I’m proud to partner with SMU. I hope that, through this gift, the Cox School will be a positive driver for pioneering innovation and enterprising development across Dallas.
— William S. Spears, Founder and CEO of Cenergistic
Driving innovation
William S. Spears strengthens entrepreneurial leadership in
Dallas and beyond
Celebrated energy expert and philanthropist William S. Spears has made the largest gift by a non-alumnus in the history of SMU, a commitment that will establish the William S. Spears Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership in the Íæż½ã½ãCox School of Business. One of the largest gifts in the history of SMU, Spears’ investment will encourage business creation, leadership development and economic growth, strengthening areas that are critical to the future of the Dallas business economy.
“William Spears is renowned throughout the energy industry. His knowledge and dedication have led to innovations throughout the country,” said Íæż½ã½ãPresident R. Gerald Turner. “We are honored that he leveraged his ingenuity and purpose to champion our University’s faculty and students, bolstering the future of industry and discovery in Dallas.”
At the heart of the Spears Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership lies the Spears Accelerator, offering a range of support services and funding opportunities for the conception, creation and development of new businesses, services and products. Through external partnerships, the accelerator will help students, faculty and local industries strengthen their research and development processes – ultimately speeding the creation of valuable new products. Additionally, the accelerator will create new revenue streams for the University, benefiting its students, faculty and programs.
Expected impact
- Drive innovation in Dallas by supporting and investing in Íæż½ã½ãfaculty and students who start businesses.
- Generate new revenue streams through external partnerships with a variety of organizations and corporations.
- Spark original ideas by bringing to Dallas experts in business leadership from a wide variety of backgrounds.
- Bolster the success of outstanding students through financial assistance, practical learning opportunities and expanded internships.
“I’m proud to partner with Íæż½ã½ãfor this exciting new initiative, and I look forward to seeing the creativity and opportunities the Spears Institute will inspire throughout Dallas and beyond,” said Spears, Cenergistic founder and CEO. “I feel honored to be counted as a member of the Mustang community, and I hope that, through this gift, the Cox School will be a positive driver for pioneering innovation and enterprising development across Dallas.”
The Spears Institute will facilitate student success through new leadership programming, scholarships and internships for Íæż½ã½ãCox School of Business students. Unique, specialized curricula in the Spears Entrepreneurial Leadership Program for MBAs and BBAs will prepare students to become innovative corporate leaders through real-world experiences and academic coursework in areas such as new product and process development, and the generation of venture capital. The highly competitive Spears Scholars Program will attract and retain future leaders who will contribute to the economic vibrancy of the region. These meritorious undergraduate and MBA students will pursue their academic and professional goals in the North Texas business climate. Through the Spears Interns Program, the students will gain unique insights and opportunities for personal and pro