Karen Auguste on KCBS, Channel 5.
Karen Auguste, USF MBA for Executives graduate, 2003, and founder/principal of Purple Lynx consulting agency, was interviewed on KCBS recently commenting on the return of in-home sales parties, most recently seen in the women’s jewelry market.
Watch the KCBS video and read the article here.
Karen also agreed to answer some of our questions about USF School of Business and Professional Studies experience.
— How has your USF degree made a difference for you in your own business?
I have an undergraduate degree from USF (BS, Information Systems Management), and a graduate degree (MBA). From an external perspective, both of my degrees increase my credibility when submitting proposals in response to government RFPs (Requests for Proposals). Internally, having managed to obtain both of my degrees while working full-time has taught me effective time management skills, as well as the discipline to prioritize the most meaningful approach to completing projects. Additionally, the MBA program provided a solid basis for collaborative learning and team-building.
— Does your USF experience provide you with a network of connections?
Absolutely! I am in touch with many of former classmates, and have worked with many of them since we’ve graduated. Some have stepped in as guest speakers to the business planning classes that I’ve taught over the years. Others have become committee members for a state-chartered, public-benefit organization that provides loan guarantees to small businesses. Others have been involved with organizations whose causes I can support through my classmates’ involvement.
— Do you ever speak to prospective students about USF and USF School of Business and Professional Studies?
I often recommend USF when speaking with young adults who are looking for suggestions for college. In fact, I recently wrote a letter of recommendation for one of my current employees. I let prospective students know that you will receive one of the strongest academic foundations available, from a school where the professors know you and your name. If you are looking for a school that helps instill values and explains how your profession should have some meaning and impact in the community and on the world that you live in, then USF is the place for you. The professors are genuinely engaged in your academic success.
Thanks very much for your time, Karen.
PURPLE LYNX: Purple Lynx is a full-service consulting agency providing marketing communications services to small businesses, non-profit organizations, minority associations and government agencies.
Purple Lynx is a woman-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned small business certified by the State of California.
Karen L. Auguste, CEO & Managing Principal
300 Frank Ogawa Plaza, #175
Oakland, California 94612
(510) 251-8800 office
