Hampton, Va. (March 7, 2025)– Hampton University proudly announces that Drs. Farzaneh Soflaei and Daya Taylor from the School of Engineering, Architecture, and Aviation have been selected as VentureWell Ecosystem Futures Fellows for the inaugural 2025 cohort. This national fellowship recognizes faculty and higher education leaders dedicated to strengthening STEM innovation and entrepreneurship (I&E) ecosystems through the lens of environmental and social sustainability and inclusive innovation.
Soflaei and Taylor will join a distinguished cohort of 26 fellows from 18 institutions to develop bold strategies that translate STEM research into real-world impact. Their work will focus on A Cross-Disciplinary Approach to Empowering Minority Students in Environmental and Socially Responsible Entrepreneurship, driving institutional transformation and fostering inclusive innovation ecosystems.
“Hampton University has become a leading institution with faculty thought leaders in entrepreneurialship and innovation. My colleague, Dr. Farzaneh Soflaei, and I are passionate about pushing the boundaries of our current interdisciplinary collaborations on campus,” said Chairwoman and Associate Professor of Architecture Dr. Daya Taylor.
“Being selected to the inaugural Ecosystem Futures Fellowship 2025 Cohort gives us the opportunity to build an ecosystem in Coastal Virginia that supports architecture and sustainability.”
The Ecosystem Futures Fellowship, funded by The Lemelson Foundation, provides fellows with immersive programming, funding, and a vibrant community of practice to build long-term change in STEM ecosystems.
“At Hampton University, we take immense pride in our commitment to fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of leaders. The selection of our faculty for the Ecosystem Futures Fellowship underscores the caliber of talent within our community and our dedication to shaping the future of industries,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams.
“This opportunity is a testament to their hard work and vision, and we’re excited to support them as they continue to break boundaries and make meaningful contributions to the world.”
Learn more about the fellowship and the selected cohort: https://bit.ly/3XRr9sX
About Hampton University
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators, representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries regarding Hampton University, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations 757-727-5253.
