Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship Re-Launches Hall of Fame

The Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship at Saint Louis University inducted its two newest Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame Members at a dinner on Friday, Oct. 13, at the Chaifetz School of Business. The event marked the relaunch of the Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame, including an all-new, dynamic hall of fame area within the school. 

The ceremony recognized exceptional entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the entrepreneurial landscape at Saint Louis University and in the greater St. Louis region, in addition to honoring two up-and-coming entrepreneurs with special awards.

The 2023 Hall of Fame inductees are Joe Koenig and Meghan Gaffney.

Koenig graduated from the Chaifetz School of Business in 1987 with a finance degree. As the president of World Wide Technology, he brings over three decades of experience in information technology, sales, marketing, and project management. His commitment to charitable organizations, such as Boys Hope Girls Hope and CEOs Against Cancer–St. Louis, exemplifies his dedication to creating a positive impact.

"I’m very humbled and very honored to have my name associated with so many other great names out there, but I also have to realize that my journey was a team sport, and I just want to thank all the people that have been alongside of me, pushing me, guiding me, mentoring me, coaching me, and they all have made me who I am today,” Koenig said. “I’m just very proud to be a part of it."

Gaffney, a SLU political science alumna, is the founder and CEO of Veda, an innovative platform utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning to expedite patients' access to healthcare, reduce financial inefficiencies, and foster healthcare innovation. Gaffney's background in political science and her advocacy for AI and machine learning have earned her numerous entrepreneurial awards. 

"Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is an incredible invitation to reconnect with a place that taught me how to think,” Gaffney said. “I value my time at SLU, and I see it as a jumping-off point in my ability to give back as a successful entrepreneur and hopefully inspire the next generation of business leaders."

In addition to the Hall of Fame inductees, the Chaifetz Center also celebrated two other exceptional individuals during the event: Firaol Ahmed, founder of Moii Coffee, received the Student Entrepreneur of the Year award, while Luis Manta, founder of Seoul Juice, was honored as the Young Alumni Entrepreneur of the Year.

Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship Executive Director Lewis Sheats expressed appreciation for everyone who attended the event, and excitement for the relaunch of the Hall of Fame program.

“The Chaifetz School of Business is the place where mission meets the market, and recognizing local entrepreneurs who’ve built on their education at Saint Louis University to spur growth in their local economy, innovate in their industry and give back to the community showcases how that becomes a reality,” Sheats said. “This program and the recognition it provides will give our students great examples and mentors for years to come.”

Founded in 1910, the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at Saint Louis University has shaped the future of industry for more than a century. As one of the oldest business schools west of the Mississippi, the Chaifetz School has built a reputation as a leader in business education with eight undergraduate and graduate programs nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Founded in 1987, the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship is known for its innovative approach to entrepreneurship. We have been a national leader in developing and delivering innovative high school, college and community programs to promote entrepreneurship through education. Our nationally ranked programs promote economic growth by encompassing passion, compassion, planning and performance.