​The Yale INSPIRE Speaker Series is presented by Tsai CITY in partnership with the Yale Entrepreneurial Society (YES). It's intention is to inspire current Yale students through learning about the entrepreneurial mindset of founders, creatives, designers, and other innovators.

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​Stuart Weitzman, Founder of Stuart Weitzman Shoes

​Stuart Weitzman’s passion for design has been a lifelong pursuit, leading to the internationally renowned company that bears his name. He has been honored extensively for his unique approach to entrepreneurship, and for his uncompromising commitment to prioritizing function as an integral element of fashion. 

​His shoes have dominated red carpet events for many years and are worn by celebrity fans around the world. Beyoncé, Kate Middleton, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, and Jennifer Lopez are just a few who are regularly seen in his designs, along with millions of other women in over 70 countries.

​Weitzman approaches his extensive charitable endeavors with equal commitment. Among these are his ongoing support for a wide range of hospitals and medical research centers, youth and sports organizations, cultural institutions and museums.   He regularly mentors students on their entrepreneurial and design aspirations at several universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, Yale, Dartmouth, Rice, Stanford, University of Chicago and the London Business School. He is a graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where the university has honored him by renaming their design and architecture school the Stuart Weitzman School of Design.

​During his free time you may find him on the tennis court or at the ping-pong table. If you’ve got a racket, he’ll welcome the challenge.