By STEPHEN POORMAN

A West Virginia client requested that I accompany his granddaughter on a recent Sunday tour of Lock Haven University.

The family arrived and I was proud to show them both the city and the campus.

They were clearly impressed with the beauty of the area and the LHU facilities.

They heard how friendly the people of Lock Haven are, and from a student, how LHU professors are extremely caring and helpful.

Many universities are just beginning to offer entrepreneurship programs. LHU has been ahead of that thrust for years.

It is now marketing its College of Business to bring more young people into our area.

As a college senior, I visited the President of my alma mater to express the need for more mentor programs, guest lectures and field trips to gain a better insight to the world of business.

LHU now offers all of these initiatives.

Entrepreneurship education can benefit both students, regardless of their field of study, as well as existing business owners.

It allows people access to more creative opportunities and control over their destiny.

So, what does this mean to you?

Having lectured to university students as far away as Alabama, and consulted with many small business owners, I find that many possess the ability to generate revenue — but are perplexed with taxes, finances and accounting.

Local business owners can now study marketing, accounting and other subjects.

Local businesses can also mentor and hire students to work and learn in their company. What an amazing resource right here in our backyard!

If you’re a local business person, you will soon have a unique opportunity to share your knowledge with graduating business students at the LHU Student Reception on Thursday, Oct. 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

This reception provides an opportunity for senior students to network with local business people and apply interpersonal and social skills.

It is a valuable learning opportunity that students may not be afforded during academic studies.

It will improve their confidence, skill, and ability to interact comfortably in a professional networking environment.

Place this date on your calendar now. Stop into the Durrwachter Alumni Center, have some refreshments and engage these young people in a conversation.

This could be one of the most rewarding encounters of your career.

The time and knowledge you share is a gift that only those with real world experience can give. And, they’re hungry for advice. Witness for yourself the enthusiasm of these bright young people who will soon step into a competitive world. Encourage and help them to be prepared.

The young woman I met last week sent this card: “Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to guide my family and I on a personalized tour of Lock Haven University and the town. Thank you for lunch. We enjoyed spending time and getting to know you. Your kindness and generosity is greatly appreciated.”

There just isn’t anything more rewarding than guiding young people.

Students will be waiting to meet you on Thursday, Oct. 18, at 5:30 p.m.

Will you attend the student reception? Will you share your wisdom?