UVA Batten has appointed Christine Mahoney, professor of public policy and politics, as its first Chief Innovation Officer. A seasoned entrepreneur, Mahoney launched Social Entrepreneurship at UVA (SE@UVA), which introduced new courses on social entrepreneurship, a minor, a concept competition and scholarships to work with social enterprises. She also hosts a variety of student activities that provide hands-on experiences in social innovation. 

“Christine’s vision and strategic approach will be invaluable as we continue to foster innovation, strengthen our relationships across the University, and create lasting impact in the communities we serve," said Batten Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Eileen Chou.

The announcement comes on the heels of UVA’s Fall Entrepreneurship Week, with multiple events bringing together the entrepreneurial community of the University and the greater Charlottesville area. A highlight among the week’s events was the ribbon-cutting on the University’s new entrepreneurship house, The Foundry, a unique hub that will provide UVA students with space to gather, work together on entrepreneurial challenges and exchange resources.