Drew Students Brave the Bear Den

Students pitch business, product, and investment ideas to panels of faculty and alums

Drew University hosted its biannual Bear Den, featuring more than 130 students pitching their business, product and investment ideas to panels of industry professionals and subject experts, including Drew faculty and alums.

Students from marketing, branding, entrepreneurship, investment, and finance courses presented their ideas to 30 panelists across 15 panels throughout Brothers College as part of their fall semester coursework.

The panelists provided feedback on the pitches, asking probing questions and offering critiques true to the respective industries.

Following the presentations, students and alums had an opportunity to meet for a networking session, discussing their projects and shared interests and subjects.

For students, Bear Den is a meaningful experience that provides real-world learning.

“This is my third Bear Den,” said Kate Rice C’26, who presented a watch/app idea called TrackTown USA. “Bear Den is a great opportunity for students to be creative and also develop a variety of skills like public speaking and communication which are vital in the business world.”

“Each time I participate in Bear Den, I’m reminded of how valuable the experience is,” added Marilynn Diaz C’26, who pitched Warm Wear, a clothing line with adjustable heating technology. “Every presentation leaves me with deeper insights, improved skills, and greater confidence.”

All participants survived the Bear Den no worse for wear, and came out of the experience with skills and connections to take with them.

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Originally posted on the Drew University website, November 2025