ECU helped her grow — now she’s ready to give back

After earning her undergraduate degree from ECU, Katherine Yanoschak knew she wasn’t done growing. She returned to the College of Business to pursue her MBA and a certificate in management information systems — building on her foundation in marketing and supply chain management. Through hands-on projects, supportive mentors and leadership experiences, Katherine has developed the confidence and skills to make an impact in the health care industry. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she’s looking for ways to give back to the ECU community that helped shape her success — and hopes that by sharing her story, she’ll encourage other students to do the same.

Academic journey

What inspired you to pursue an MBA?
I wanted to continue my education and build on the skills I developed as an undergrad. That led me to pursue a certificate in management information systems to learn how to code and apply that to my marketing and supply chain background.

Why did you choose ECU and the College of Business?
I had a great undergraduate experience here and learned so much — especially from Dr. Kros. That experience made me want to come back and continue growing.

Favorite course so far?
Marketing Strategy with Dr. Christine Kowalczyk. We used AI to create a marketing plan for a company called Ripe Revival. Seeing how we could apply what we were learning to a real-world project was fascinating.

Tell us more about Ripe Revival.
It’s a company founded by Will Kornegay. One part of the business we focused on was a mobile truck that sold fresh vegetables and food items. It’s a pay-as-you-go model that travels to different communities — a great initiative.

Career and experience

How have your marketing, supply chain and MIS studies shaped your understanding of business strategy and technology?
They’ve helped me see how technology — especially tools like AI — can be both a benefit and a challenge. It pushed me to think more critically about integrating tech into traditional areas like supply chain or marketing.

What project stands out most?
Definitely the Ripe Revival project. It brought everything we learned in class into a practical, meaningful setting.

You worked with ECU Athletics as a marketing intern. What did you learn from that?
It gave me a great understanding of everything that goes on behind the scenes, especially around fan engagement. I was lucky to work with Patrick Eason and Katie Bradley and see the work they put in firsthand.

What was your experience like as a graduate assistant for the College of Business?
I worked with Robin Ashley, who’s a phenomenal professor. She helped me within the graduate assistant role and ensured I learned a lot. She also taught me about the marketing industry — she knows a lot about it.

You also worked as a manager at JB Hunt. How did that shape your leadership skills?
It really pushed me. The trucking industry is fast-paced, and I learned that different people need different management styles. Often, people just want to be heard. That experience taught me to lead with empathy and flexibility.

Any leadership tips you picked up?
Listen first. Understand what your team needs, then figure out how you can support them. That alone goes a long way.

Industry interests

What made you interested in the health care field?
One of my first accounts at JB Hunt was with HealthTrust in Richmond, Virginia. That experience opened my eyes to how I could apply supply chain knowledge to health care. I’m still helping people, even indirectly. The field of health care can be fast paced, which I enjoy, and there’s a real impact. Knowing I could help improve processes that ultimately affect patient care is incredibly motivating.

How do you hope to apply your MIS and supply chain knowledge in that industry?
I’d love to implement new systems that streamline supply chain processes — speeding up material checkouts, reducing errors and improving efficiency overall.

Are you interested in future leadership roles?
Yes, but I also like staying hands-on. I’d help in the yard at JB Hunt if it meant cutting down delivery times. Leadership is also about being willing to get involved at every level.

Looking ahead

Have you had the chance to use those leadership skills at ECU?
I’ve applied them in group projects — keeping us organized, ensuring everyone’s heard and helping the group stay on track.

What are your plans after graduation?
While I don’t have anything lined up just yet, I’m actively exploring roles in health care supply chain management. I’m excited about opportunities where I can apply both my technical and leadership skills to improve systems and make a real impact.

What advice would you give other MBA students?
If you’ve had work experience, use it to guide your studies. Look for ways to combine your interests with business knowledge — whether that’s through certificates or specific electives.

What would you say to someone considering attending ECU?
It’s a fantastic school with more opportunities than people realize. Professors are approachable and really want to help. There are professional events, networking opportunities and support systems that deserve more recognition.

What are some valuable opportunities you think students often miss?
Our networking events often fly under the radar. We could do a better job promoting them, maybe with more substantial social media efforts — TikTok, Instagram — whatever platforms students are on. And let’s be honest, free food helps too!
(Editor’s note: The College of Business is expanding its efforts to promote events across Instagram, LinkedIn and other platforms so students stay informed and engaged.)

Final thoughts

What made you want to participate in this interview?
My experience at ECU has been so valuable, and I’ve seen other universities promote their students well. I wanted to help showcase what ECU does, too.

Do you want to stay involved with the College of Business after graduation?
Absolutely. I’d love to give back — maybe by helping with networking events or sharing my experience with future students.

Any closing thoughts for future students?
Use your resources. Talk to your professors. Ask questions. And if there’s something you want to start, just go for it. Don’t let fear hold you back. It’s worth it.

Have a story to tell?

We’re always looking to highlight our College of Business students’ amazing experiences, achievements and impact. If you’d like to share your journey, fill out a short form — your story could inspire the next generation of Pirate leaders!