Business Architecture Graduate Certificate

Alumni Ambassador: Krishna Gabbireddy

Location: Malvern, PA
Employment: Technical Fellow/Director, Ellucian Corp
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science, Bangalore University
Hobbies: I actively participate in various clubs and seminars to stay informed about the latest technology trends. As a Chapter Coordinator, I lead the SEWA LEAD program, which focuses on building leadership, communication, and volunteering skills among high school students.
Program: Business Architecture graduate certificate
Status in program: Graduated Fall 2025

Favorite graduate course: EA 873: Enterprise Modeling

Why I chose Penn State: Both of my kids from Penn State and the campus is near to my office location. We are a Penn State Family!

What makes this program valuable to you? The program offers a range of courses, including Enterprise Architecture Foundations, Business Architecture, and EA Modeling, which are essential for helping our organization advance and mature in this practice. These courses will not only strengthen my professional capabilities but also enable me to contribute more effectively to our organization’s strategic initiatives.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Stay curious and make the most of the learning opportunities the program offers. Connect with faculty and classmates, participate in discussions, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Balancing studies with networking and practical application will help you get the most out of the program.

Alumni Ambassador: Alexandra Jerome

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Employment: Sales Representative, Avantor Sciences
Undergraduate degree: Communications, Rutgers University
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, golfing, and shopping.
Programs: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, graduate certificates in Business Management Foundations, Business Architecture, and Management Consulting
Status in programs: Graduated Summer 2025

Favorite graduate course: MBADM 850: Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Why I chose Penn State: The flexibility and convenience offered through World Campus in addition to the large alumni network. I knew I wanted to attend an institution that is well respected and valued globally.
What makes this program valuable to you: I have learned so much during my time at PSU, gaining insight both personally and professionally. I truly value the sense of community and opportunities offered by the program.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Take advantage of everything PSU offers! We are so lucky to be a part of a great institution that values their students and provides incredible opportunities. Learn as much as you can and have fun while doing it.

Alumni Ambassador: Michelle Kelley

Location: State College, PA
Employment: Entrepreneur, Small Business Founder and Operator; Penn State Events Team
Undergraduate degree: Kinesiology, Penn State University
Hobbies: Exercise and fitness activities, girls’ lacrosse assistant coach, gardening, beer connoisseur (I have several Cicerone beer certifications).
Programs: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, concentrations in Business Management Foundations and Strategic Leadership, graduate certificates in Diversity and Inclusion as Strategy, Business Management Foundations, Strategic Leadership, Business Architecture
Status in programs: Graduated Summer 2025

Favorite graduate course: BA 865: Strategic Leadership

Why I chose Penn State: Penn State was my first choice for my master’s program because of the strong network and alumni program, which provides a big networking advantage, especially in entrepreneurship. As a working professional, I also needed the convenience of working on my master’s degree online since moving for my education was not an option. The Penn State Smeal College of Business and World Campus are nationally recognized, so I knew I would receive a top education.
What makes this program valuable to you: Each class has real world applications intertwined with your job experience, giving relevance to your occupation and industry. Additionally, each course has a final project that summarizes what you’ve learned to promote a deeper understanding of the material and encourage critical thinking for practical use.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Now is a great time to get started! You can never have too much education. If you are thinking about applying, but are not sure if a master’s or certificate program is for you, make the jump and go for it! The semesters go by fast and you will be finished before you know it.

Alumni Ambassador: Michael Anthony Liotta

Location: Marlboro Township, NJ
Employment: Director, Global Privacy Standards and Training
Undergraduate degree: Modern Languages and Literature, University of Buffalo (SUNY)
Hobbies: Mentoring, teaching Smeal undergraduates business and industry analysis, traveling, and working out
Programs: Master’s in Management in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Master of Business Administration, graduate certificates in Business Architecture, Business Management Foundations, and Strategic Leadership
Status in programs: Graduated August 2024 Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Graduated August 2023 Master of Business Administration

Favorite graduate course: ENTR 502: Business Modeling and New Venture Creation

Why I chose Penn State: Penn State has a strong reputation for academic excellence, expansive alumni network, and commitment to fostering professional growth. The Smeal College of Business is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum and industry connections, providing invaluable opportunities for career advancement. Beyond academics, the Penn State community is unmatched in its pride and support, creating a lifelong network that extends far beyond graduation. Living in the New York metropolitan area, it was also important for me to be close to Penn State to maintain a strong connection with the University, reinforcing my sense of belonging and engagement with its traditions, resources, and alumni network.

What makes this program valuable to you: Penn State’s program has been instrumental in shaping my ability to drive strategic policy initiatives at American Express. The rigorous coursework strengthened my analytical and leadership skills, allowing me to navigate the complex payments industry effectively. The program’s emphasis on problem-solving and real-world application directly translates into my work, where I assess acquiring policies, payment intermediary model frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students: My advice to prospective students is simple: Penn State is more than just academics—it’s an experience. Your real return on investment comes from fully immersing yourself in everything the University has to offer. Take advantage of the world-class education, but also engage with the Penn State alumni network, join organizations (if your time permits), and build relationships that will last a lifetime. Before starting the program, think about how you want to apply your education and be intentional about the opportunities you pursue.