Pinky Cole, Derrick Hayes to Headline STEAM & Dream Summit MKE

Milwaukee is gearing up to host a significant event to inspire and educate its young minds. The STEAM & Dream Summit, scheduled for June 21, 2024, at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, promises to be an enriching experience for middle and high school students. Sponsored by American Family Insurance, this event will provide a unique opportunity for participants to engage in hands-on learning activities and gain valuable skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).

A Platform for Empowerment

The STEAM & Dream Summit aims to bridge the gap in access to quality STEAM education, particularly for underserved communities. In collaboration with the Young Enterprising Society, American Family Insurance has organized this event to equip young individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for future success. The summit will feature various interactive sessions, including exercises with drones, robots, artificial intelligence, financial planning, and credit repair. These sessions will be led by distinguished professionals and community leaders, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

Keynote Speakers: Pinky Cole and Derrick Hayes

A summit highlight will be the keynote address delivered by Pinky Cole and Derrick Hayes, a dynamic couple making waves in the culinary world. Pinky Cole, the founder of the popular vegan restaurant chain Slutty Vegan, and Derrick Hayes, the CEO of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, will share their entrepreneurial journeys and insights with the attendees. Their story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact.

Pinky Cole has transformed the vegan food industry with her creative approach and dedication to promoting plant-based diets. Her restaurant, Slutty Vegan, has become a sensation known for its delicious and uniquely named vegan burgers. Cole’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social causes have earned her recognition and accolades, including a spot on Time magazine’s 100 Next list.

Derrick Hayes, on the other hand, has built a successful brand with Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. His mouthwatering cheesesteaks have garnered a loyal following. Hayes’ dedication to his business and support for fellow entrepreneurs have made him a respected figure in the culinary industry.

A Partnership Rooted in Philanthropy

Beyond their business ventures, Cole and Hayes are known for their philanthropic efforts. Together, they have launched initiatives to support their communities and promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship. One notable project is the Square 1: The Liife Experience program, which aims to provide life insurance policies to Black men, address health disparities, and foster generational wealth.

Cole’s Pinky Cole Foundation has also made significant contributions, such as paying the tuition of 30 Clark Atlanta University seniors and gifting LLCs to graduates, encouraging them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. These efforts reflect their commitment to giving back and positively impacting society.

The Broader Impact of the Summit

The STEAM & Dream Summit is part of a larger effort to address educational and economic disparities. The event builds on the STEAM & Dream programming that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for better access to technology and STEM education. American Family Insurance has invested $1.5 million in Urban Future Centers, a collective of organizations dedicated to empowering communities through partnerships and resources.

For more details about the summit and to register, visit the event’s official Eventbrite page.