Veronica N. Chapman is a social entrepreneur, author, and playwright, having written and produced the play, Ancestors Inc., a motivational play for teens, and having self-published the book, The Advent of Planet Martyr, An Innovative Social Commentary.

Since completing graduate school in 2008, Veronica has been building her organization, Boxxout, using out-of-the-box thinking to create dynamic educational experiences where youth in urban low-income communities can explore their interests, and employ the skills required for success in the 21st century. In July, 2010 Veronica was awarded New Leaders Council’s 40 Under 40 Award for Entrepreneurship in recognition of this endeavor.

In July, 2011 Veronica won start-up capital and mentorship in 100 Urban Entrepreneurs’ 60-second business pitch competition to launch her newest venture, My Crowning Jewel. Veronica also won additional capital to grow this new venture by winning 1st place in EforAll pitch competitions, and by participating in the summer, 2014 cohort of their business accelerator program.

In an effort to combat soaring teen unemployment and provide additional funding for Boxxout, Veronica’s goal is to hire teens through Boxxout to work for My Crowning Jewel.

Ms. Chapman is a graduate of Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. She is also a graduate of Babson College, where she received her Masters in Business Administration (MBA).

Keep an eye out for Veronica's upcoming children's book I Know I Can!, and share in her love for music on MusicalBalm.com.

(Photos: Craig Bailey)