Remembering Bob Sopko: The Heartbeat of CWRU’s Entrepreneurship Spirit
When it comes to entrepreneurship, hearing “no” from potential investors is par for the course. But that was never the case with Bob Sopko. For years, he was a beacon of positivity and guidance for both new and seasoned entrepreneurs at Case Western Reserve University and beyond.
The entrepreneurial community is now grappling with the profound loss of Sopko, who passed away on December 3 at the age of 64.
With over 21 years at CWRU, Sopko first made his mark in the Division of Information Technology Services (now known as University Technology), where he managed strategic technology partnerships. He soon became a cornerstone of the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, leading CWRU LaunchNET for more than eight years before transitioning to an entrepreneur-in-residence role at the Veale Institute for Entrepreneurship just this past summer.
The outpouring of love and admiration following his passing tells the tale of a man who played an instrumental role in countless successes. “Bob was beloved and trusted,” said Michael Goldberg, executive director of the Veale Institute for Entrepreneurship and professor at the Weatherhead School of Management. “Our community of CWRU entrepreneurs knew they could count on him. He would go above and beyond for them.”
Sopko was not just an advisor; he was a tireless advocate for students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members looking to launch their dreams into reality. He provided invaluable advice, made crucial connections, and offered unwavering support in every way imaginable.
“You could text Bob at any hour with a question, and he would come through every single time. He took joy in being that person for all of us,” shared Tiffany Cashon, senior director of strategic partnerships and business development at Sears think[box]. “His commitment to helping students was unparalleled.”
One of Sopko’s standout achievements was establishing CWRU’s presence at CES. He spearheaded the university’s inaugural trip to the renowned trade show in 2013, and in 2024, he brought 18 exhibitors to showcase their innovations in Las Vegas.
Sopko’s true gift lay in his unparalleled ability to connect people. In fact, he was so well-known in the Cleveland entrepreneurial scene that many simply referred to him as “Bob,” said Cashon.
For student entrepreneurs, these connections were nothing short of transformative. Alumni Stan Garber (CWR ’07) and Alex Yakubovich (CWR ’07) are emblematic of this impact; the duo sold their company Scout RFP for a staggering $540 million in cash in 2019. Sopko played a pivotal role in their journey by introducing them to an investor who provided $500,000 for their startup as they were graduating from CWRU.
Sopko didn’t just support aspiring entrepreneurs; he was their biggest believer.
Alumna India Johnson (CWR ’17), founder of UAVistas, fondly remembers a pitch event in 2023 where Sopko sought out her parents to sing her praises, just months after her mother suffered a stroke. “That moment stood out to me even more than securing funding,” Johnson recalled. “His genuine enthusiasm was contagious.”
Johnson described how Sopko’s optimistic spirit could turn her worries into confidence, no matter the challenges she faced. “Every conversation I had with him left me feeling uplifted. He was always eager to point me towards valuable resources,” she reminisced.
Garber characterized Sopko as an “eternal optimist.” Even years after their last encounter, Garber can vividly recall Sopko’s infectious smile and hearty laugh, always accompanied by a joyous tilt of his head toward the sky.
“Anyone who knew Bob would describe him as the epitome of kindness, compassion, and selflessness,” said Drew Poppleton, assistant vice president for careers and corporate engagement, who worked alongside Sopko in the Student Success department. “What belonged to Bob was freely shared with everyone—his expertise, his connections, his marketing prowess. He would do anything to lend a helping hand.”
Sopko leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Judy, their three children, three grandchildren, and many other cherished family members.
If you’re in need of support during this difficult time, students are encouraged to reach out to University Health and Counseling Services at 216.368.5872, available 24/7. Faculty and staff can access counseling services by calling IMPACT Solutions at 1.800.227.6007.
