VBA CEO Jaee Blue Named Student Entrepreneur of the Year

Chancellor Kristin Sobolik (left) and Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center Director Scott Morris (second from left) pose with this year’s Entrepreneur of the Year winners (from left) Charli Cooksey, Jaee Blue, Angela Garland and Ben Molina, and UMSL alum Peter A. Racen. (Photos by Derik Holtmann)

Celebrating Leadership, Impact, and What’s Possible

VBA is proud to announce that our CEO, Jaee Blue, has been honored as the Student Entrepreneur of the Year at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. This recognition highlights her dedication to the entrepreneurial community and the vision she brings to founders at every stage of their journey.

A Moment of Recognition — and a Reflection of Purpose

The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and measurable impact. For Jaee, it represents far more than a personal milestone. It reflects the core of what VBA stands for: empowering entrepreneurs with clarity, confidence, and community.

During the ceremony, Jaee shared:

“I’m grateful for my team and our VBA members. We inspire each other to keep moving, keep growing, and keep doing.”

Leading by Example

At VBA, we believe entrepreneurship isn’t just a path, it’s a lifestyle of resilience, creativity, and continuous growth. Jaee’s achievement reinforces the message she gives to every entrepreneur we serve:

Your vision is worth pursuing, and your growth is worth investing in.

Her journey demonstrates the importance of showing up consistently and building a support system that lifts as it climbs.

What This Means for the Future of VBA

This recognition energizes our mission even more. As we continue to expand our impact across entrepreneurship, community development, and education, this award serves as a reminder that the work we do matters deeply.

VBA’s commitment remains the same:

• Empower entrepreneurs with direction and structure

• Provide tools and support that simplify their business journey

• Build a community that inspires action and sustainable growth

A Community Achievement

Awards reflect effort; but they also reflect community. This win is shared with our entire VBA network: our members, our team, and every entrepreneur who chooses to believe in what they’re building.

Together, we’re proving that when passion meets structure, incredible things happen.