Tory Burch, C'88, is an American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for building one of the most iconic lifestyle brands of the 21st century. Raised in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, she earned a degree in art history from the University of Pennsylvania before beginning her career at top fashion houses and magazines, including Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, and Harper’s Bazaar. In 2004, Tory launched her eponymous label with a clear purpose: to build a global luxury brand and a foundation that would advance women’s economic power. She started with a boutique in New York and an e-commerce site; there are now 400 stores and 13 e-commerce sites globally. Designed in her New York atelier, the collection includes ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, accessories, beauty, and home.

In 2009, Tory established the Tory Burch Foundation to provide women entrepreneurs in the United States with capital, education, and community. Through its partnership with Bank of America, the foundation has facilitated more than $100 million in low-interest loans to 5,500 women entrepreneurs. Celebrated for her visionary leadership, Burch is a powerful voice at the intersection of design, business, and social impact.

The Venture Lab Alumni Award honors a Penn graduate who exemplifies entrepreneurial leadership, innovation, and community building. This recognition celebrates alumni who not only lead boldly in their ventures but also give back—through mentorship, investment, or thought leadership—strengthening the Venture Lab ecosystem for future entrepreneurs. Recipients are chosen by the Venture Lab Advisory Board.

Venture Lab at the University of Pennsylvania, powered by the Wharton School, is a resource for any Penn student who is interested in entrepreneurship and innovation. We maximize the ability of our students and alumni to address important challenges through entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial thinking. Ignited by great ideas, our faculty, students, and alumni turn innovative concepts into scalable and sustainable businesses and bring entrepreneurial development to existing companies eager for change. In a world hungry for productive innovation, our disciplined approach challenges concepts, focuses ideas, and provides the know-how to turn fledgling businesses into strong, enduring organizations.