For Mila Pimentel, founder of SWYM and an art student at the University of Utah, the ocean has always been home. Growing up in Hawai‘i, swimwear wasn’t just a wardrobe essential, it was part of her identity. But as she got older, she noticed something that didn’t sit right: high-quality swimsuits were priced like luxury […]
In a world flooded with synthetic and harmful products, Salt City Soapworks is building a skincare company rooted in science, sustainability, and a whole lot of Utah salt and beeswax. Founded by former geophysicist Lauren Tyson, the Salt Lake City-based brand blends her scientific insight with a deep appreciation for natural ingredients. “I want our […]
What began as a high school hobby is shaping up to be one of the freshest fragrance startups to emerge from the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute at the University of Utah. Malabar, founded by Calder Stratford, Marshall Moorehead, and Tenney Palmer, is redefining what it means to wear scent in a conscious, modern way. The three […]
How can students help create “College Town Magic” at the University of Utah? For Rosie Coleman and Rachel Clark, third-year multi-disciplinary design students, the answer lies in reimagining student wellness through design. “College Town Magic” is a term coined to describe the University of Utah’s long-term vision to create a more welcoming and engaging college […]
“Student Innovation at the U” is an annual publication celebrating student innovation and impact at the University of Utah. A digital version is available at lassonde.utah.edu/studentinnovation2026. This publication is produced by the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, an interdisciplinary division of the David Eccles School of Business and the hub for student entrepreneurs and innovators at the […]
Welcome to the 2026 edition of “Student Innovation at the U.” The students featured on these pages are proof that curiosity, courage, and a drive to make the world better are alive and thriving on our campus. At the University of Utah, we believe that a great education is just the beginning. Students here don’t […]
As a kid growing up in Salt Lake City, Garrett Petersen was always building something. In addition to his creativity, Petersen has always had a drive to help others. Over the past decade, Petersen has translated these passions into video and photo production, and now into Visibylity, a creative marketing partner for small- to medium-sized […]
When former Navy rescue swimmer Ryan Siner found himself depending on unreliable equipment during high-risk missions, he set out to fix the system that failed him. Years later, his experiences drove the creation of Aldrich Dynamics, a company dedicated to ensuring government agencies, hospitals, and essential workers will always have access to dependable equipment. “We […]
Growing up in a farming household in Nigeria, Gabriel Eze saw how the livelihood of Nigerian farmers has decreased over time as food prices have skyrocketed. Determined to help farmers maximize the potential of their soil and better support themselves, Eze created Rural Farmers Hub: Decision-Ready Data and Insights for Farmers. In developing a solution to […]
As a participant in the University of Utah’s Master of Business Creation (MBC) Global program, Oluwatobiloba Akinrimisi is using her background and personal experiences to build Fave Bhite Foods, a healthy local snack brand rooted in Nigerian tradition. Growing up, sweets and processed foods surrounded Akinrimisi, but her grandmother often warned her about the dangers of […]
