Community Highlights: Meet Rose Lorenzo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rose Lorenzo.

Hi Rose, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Rose Lorenzo, most call me Dr. Rose, I would like to take just a few minutes to tell you, my story. Like most people, my journey to a college degree wasn’t easy nor was it fast.

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to go to law school. When I enrolled in college right after high school, I seemed to be on my way. Though, my plans changed when I got married after my freshman year and was soon expecting my first child.

Thus, College – and law school – would have to wait. As my third child graduated from high school, I knew the time was right for me to get back on track and re-enroll at the University of Phoenix.

Over the next several years, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice… then an MBA… and finally, last year, my doctorate – all from the University of Phoenix. And, yes, after earning each degree, I told my family that I was going to law school next. But life had other plans.

Today, I live near Raleigh, North Carolina, where I am proud to have my own company Lorenzo Financial which helps entrepreneurs create lasting businesses. My experience and the education I received from the University of Phoenix have given me the confidence and credibility to write a book on entrepreneurship and contribute to important educational organizations.

I am the co-founder and CEO of Hackathon Jr. a non-profit that teaches children to problem-solve with technology. Most recently I am establishing the i2O Entrepreneur and STEAM Academy a public charter high school that will focus on entrepreneurship and STEAM education.

Oh, and as for law school, I am currently enrolled at Abraham Lincoln University School of Law.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely was not a smooth road, there were multiple struggles along the way, from emotional issues to homelessness while raising three children.

Had to pick myself up and know that I needed to accomplish my goals for myself and my children.

The online environment for my education allowed me the flexibility to work, raise my family and get an education that allowed me to grow my business and start other businesses.

As you know, we’re big fans of Hackathon Jr. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’ve been privileged to be the co-founder of the non-profit Hackathon Jr. with three of my doctoral colleagues which began during my first-year residency at the University of Phoenix. Hackathon Jr. is a youth learning competition that encourages children ages 9 to 13 to get involved in STEM education.

Hackathon Jr.’s mission is rooted in providing children in under-represented communities, access, and equity to STEM education, therefore, leveling the playing field.

Also, the organization seeks to increase the emotional intelligence of the children who are immersed in technology through collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Encouraging the real-world application of technical skills with a focus on problem-solving.

Hackathon Jr. hosts events all over the United States, most recently due to COVID we were able to transition to virtual events, but now that we are able to start up in-person events, we will be hosting events in Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and California.

I am most proud of the mission Hackathon Jr. has in helping improve the emotional intelligence of children in technology through communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

Studies show that children who use technology have lower emotional intelligence than those who use limited amounts of technology. Additionally, I am proud that we serve a community of under-served or under-represented children and that we can provide access and opportunity to STEM education.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
I would say the mentors I had were professors I had at the University of Phoenix, my dissertation chair Dr. Les Huffman, those who supported my dream would be my family, my Hackathon Jr. partners, Dr. Deby Ranft, and Dr. Katie Perata, and Neal Morados, MBA.

The board members for Hackathon Jr are great supporters as well as organizations such as Vaco, the University of Phoenix, Duke Energy, Downtown Techies, Code.org, Google, AGEM & Consulting, and Perfect Find Realty, which support our mission and vision.

There are so many individuals that have supported my vision to help children and support those who are under-represented, their support comes from volunteering at events, donations, mentoring the kids, financial support, hosting fundraisers, and providing encouragement.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.hackathonjr.com
• Instagram: @hackathonjr
• Facebook: hackathonjr
• Youtube: hackathon jr