Interview conducted by Dr. Sam Williams
At the crossroads of education, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment stands Professor David Elliott, a dynamic leader within Lincoln University’s Business and Entrepreneurial Studies Department. As both a faculty member and an accomplished entrepreneur, Professor Elliott exemplifies the power and promise of HBCU excellence.
A proud dual graduate of two historic institutions—Cheyney University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and Lincoln University, where he completed his MBA—Professor Elliott’s journey reflects the values of resilience, service, and purpose. It was during his time at Cheyney that he met his wife, Dr. Elliott, who shares his passion for education; together they are raising three children who continue to inspire their work.
Beyond the classroom, Professor Elliott serves as the Advisor of the Business Club and as a Board Member of The Lincubator, Lincoln’s innovation and entrepreneurship hub. His leadership also extends into the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry as the co-founder of Pure Fuel Hydration Drink, a brand proudly launched at Lincoln University and now recognized as a symbol of Black entrepreneurship and wellness.
Recently named Entrepreneur of the Year, Professor Elliott sat down with Dr. Sam Williams to discuss his path, the impact of HBCUs, and his vision for creating future generations of leaders.
DE: Cheyney taught me discipline, purpose, and community. Lincoln strengthened my leadership and entrepreneurial mindset. Both institutions gave me the foundation to serve, lead, and persevere. They are a core part of who I am.
DE: It’s an incredible honor. Every class is a chance to mold the next generation of business leaders. As the first degree-granting HBCU, Lincoln carries a legacy of excellence, and I’m committed to helping students learn, liberate, and lead.
DE: It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my role. Students gain real-world skills—leadership, communication, problem-solving—through events, workshops, and competitions. It prepares them for the entrepreneurial world ahead.
DE: The Lincubator transforms ideas into real ventures. It fuels creativity and collaboration, giving students a pathway to build what they imagine. It’s not just a space—it’s part of a cultural shift toward innovation.
DE: We wanted to build more than a beverage—we wanted to build a movement around health, culture, and empowerment. Pure Fuel’s mission is to inspire ambition and wellness. Launching it at an HBCU symbolizes what’s possible when community and creativity come together.
DE: It was humbling. Awards reflect teamwork and community support. They also reflect the power of HBCUs to shape leaders who make real impact.
DE: Everything I do connects back to purpose. My work as an entrepreneur strengthens my teaching, and teaching keeps me grounded. It’s all aligned with empowering the next generation.
DE: Start now. Use the resources around you. Stay consistent, stay inspired, and remember that entrepreneurship is a process. At an HBCU, you’re standing on the shoulders of giants—embrace that.
DE: Legacy is the impact you leave behind. It’s about building pathways for others. I want my legacy to be measured not just by what I’ve achieved, but by the students I’ve helped rise higher.
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The Lincubator
The Lincubator at Lincoln University is an innovation and business development hub empowering students, faculty, and staff to turn ideas into impact. Offering state-of-the-art resources, mentorship, and hands-on entrepreneurial programming, The Lincubator cultivates creativity, practical skills, and professional growth. Through its iCafé, Culture Studios, and strategic partnerships, participants gain real-world experience, develop business acumen, and join a collaborative community driving innovation and success at Lincoln University and beyond.
