By Grace Ostuni
Staff Writer
Six students met with a Catholic entrepreneur in his showroom in Steubenville for a humanities and Catholic culture event on Feb. 17.
Mark Nelson, owner of Nelson’s Fine Arts and Gifts, began by giving the students a brief speech outlining his background and speaking about his family farm and his family’s move to Steubenville.
In addition, Nelson spoke on his beginnings as a skilled laborer and how he transitioned into owning businesses. He also discussed different aspects of manufacturing and his various business pursuits.
After the talk, Nelson gave a tour of his business. The students had the opportunity to see his equipment – consisting of flatbed printers and laser cutters – and ask questions.
Nelson offered the students ties and banners bearing Christian images or symbols, including the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Auspice Maria symbol.
Nelson is the owner of three businesses in the Steubenville area: Nelson’s Fine Arts and Gifts, Leonardo’s Coffeehouse and Renaissance Roasting Company. In addition, he is on the Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District Board and is an active member of the pro-life movement.
Theology and philosophy major Thaddeus Kozinski said of the event, “Mr. Nelson’s passion and mission for this town reminded me of my baptismal call to build up the kingdom of God on earth … he was an example of doing this: a true man of God.”
This event was hosted by John Pilsner, a professor at Franciscan and the interim director of the humanities and Catholic culture program.