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Headshot of Macie Rice
I am passionate about entrepreneurship, innovation, and helping others grow their ideas into real-world impact. I currently serve as a Management Instructor and Project Coordinator for the Radford University Venture Lab, where I have the opportunity to support students as they explore business ideas, develop leadership skills, and engage with entrepreneurial thinking. One of my favorite aspects of this role is coordinating dynamic, high-impact events for students from all areas of campus. These events range from fireside chats with business leaders to innovation challenges and hands-on workshops that give students real experience in turning ideas into action. 
 
My background includes several years of experience in marketing, event planning, and strategic communication. I’ve created and implemented marketing strategies across digital platforms, helped plan and execute large-scale events, and led efforts to grow organizational visibility and engagement. I’ve also contributed to special projects that include research, grant writing, tourism promotion, and community development. These experiences have strengthened my ability to lead both independently and as part of a team, while balancing creative ideas with practical execution. 
 
I earned both my MBA and Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Radford University, where I deepened my interest in innovation, leadership, and the role of business in supporting vibrant communities. In addition to my academic background, I’ve completed certifications that continue to shape how I approach my work. I am proud to be a Truist Emerging Leader, and I’ve completed Experience Innovation training, which gives me tools to help others think creatively and problem-solve in meaningful ways. 
 
At my core, I love blending strategy, management, and communication with creativity—whether I’m teaching a class, facilitating a workshop, planning an event, or working one-on-one with students to help them grow their ideas. I believe that entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business; it’s about thinking differently, solving problems, and making a lasting impact. I’m especially drawn to work that brings people together and builds connections between campus, community, and industry. 
 
Being part of a growing culture of innovation and entrepreneurship is incredibly fulfilling, and I’m proud to contribute to a space where students are encouraged to take risks, explore new ideas, and grow into confident, capable leaders. 

Education

MBA, Radford University, Radford, VA  
BBA in Marketing, Radford University, Radford, VA  

Recent Research and Engagement

Steidle, S., & Rice, M. (2024, July). Generative AI: Board of Visitor perspective. Presentation at Radford University Board of Visitors Annual Retreat. (3.5-hour session)  
  
Steidle, S., Henderson, D. A., Rice, M., & Childers, J. S. (2024, March). Better understanding rural entrepreneurs: Comparing rural startup differences between Italy and Appalachia. Paper presented at the Appalachian Research in Business Symposium, Marshall University.  
  
Childers, J. S., Rice, M. L., Steidle, S. B., & Henderson, D. A. (2024, January 12). The P-ESG: A better strategic decision-making framework for rural entrepreneurs. Paper presented at USASBE 2024, Forging the Future Together, Virtual/Birmingham, AL.

Courses Taught

ENTR390, Applied Venture Lab   
MGNT101, Introduction to Business and Entrepreneurship 
MGNT 361 Managing Professional Communication and Negotiation

Publications - Journals

Steidle, S. B., Glass, C., Rice, M., & Henderson, D. A. (2024). Addressing wicked problems (SDGs) through community colleges: Leveraging entrepreneurial leadership for economic development post-COVID. Journal of the Knowledge Economy. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13132-024-01890-4