WRITER/SOURCE: Carlos Cuesta, 575-520-5943, carlosic@nmsu.edu
New Mexico State University’s College of Business, in collaboration with the Nusenda Fintech Lab, welcomed more than 110 students to its latest Executive Speaker Series event featuring Justin Crowe, founder and CEO of Parting Stone.
The event provided students a unique opportunity to engage with an entrepreneur who has successfully merged art, business and innovation to create a groundbreaking company that is reshaping the memorial industry.
Crowe’s journey into entrepreneurship began with his passion for art and design. As a creative thinker, he sought ways to apply his artistic skills beyond traditional mediums, leading him to explore how innovation could transform everyday industries. His curiosity and artistic background ultimately led to Parting Stone, a company that offers families an alternative to traditional cremated remains by turning ashes into smooth, solidified stones. Crowe explained how his idea stemmed from a desire to create something meaningful and personal, revolutionizing the way people memorialize loved ones.
During his talk, Crowe shared how the intersection of art and entrepreneurship allowed him to challenge conventional thinking and introduce a product that resonated deeply with customers.
He discussed the importance of embracing uncomfortable conversations, particularly in industries like death care, where innovation is often overlooked. By addressing topics that many shy away from, he was able to create a business that not only fills a gap in the market but also provides emotional value to those seeking a more personal way to remember loved ones.
His journey was not without challenges. Crowe spoke candidly about the hurdles he faced in growing his business, from developing the right technology to scaling operations and securing funding. He emphasized the importance of persistence, adaptability and problem-solving, all key traits every entrepreneur must develop to navigate the uncertainties of starting a business.
A highlight of Crowe’s talk was his experience on ABC’s Shark Tank, where he pitched Parting Stone to a panel of high-profile investors. He provided students with a behind-the-scenes look at the intense preparation required for the show, the challenges of delivering a compelling pitch, and the strategic decisions he had to make under pressure.
Crowe described the high-stakes negotiation process, offering insights into what investors look for in a startup and how entrepreneurs can position their businesses for success. He shared how the experience reinforced the importance of knowing your market, clearly articulating your value proposition and being prepared for tough questions. His Shark Tank journey served as a real-world lesson for students on fundraising, business strategy, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Beyond the technical aspects of building a startup, Crowe emphasized the importance of loving what you do. He encouraged students to pursue careers and ventures that ignite their passion, explaining that entrepreneurship is not just about making money; it’s about solving problems, creating value and making a meaningful impact.
“Being an entrepreneur is tough, and you’ll face countless obstacles,” Crowe said. “But when you’re passionate about your work, those challenges become opportunities to grow rather than roadblocks.”
His message resonated with students, many of whom are exploring their own business ideas and career paths. Crowe’s story served as an inspiration for those looking to combine their interests with innovative thinking to create something truly unique.
The event also featured an exciting Samsung Tablet giveaway. Student Eiichiro Baba was announced as the lucky winner. The giveaway added an interactive element to the session, encouraging student participation and engagement.
Students said they left the event feeling inspired, with many expressing appreciation for the opportunity to hear directly from an entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the startup ecosystem and transformed an unconventional idea into a thriving business.
The Executive Speaker Series continues to be a cornerstone event at NMSU, providing students with direct access to industry leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators who offer invaluable insights into the realities of business and entrepreneurship.
For more information on upcoming events, visit the Nusenda Fintech Lab or the NMSU College of Business social media accounts.
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PHOTO CAPTION: New Mexico State University College of Business Dean Bryan Ashenbaum (left) moderates a discussion with Justin Crowe, founder and CEO of Parting Stone, as part of the Executive Speaker Series hosted by the college and Nusenda Fintech Lab. (Courtesy photo)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: A man seated on a couch holding a microphone while another man, also seated, looks on.