The Student Business Reports introduced several students who had the opportunity to take advantage of the Intern-scholarships offered by the Center for Entrepreneurship. David Bindrup of David’s Detailing, Inc., Kenrick Russell of Benrick Watches, and Ryan Janeway of Intermountain Paramedical Services, Inc., all began with a simple business plan and watched it grow. With help from mentors Steve Gibson and Jerry Nelson, they learned how to establish a successful, growing business. Several mentioned that they enjoyed "going to school and getting paid for it." Some realized quickly that they needed help regarding accounting, taxes, and marketing. Russell, a physical education major, stated that when it came to his website, it was on a "first-grade level." Through mentoring and advice from others, such as fathers, father-in-laws, and experts, they gradually learned the things needed to keep their business up and going. These students demonstrated an attitude of enduring to the end and the reports of their revenues showed this quality.

Another visitor was Steve Bills, son of founder Keath Bills. He is part of a CPA firm in the entertainment business. He assists those who have "lots of money but little financial sense." Some of the clients who have joined his firm include Jerry Bruckheimer, Ron Howard, Michael J. Fox, and Henry Winkler, a.k.a. "The Fonz."

After these presentations, we had an exciting opportunity to hear from two of our Founders. James Ritchie, president of Ritchie Enterprises, had a profound speech on three things that were mentioned by Elder David B. Haight of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in a talk from 1964. He found great inspiration in the advice to get an education, make your mark on the world, and being prepared to be used by the Lord. He cautioned us to leave the things of the world behind and be of service in the Church. The great wealth of the world is the growth of the Church. He used this advice for himself. He forgot about the worldly things and served six missions to various parts of the world, including Africa, the South Pacific, and New Zealand. Overcoming many trials and obstacles in his youth, such as polio and stuttering, he owes his success to one man who encouraged him to be a little better and to make his mark on the world.

James Sheffield and wife Lynda Sheffield recently returned home from the Jackson Mississippi Mission where they were serving as the mission president and wife. Brother Sheffield mentioned many things that are similar in nature between being the mission president and an entrepreneur. First, there are always problems. However, throughout these problems, they are there to strengthen and build. Secondly, they have freedom to make things happen. With power and honor and reliance on the Lord, they have the ability to do anything. Lastly, they make a difference. It is their responsibility to Learn, Earn, and Return—the Center for Entrepreneurship’s motto.

These speakers left a spirit present when they finished speaking. May we remember their advice and provide a way to help others by using their counsel.