Drake University is committed to cultivating a dynamic learning environment where students and faculty alike are empowered to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of knowledge. That entrepreneurial spirit was on full display recently when both a Drake faculty member and a graduate student were named finalists in the 2024 John Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition.
Joy Clark, who is pursuing her Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) degree from the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, placed first in the John Pappajohn Student Entrepreneurial Competition. Dr. Alisa Drapeaux, assistant professor of health sciences in the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, placed seventh in the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Competition.
The John Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition was founded by John Pappajohn to help student entrepreneurs pursue business ideas while attending college in Iowa. More than $300,000 has been awarded to student entrepreneurs over the last 20 years. The two versions of the competition — one for students and one for professionals — are a collaborative effort among the Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers located at Drake University, Iowa State University, North Iowa Area Community College, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa.
Regain Orthotics: Affordable Prosthetics for All
Clark’s company, Regain Orthotics, was born out of her unique experience from time spent serving in the U.S. Army combined with her passion for occupational therapy. Regain Orthotics offers low-cost, functional prosthetics for individuals with above-elbow limb loss. Clark presented her company’s prototype prosthetic device, A.R.M., at the competition. Each A.R.M device is sold as a kit, designed for on-site fabrication without the need for a skilled prosthetist. This allows the end-user to customize, maintain, and repair their device with common materials.
“Our goal is to make prosthetics accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or financial situation,” explains Clark. “The A.R.M. device is designed to be affordable, customizable to individual needs, and simple to repair—even in areas with limited resources. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to regain mobility and independence, and we’re committed to making that a reality.”
At less than 1 percent of the cost of traditional prosthetics, the A.R.M. device is a game-changer for amputees worldwide. Its practical design and affordability make it a viable option for individuals in underserved communities and developing countries. Clark plans to use the Venture Competition award funds to help her balance her roles as a wife, mother, and student while continuing to grow Regain Orthotics.
TRI Medical, Inc.: Revolutionizing Spinal Care
Drapeaux’s company, TRI Medical, Inc., presented its innovative TRI Spine model, which is poised to transform the field of spinal care. Developed for students of physical therapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic medicine, the TRI Spine model provides a realistic and engaging way for students to learn essential manual mobilization and manipulation technique skills. The model also allows for hands-on experience within an academic or clinical setting while students are gaining confidence in diagnosing spinal conditions. This cutting-edge technology replicates spinal mobilization and manipulation, accurately identifying anatomical osseous structures and simulating forces applied to the spine.
“TRI Spine has the potential to revolutionize how we diagnose and treat spinal pathologies,” says Drapeaux. “This technology opens up exciting possibilities for research, education, and patient care. It allows us to visualize and interact with spinal mechanics in a way that wasn’t possible before. This enhanced understanding translates to more precise diagnoses and treatments, leading to better outcomes for patients.”
Clark and Drapeaux leveraged the wealth of resources available to them through Drake, including the Buchanan Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and the Drake Legal Clinic, to bring their concepts to reality. The Buchanan Center, housed in the Zimpleman College of Business, provides resources and mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers, fostering a culture of innovation within the Drake community. Drake’s Legal Clinic, housed in Drake Law School, allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to the representation of real clients in a first-class clinical setting. The clinic also serves the community by helping those who might not otherwise have access to legal assistance.
“I never imagined turning this into a business. I thought I would keep it within the academic realm, maybe a case study or a poster,” said Clark. “But the Buchanan Center opened my eyes to the possibilities. Their guidance and belief in the A.R.M. device gave me the confidence to think bigger and to see how many different types of people this could help.”
The success of Clark and Drapeaux in the Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition underscores Drake’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking. By providing resources and support to its students and faculty, Drake is helping to drive the next generation of groundbreaking ideas and businesses.