Online Masters: Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ambassadors

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: Abiola Taylor

Location: Virginia
Employment: Co-Founder, Venture Navigator
Undergraduate degree: Sociology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Hobbies: Jewelry making, interior decoration and home remodeling
Program: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Engineering Innovation Foundations concentration
Status in program: Graduated Spring 2025

Favorite graduate course: ENTR 830: Entrepreneurial Business Planning and Strategy Execution (Capstone Experience)

Why I chose Penn State: Penn State has an outstanding reputation and program rankings and consistently tops the nation’s best, with several programs in the top 5 nationally. The flexibility of the online master’s program was particularly appealing, allowing me to balance my studies with work and personal commitments. The curriculum offers a comprehensive range of topics, providing a holistic and relevant educational experience. Additionally, Penn State’s strong alumni network and commitment to teaching excellence were significant factors in my decision. The university’s robust support structure for innovation and entrepreneurship, including programs like iCorps, Launch Box, and Propel, further solidified my choice. These resources offer valuable opportunities for starting a new business or commercializing innovations, aligning perfectly with my academic and professional goals.
What makes this program valuable to you: After seventeen years in the workforce, I carefully chose this moment and this program to further my education. With diverse experience as a software programmer, project manager, founder of a technology company, and digital transformation consultant, coupled with a degree in sociology, I’ve developed a multi-faceted perspective on business and technology. This program is invaluable to me as it perfectly aligns with my career trajectory and aspirations. The curriculum’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship resonates deeply with my professional experiences and future goals. As a recent transplant to the United States, this program also offers me the opportunity to understand and engage with the American business landscape, potentially opening new avenues for my career in this country. The program’s blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application promises to enhance my ability to drive innovation and lead entrepreneurial initiatives in the corporate world.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Be practical and pragmatic in your approach. Ensure that the program aligns with your career goals and life circumstances. Consider how you’ll balance your studies with work and personal commitments. Take advantage of Penn State’s flexible online options if they suit your situation better. Take calculated risks and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, but do so thoughtfully. This might mean choosing challenging electives or pursuing networking opportunities that push your boundaries. Sync the program with your life’s trajectory. Ask yourself: Where do you want to be in 5 or 10 years? How does this degree fit into that vision? Use the program as a stepping stone towards your long-term goals. Clarify your vision and how this program helps you get there. Be specific about what you want to achieve and how each course contributes to that goal. This clarity will help you stay motivated and focused throughout your studies. Finally, make up your mind to enjoy the journey. While the end goal is important, the knowledge, skills, and connections you’ll gain along the way are invaluable. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and make the most of every opportunity to learn, grow, and network within the Penn State community. Remember, the journey itself is a significant part of your success.

Alumni Ambassador: Bianca Cook

Location: New Jersey
Employment: Product Manager and Technology Strategist, BlackRock
Undergraduate degree: Communication Studies, UMGC
Hobbies: Weight lifting, yoga, spending time with family, reading
Program: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in program: Graduated Summer 2026

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 565: Power and Influence

Why I chose Penn State: I spent several months researching programs to pursue my graduate degree. I landed on Penn State because the program felt like it would be most applicable to my current role and where I’d like to be long-term.

What makes this program valuable to you: These programs are truly built for those who are balancing work, families and going back to school. The course materials always feel relevant and the professors and teaching assistants are very engaged.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? The hardest part is taking the first step to get started. If continuing your education is something you want to do my advice is to find the program that best fits you and dive in.

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: Kenzie Schmitt

Location: York, PA
Employment: Johnson Controls Navy Systems, Production Planner
Undergraduate degree: Supply Chain & Operations Management, York College of PA
Hobbies: Beekeeping, crafting, decorating, party planning
Programs: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, concentration Engineering Innovation Foundations, graduate certificates in Negotiation and Influence and Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in programs: Graduated Fall 2025

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 821: Complex Negotiations

Why I chose Penn State: My dad has always been a big PSU football fan. When I found a program I liked AND it was at Penn State, I knew it was meant to be. I also liked that I could gain certifications through my graduate courses.

What makes the program valuable to you: My undergrad is in Supply Chain and Ops Management, so most of my experience is in manufacturing and I have had a lot of exposure to Lean Six Sigma. I love process improvement and problem solving, I’m always coming up with silly little ideas & inventions. I knew I didn’t want something general for my master’s program, and it took a lot of searching to find something that was the right fit. This program hit all the areas I was looking for, allowing me to grow my current skillset but still challenging myself through my concentrations.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Go for your passion and what interests you. It is going to be a lot of work, but it makes it easier when it’s something you’re curious about.

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.

Alumni Ambassador: Kate M. Speakes

Location: Twin Cities metropolitan, MN
Employment: Senior Director Operations, Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits
Undergraduate degree: Elementary Education, University of New Orleans
Hobbies: Traveling and exploring food (cooking or just dining)
Program: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship; concentration in Management Consulting
Status in program: Graduated August 2021

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 885: Management Consulting Methods and Practice

Why I chose Penn State: I was looking for a well-established culture and community. Online settings are an afterthought for some universities, and it shows! I wanted to learn and grow—and not just check a box and receive a piece of paper to frame. I was also passionate about building my network, and Penn State World Campus offers chances to engage with phenomenal faculty, students, and alumni—and those relationships do not vanish once the course work ends. I’m thrilled to serve on the Smeal Alumni Society Board—and I was elected before I ever set foot on campus!

What makes this program valuable to you: The course work deepened my understanding of so many things, but it also elevated my confidence (with a BA in Elementary Ed, I was a self-taught business leader prior to earning my master’s degree). I cannot fail to mention the value I’ve taken from the relationships I’ve formed and resources I’ve leveraged. The alumni service offerings are amazing!

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Just because you’re virtual does not mean you have to be distant! Meet for coffee, connect with students from other experience sets, help a retiring service member build their civilian network, and talk to your professors during office hours. You would be amazed what you can learn and the relationships you can form without ever meeting face-to-face.

Kate also serves as a Teaching Support Specialist (TSS), which is a part of our “creative team model.” TSSs are often alumni and experts in their field who assist with discussions, group work, and feedback. Their goal is to promote engagement and apply concepts to the business environment by facilitating discussions, assisting with academic topics, and providing feedback.

Alumni Ambassador: Carolina Dickey

Location: Phoenixville, PA
Employment: Subcontracts Manager, Lockheed Martin
Undergraduate degree: Business Management, Foreign College
Hobbies: Baking, reading
Program: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in program: Graduated Spring 2025

Favorite graduate course: MBADM 531: Corporate Innovation

Why I chose Penn State: I wanted to study something specific, not a general MBA. When I found PSU curricula on Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, I decided that PSU was the best fit for my needs.
What makes this program valuable to you: The opportunity to learn and networking is absolutely an amazing opportunity!

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Think in the short and long term. What do they want to be, either use an MBA to learn and move to a different career path or stay in an specific program and go deeper in knowledge and new trends.

Alumni Ambassador: Blair Martlaro

Location: Belle Isle, FL
Employment: Self-employed, Sustainable Personal Finance | Previous: Sustainability Strategy Manager, Disney Experiences
Undergraduate degree: International Relations and Comparative Politics, University of Central Florida
Hobbies: Reading, writing, kayaking, gardening, animal welfare
Program(s): Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in program: Graduated in 2022

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 811: Sustainability Strategy Development

Why I chose Penn State: Reputation and coursework that blended innovation and sustainability

What makes this program valuable to you: Caliber of professional community, both professors and students

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Cultivate patience in yourself and with others. We live in an increasingly impatient world, but nothing worthwhile happens fast.

Alumni Ambassador: Chanele Smith

Location: Charles Co, MD
Employment: Self-employed, Independent Consultant in Pharma and Biotech Industry
Undergraduate degree: Biology, Tennessee State University
Hobbies: Travel, interior design, and amusement parks with my family
Programs: Masters in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, graduate certificates in Negotiation and Influence and Management Consulting.
Status in program: Graduated Summer 2026

Favorite graduate course: It’s tough to pick one, I’ve learned so much in each course! I’ll say MGMT 565: Power and Influence because it was my first course and it gave me an excellent foundation for the program.

Why I chose Penn State: The CIENT program was the best program that fused business practices with innovation concepts. The flexibility of online courses with an optional global immersive experience, plus the Penn State reputation for academic rigor and active alumni helped me decide.
What makes this program valuable to you: I began the program in my 40s after working in corporate for almost 20 years. I was very nervous but quickly found my footing and gained so much confidence with each course. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students: Study the program(s) you’re considering, read the descriptions and think about how each course will help you accomplish your goals. Everyone is so friendly, don’t hesitate to reach out to ambassadors or advisors to get advice and connect with instructors on LinkedIn. Contribute meaningfully to each course and try to connect the lessons to your personal growth, not just professional. Graduate school is not easy, especially when you’re juggling other priorities, so share your experience with classmates to make deeper connections and grow your network. You got this!

Alumni Ambassador: Jessica Affatato

Location: Northport, NY
Employment: GuildSomm International – Membership and Partnership Coordinator (Current)
Weaver – Founder (In Progress / Pre-Launch)
Undergraduate degree: Cinema, Binghamton University
Hobbies: Napping (When possible but necessary!), reading and listening to audiobooks, cooking, long walks.
Program: Master’s in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in program: Graduated Summer 2026

Favorite graduate course: MGMT 885: Management Consulting Methods and Practice

Why I chose Penn State: Flexibility of stacking certificates with master’s degree; cost manageability — a specialty master’s made much more sense for me and my career trajectory (entrepreneurship development for women microentrepreneurs), flexibility of course selection, individualized study, access to the Nittany Lion network.
What makes this program valuable to you: The increased focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, the skills its giving me to develop/introduce new techniques to women microentrepreneurs –I’m starting the process of training for a certification in Entrepreneurship Development through the International Economic Development Council. They were very enthusiastic about my specialty master’s over a general MBA/OMBA. The specialty masters at this time in my career – mid-pivot, focusing on a specific niche – is far more valuable to me than a general MBA.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Consider where you want your career to grow, if you’re starting to tightly focus on a specific niche, and the flexibility/value of certificate stacking.

Alumni Ambassador: Haley Friary-Schenk

Location: New Braunfels, Texas
Employment: HumaniCore AI, Founder and CEO
Undergraduate degree: BS Organizational Leadership, Penn State University
Hobbies: F1, Penn State football, Reining (competitive equestrian), gardening (especially wildflowers and pollinator gardens), cooking, traveling, reading snorkeling and new technology!
Program: Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Status in program: Graduating Summer 2027

Favorite graduate course: ENTR 810: Trends in Technology and Innovation and MGMT 831: Strategy Implications/Change Management

Why I chose Penn State: As a Penn State undergrad I knew the quality of education here was top notch. I choose Smeal because of the academic rigor and quality of professors. As a grad student I am continually impressed by the resources available to us, the alumni network and the mentoring I receive from everyone. I launched my startup in my second semester here. My coursework in the CIENT program aligns with what is required to build a technology company.

What makes this program valuable to you: My coursework in the CIENT program aligns with what is required to build a technology company. The alumni network provides access to industry leaders and investors willing to review your pitch deck or talk through financing.

What advice would you offer to new or prospective students? Take advantage of the resources available to you, get to know other students – we learn a great deal from each other.