Jackson CEO

10/07/2026

Creating a great product takes plenty of experimentation, attention to detail, and a strong network of partners.

During last Thursday’s visit to Chilly Jilly's Ice Cream and Treats, owner Kevin talked with our students about developing his artisanal ice cream recipes and working with local businesses to source ingredients and create distinctive flavors.

Thank you, Kevin, for sharing the work and thought that go into every product!

10/06/2026

Strong businesses are built on strong relationships.

During last Tuesday’s visit to Cristina Pisoni - State Farm Agent, students learned how networking can create new opportunities and why it is important to build a trusted team of people who can offer support, guidance, and encouragement.

Thank you, Christina, for sharing your experiences and advice with Jackson CEO!

09/29/2026

Yesterday, Jackson CEO hit the road for a regional CEO event at Thrillhouse, joining students from seven other CEO programs for a day of learning and connecting!

Our students walked away with plenty of takeaways, from identifying your target audience and building customer personas to marketing effectively and crafting the perfect pitch. They also saw how businesses can make a positive impact on the communities around them and had the chance to meet and learn alongside other young entrepreneurs from across the region.

Thank you to Chris Egelston and Kasie Woodsworth for sharing their time, knowledge, and insights with our students!

A great day of new connections, fresh perspectives, and ideas our students can bring back to their own class business!

09/29/2026

09/24/2026

There's nothing quite like hearing from someone who has been in your shoes!

Thank you to Jackson CEO alum Emma Hanks for dropping in on Wednesday and taking the time to help our students practice their class business pitch. Her advice, feedback, and encouragement were greatly appreciated as our students prepare to put their hard work into action!

09/23/2026

What does it take to support a thriving small business community?

Yesterday, Jackson CEO board member and Carbondale Chamber of Commerce Director William Lo shared his perspective on the challenges small businesses face, how the Chamber helps them succeed, and why building meaningful connections matters.

Thank you, William, for sharing your knowledge and encouraging our students as they begin their own entrepreneurial journeys!

09/23/2026

Our Jackson CEO students have some new additions to their professional wardrobes! Thank you to the College of Business and Analytics at SIU for generously donating polos to our class. We are grateful for your support and commitment to helping our students grow as young professionals!

09/18/2026

“Fearless is being able to move forward, even when there is fear.”

Today, Jackson CEO tuned in to Fearless Founders with Kristen Hadeed, an entrepreneur, leadership speaker, founder of Student Maid, and author of Permission to Screw Up.

Kristen encouraged students to believe in themselves, give themselves grace as they learn, and view failure as an opportunity for growth. She reminded them that fear is often a sign that they are doing something they care about, and that failing means they are willing to try.

Thank you, Kristen, for sharing your story and such an honest, encouraging perspective on what it truly means to be fearless!

09/17/2026

Running a successful farm requires more than knowing how to work the land. It also requires strong financial knowledge, careful record keeping, and a willingness to adapt.

During today’s visit to G&J Tretter Farms, the family farm of Jackson CEO alum Josie Tretter, our students learned about the business side of agriculture, explored several types of farm equipment, and saw why staying current with new technology and industry developments is so important.

Thank you to G&J Tretter Farms for welcoming our students and providing such an informative and engaging morning!