Octavia Graham Empowers Equity through WSU’s EMBA

By Lauren Lesmeister

For Octavia Graham (’24 EMBA), mastering the languages of business has been a highlight of her journey in WSU’s online Executive MBA program.

Graham serves as the equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) manager for Seattle Rep, a nonprofit regional theater in Seattle, Washington. Founded in 1963, Seattle Rep produces a wide range of productions, including classics, contemporary works, and new plays. Notably, Seattle Rep received a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1990 and is considered one of the most renowned theaters in the country.

As an EDI manager, Graham works closely with leadership and staff to ensure inclusive values are embedded across all areas of Seattle Rep’s operations. Her experience in the WSU Executive MBA program has equipped her with valuable business skills to advance this mission.

“Diversity and inclusion are at the core of my work,” she says. “Everything I do contributes to creating a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to a more just and equitable society.”

Bridging EDI and business

Graham utilizes her expertise in EDI to advise on initiatives, shape policies, and lead educational efforts that support Seattle Rep’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. While Graham’s background is in human resources, her current role integrates with every department, making it essential for her to understand each area.

In education, she says an inclusive environment develops important traits, including empathy, communication, and cultural competence.

“These skills are crucial for teamwork, leadership, and innovation in the professional world,” Graham says. “Exposure to diverse perspectives prepares students for dynamic, multicultural workplaces, contributing to their success and creating inclusive, thriving organizations.”

The Executive MBA program has strengthened her business acumen and boosted her confidence in communicating across different units.

This ability to navigate different business languages has empowered Graham to articulate her goals and rationale more effectively, especially when working with departments that may view and evaluate her work through diverse perspectives.

“Being able to ‘code switch’ and talk in financial terms, information technology terms, or executive planning terms has helped to establish common ground and create a better understanding,” she says.

Discovering WSU and expanding horizons

Graham discovered WSU’s Executive MBA program through an online search, but it was the extensive alumni network that ultimately convinced her to enroll. She’s since built strong connections with fellow Cougs and embraced the program’s networking opportunities, including the optional study abroad trip.

In May 2024, Graham traveled to Dubai with classmates, faculty, and staff, immersing herself in a new culture while expanding her professional connections.

“That whole experience was illuminating in ways I struggle to articulate,” she says. “It provided an excellent networking opportunity. I had the chance to experience a country I’ve never visited. It was a fantastic experience all around.”

Graham has made the most out of her time in the Executive MBA program by connecting with local Cougs and pushing herself to apply what she’s learned throughout the program to her career. In addition to networking opportunities, Graham says the most valuable part of the Carson College’s Executive MBA program is the breadth of knowledge it offers students, touching on everything from strategic thinking and analytical skills to basic financial management.

“This is the kind of program where even if you decided to walk away after one semester, you’ll still have functional knowledge that can be applied to your work,” she says. “The EMBA program has been challenging, but I feel it has provided a lot of value, and I’m very pleased that I took the plunge and applied.”