When Teyonna Jarman stepped onto Carnegie Mellon University’s campus for the Tepper School of Business Welcome Weekend, a weekend designed for admitted students, she wasn’t just beginning an MBA program. She unknowingly stepped into a community that would challenge her, support her, and ultimately help shape the next chapter of her leadership journey.

Now, as the recipient of Forte Foundation’s 2026 Edie Hunt Inspiration Award, Jarman’s story has become one of resilience, connection, and impact.

The Edie Hunt Inspiration Award recognizes MBA students who exemplify leadership, community engagement, and a commitment to advancing women in business. For Jarman, the recognition reflects not only her individual accomplishments, but also the experiences, relationships, and opportunities that defined her time at the Tepper School.

“Receiving this award feels incredibly meaningful because it represents the people and experiences that helped shape my journey,” said Jarman. “The Tepper School and Forte gave me spaces where I felt encouraged to grow, take risks, and lead authentically.”

Jarman immersed herself in the Tepper School community. Drawn to the school’s collaborative culture and analytical approach to leadership, she found opportunities to connect with classmates, faculty, alumni, and organizations that aligned with her goals.

“The MBA experience can be transformative, but it can also feel overwhelming at times,” she said. “Having a network through Forte and the Tepper School community reminded me that I wasn’t navigating it alone.”

Jarman embraced opportunities to lead, mentor, and contribute to the community around her. Whether collaborating with peers, participating in student initiatives, or sharing her experiences with incoming students, she consistently focused on creating spaces where others felt welcomed and supported. That ability to connect authentically with others is part of what made Jarman stand out for the Edie Hunt Inspiration Award. 

At the Tepper School, that kind of leadership is deeply connected to the student experience itself. The MBA program combines rigorous analytics with leadership development, teamwork, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare students to lead across industries and organizations.

“The Tepper School pushed me to think differently, communicate more confidently, and trust my perspective,” she said. “I’ve learned as much from the people around me as I have from the classroom experience itself.”

For prospective students considering an MBA, Jarman hopes her experience serves as a reminder that business school is about more than academics or career outcomes.

“Your experience is really shaped by what you choose to invest in,” she said. “The people, the relationships, and the opportunities to step outside your comfort zone are what make it meaningful.”

As an official graduate of the Class of 2026, Jarman leaves behind a legacy of leadership, encouragement, and inspiration that will continue to shape the Tepper School community long after her time on campus.

Learn more about the Tepper School MBA experience and how Carnegie Mellon University is preparing the next generation of business leaders through a collaborative, data-informed, and human-driven approach to management education at the Tepper School MBA program.