Rita Fennelly-Atkinson

“A systems shaper who builds bold education-to-career futures where people can thrive”

Hometown: Eagle Pass, Texas

Fun Fact About Yourself: I love reading, and every year I treat myself to a reading vacation. Last year, I read 100 books.

Undergraduate School and Major: Concordia University, Irvine –Biology (BA)
Sam Houston State University – Instructional Systems Design and Technology (Ed.D)

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Digital Promise, interim chief learner engagement officer

What has been the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

Supporting the development and launch of an open-source digital credentialing product designed to increase equity in skill recognition for learners.

When you think of your school, what is the first word that comes to mind? Why?

Grounding. I pursued an MBA to grow as a more effective and thoughtful leader. The Mays School of Business has anchored and expanded my knowledge in ways that self-study and experience alone could never fully provide.

What are one or two key aspects of this program that led you to choose the program, and why were they so important to you?

One key aspect that drew me to the program was its online format, which allowed me to balance rigorous coursework with full-time professional responsibilities. Equally important was the program’s emphasis on in-demand skills like data analytics, which are skills I knew would strengthen my decision-making and strategic leadership in a rapidly evolving workforce landscape shaped by AI.

What course, club, activity, or experience excites you the most and why?

What excited me most was the in-person orientation and occasional meetups throughout the program. As someone in a virtual setting, I deeply valued the chance to connect face-to-face with peers, build real relationships, and feel part of a larger learning community. Those moments made the experience more meaningful and collaborative.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? Why?

I’m a big fan of Simon Sinek and often revisit his book Start with Why. For values-driven leaders committed to social responsibility, it’s a powerful reminder to stay anchored in purpose. It helps clarify what truly motivates you and why that matters.

What are two things you have learned that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

Academic surprise: I was surprised by how much I enjoyed diving into data analytics. I expected it to be technical and dry, but instead found it empowering, engaging, and fun. It gave me new tools to make strategic decisions with clarity and confidence by supercharging my existing data analysis skills and tools.

Non-academic surprise: As an avid reader, I’m often amazed by how fiction, especially from diverse perspectives and regions around the world, can unlock fresh insights and help me navigate challenges in my work. Inspiration shows up in unexpected places, and I always encourage others to explore all kinds of media because you never know what might spark a new idea.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into your MBA program?

Be clear about your why. Take time to reflect on your goals and how the MBA fits into your lifelong learning path. Ask yourself: What do I need to have the MBA experience I need or want? What would it look like to turn my classmate into lifelong collaborators or friends?

Authenticity matters. Show how your experiences, values, and aspirations align with what the program offers. And don’t be afraid to highlight what makes you unique, it’s your story and experiences that set you apart.

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