The future of backcountry snowboarding may hinge on a breakthrough binding system developed by University of Utah mechanical engineering seniors and their startup, Queen SNOWWORKS. “Experienced backcountry snowboarders know the unique challenges we face compared to skiers,” said founder Logan Queen. “The gear often holds us back. That’s why we set out to change the […]
Tyler Cichelli, founder of Voodoo Pickleball and a business student at the University of Utah, is making the game more fun and affordable for all players. Cichelli’s vision took off when he and his buddies got into pickleball and couldn’t find any fun paddles. Everything they found for sale was expensive, and all the options […]
If you need a way to commemorate your most recent outdoor adventure, Roaming Heart is doing just that. Founded in 2018 by Audrey Tran, the Utah-based company sells vibrant stickers, apparel, and goods inspired by the outdoors. She enrolled in the Master of Business Creation program to grow and scale the company. “Our mission is […]
Kusi is a luxury brand with a heartfelt mission that extends far beyond profit margins. The company, with a name meaning “happiness” in Quechua, specializes in handcrafted products made from alpaca wool and has established itself in multiple markets across the United States during its five years of operation. The founder, Diana Siemens, who grew […]
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 […]
