MSU Weekend MBA Alumni Demonstrate Success Using Professional Networks to Form Business Partnerships

EAST LANSING, Mich. - May 31, 2012 - Graduates of the Michigan State University Weekend MBA have joined forces to create a lucrative business partnership for two Michigan marketing firms.

Phil Harwood, founder of Pro-Motion Consulting, and Rochelle Rizzi, founder of Rizzi Designs, LLC, met through the MSU Weekend MBA. Despite the fact that they did not attend the program together, they connected via the Weekend MBA Alumni Association and discovered that they had much to gain by partnering.

Harwood and Rizzi came together earlier this year to provide consulting, design, and marketing services in tandem to their clients. The partnership allows a streamlining of services and growth for both companies.

"[We're] alumni of the MSU WMBA and have formed a great friendship," said Rizzi. "As entrepreneurs and strategic thinkers, we have a lot in common."
The Weekend MBA offers a unique team-based approach for aspiring and current executives. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with professors and classmates with diverse professional backgrounds and expertise.

"This successful partnership is the result of the strong academics and alumni network of the Weekend MBA program at Michigan State University," said Harwood. "I wouldn't be where I am today without the benefit of the WMBA program."

The relationships and connections formed throughout the executive-style MBA program have provided graduates, including Harwood and Rizzi, a tremendous advantage and numerous opportunities in their professional careers.

To contact MSU Weekend MBA, send an e-mail to wmba@bus.msu.edu or declercq@bus.msu.edu or call 517- 355-7603.

For more information about the MSU Weekend MBA visit http://weekendmba.broad.msu.edu/