Darden

Darden is an Assistant Professor at Western Carolina University's College of Business, specializing in entrepreneurship and research methodology. Their work focuses on social entrepreneurial intention, socio-political activism, and challenges faced by marginalized entrepreneurial groups, particularly LGBTQIA+ communities. They emphasize bridging academic research with real-world business applications through critical thinking and problem-solving.

• Education:
• DBA, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
• MBA, Fayetteville State University
• MA and BS, Appalachian State University

Research interests include LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, emotional wellbeing in marginalized groups, venture creation, opportunity recognition, and US banking policy. Teaching focuses on entrepreneurship, gender studies in business, and practical business execution strategies.