students and educators was not just inspiring but a testament to the vital need for such an event. Big kudos to our amazing collaborators and partners at UMKC and Millikin University; together, we turned our vision into a shared victory. We cannot wait to do it again next year in Kansas City."

Details for next year's conference can be found at scaleconference.art. The inaugural event's triumph marks the beginning of an exciting annual tradition aimed at empowering and guiding the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.

ABOUT THE RICHARD A. CHAIFETZ SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Founded in 1910, the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University has shaped the future of industry for more than a century. As one of the oldest business schools west of the Mississippi, the Chaifetz School has built a reputation as a leader in business education with eight undergraduate and graduate programs nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

ABOUT THE CHAIFETZ CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Founded in 1987, the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship is known for its innovative approach to entrepreneurship. We have been a national leader in developing and delivering innovative high school, college and community programs to promote entrepreneurship through education. Our nationally ranked programs promote economic growth by encompassing passion, compassion, planning and performance.