Islip High School Business Leadership Academy students recently had the opportunity to meet and speak with Danny Cross, owner of Graff Lab Studios.

Cross shared his entrepreneurial journey from creating graffiti art in high school to owning and operating several art workshop locations, including the challenges he faced with his kiosk in the mall when online shopping became popular. Cross noted that he remained focused on his dream and altered his business plan to open a studio where people can have parties and learn how to spray paint on T-shirts and sweatshirts. During the talk with the school’s aspiring entrepreneurs, he explained the importance of remaining cognizant of the market and the economy.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Cross had to again recreate his business idea, marketing his company to the community for arranging lawn placement of “Happy Birthday” and other signs. Today, he runs several studios and business ventures and is working on refining his business plan to present to investors to become a franchise.
 
“The message that Mr. Cross relayed to the students was to keep pursuing their dreams and continue to educate themselves about the business they want to go in, their target market and how to pivot through difficult times,” teacher Renee Clock said.

Date Added: 11/8/2022