About Us

Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship: Our Story

Since its inception, the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship (DKSOE) at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has nurtured innovators and change-makers in Southwest Florida. What started as a small initiative has blossomed into one of the region's most impactful programs, empowering students to become successful entrepreneurs with the skills, mindset, and community connections necessary to thrive.

Our Origins: The Vision of Empowerment
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The roots of the DKSOE trace back to FGCU’s early years when a need arose to cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit in the region. From its founding, FGCU has aligned with the mission of fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

Dr. Sandra Kauanui, the founding director of the school, played a pivotal role. Her tireless efforts and personal contributions, including donating her own salary to support scholarships and facilities, reflect the school’s mission of giving back. Through her guidance, the program grew from an idea into a respected academic institution.
Timeline of Key Milestones
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2014
- Entrepreneurship Minor Launched: FGCU introduced an entrepreneurship minor within the Lutgert College of Business, providing students from various majors the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship.
2016
- Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program Established: Launched to offer veterans free tuition to develop and pursue business ideas.
- Runway Program Introduced: A business incubator supporting student entrepreneurs.
2017
- Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Entrepreneurship Studies Launched: Promoted a multi-disciplinary approach to entrepreneurship.
- Entrepreneurship Becomes a Standalone School: Experiencing rapid growth, more than 900 students enrolled in entrepreneurship courses.
2018
- First FGCU Entrepreneurship Expo: Highlighted innovative startups by students.
2021
- Lucas Hall Opened: The new home of the School of Entrepreneurship, providing state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative spaces, and a makerspace.
2024
- William McDowell Appointed Dean: Bringing extensive experience in both academia and private business, Dean McDowell's leadership promises to guide the school toward continued growth and innovation.

Honoring the Visionaries Behind Lucas Hall

The Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship thrives thanks to the remarkable generosity of those who believed in our mission. We proudly recognize the donors whose contributions made the construction of Lucas Hall possible, creating a space where innovation, learning, and entrepreneurship flourish.

Among our most dedicated supporters are Frank and Ellen Daveler, David and Linda Lucas, and Brian and Kim Rist, whose leadership gifts inspired others to join our cause. We are also grateful for the generosity of FineMark National Bank and Trust, Youngquist Brothers, Inc., Dr. Sandra Kauanui, William and Eileen Kopp, Jefferey Provol, Fred and Elaine Hawkins, Ron and Marjorie Sidman, David and Joyce Arseneau, Rafael J. Feliciano, the Wynn Family, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co., P.A., Moorings Park Communities, Mark and Carolyn Ain, and William and Patricia Motzer.

Their collective support has transformed our vision into reality. With their help, Lucas Hall now stands as a beacon for future generations of entrepreneurs to grow, connect, and create lasting change.