When Hope Erickson began her career at Timothy Christian Schools in the fall of 2024, her first challenge was launching a student-run business. She was asked to oversee the Trojan Café—which, for the first time, would be entirely student-run. In addition, she taught a brand-new course: Foundations of Entrepreneurship. In every sense, she had to organize, manage, and assume the risks of a new venture. So when she speaks to students about entrepreneurship, Erickson is living out everything she teaches.

The course begins with a unit on entrepreneurial mindset. “An entrepreneurial mindset has a Biblical foundation,” Erickson explains. “Without a Biblical foundation, it is impossible to be a successful entrepreneur.” She emphasizes that God is the author of creativity and that Biblical values and ethics create a healthy work environment.

Another unit in the class focuses on habit formation and goal setting. Erickson stresses the importance of showing up on time and being ready to work. While that might seem obvious, many teens have never held a job or developed these essential habits. Erickson sets high expectations for students working in the Trojan Café and holds them accountable to meet them.

In many ways, her management of the café mirrors her other responsibility: coaching the junior varsity girls basketball team. As a coach, she assesses individual strengths and places players where they can succeed. Teamwork, communication, and trust are all critical—both on the court and in the workplace. Success comes when a group collaborates toward a shared goal.

“The Trojan Café isn’t just a place to get coffee—it’s a place where students grow in confidence, take ownership, and learn to lead with integrity.”

The Trojan Café operates like a real business. A setup team arrives before school each day to prepare for operations, which run during all seven study hall periods. Different students work each period—taking orders, preparing drinks, managing inventory, and maintaining cleanliness. At the end of the day, closing duties are assigned to ensure the space is ready for the next day.

Next year, the café will be organized into departments, each with a student leader. Roles will include a Creative Director in charge of product development, a Chief of Sales and Inventory, a Chief of Marketing Strategy, a Digital Media Director, and a Trojan Café Owner who oversees all departments. The expectation is that the Trojan Café will operate like a professional business in the marketplace.

Students are given clear roles and are held accountable to fulfill them. They’re also stretched beyond their comfort zones. For Claire Thurber, this is her first job. She enjoys the chance to make drinks, work as part of a team, and maintain a positive attitude regardless of the circumstances. Niah Anderson says working in the café has taught her patience and how to adapt to an ever-changing work environment. “Having a job is hard work!” she says. Both girls credit their experience with building self-confidence.

Looking ahead, Timothy plans to launch a Culinary Arts program, also run by students. They will produce baked goods and prepare a menu of food items—and manage the operation as they would a restaurant. As with the Trojan Café, students will be responsible for all aspects of the business.

Eventually, student entrepreneurs will have the chance to pitch and manage their own businesses on campus. The possibilities are endless. Who knows what ideas the Holy Spirit will inspire next?