Vera Bradley co-founder to speak at Fresno State business luncheon

Representatives from the Vera Bradley company, including the co-founder, will discuss the importance of corporate culture and innovation to business success during a luncheon on Wednesday, April 20, at Fresno State.

The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. in the North Gym, Room 118 with Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, co-founder and chief creative officer, talking about her entrepreneurial journey and developing a strong corporate culture, spokeswoman Angelina Cano said. She also will highlight the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer, which has raised $25.7 million for research.

Robert Wallstrom, CEO and president, will discuss the importance of continual innovation to Vera Bradley’s long-term strategic growth plans, Cano said.

The luncheon is hosted by the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and is part of its Pay It Forward series, Cano said. The purpose of the series is to explore in-depth issues and allow for networking between Fresno State students and successful business professionals.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required and space is limited. Visit bit.ly/FSPayitForward to register or learn more.

This story was originally published April 14, 2016 at 9:47 PM with the headline "Vera Bradley co-founder to speak at Fresno State business luncheon."