Kristen Dunning: The Creative Mind Behind Gently Soap

Meet Kristen Dunning, the visionary founder of Gently Soap, set to make her mark on the first episode of Shark Tank Season 15. Kristen’s journey to creating Gently Soap is a story of determination, personal experience, and a deep commitment to skincare innovation. Here are some key facts about this inspiring entrepreneur.

[Update!] Kristen Dunning gave us a shout out on her Instastory see below.

1. The Dorm Room Innovator Kristen Dunning’s entrepreneurial journey began in college, where she crafted the concept for Gently Soap from her dorm room. Her motivation? Her own experience with uncomfortable eczema. Kristen knew all too well the feeling of being left out when her mother brought home skincare products from popular stores like Bath and Body Works. Her sensitive skin made many commercial products a no-go, inspiring her to create a solution.

2. A Diverse Educational Background Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Kristen has pursued a diverse educational journey. She is a Techstar ’23, a recognition that highlights her tech-savvy prowess. In 2023, she earned the esteemed title of Black Ambition Semifinalist, a testament to her entrepreneurial acumen. Kristen also secured the Collegiate Great Brands Grand Prize, showcasing her ability to create impactful brands. Currently, she is on a path toward earning her Master of Business Administration (MBA), set to complete her studies between August 2022 and May 2024.

3. Rooted in Agriculture Kristen Dunning’s family has deep roots in agriculture. Her grandparents, Nancy and Raymond, lived on an 84-acre homestead in Alabama, instilling in her a profound connection to the land and a legacy of agricultural knowledge.

4. A Passion for Agricultural Communication Kristen attended the University of Georgia, where she pursued a degree in Agricultural Communication and Horticultural Science. During her time there, she held the position of President of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences, demonstrating her commitment to diversity and inclusion in the field.

5. Professional Experience Before venturing into the world of skincare, Kristen gained valuable professional experience. She worked as an Administrative and Office Assistant at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) as an intern in 2020. Her journey also led her to become an herb and medicinal plant gardener at the UGArden and take on the role of Secretary and Agricultural Education Liaison for the Georgia Farm Bureau.

6. Making Skincare Inclusive Kristen Dunning’s mission with Gently Soap is to create skincare products that are gentle, effective, and inclusive. Her personal experience with eczema and sensitivity to commercial products drove her to develop a solution that can cater to a wide range of skin types. Gently Soap is vegan, free from essential oils and synthetic fragrances, and safe even for babies. Importantly, it avoids promoting steroid dependence, offering an alternative to clinical creams.

As Kristen Dunning enters the Shark Tank, her dedication to crafting a joyful, gentle, and effective skincare solution for sensitive skin is sure to leave a lasting impression on the entrepreneurial world. Her journey from a college dorm room to the national stage is a testament to her innovation and passion for inclusive skincare.

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