Entrepreneur Magazine Editor in Chief Shares Insights on Leadership, Innovation, and Adaptability
Pictured: Jason Feifer (left) points to Dr. Quinton Morris’ (right) personally signed book copy of his book, Build for Tomorrow
On June 9, Key to Change welcomed Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur magazine, bestselling author, podcast host, and nationally recognized voice on entrepreneurship and innovation, for the seventh installment of the organization’s Inspiring Possibilities Series.
The event brought together a standing-room-only audience of students, parents, educators, nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members for an evening of thoughtful conversation focused on leadership, resilience, creativity, and navigating change in an increasingly complex world.
The program opened with a solo performance by Key to Change violist Tyree Carr III. Earlier this spring, Tyree was featured as a soloist with the University of Washington Philharmonia Campus Orchestra after winning the 2026 Key to Change Concerto Competition. His performance provided a fitting introduction to an evening centered on personal growth, excellence, and the pursuit of opportunity.
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognize several students for a significant academic achievement. Key to Change students Chris Ramirez-Eligio, Justice Johnson, and Avi Spillers were acknowledged for their acceptance into the Secondary School Program at Harvard University. The students will travel to Cambridge next week to participate in the seven-week residential academic program, marking the beginning of a new partnership between Key to Change and Harvard University. Their selection reflects not only their academic accomplishments, but also their commitment to excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
Following the performance, Dr. Quinton Morris, Executive Director & Founder of Key to Change, engaged Feifer in a wide-ranging conversation that explored themes of entrepreneurship, identity, leadership, creativity, and personal development. Drawing on years of experience interviewing founders, executives, artists, and innovators from across the country, Feifer shared lessons about adapting to change, embracing uncertainty, and recognizing opportunity in unexpected places.
Throughout the discussion, Feifer challenged conventional assumptions about success and failure. He encouraged audience members to view setbacks not as indicators of defeat, but as valuable sources of information that can guide future growth and decision-making. His observations resonated with students and adults alike, offering a practical framework for navigating challenges in both professional and personal settings.
A central theme of the evening was the relationship between creativity and entrepreneurship. Feifer described entrepreneurship not simply as the act of starting a business, but as a way of thinking that emphasizes curiosity, problem solving, adaptability, and the willingness to pursue new possibilities. For the many young musicians in attendance, his message reinforced the idea that the skills developed through artistic study, including discipline, resilience, preparation, and perseverance, are equally valuable in leadership and professional environments.
The audience remained deeply engaged throughout the program, with many guests taking notes and reflecting on how the conversation related to their own aspirations and experiences. Questions explored topics ranging from finding one’s voice and developing confidence to leading through change and building organizations capable of long-term impact.
Following the formal program, each attendee received a complimentary copy of Feifer’s acclaimed book, Build for Tomorrow. Feifer remained afterward to autograph books and speak individually with guests, extending the conversation and creating opportunities for meaningful personal connection.
The Inspiring Possibilities Series was created to expose students and community members to accomplished leaders whose experiences can broaden perspectives and inspire future achievement. By bringing nationally recognized innovators and thought leaders into direct conversation with students and families, Key to Change seeks to demonstrate the many pathways through which leadership, creativity, and service can make a lasting difference.
Feifer’s visit exemplified that mission. His insights offered both practical guidance and encouragement, reminding attendees that growth often requires embracing uncertainty, remaining adaptable, and continuing to learn throughout one’s life and career.
As guests departed with signed copies of Build for Tomorrow in hand, many left with something equally valuable: a renewed sense of possibility about what they can achieve and the role they can play in shaping the future.
For Key to Change students, families, and supporters, the evening served as a powerful reminder that leadership is not defined solely by position or title, but by the willingness to remain curious, embrace change, and create opportunities for others.
