Lottie Byram: Venture Programs Manager
Lottie Byram is the Venture Programs Manager at the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship. In addition to running all of the student entrepreneurship programs, she supports and guides early-stage entrepreneurs across campus to dream big, to embody the courage and creativity of entrepreneurship, and to develop their ideas into viable ventures. Prior to joining the team in Fall 2019, Lottie led operations and evaluation at Circus Harmony, a social circus in St. Louis, Missouri dedicated to making social change through the teaching and performing of circus arts.
Lottie’s work as an entrepreneur, researcher, and project manager in violence prevention and social arts has taken her throughout the country and around the world. She is committed to empowering people from all walks of life to be well and achieve their highest potential. She holds an MPH from the George Washington University and a BA in Anthropology magna cum laude from the University of Georgia.
What excites you most about your job?
I really, really love to hear other people’s crazy ideas. The greatest moment is when someone’s crazy idea completely transforms their life, or the way they view the world and themselves in the best possible ways.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I do circus. Primarily, I like to hang upside from a dance trapeze and spin fire (not simultaneously, although we did give the idea a try once), and I also dabble in juggling and some really pathetic acrobalance. But I also have normal hobbies! I love to read, travel and spend time in nature.
If you could visit one place on earth, where would it be and why?
There’s too many places to choose from! I will say, the next place on my list is northern Africa, specifically Egypt and Morocco. Since I was a kid, I’ve secretly wanted to be Indiana Jones (with less explosions, etc) and I’ve been obsessed with the history, archaeology, architecture and art of this region.
What’s the most interesting thing you have in your office?
I am still getting settled in, so there’s not much that’s too interesting yet. However, I do have a kokedama! These are plants that do not need a pot, since their roots are all bundled up in a ball of soil and moss, which is held together with thread. The idea has its origins in Japan, and I love the simple beauty of its self-sufficiency.
If you could have dinner with one person (dead or alive), who would it be?
Paul Simon. I grew up with his songs and the length of his career is astounding. I’m curious to know about his inspiration and how he could keep coming up with such great, original, intriguing, and emotionally-spot-on music. My favorite album of his is Rhythm of the Saints, hands down.
What would your super power be?
I feel the most practical answer would be teleportation or magically-make-delicious-food-appear, but I have to confess, I’d choose the cliche flying. To feel the wind and soar above the world… it would be too beautiful to pass up.