A Year of Growth and Strategic Vision

Since its inception in 2020, the Robbins Healthcare MBA Alumni Group has been dedicated to fostering the professional development of its members through mentorship, networking and continued education. Now in its fourth year, the group remains focused on strengthening the alumni community and supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders.

The mentorship program has become a cornerstone of the group’s success, pairing 23 residency students with alumni mentors this year. 

“What you give is what you receive, and being able to support the goals and dreams of our early careerists really reinvigorates you as someone who has maybe been in the workforce for a while,” said Kara Abrameit, vice chair of the alumni steering committee. “It brings you back to why you do what you do, why you chose to get into healthcare. It’s a great feeling when you see your mentee succeed and reach their goals, just knowing that you played a small part in that.”

In addition to mentorship, the alumni group offers robust continuing education opportunities, featuring industry experts like Quint Studer and President of Retail Health at CVS Health, Creagh Milford, who recently spoke about healthcare innovation and the changing landscape. 

“You don’t always see that in other programs,” Abrameit said. “It keeps everybody connected with innovation that's happening in healthcare.”

The Alumni Group also emphasizes giving alumni a voice in shaping the program’s future. 

“The most important thing the alumni committee is doing is giving alumni a voice,” said Darrell Leggett, secretary of the committee.

Through feedback and engagement, the committee ensures alumni needs and interests remain a priority.

A Strategic Vision for Growth and Connection

The alumni steering committee has unveiled a new strategic plan aimed at further enhancing the group’s impact. This plan includes three main pillars: Engagement and Community Building, Professional Development and Networking, and Communication and Outreach.

Part of this strategic vision includes starting new regional groups in addition to the ones already set up in Houston, Dallas and Central Texas. Affinity groups, such as Women in Healthcare, led by Kimberly Terrazas, are also an exciting addition. The hope is that this facilitates more opportunities for connection and builds deeper relationships around specific interests.

The committee also focuses on increasing communication through initiatives like newsletters and surveys, keeping alumni informed and engaged with the program. 

“I would love to see the number of our alumni engaged in activities continue to grow to where 100 percent of our alumni attend at least one function,” Abrameit said. “Whether it’s one of our educational offerings, a networking event, or mentorship, I’d love to see full engagement.”

Additionally, the new Robbins Institute Endowment Campaign is underway. This offers alumni a chance to give back to the program and support future healthcare leaders.

Benefits of a Strong Network

A key advantage of the Robbins Healthcare MBA Alumni Group is the network it offers. 

“The foremost benefit of the alumni group is really just the network that is being developed,” said George Terrazas, alumni steering committee chair. “I think that's one of the strongest value drivers of the healthcare MBA program.”

As the alumni steering committee dives into planning new events, they are looking to provide a variety of spaces to continue growing one’s network. From informal “coffeeshop chats” where alumni can ask each other questions, talk about new developments in their field, or share personal updates to more structured dinners where people can return to Waco to connect with program mentors and future students, the alumni committee is offering opportunities tailored to the diverse interests and availability of alumni for engagement.

The alumni group also encourages its members to connect with current students, share their experiences and offer mentorship. 

“If any of our alumni know someone they’d like to introduce us to for an educational opportunity, that would be great,” Abrameit said. “Or even if they’d like to be a speaker themself or share something innovative they’re doing, we welcome the input.”

Encouragement for Current Students

The alumni group also offers words of wisdom to current students. 

“Always remember your why,” Abrameit said. “You’ll face difficult decisions and challenges, but anchor into your purpose and lean on your network. Many of these relationships start now in the program, so don’t forget those connections.”

For those entering the field, George Terrazas encourages exploring different healthcare sectors to find a personal mission. 

“Get as much exposure as you can to all different sectors,” he said. “Eventually, start to specialize in something you’re passionate about.” 

Leggett echoed this sentiment, offering a reminder to remain flexible. 

“Don’t plan your career too rigidly,” he said. “Don’t try to fit into a certain mold; go out there and live to the fullest.”

The Robbins Healthcare MBA Alumni Group continues to be a driving force for professional growth, connection, and innovation, solidifying its role in supporting both alumni and students in their healthcare journeys.