Join the Cornell Women’s Advocacy Network for a candid virtual panel exploring the MBA decision — why to pursue it, how it can accelerate your career, and what it really takes to apply.

This conversation is designed for Cornellians who are considering business school or simply curious about how an MBA can shape long-term career growth. Our panelists will share:

• Why they chose to pursue an MBA
•  How their MBA has impacted their careers
• How they navigated the application process
• Advice they wish they had known earlier
• Q&A from attendees

Our speakers represent a range of industries and perspectives — from retail and tech to consulting, start ups, and healthcare — and span different MBA journeys: a leader diving deeper into her industry, a director climbing the corporate ladder, and someone about to begin.

Whether you are certain you want an MBA or simply exploring your options, this session will provide practical insight, honest reflections, and actionable advice to help you determine your next step.

Event Details:
Date: Monday, April 27, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. ET
Location: Zoom | Exact Zoom details will be in your registration confirmation email.

Biographies:
Kat Duarte (ILR ’16) – Harvard Business School ’23 

With a foundation in finance, strategy, and analytics, Kat’s career has encompassed diverse roles in product strategy, consulting and project management. She has collaborated with dynamic teams, steering transformation and growth at Gap Inc., theSkimm, and BCG. She now serves as Director of Growth at Archive, a tech-enabled retail platform.

Rebekah Catalana (Hotel ’16) – Columbia Business School ’23 

Rebekah is an operations and supply chain leader with experience scaling consumer brands from development through commercialization. She has led teams at Choolaah, Lassonde Pappas, and Freestyle Snacks, bringing new products to market. She now leads contract manufacturing strategy as Senior Manager at The Farmer’s Dog. 

Abby Macaluso (ORIE ’20) – The Wharton School ’28

Abby will begin her MBA this fall as a Wharton Health Care Management Fellow. Prior to business school, she worked in data roles across health tech and cancer care at Cityblock Health and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Abby plans to use her MBA to transition to the business side of the healthcare industry. 

This event is open to all alumni and dedicated to creating a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive space. We recognize and celebrate each alum’s identity, experiences, and perspectives, and invite all to join us.

Event Questions? Contact Abby Macaluso