Executive MBA impacts: Then and now

Part of what makes a great educational program is exceptional alumni. The Broad College’s Executive MBA program is full of them. This past summer, Broad reconnected with three EMBA alumni who shared their personal reflections on the value of the program in a short series of videos. Each alum reflected on why they joined the program and its impact on their personal and professional growth.

To complement the videos, each alum shared additional reflections on their experiences before and after the program. They offered deeper insight into what motivated them to pursue an EMBA at Broad and how the program contributes to their ongoing professional achievements. They also shared what makes Broad’s EMBA unique and a standout from other options. Together, the videos and these alums’ reflections illustrate the program’s enduring impact, highlighting the return on investment for both the alumni and their organizations.

Chris Alexander participated in the EMBA program almost a decade ago. He recounted the journey fondly, emphasizing the program’s dynamic nature and the excitement he felt when attending classes. Alexander wanted growth opportunities, though he didn’t have a clear vision of what that would look like.

“Before starting the EMBA program, I was focused on growing my knowledge and expanding my network,” Alexander said. “My goal was to add another valuable tool to my skill set and broaden my professional connections.”

Through the EMBA program, Alexander accomplished this and more. “I had the opportunity to collaborate with professionals within my field and across various industries, at different levels of expertise,” he said. “This exposure provided me with valuable insights from experienced individuals.”

Alexander developed what he described as a “personal board of directors” — a network of trusted peers and mentors who offered guidance to help him align his career path. In turn, he was able to contribute to their growth as well.

For Alexander, the standout feature of the program was the people. “MSU was very selective with applicants, ensuring only top-tier individuals are admitted,” he said. “This created an environment where the best minds came together to collaborate, discuss business challenges and foster an innovative, creative atmosphere.” Alexander’s reflections show the enduring connections made through the EMBA program and their lasting impact on professional growth.

Gloria Trothen always planned to return to school for an MBA; it was just a matter of when and where. In 2019, Stellantis gave her this opportunity, and she returned to her alma mater to pursue the degree. The EMBA program opened doors for her, leading to newfound confidence in business that positioned her for new leadership roles.

“Before starting the program, I was looking to build on the business acumen I had already developed during my career and gain more exposure to globalization and industries beyond automotive,” Trothen said. “Additionally, I had wanted to expand my professional network.”

The program delivered these goals.

“During my final semester of the EMBA program, I was promoted to my dream role: Chief Vehicle Engineer,” she shared.

Trothen was recently promoted again, to VP of Program Planning for RAM Light Duty Trucks and Jeep Large SUV, where she continues to apply knowledge from the program. Trothen felt especially fortunate to have the opportunity to earn this degree and join a list of significant leaders within her company who have also completed the EMBA program.

“It was humbling but gave me confidence to have achieved this accomplishment,” she said.

Trothen highlighted the practical aspects and hands-on nature of the program as standout features.

“The program was not strictly academic-focused; it provided very real-world, hands-on experience — from the curated courses relevant to any professional, to the many case studies and projects, and most notably the international residency where we gained insight into other cultures, industries and companies,” she said.

For Trothen, the EMBA program served as a training ground for leadership, instilling confidence in her ability to manage complex challenges and thrive in her career.

Carrie Fisher was looking for a place to enhance her existing skills, including 18 years of experience in advertising media sales. She wanted to expand her expertise as an account executive while gaining an understanding of other industries.

“My sales role involved building and maintaining relationships with C-level executives — individuals whose influence extended far beyond media buying decisions,” Fisher said. “My goal was to gain a deeper understanding of their overall business operations and how those operations ultimately influenced their media and advertising choices.”

Broad’s EMBA had the real-world, project-based learning she needed to fulfill this goal. It works with students like Fisher who are balancing work and family responsibilities.

“An MBA has significantly enhanced my resume,” she said. “Discussing my experience in the program during interviews, particularly balancing it with full-time work and raising two young children, demonstrates desirable qualities like discipline and resilience.”

The EMBA experience provided Fisher with the expanded business expertise she was seeking.

“I’ve become a more active listener and critical thinker in client meetings,” she said. “I’m now comfortable discussing my clients’ broader business needs and objectives, extending beyond just marketing and advertising.”

The in-person classes were invaluable for Fisher. They provided a truly immersive environment for her learning when she had so many other personal and professional obligations.

“The program’s in-person format was a major draw for me,” she said. “Attending classes every other weekend provided a dedicated learning environment, free from distractions. This structure fostered accountability, both individually and within team projects, which I found incredibly rewarding.”

Each of these alums entered the EMBA program with different experience levels and goals. The EMBA offered each one of them an experience that aligned with their aspirations and expertise. Through strengthening strategic thinking, enhancing leadership capabilities and expanding professional networks, the program gives students the tools they need to navigate complex business landscapes with confidence.

Learn more about Broad’s Executive MBA program here.