Mount St. Mary's University Celebrates Student Entrepreneurs at 2026 Loiello Pitch Competition
Mount St. Mary's University Recognizes Student Entrepreneur Winners at the 2026 Loiello Pitch Competition
BenzingaImage: Benzinga
Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, hosted the 2026 Loiello Pitch Competition, awarding a total prize pool of $7,500 to student entrepreneurs. Morgan Ortega won the grand prize of $6,000 for her tea brand, Chalm Tea, while Sophia Servagno and others also received recognition for their innovative business ideas.
- 01Morgan Ortega won the grand prize of $6,000 for her tea brand, Chalm Tea.
- 02Sophia Servagno secured second place with her bakery concept, The Honeycomb.
- 03Najhayne Watson and Mary Gutshall tied for third place, each recognized for their patentable ideas.
- 04The competition featured a total prize pool of $7,500, funded by alumni Paul and Diane Palmieri.
- 05Participants gained valuable pitching experience and feedback from judges.
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On April 29, 2026, Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, hosted the annual Loiello Pitch Competition, showcasing the entrepreneurial talents of its students. The event featured a total prize pool of $7,500, generously donated by alumni Paul Palmieri and Diane (Loiello) Palmieri. Morgan Ortega, a student from the class of 2028, emerged as the champion, winning the $6,000 grand prize for her innovative tea brand, Chalm Tea, which offers unique blends aimed at enhancing health and wellness. Sophia Servagno, a member of the class of 2026, secured second place with her concept for The Honeycomb, a coffee shop and bakery focused on nutritious baked goods. Tied for third place were Najhayne Watson and Mary Gutshall, both from the class of 2026, who received recognition for their patentable ideas. The competition not only provided funding opportunities but also valuable experience in public speaking and pitching. The university encourages all participants to continue refining their ideas and looks forward to welcoming more student entrepreneurs in future competitions.
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The competition fosters entrepreneurial spirit among students, providing them with funding opportunities and valuable experience, which can lead to future business ventures.
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