Alumni Reflect on Value of RMI In Their Careers

Oscar Wilde once said, "The only thing to do with good advice is pass it on." It is in this spirit that we express gratitude to RMI alums who facilitate our program's strong partnership with the retail industry.

For this reason, we are delighted to learn that the Retail Studies Program has proved equally helpful to them. When asked how the Retail Studies program contributed to the advancement of their careers, alums have consistently provided responses that pay tribute to the RMI mission.

Thank you to all of our alums who contribute to the success of the Retail Studies Program!

Mark Brashear President, Façonnable - Division of Nordstrom

Here are a few highlights from our graduates.

Mark Brashear '83

President, Façonnable - Division of Nordstrom

"I graduated from SCU with a degree in finance as well as the RMI certificate. Both of these focus areas have helped me throughout my career. The combination of having a good financial understanding of our business along with the specific training for the retail industry have proven to be invaluable to my development in our business."

Michael Osorio Managing Director, Hawaii Division DFS

Michael Osorio '84
Managing Director, Hawaii Division DFS

I have been in retail management for over 20 years, and have held varied positions with three major companies. I have recently joined DFS and have been promoted to Managing Director, Hawaii Division.

"The curriculum focus on practical application as well as theoretical exploration gives the student a true vision of the industry. The highlight of this is the internship, which for me was critical to my decision to embark on a retail career. I am glad that the RMI gave me both the interest to pursue retail as a career, and the foundation for early success."

John Strain, VP of Total Customer Experience Gap, Inc. Direct.

John Strain '90
VP of Total Customer Experience Gap, Inc. Direct

"I always knew that my retail emphasis at Santa Clara was a benefit. But, as I continue to apply what I have learned some 15 years later, I realize how far ahead RMI was in teaching us the fundamental retail strategies and how enduring the value continues to be even today."

Lisa (Martin) Bougie General Manager, Nikewoman.

Lisa (Martin) Bougie '91
GM Nikewomen

"The RMI Program validated my intrinsic passion and interest in the retail industry very early on in my collegiate studies. In doing so, the program provided a clear road map to pursue in order to realize my professional goals. I can honestly say that without the leadership and direction of the RMI program, I would not be where I am today."

Chantel Waterbury '97 Merchandise Manager Accessory, Jewelry and Shoes, Old Navy, Gap, Inc.

Chantel Waterbury '97
Merchandise Manager, Accessory, Jewelry and Shoes
Old Navy, Gap, Inc.

"RMI proved to be an invaluable program. It gave me the necessary skills not only to obtain a competitive position (and now that I am on this side I see how truly competitive it is!) but also to move through the corporate retail ladder twice as quickly (being promoted to a buyer within two years out of college)."

I don't think I fully appreciated at the time the partnerships RMI has with the retail corporations or the opportunities to communicate directly with their leaders, giving us an edge throughout the interview process. I am truly grateful for that now.

"I have always participated in the new hiring interviews at my previous companies. I try to get involved and push for the SCU students to get hired, not because I'm an alum but because I know what a great program RMI has created."

Retail Management Institute - Santa Clara University
rmi.scu.edu