Celebrating the Graduating Class of 2026: Sage Dobby

Sage Dobby ’26 (MA) is set to walk across the commencement stage with a master’s in social innovation from the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies and a winning business model in hand.

During her time at the Kroc School, Dobby focused on the "business for good" framework, leading to the formal development of her company, Ciao Bella, which specializes in sustainable hair accessories made from pineapple fibers.

This year, Dobby competed in the Fowler Business Concept Challenge. Despite some challenges and earlier iterations of the idea, previously known as Piña Designs, she secured a first-place victory.

"Winning that competition was so gratifying," Dobby said. "I've worked on this concept for years and fallen short so many times. And so to win the Fowler Business Concept Challenge, it really gave me the confidence I needed moving forward."

The win also granted Dobby entry into the Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge, an experience she described as incredible.

As she prepares for graduation, Dobby says her long-term goals involve more than just retail success.

"When I'm walking across the commencement stage, I will be thinking about Ciao Bella and how hopefully many years down the road, I will be helping other students pursue their dreams in entrepreneurship from USD and giving back," she said.