Catherine Burnam (EMBA '25)

Name: Catherine Burnam

Hometown: Lafayette, Louisiana

Program: Executive MBA

Concentration: Finance and Global Strategy 

Post Graduation Plans: I currently serve as a Senior Financial Analyst and Assistant Vice President at Home Bank in Lafayette, LA. While my current focus is on Treasury, most of my career has been in Financial Planning & Analysis, with experience spanning both the banking and healthcare sectors. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to wear multiple “hats” within corporate finance over the past 12+ years, and I look forward to continuing to add value while growing professionally. 

Favorite Business Course: Decision Models with Professor Russ Robins stands out as a highlight. His sharp wit and storytelling brought statistics to life, deepening my appreciation for the subject. While statistics can often feel dry, Professor Robins kept the class thoroughly engaged and frequently laughing. His genuine care for each student was evident, and his instructional videos provided valuable insights that extended well beyond the six-week course. To this day, I can’t use Excel’s Solver function without silently hearing his iconic “Rock-n-Roll!” 

Favorite Business Professor: It’s truly impossible to choose just one favorite—the Freeman EMBA program is filled with outstanding faculty that left a lasting imprint on my personal growth that won’t be forgotten. 

My first introduction to the program was through Professor Alex Sleptsov’s Corporate Strategy course, which I audited while exploring graduate school options. That session, centered on mergers and acquisitions and engaging team breakout discussions, solidified my decision to pursue my degree at Tulane. His genuine care, command of the subject matter, and ability to incorporate real-world research left a lasting impression. Fittingly—he was our first and last professor in the program. 

Professor Rita Kosnik’s Negotiations course was another standout. Her ability to guide us in uncovering the “why” behind every negotiation taught me to ask deeper questions, understand motivations, and learn my own bargaining style. These are tools I utilized immediately both personally and professionally. 

Professor Dulek’s Management Communication course gave us the tools to refine our message, understand our audience, and communicate with purpose. His lasting message—to “squeeze the juice”—resonates deeply within this program as it comes to a conclusion. I will always treasure his art of storytelling and the nickel he gifted our class as a reminder to live fully and intentionally.  

Last but not least, Professor Myke Yest taught two of my finance courses both of which were directly applicable to my work. He was always accessible when we had questions, and his sense of humor brought energy to the classroom, making complex topics more engaging. 

Most important thing you learned at Freeman:  Your team matters! On top of the learning materials, I didn’t anticipate the wealth of knowledge that was shared collectively as a cohort. I saw firsthand how the right mix of diverse skills, support, and shared goals can elevate outcomes far beyond what any one person could achieve alone.  

Favorite New Orleans Memory: My favorite memory hasn’t happened yet! I know that graduation day in May, surrounded by family, friends, and the EMBA Class of 2025, will be one of the most meaningful moments. Celebrating all the hard work, growth, support, and memories we’ve shared will be an unforgettable end to this chapter.