Taylar Lewis

Why did you choose Rice Business? 

I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and Rice Business fully embraced my arts background. They understood that my creative skills provide me with the empathy and agility to think outside the box and unlock new potential. I knew that Rice Business would give me the education and the network to achieve my career goals to positively impact underserved communities. As a native Houstonian, I have always admired the community-centric culture of Rice and how the school gives back to the community.

What are you most proud of from your time at Rice Business? 

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I am proud to be a Rice Board Fellow! Rice Board Fellows is a student organization that pairs committed Rice MBA students with local nonprofit boards to serve as non-voting board members. Rice Board Fellows allowed me to apply what I learned in class and use it to advance my paired nonprofit organization. As CEO of Rice Board Fellows, I work with a wonderful executive leadership team. Through this opportunity, I have sharpened my leadership skills and empathetic listening in order to take cues, make decisions, act and react. In addition, I have enjoyed co-organizing Rice Business Gives Back events. These events allow Rice MBAs to unite and do good through volunteer and donation opportunities in the Houston community.

How has Rice helped you in your career? 

Classes such as Introduction to Brand Strategy, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Environmental, Social and Governance Issues in Strategy have highlighted my interest in community impact. They have given me the analytical tools needed to make decisions that benefit organizations and society at large. Moreover, with my creative background in theatre, it was instinctive for me to bring a narrative-building angle to my approach to business. Rice Business helped me refine my storytelling and narrative skills in an age of overconsumption of content. These skills have become crucial to connecting with consumers and audiences.

What advice would you give prospective students who are considering an MBA? 

The juice is worth the squeeze! The MBA journey is not easy, but it is worth it! Find a program where you can be yourself, be surrounded by brilliant people and welcomes you with open arms. I am so glad Rice Business checked all my boxes and is a community where I can thrive, learn, create and take chances!

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What do you think organizations should do better to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization? 

To build a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization, the leadership must make DEI a priority. The ability to manage diversity, equity and inclusion is no longer a competitive advantage but an essential skill. Organizations should invest in conducting mandatory DEI trainings. This will help understand the challenges that groups and individuals face while highlighting the work needed to achieve a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization.

What suggestions do you have to work with allies within the workplace or at school? 

Be fair, open-minded and willing to listen. Allies are a major role in achieving justice. This helps promote harmony, cooperation and enthusiasm to achieve the goals at hand.

Do you have any other comments or anecdotes you would like to share?

My favorite quote that has been a guiding light in my life is by Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel into space. She states, “don't let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity or your curiosity. It's your place in the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the life you want to live.”

Thank you, Rice Business for the education to help me make the life I want to live.