Uriah Ford

University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School

“Passionate about healthcare, driven by impact, lifelong learner and always up for a challenge.”

Hometown: Henderson, North Carolina

Fun fact about yourself: I will try any food you put in front of me!

Undergraduate School and Degree: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, BA in Public Policy

Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school? I most recently worked within The Julius L. Chambers Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Institute at North Carolina Central University as a research assistant.

Where did you intern during the summer of 2024? Sanofi Pharmaceuticals in Cambridge, Massachusetts

Where will you be working after graduation? Sanofi Pharmaceuticals in Cambridge as a manager within the Commercial Leadership Development Program

Community Work and Leadership Roles in Business School:

• Board member for the Vance County Community Foundation, an affiliate board of the North Carolina Community Foundation. Term ended Dec. 31, 2024.
• Co-president of UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Black Business Student Association
• UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Latin American Business Association VP of student experience
• Member of The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school? Every holiday season, members of The Consortium come together to raise funds to provide gifts for elementary school students at a local Tier 1 school. We not only raise the money, but also host a wrapping party where donors can personally wrap the presents before we hand-deliver them to the children. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces when they receive their gifts is an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m especially proud to be part of a tradition that brings so much happiness to these kids during the holiday season.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career? I am most proud of my time at Franklin-Vance-Warren Opportunity Inc., where I served as the coordinator for the NC CARES funds. Our organization was awarded these funds to mitigate the socioeconomic effects of COVID-19 in five Tier 1 counties across North Carolina. I helped hundreds of families access critical rent and utility assistance while also addressing food insecurity. Additionally, I led efforts to build partnerships with other organizations to expand our impact. One of the most meaningful collaborations was with North Carolina Central University, where we provided free health information, COVID-19 tests and food boxes from local pantries to community members in need.

I take great pride in knowing that my work had a direct and lasting impact on so many families during such an unprecedented time. Being entrusted to lead a new program within an established organization allowed me to channel my passion for addressing community health disparities and truly make a difference.

Why did you choose this business school? I chose UNC Kenan-Flagler because of its strong reputation for developing leaders in healthcare. UNC Kenan-Flagler is known for attracting candidates who have demonstrated leadership and a track record of driving meaningful change in the industry. Given my experience leading teams to combat health disparities and promote health equity at both the local and state levels, I knew this was the right place for me. UNC Kenan-Flagler provides the opportunity to deepen my understanding of the healthcare industry while also allowing me to contribute my past experiences to enrich both my own learning and that of my classmates.

Who was your favorite MBA professor? My favorite MBA professor was Professor LaChaun Banks, Professor of the Practice of Strategy and Entrepreneurship. I first became familiar with her work through her contributions at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and her impactful efforts in economic development across the country. When I learned she was joining the faculty at UNC Kenan-Flagler, I was eager to take one of her classes! Enrolling in Markets, Government and Sustainable Growth proved to be an invaluable experience, as it deepened my understanding of economic development and opened my eyes to ways I can stay engaged in supporting underserved communities.

What was your favorite course as an MBA? My favorite course at UNC Kenan-Flagler was Healthcare Brand Plan taught by Professor Markus Saba. His class gave students the unique opportunity to step into the role of a manager within a pharmaceutical company and develop a brand plan for a real-world product. Brand representatives presented their products to us, and Professor Saba provided an in-depth breakdown of the brand planning process. His industry expertise and hands-on teaching approach made the learning experience incredibly engaging and practical, allowing me to deepen my understanding of pharmaceutical marketing in a real-world context.

What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at your business school? My favorite tradition at UNC Kenan-Flagler is the Around the World event. Each year, we spend an afternoon celebrating the diverse cultures represented within our community. Students showcase their heritages through traditional dances, clothing, and food from their home countries, creating an immersive cultural experience for everyone. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with classmates on a deeper level outside the classroom while embracing and appreciating each other’s backgrounds. Beyond being a fun event, it highlights just how many different perspectives and experiences make up our program, something I have always valued.

Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why? Looking back, I wish I had started reaching out to alumni much earlier in my MBA journey. I began connecting with them primarily when it was time to start recruiting for healthcare roles. In hindsight, I see the value of having those conversations even before stepping foot on campus. Engaging with alumni earlier would have given me a clearer understanding of the healthcare recruiting process, the nuances of different career paths, and how to best position myself for success. It also would have helped me build relationships and gain insights that could have shaped my approach to coursework, networking, and overall career planning from day one. While I eventually found my footing, having that early guidance would have made the transition into business school and the job search even smoother.

What is the biggest myth about your school? The biggest myth about UNC Kenan-Flagler is just how much support you’ll actually have access to – there’s even more than you think. When you visit campus, you’ll inevitably hear about The Carolina Way, a phrase that embodies the school’s culture of collaboration and support. Having completed my undergraduate degree at UNC, I was familiar with this concept, but I assumed things might be different in a graduate business program, where competition can sometimes overshadow community. I was pleasantly surprised to find that The Carolina Way is very much alive at UNC Kenan-Flagler. From the program office to faculty, facilities managers and career coaches, everyone genuinely wants to see you succeed and make the most of your MBA experience. Whether as a student or an alum, that level of support never wavers—it’s truly embedded in the culture here!

What did you love most about your business school’s town? What I love most about Chapel Hill is the ease of living and the perfect balance between charm, convenience, and opportunity. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, it offers quick access to both Raleigh and Durham, world-class hospital systems, and the Research Triangle Park—an incredible hub for innovation and career opportunities.

Plus, within just a few hours’ drive, you can find yourself either in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the west or on the beautiful North Carolina beaches to the east. Beyond its location, Chapel Hill itself is a vibrant town with plenty to offer—walkable streets, a strong sense of community and a growing list of events and restaurants to explore. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out or a quiet retreat, Chapel Hill has something for everyone!

What movie or television show best reflects the realities of business and what did you learn from it? A show that best reflects the realities of business is Abbott Elementary. While it’s a comedy about an underfunded Philadelphia public school, the challenges the teachers face mirror those in the business world—navigating limited resources, advocating for their teams, and driving change within a complex system.

One of the most striking parallels is how Principal Ava must negotiate with the school district for additional resources. Despite her unconventional leadership style, she demonstrates a key business reality: success often requires persistence, creativity, and knowing how to advocate for what your team needs. Similarly, in business, leaders must push for the necessary tools, funding and support to help their teams succeed, even in bureaucratic and resource-constrained environments.

Another important lesson from Abbott Elementary is that leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about influence, collaboration, and working toward a shared mission. Whether in education or business, the most effective leaders are those who listen, adapt, and find innovative ways to create impact, even when the odds aren’t in their favor.

What is one way that your business school has integrated AI into your programming? What insights did you gain from using AI? UNC Kenan-Flagler has made a conscious effort to ensure that students not only understand AI but also learn how to use it effectively and ethically in business settings. As a STEM-designated MBA program, it has integrated AI-focused coursework that explores the fundamentals of AI, its ethical implications, and its role in driving business growth and innovation. Through case studies, hands-on projects, and discussions with industry leaders, we’ve been able to see how AI is shaping industries ranging from healthcare to finance to supply chain management.

My previous roles did not incorporate AI, so my time at UNC Kenan-Flagler has been an eye-opening experience. I’ve learned how AI can enhance decision-making and streamline operations. More importantly, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how to balance AI-driven efficiencies with ethical considerations, ensuring that technology is used responsibly and equitably in the workplace. UNC Kenan-Flagler has broadened my AI skill set and prepared me to leverage AI strategically in my post-MBA career at Sanofi.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire? I admire my friend Bakhtiar Zain. Bakhtiar, who is from Indonesia, embodies curiosity, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making the most of his MBA experience. When I first met him at the start of our first year, I was immediately struck by his genuine interest in learning—not just about business, but about people, cultures and perspectives. He approached every interaction with enthusiasm and was eager to immerse himself in American culture while sharing his own experiences.

What truly sets Bakhtiar apart is his dedication to building community. He attends every event, engages with everyone he meets, and is always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it’s supporting a classmate on a project or simply being there as a friend. His ability to bring people together and his relentless positivity make him an integral part of our MBA cohort. He reminds me daily of the power of openness, curiosity and generosity, and I’m grateful to have him as a friend and classmate.

What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?

Two key items on my professional bucket list are to drive greater equity in healthcare across the U.S. and to mentor aspiring MBAs. Throughout my career, I want to work toward reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, ensuring that innovative treatments and resources reach underserved communities. Whether through strategic initiatives, policy advocacy or corporate leadership, I aim to make a meaningful impact on health equity.

Additionally, I want to give back by mentoring future MBA students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds or non-traditional career paths. Business school was a transformative experience for me, and I hope to help others navigate their journeys, offering guidance on career development, networking and finding their own path to success.

What made Uriah Ford such an invaluable addition to the Class of 2025?

“Uriah Ford was an invaluable member of the Class of 2025 not just for his leadership, but for the way he uplifted those around him. His presence brought energy, warmth, and an unmatched ability to make people feel heard and valued. No matter the setting — classrooms, school events, student organizations or causal conversations — Uriah had a way of turning every space into one of belonging.

What set Uriah apart was his unwavering support for others, his purpose-driven leadership, and his ability to bring laughter and joy into any room. His quick wit and playful humor made even the most challenging moments feel a little lighter. He didn’t just take on challenges—he helped others navigate them with confidence and clarity. His resilience and adaptability made him a leader people trusted, not just for his ideas but for his ability to bring them to life.

As co-president of the Black Business Student Association, a leader in the UNC Consortium chapter and Latin American Business Association, and an active force across multiple other student organizations, Uriah championed the student experience with integrity and intention. He approached every role with a problem-solving mindset, always focused on making things better without seeking recognition.

Uriah’s leadership is rooted in authenticity and his actions are driven by a deep commitment to others. He didn’t just build connections – he built community. His legacy at UNC Kenan-Flagler is one of strength, inclusivity and lasting influence—an inspiration for our class and undoubtedly future classes.

On behalf of the UNC Kenan-Flagler Class of 2025, we thank Uriah for the lasting mark he left on us and we wish him the very best of luck in Boston and this next chapter of his life.”

Maria Alejandra Jaramillo, MBA Class of 2025
UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School

 

“As a peer and classmate of Uriah Ford’s, I have witnessed and personally been impacted by his contributions to the MBA Program at UNC Kenan-Flagler. Outside of his educational achievements, Uriah’s dedication to service leadership and stewardship of our school’s core values has made him a memorable classmate and an invaluable addition to the Class of 2025.

Uriah actively held leadership positions throughout his time at UNC to support the development and advancement of his peers throughout his tenure on campus. Some of these positions included liaison to the co-presidents of the Black Business Student Associate (BBSA) in his first year, where he helped organize a formal mentorship program between MBA and Undergraduate BBSA members. In his second year, he was designated a co-president for BBSA and the vice president of student experience for the Latin American Student Association. In these roles his impact spanned our program and beyond.

For example, I had the opportunity to work directly with Uriah in my role as Consortium president to execute a toy drive that provided 203 gifts to local elementary students for the Global Scholars Academy. Uriah not only provided the fundraising support of his member organizations but personally participated in a day of wrapping the donated gifts.

While his formal roles demonstrate a clear aptitude and gift for leading, his unwavering commitment to the development of others has made him a treasured member of our program. Uriah is incredibly gifted at leading with empathy, identifying individual needs and actively solutioning community challenges. Outside of his formal leadership roles, he is an avid mentor to MBA students in the Healthcare Club, Undergraduate Business Program students and prospective students in discovery.

Uriah’s passion for community and care for people has authentically and greatly impacted so many in the UNC Kenan-Flagler’s community. He truly embodies the best of UNC and has left a legacy on the culture of our campus and the outreach of the program. It has been a pleasure getting to learn from him as a peer and I have no doubt he will excel beyond the program and make lasting positive changes to our world.”

Hailey Innocent
MBA Class of2025
UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School

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