This fall, Southwest Airlines sponsored Paul Quinn College’s participation in the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Entrepreneur Incubator Program. This initiative is designed to provide students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities with the tools, mentorship, and experiences they need to thrive as business leaders.
“We are deeply grateful to Southwest Airlines and WBENC for their continued belief in our students and their futures,” said Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College. “This program is an excellent example of how to prepare students for both graduation and life. Southwest continues to be the kind of partner every mission-driven institution hopes for – one that leads with heart and consistently delivers with purpose.”
Over the course of seven weeks, Paul Quinn students participated in immersive business workshops, received one-on-one mentorship from industry leaders, and engaged in networking opportunities with Southwest leaders, all of which connected classroom learning to real-world applications. The program culminated in a pitch competition, where students presented their business ideas to a panel of judges, including Amelia White, Corporate Responsibility Regional Manager for Southwest; Paul Quinn President, Dr. Michael J. Sorrell; WBENC representatives; and Dallas business leaders.
Students were recognized across four award categories, including top honors for pitch delivery, business acumen, audience engagement, and overall excellence. Awards ranged from $500 to $5,000 in recognition of entrepreneurial potential and demonstrated leadership throughout the program.
The Pitch Competition Award was presented to Trinity Williams, founder of 360 Vibes Official, a 360-photo booth rental company dedicated to creating immersive and memorable event experiences. Her business model includes expanding into a full-service creative studio, offering photo shoots, podcast recording, and collaborative spaces for entrepreneurs and creators. With her $5,000 cash prize, Trinity is one step closer to building a business where creativity meets community and where ideas come to life.
“WBENC is committed to building a pipeline of entrepreneurs by providing students with the resources, mentorship, and networks to turn ideas into thriving businesses. We are proud to partner with Southwest Airlines and Paul Quinn College to help prepare the next generation of business leaders,” said Tarrance Frierson, Senior Vice President, WBENC.
This program is part of a broader partnership between Southwest Airlines and Paul Quinn College.
As the official airline of Paul Quinn College in Southern Dallas, this partnership allowed us to expand opportunities, foster innovation, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
In addition to supporting entrepreneurial development, the partnership includes paid internships, mentoring, and networking with Southwest leaders, as well as round-trip flights for students, athletes, and faculty to further their academic and professional pursuits.
Together, we’re investing in tomorrow’s leaders and helping their ideas take flight!
