iLEAD Academy junior Ava Webb is preparing to spend part of her summer exploring the business world after being selected for the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs.
The competitive statewide program focuses on innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship, making it a natural fit for Webb, whose future goals combine a love of animals with an interest in business.
“I’ve always wanted to be a vet,” she said. “I want to be a veterinarian and own my own clinic.”
That dream shaped her application to the program. Students were required to submit short-answer responses and a video explaining their goals, activities, and connection to business and entrepreneurship.
Webb highlighted the experience she has gained helping her father operate his two companies. Over the past two years, the 16-year-old junior has assisted with finances, paperwork, and office management.
“I’ve already started learning about the business side of things because I know that’s something that would help me if I want to own a veterinary office,” she said.
She hopes the program will teach her practical skills she can use in the future.
“Learning successful ways to run a business, getting contacts, and understanding how those connections can help me are some of the biggest things I’m hoping to gain,” she said.
iLEAD Academy Director Katie Ashcraft praised Ava for her willingness to step outside of the box and lead. “Ava is one of the most responsible and creative students I have had the privilege of working with,” Ashcraft said. “She consistently demonstrates initiative, leadership, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone to pursue new opportunities. I know she will be a tremendous asset to the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs, and I can't wait to see how this experience helps shape her future as a business owner. Ava has an incredibly bright future ahead of her!"
The program will take place at the University of Kentucky from June 20 through July 12. Webb admits the experience is both exciting and intimidating.
“It’s kind of exciting and scary,” she said.
Experiences through her years at iLead Academy have helped prepare her to step outside her comfort zone and work with new people.
“We started the first day not knowing anybody and had to work together on projects,” she said. “It helped push me out of my comfort zone.”
iLEAD Academy College and Career Coach Mollie Shirley added that, “This experience at the University of Kentucky will provide her with the practical business skills to eventually run her own veterinary clinic. Between this program and her upcoming vet co-op, I know her dedication and love for animals will take her very far,” Shirley said.
Carroll County Schools Superintendent Casey Jaynes also offered his congratulations to Ava. “With her ambition to own her own business in the future, GSE will provide her with advanced leadership skills that will set her up for success,” he said.
Webb is active in the HOSA executive team, National Honor Society at iLEAD and runs track for Carroll County High School. She also hopes to participate in a veterinary office co-op next school year.