Roberto Vasquez

Kelley School of Business at Indiana University

“Compassionate advocate, shaped by family’s journey from Mexico, committed to equitable healthcare access through business.”

Hometown: Pasadena, California

Fun Fact About Yourself: I learned graphic design on my own and now offer free services for small businesses. My latest project is my brother’s barbershop brand style guide.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: UCLA Community Programs Office (Multicultural Center), Assistant Director of Operations & Marketing

In the second half of the year, you will be completing an Academy devoted to areas like Marketing, Finance, Operations, Digital Enterprises and more. Which Academy interests you the most and why? I am joining the Business Marketing Academy to pursue a B2B healthcare marketing career. Bridging the gap between healthcare industries and underrepresented communities is crucial for equitable access to quality care. The academy will allow me to pursue my passion for healthcare through marketing and its ability to influence perceptions of Western medicine among communities of color to restore trust. There is also the Business Marketing Academy’s exposure to leaders in healthcare that will provide insights that will allow me to influence the integration of DEIB perspectives into business solutions presented to healthcare providers, especially in the rapid emergence of AI technology. We can prevent underrepresented communities from being left behind in this evolving healthcare landscape by ensuring these solutions are unbiased and inclusive. The academy will build the foundational skills I need to achieve my lifelong goal of launching a firm delivering equitable healthcare access for low-income families.

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of Indiana Kelley’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? Kelley’s commitment to DEIB, especially as one of the first Consortium Fellowship member schools, is in tune with my core values. Knowing the pivotal role of diversity in education, I wanted to be part of a program that shares my belief in an inclusive learning environment. Now being at Kelley, I see firsthand the diverse community and feel a sense of comfort to contribute and share my unique background. I really look forward to learning from the diverse experiences my peers bring to the classroom.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Indiana Kelley? The Healthcare Club’s comprehensive and holistic approach excites me the most. The club corresponds with my mission to address the systemic challenges within the industry. Learning to navigate the complexities of healthcare delivery and strategy, while working towards equitable access, blends perfectly with my long-term goals. The potential to collaborate with like-minded peers, faculty, and industry experts in the club is something I am looking forward to. I am also excited about taking part in GLOBASE, as its international aspect will allow me to leverage my family’s journey from Latin America and my experiences in helping introduce healthcare services to rural communities in Tecate, Mexico. GLOBASE will further enhance my cultural intelligence by allowing me to engage with international small businesses and diverse perspectives to address business challenges more effectively through a global lens.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of the most impactful accomplishments I had the privilege of being a part of revolved around the transformation and expansion of the CPO Food Closet at UCLA. The CPO Food Closet provides a way for UCLA students facing food insecurity to anonymously access food and essential goods. The CPO Food Closet has received national recognition and embodies a cause that resonates deeply with my values. It is an initiative that hits close to home as there were moments during my childhood when my family and I depended on similar services to eat.

As assistant director of operations and marketing, I helped contribute to the growth and success of the CPO Food Closet programming. Working alongside a dedicated team, I played a role in enhancing its reach and effectiveness, ensuring it could address the escalating needs of students and community members facing food insecurity. One of these expansions involved the Food Box Giveaway Program, offering food support during academic breaks. This initiative catered to the needs of undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, we expanded our services during the COVID-19 pandemic to encompass staff members to provide them with essential goods and food to share with their families. Being part of these impactful initiatives was inspiring. It was especially powerful to see how our collective efforts and shared commitment made a real difference in the lives of the Bruin community.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? Post-MBA, my goal is to be a catalyst for reshaping the healthcare landscape. As a healthcare B2B marketer, I aspire to be a driving force behind change that ensures equitable access to high-quality healthcare for marginalized communities. The healthcare industry is undergoing a dynamic shift by merging with the technology sector. My objective is to ensure that this transformation is inclusive and doesn’t overlook underrepresented communities. I intend to actively shape this change by bringing a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens to the forefront. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of business and healthcare, I envision myself influencing policy, challenging conventional norms, and fostering sustainable solutions. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to bridge gaps, amplify voices, and champion initiatives that positively impact the lives of those who have historically been underserved. My mission is to contribute to a healthcare ecosystem where every individual, regardless of their background, has equitable access to the quality care they deserve.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Indiana Kelley’s MBA program? My advice for potential applicants is to embrace your authenticity and the journey of applying to business school. Take a moment to reflect on your life’s path to discover unique experiences, values, and aspirations that make you stand out. As an advocate for DEIB, I would focus on moments that showcase your commitment to growth, fostering diversity, and making a positive impact. Your journey and passion set you apart; let your story shine through and make a lasting impact.

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