Testimonials

Grace Tissell – MS LOD Strategic Human Resources

“I’m grateful to have chosen UTD’s MS LOD program with a focus on Strategic Human Resources. The organizational development knowledge I’ve gained has become a daily part of my work as a HR professional.

This education has enriched my career, helped me pursue opportunities aligned with my values and growing skillset, and supported my professional growth. I’m excited to carry these learnings forward and share their impact with others.

Thank you to the excellent instructors who make this program rigorous, relevant, and truly meaningful.”

Cherie Castain – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“Returning to graduate school after a 20-year break was a decision I approached with hesitation, but the Executive Education Program at UTD exceeded all my expectations. From the very first semester, the program proved to be transformative, reigniting my passion for learning and inspiring me to pursue my master’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Development with a concentration in Executive and Professional Coaching.

Through the curriculum and supportive learning environment, I strengthened my professional skills, gained confidence, and expanded my network in meaningful ways. The relationships I formed with peers, faculty, and industry professionals continue to enrich both my personal and professional life. The program has had a remarkable impact on my growth and has positively influenced every aspect of my career journey.

For anyone considering a return to higher education, UTD’s Executive Education Program offers an exceptional pathway to advance your goals, no matter your background or how long you’ve been away from the classroom.”

Jennifer Covarrubias – EMBA with an Emphasis on Healthcare Organization Leadership

“As I prepare to graduate from the Executive MBA program, I find myself reflecting on just how transformative this experience has been for me; both as a healthcare professional and as a leader. Coming into the program, I hoped to strengthen my leadership skills and gain tools I could apply immediately in my organization. What I didn’t expect was how deeply this program would reshape the way I think, lead, and show up for my teams.

The faculty brought such a practical, real-world approach that made even the most complex concepts feel accessible and directly relevant. I never felt like I was simply completing assignments; I felt like I was learning from leaders who genuinely cared about our growth.

Working alongside peers from different industries broadened my perspective and helped me become a more thoughtful and well-rounded leader. This program didn’t just enhance my skills; it enhanced my confidence. I leave feeling more prepared, more grounded, and more inspired than when I started.”

Abigail Darling – Professional Certificate in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

“As a young professional with an interest in the legal field, I came across UTD’s course on Mediation and Dispute Resolution. Nancy Boyle and Azure Brown were instrumental in why I enjoyed this class so much. The material was straightforward and digestible, but Nancy and Azure’s personalities, teaching styles, and accounts of their experiences as mediators are where I learned the most. The program was well-organized and balanced between course materials and mediation role-plays with classmates. Overall, whether you are considering pursuing mediation, obtaining a Human Resource requirement, or you are just wanting to learn more about the art of mediation, I highly recommend this course.”

Cynthia Carter – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“What drew me to the MS LOD program was the focus of developing leaders who inspire change through authenticity and purpose. As someone balancing a demanding career with a major airline company and a growing real estate business, I wanted a program that would help me align my leadership with my values. The program exceeded my expectations by integrating theory with real-world practice, offering mentorship from dedicated professors, and creating a space where vulnerability and growth were encouraged. It didn’t just teach leadership—it reshaped how I show up as a leader in every area of my life.”

Nicole Roettele – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“I came for the Academic Certificate in Executive and Professional Coaching and loved the experience and the learning so much that I stayed for a Master’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Development! I especially appreciated the cohort model and working so closely with such incredible professionals.”

Tyrrell (TJ) Thermezi II – MS LOD Transformational Leadership

“My journey at UTD has been both personal and transformational. I moved from Orlando, Florida, unsure of my next step, but I knew I had a natural gift for leadership. While searching for programs that aligned with my passion, I found UTD’s MS in Leadership and Organizational Development program with a concentration in Transformational Leadership. As a full-time 5th grade teacher, the online format gave me the flexibility I needed while still offering a rich and meaningful experience. One of the biggest challenges I faced was being a young teacher, I often felt underestimated. I stayed committed to my students—and their growth and test scores spoke volumes. Those early challenges helped build my confidence and showed me the impact of staying focused and purpose-driven. One course that especially stood out to me was Strategic Leadership with Dr. Anne Ferrante. Her course helped me think critically about long-term vision, systems thinking, and leading with both strategy and heart. It continues to shape the way I approach leadership today. Since then, I’ve moved to Chicago and stepped into a new leadership role supporting high school culture and student development. Now, just a year after teaching, I’m pursuing school administration with the goal of becoming a principal at Noble Schools. The MS LOD gave me the foundation and belief to lead boldly—and I’m just getting started.”

Colleen Rodriguez – EMBA with an Emphasis on Healthcare Organization Leadership

“Completing my EMBA HOL was truly transformative. This program provided foundational knowledge in the business of healthcare and I also gained a dynamic network of peers and mentors. The connections I made and the skills I gained have opened doors I never imagined and will continue to shape my career trajectory.”

Nickquolette Barrett – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“What attracted me to the MSLOD program was its strong blend of academic rigor and real-world application, led by professors who are also active practitioners. I wanted more than theory—I needed tools to help me transition from corporate leadership to full-time business ownership. The program delivered beyond expectations, equipping me with practical strategies, a powerful peer network, and the confidence to scale my coaching and consulting practice. It was truly the bridge between my corporate past and entrepreneurial future.”

Anwar Mohammad Sirajuddin – EMBA with an Emphasis on Healthcare Organization Leadership

“The learning experience was incredible, not just from the content perspective but the insights gained from real-world case studies and discussions with professors who’ve earned the stripes of experience. But the best part were my classmates. We came from all corners of the healthcare world, united by a common goal, and maybe a shared caffeine addiction! The friendships we built and the connections we made have been invaluable. I now have an entire network of brilliant people I can turn to.”

Amanda Merritt – MBA, MS LOD Organizational Consulting and Transformational Leadership

“When I decided to go back to school 18 years after my undergrad, I knew I wanted a program that would challenge me, allow me to keep working, and give me the best foundation for my future career growth, and I found it here. I loved everything about my OBCC experience. The flexibility and online format gave me the ability to balance my job, my family (with three very active teenagers), and my coursework, without sacrificing the depth of knowledge I was looking for. It wouldn’t have been possible for me to complete my degree without it. The whole OBCC team is truly the best. All of my professors were available for chats about class, assignments, and any other random questions, from PhD possibilities to professional experiences, and the admin office was always quick to answer my questions and help me with exactly what I needed, especially when I wanted to finish my MSLOD with two certificates. They arranged my schedule to fit everything in alongside my MBA courses, and I was able to finish both degrees in just under three years. My time in the program has been invaluable, and I would recommend any of the OBCC programs every time.”

Edtrina Moss – EMBA with an Emphasis on Healthcare Organization Leadership

“As a practicing registered nurse with a PhD in Nursing Science and a graduating student in the Executive MBA program at the University of Texas at Dallas, Naveen Jindal School of Management, my journey has been both rigorous and rewarding. The program has equipped me with invaluable skills in strategic leadership, healthcare management, and operational efficiency to think strategically and approach complex healthcare challenges with innovative solutions. The opportunity to blend my clinical expertise with executive-level education has been invaluable in advancing my ability to drive organizational change and improve patient outcomes.”

Riley Samaniego – MBA Strategic Human Resources

“The Strategic Human Resources Academic Certificate exceeded my expectations. All classes connected seamlessly and approached people management from various perspectives. My professors used multiple sources like readings, lectures, and case studies, helping me learn through real company examples. This multi-material approach truly helped me gain a strong foundational understanding. Additionally, each course was tied to application-based approaches where students could apply their learnings to a case company or their current company. Connecting coursework to my professional role enhanced my knowledge and performance both in school and at work. I gained a holistic understanding of business strategy, from diagnosing core challenges to finding sustainable solutions. I learned to view an organization as an entire ecosystem. Taking a systems approach to organizations fosters sustainable changes, growth, and improvements. I highly recommend the program! The topics I learned throughout the Strategic HR Certificate were quickly and easily applicable to my professional role. After the program, I feel more well-equipped to manage and lead within my organization.”

Samantha Raffield – EMBA with an Emphasis on Healthcare Organization Leadership

“The EMBA HOL at UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management (JSOM) catalyzed my personal and professional growth. The unwavering support of the entire UTD faculty fostered a dynamic learning environment. This experience has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to excel in future endeavors.”

Rob Stogsdill – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“The MS-LOD program gave me knowledge and skills that use on a daily basis in me leadership position in a Fortune 40 company. I’ve been coaching people for over a decade. The executive coaching program gave me insights, skills and the experience I needed to take my coaching to the next level. It’s really helped me set my clients up for success.”

Veronica Sanchez – MS LOD Transformational Leadership

“I was initially drawn to the Master of Science in Organizational Development program by its reputation for providing deep, practical insights and fostering leadership skills in a collaborative learning environment. The program not only met but surpassed my expectations by delivering rigorous coursework that broadened my understanding and expertise in organizational development. What truly enhanced my experience, however, were the remarkable peers I learned alongside, whose perspectives continually enriched our discussions, as well as the dedicated mentors, professors, and faculty members who invested wholeheartedly in my growth. This journey has been immensely rewarding, and I am excited to apply my skills and knowledge to continue to drive success and inspire others.”

Jacob Heller – MS LOD Strategic Human Resources

“The MS LOD program with the Strategic HR concentration gave me the knowledge and confidence to achieve my career goals. The curriculum helped me reframe how I approach business leaders daily to achieve my intended results better. The program provided both breadth and depth of understanding while also giving me the tools to dive deeper and learn more independently when needed.”

Megan Lightfoot Metzger – MS LOD Organizational Consulting and Transformational Leadership

“As a business owner and consultant, I sought to expand my knowledge to foster the growth of both my own businesses and my clients’ ventures. For years, I thought an MBA was the natural next step, but discovering the MS in Leadership and Organizational Development (MSLOD) program felt like finding the perfect fit. Each course offered immediate, actionable insights that I could implement to enhance my businesses and support my clients. The faculty at UT Dallas brings a wealth of expertise and real-world experience to every lesson, but what truly sets them apart is their genuine commitment to each student. Professors were always open to discussing the coursework and went beyond by offering invaluable advice tailored to my unique challenges and goals. My time at UT Dallas has made me a more effective consultant and a better person, and I’m deeply grateful for the profound impact of their mentorship and guidance.”

Sean Seabrook – MS LOD Organizational Consulting and Executive and Professional Coaching

“The UTD MS in Leadership and Organizational Development is a transformative experience. The coaching certificate provides leading industry training for coaching and the ICF exam, and the organizational consulting certificate gave me practical tools and resources to develop a consulting practice. The MS degree gave me the knowledge to grow as a leader and drive change in today’s fast-moving business environment. Professors in the program have corporate backgrounds, bridging academic theory with practical application, and the program is accredited in a business school which also enhances its value and the learning experience. The program expanded my network and I’ve made some life-long friends along the way. The value and experience is outstanding!”

Bianca Gouge – MS LOD Executive and Professional Coaching

“My experience in the MS LOD Executive Coaching concentration program has been truly transformative. Through deep self-reflection and insightful guidance, I’ve developed a greater understanding of myself and how my behaviors impact those around me. Specifically, I’ve gained valuable skills in:

These newfound skills have already enhanced my professional relationships and personal effectiveness. I’m confident that my continued growth in these areas will be invaluable to my future success.”

Emily Elizarde – MS LOD Transformational Leadership

“My true passion lies in developing the teams I lead and enhancing learning amongst organizations. To me, the most meaningful part of leading a team is leaning into the continual growth and development of our most important asset – our people. The MS LOD at UT Dallas  surpassed my expectations by providing me with an enhanced perspective and equipping me with frameworks rooted in research that I use in the workplace daily. The most valuable thing I experienced was the camaraderie and diversity of thought that was offered throughout the program. Being surrounded by the rich experiences of both instructors and students with an interest in how humans impact organizational ecosystems was invaluable to me. The program was such a worthwhile endeavor. I gained new and meaningful perspectives and have successfully applied so many new concepts to my experience. I especially enjoy sharing the knowledge I’ve gained through this program with other leaders in my organization. It’s a great feeling to know that the time I’ve dedicated to this course of study has the potential to generate a long-lasting, positive impact.” 

Robert Tomczak – MS LOD Organizational Consulting and Transformational Leadership

“I strongly recommend the MS LOD program for the primary reason of embracing change. A great leader requires adaptation, understanding, and a critical perspective. I learned who I am as a professional while developing highly transferable skills. I recommend this program to open-minded individuals, regardless of background, who want to grow their careers in several directions. There are tremendous opportunities and career paths once this program is complete.” 

Elisabetta Mroski – Executive and Professional Coaching Certificate

“Attending the Executive Coaching Program at UTD has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life, both personally and professionally. I absolutely loved this program and Cohort 18A!  Besides the enlightening classes and the very knowledgeable faculty team, I had a chance to meet, learn and practice coaching with many great people from all over the world.”

Vanessa Powell – EMBA Healthcare Organization Leadership

“The program was very rewarding because I accomplished my goal of obtaining my Executive MBA, which has opened many opportunities for me. The cohort was my extended family, and we worked, studied, played together, and became life-long friends.”

Alisa Hauser – MS LOD Transformational Leadership

“This program allows working professionals to tailor their higher education experience to their career goals. The online class schedule gave me the flexibility I needed to balance graduate school, work, and family. In addition to the challenging and relevant coursework, I’ve gained valuable insights from collaborating with a diverse network of people with a wide variety of experiences and perspectives.”

Richard Pritchett – MBA Organizational Consulting

“I’m a sales professional, and I’m finding that the frameworks and models and material I’ve learned are going to make me a better sales professional, manager, and leader of others.”

Danielle Eldridge – MS LOD Organizational Consulting

“The curriculum covered everything I will need to know to start my own consulting practice.”