A new Spartan cohort begins: Executive MBA class of 2027

Since 1964, the Broad College’s Executive MBA program has prepared more than 5,000 business leaders to transform their potential into high performance. On Aug. 8, the newest cohort of EMBA students, the Class of 2027,  began their journey as Broad Spartans during orientation at the Henry Center for Executive Development.

The day kicked off with an inspiring welcome from Broad staff and faculty, setting the stage for the students’ two-year commitment.

“What excites me most is the chance to connect with this dynamic group of professionals who are embracing the challenge to grow and lead in today’s complex world,” said Amy Yousif Joa, associate director of the Executive MBA program.

 “The Class of 2027 EMBA students bring a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, and they have a shared commitment to personal growth and making a positive impact. Their resilience and curiosity inspire me, and I’m eager to learn more about their journeys while helping them feel at home in the Broad EMBA community. There’s a special energy that comes with choosing transformation — and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

As she addressed the incoming cohort, Joa also reminded students that orientation is just the beginning of their MBA journey. “I hope they leave orientation with a deep sense of purpose, connection, and confidence,” she said. “The EMBA program is demanding, but I want them to feel empowered to ask questions, embrace the experience, and trust in their ability to succeed. Most importantly, I want them to know they’re not alone. They’re stepping into a strong, supportive network including their classmates, faculty, staff, and the broader Broad and MSU communities. Orientation is just the beginning, laying the foundation for a transformative Spartan MBA journey.”

The Class of 2027 was welcomed by David Souder, the Eli and Edythe L. Broad Dean of the Broad College of Business, who set the groundwork for the journey ahead. He reminded students that while each member of the cohort brings a unique story, there are two powerful commonalities uniting them.

“One of the cool things about the EMBA program is that while you all have your own unique stories that bring you here, part of the fun that starts today and continues throughout the entire program is hearing the stories that everyone else has,” Souder said. “Even though you each have unique stories, there are a couple of very common themes that will go across many if not all of you. The first one is you have achieved a level of success in your career that makes you want more, because you’re seeing how a piece of a business or an organization that you know or contribute to is part of a bigger picture.”

He continued, highlighting the second common theme of dedication:
“Your willingness to give up a lot of your time, to invest with us, to learn those things that connect across an entire complex organization and prepare you to be future leaders,” he said. “And you’ve already taken that first step.”

Throughout the orientation, team-building was a key focus, an essential component of the EMBA experience.

“More than 40% of the grades through this EMBA program are team based — so there is real personal value in building a solid team,” said David Wheatley, chief question asker & master coach at Humanergy, Inc., who facilitated the orientation. 

“The load and pace also means that having a team to support you and for you to rely on makes a big difference. Lastly, building and being part of teams is a core skill in any organization. Learning this in a high-powered, high-value setting will translate back to work on Monday morning,” said Wheatley. 

He added that teamwork hinges on a vital skill: “The core to successful teamwork is communication that is caring, honest & direct … and we are all good at two of them! Building the third, whichever it is, is critical to a successful leader.”

For the Class of 2027, orientation was also a moment of personal pride and excitement. Students shared what drew them to Broad’s EMBA program and what they felt as they started this new chapter.

Ayo Dawodu, chief of staff and senior strategist, PMO at DTE Energy and member of the Class of 2027, reflected on his decision: “[I was] impressed by the recruitment process, Amy was very engaging throughout the process and once I came to the first networking event, I was sold. I finished my application that same week. I’m excited to be a part of the great alumni network and elevate my career.”

He explained his motivation to return to school: “My ultimate goal is to become a transformational leader, my experience has given me great perspective and the leaders that have mentored me along the way have shown me the work ethic and drive it takes to be great. By going back to school I am simply investing more stock in my future.”

Looking back on orientation, Dawodu said, “It’s a long journey ahead but I am ready for the challenge and with the support of the class of 2027 this will be one of my greatest achievements in life.”

Angie Vitella, NA control tower director, vehicle & propulsion assembly plants at Stellantis and member of the Class of 2027, chose Broad for its reputation and alignment with her goals: “I chose Broad because of its strong reputation for producing leaders who can bridge strategy and execution in real-world settings. As someone in the automotive industry, I value programs that are hands-on, collaborative, and connected to industry , and Broad’s EMBA program has a proven track record in that. My VP recommended it based on my leadership trajectory, but it also aligned perfectly with my lifelong career goal of earning an MBA. While I didn’t have direct ties to MSU before, I have always admired their strong network, reputation, and values, which resonate with my own.”

Vitella said the timing was finally right to pursue this dream.

“I’ve always had the dream of pursuing an MBA, but between career growth, raising a family, and life’s responsibilities, the timing never quite felt right — until now. Being selected by my VP reinforced that not only was I ready, but that others believed I could take my leadership to the next level. I wanted to challenge myself, broaden my perspective, and gain the tools to navigate the increasingly complex global business environment. Plus, I want to set an example for my kids that learning never stops, no matter how busy life gets.”

Reflecting on orientation, she described a mix of emotions: “At orientation, I felt a mix of excitement, pride, and — if I’m being honest — a little nervous energy. It’s been years since I’ve been in an academic environment, so there was that small voice wondering if I could balance work, school, and family. But as I met my classmates and saw the incredible caliber of people in the room, those nerves turned into motivation. After orientation, I felt energized, supported, and even more confident that this was exactly where I was meant to be. I left with a sense of community and the belief that this journey will not only make me a stronger leader but also a more well-rounded person.”

Through powerful reflections, engaging team-building, and supportive connections, the Broad Executive MBA Class of 2027 is beginning a transformative journey that will shape them as leaders for years to come. With orientation complete, these professionals are stepping into a challenging yet rewarding experience that will empower them to inspire the future of business every day. 

As Amy Yousif Joa reminded students during her welcome, they are “exactly where they need to be.” That spirit of purpose and belonging reflects the Broad College’s commitment to excellence: equipping leaders with the tools, confidence, and community to thrive, and to carry Spartan values into the future of business.