WAU Business Forum Empowers Students with Financial Literacy, Fintech Insight, and Entrepreneurial Strategy
Takoma Park, MD – Washington Adventist University (WAU) hosted a dynamic Business Forum on February 16 at 3:00 p.m. in the Student Activity Center, in partnership with the WAU Honors College and Athletics departments. The event brought together leaders in finance, fintech, entrepreneurship, and entertainment to equip students with practical strategies for wealth building, innovation, and career advancement. The forum emphasized financial literacy, disciplined wealth habits, emerging technology, and the importance of strategic networking.
The panel featured Chloé Dolsenhe, founder and principal managing director of Vantro Advisors; Michael Watyoka, business transformation consultant and finance professional; and Lance Christmas, founding member of The Training by Design Financial Agency. The discussion was moderated by filmmaker and entrepreneur Chad Morton.
Financial Education as the Foundation for Generational Wealth
A central theme of the forum was the importance of early financial education, particularly regarding life insurance as a wealth-building instrument. Panelists emphasized that purchasing life insurance at a young age optimizes cost efficiency while providing tax advantages and accessible cash value for long-term security.
Lance Christmas shared his personal experience of financial loss during the 2008 housing crisis and explained how understanding life insurance transformed his financial trajectory. He underscored the principle of “paying yourself first” by saving at least 10% of income consistently and encouraged students to view wealth building as a generational responsibility. He further stressed the importance of reviewing policy beneficiaries regularly and coordinating estate planning with trust attorneys to avoid probate complications.
Panelists also addressed misconceptions about financial tools within Black and Brown communities, noting that limited exposure to financial education often hinders long-term wealth creation. They urged students to seek licensed professionals and credible resources to build sound financial strategies.
Fintech, Crypto, and the Future of Financial Infrastructure
Chloé Dolsenhe provided a nuanced overview of the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrency and financial technology. She explained that regulatory shifts are enabling greater institutional adoption of crypto products while strengthening consumer protections. Banks are increasingly exploring stablecoin products and crypto-related services under new legal frameworks, offering expanded access and oversight.
Dolsenhe also highlighted how fintech companies have intentionally built products within underserved communities, helping address gaps left by traditional banking institutions. She cautioned students to approach crypto with education and discernment, describing it not merely as an investment vehicle but as a technological tool rooted in trust and infrastructure.
As founder of Vantro Advisors, Dolsenhe is widely recognized for advising investors, CEOs, and startup founders operating at the intersection of crypto, banking, and artificial intelligence. Her work centers on designing resilient infrastructure and regulatory awareness strategies that allow companies to scale responsibly.
Persistence, Networking, and Startup Growth
Entrepreneurship and career strategy were equally prominent topics. Michael Watyoka encouraged students to embrace persistence, sharing his journey through 76 job interviews before securing opportunities with major financial institutions. He emphasized identifying industry pain points, building cross-functional teams, and maintaining disciplined follow-up practices.
Watyoka, an MBA graduate of Washington Adventist University and finance professional who has worked with Fortune 500 institutions including Charles Schwab and UBS Wealth Management, reinforced the value of strategic networking and professional visibility. Panelists encouraged students to leverage LinkedIn for mentorship and outreach, noting that consistent engagement and follow-up can significantly increase career opportunities.
The forum also explored bootstrapping as a viable path for founders. Panelists noted that early funding often comes from personal savings, family, or angel investors before progressing to larger capital rounds. Students were advised to attend industry conferences and pitch competitions early while student access remains affordable.
Protecting Innovation and Intellectual Property
Addressing concerns about idea protection, Dolsenhe advised the early use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to safeguard intellectual property during the startup phase. Panelists encouraged thoughtful collaboration, emphasizing the balance between protecting innovation and seeking constructive feedback.
A Call to Discipline and Legacy
Throughout the forum, speakers reinforced the mindset necessary for long-term success: desire, determination, and discipline. Students were reminded that wealth building is not merely about income generation but about consistent habits, compound growth, and legacy planning.
The Business Forum reflected WAU’s commitment to equipping students with practical tools for leadership in finance, technology, entrepreneurship, and service. By bridging academic insight with real-world expertise, the event empowered students to build sustainable careers and create generational impact.