Meet the MBA Class of '27: Blakeley Cathey

Blakeley Cathey
Baton Rouge, LA

Blakeley Cathey is an MBA candidate with a focus on human resources and people operations, bringing experience in consulting, diversity initiatives, and organizational development. As a Social Impact Consulting Fellow with Values Partnerships & Gauge.ai, she designed and executed insight reports, managed outreach to 100+ influencers, and led focus groups, skills that translate directly to employee engagement and talent strategy. Previously, at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, she supported diversity and inclusion programming, coordinated ERG initiatives, and analyzed retention trends for 1,750+ Gen Z students, shaping early-career talent strategy. Blakeley also has business development experience with Premium Parking, giving her a strong foundation in cross-functional collaboration. She is pursuing a career in HR, where she can combine data-driven insights with a passion for inclusive workplace culture. 

What internships or work experience are you most proud of?
During undergrad, I gained real-world experience by interning every semester starting in the fall of my sophomore year. I had the opportunity to work at Sodexo as a marketing intern, Bloomberg Philanthropies as a human resources and management intern, and the Bureau of Governmental Research as a communications intern. I wrapped up my senior year as a marketing and DEI intern with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana. Midway through my senior year, I accepted a full-time role as a business development associate with Premium Parking in New Orleans. That role solidified my desire to pursue my MBA to strengthen my background in data, finance, and strategy. Most recently, I completed an 8-month consulting fellowship with Values Partnerships in Washington, D.C., where I gained experience in strategy and analytics while supporting impactful client projects.

Why are you pursuing an MBA?
I am pursuing my MBA at Tulane to strengthen my analytical, strategic, and financial skills while also deepening my expertise in human resources. This program will prepare me to excel in strategy, consulting, and HR roles where I can deliver data-driven solutions and create meaningful, innovative impact.

What attracted you to Freeman? What are you hoping to achieve?
I appreciate how Freeman works closely with students to help them pursue their goals and take actionable steps toward their career plans. The support and resources here make me feel confident that I will be successful.

Where do you hope to be in five years?
In five years, I hope to be in a mid-level management role, supporting senior leadership in achieving their goals while driving innovative ideas and strategies. My goal is to be working at a business consulting firm, focusing on human resources and leadership development to help organizations grow and create lasting impact.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love spending time with my family. Whenever I have free time, I often find myself driving to Baton Rouge and being with them. I also love reading and journaling.