Building a Business Through Community

Event Description
This workshop is going to explore and dive deeper into the question of why relationships, networking, and giving back have been some of the biggest drivers of business growth, and practical ways students can start building their own professional community.

About the Presenter
A former engineer turned web developer, Rachel McFadden is the co-founder and “left brain” of Drio, an award-winning women- and minority-owned agency focused on values-based website design and digital marketing. Their values-based approach has attracted clients like United Way of Central Maryland, University of Maryland, and Kaiser Permanente, and has been recognized through grants from Fearless Fund, Comcast Rise, and BGE Energizing Small Business. She also co-founded Monument Women’s Creative Alliance, a 400+ member network supporting Baltimore women creatives. A frequent speaker and panelist, Rachel is a proud advocate for women in STEM and creative fields.

Hazel Geary is the co-founder and right brain of Drio, an award winning women- and minority-owned agency delivering values-based website design and digital marketing strategies. Their values-based approach has attracted clients like United Way of Central Maryland, The Electrical Alliance, and Kaiser Permanente, and has been recognized through grants from Fearless Fund, Comcast Rise, and BGE Energizing Small Business. A natural connector, Hazel is also the co-founder of Monument Women’s Creative Alliance, a 400+ member group that supports Baltimore women creatives. She’s also a wife, mom of three and a tennis enthusiast. Fun fact: Hazel earned her B.A. in Marketing from Loyola University Maryland in 2003 and her MBA from LSU Shreveport in 2026.

The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI)
About the Workshops
The CEI hosts programming throughout the year aimed at fostering entrepreneurial learning and growth. Our weekly thinkUBator Workshop series is designed to equip CEI member companies with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need—whether it’s securing seed capital, finding strategic partners, building a team, or navigating marketing best practices—to turn their innovative ideas into successful ventures as swiftly as possible.

About the Center
The University of Baltimore’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) provides direct support and guidance to UB students and alumni who are seeking to start or grow a business. Through a blend of support services, educational programs, research initiatives, and connections to the business community, the CEI empowers entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. To learn more about how we can help you launch or scale your venture, visit us at www.ubalt.edu/cei.

Hybrid Event LocationJoin Zoom Meeting

Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI), BC 104, Merrick School of Business, University of Baltimore

In-person and virtual participation options available. We encourage in-person attendance.

https://ubalt.zoom.us/j/98496691729
Meeting ID: 984 9669 1729