February 20, 2026 | Alumni & Feature Stories
Dr. Patrick Runyon’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) journey at Edgewood University became an exercise in expanding his own sense of possibility. Entering the program open to learning and self-discovery, Patrick emerged in December 2025 as a graduate of the inaugural DBA cohort. Strengthened by community, shaped by challenge, and grounded in a belief that growth happens at the edge of comfort, his journey reflects both perseverance and heart.
A Nontraditional Path Rooted in Growth
Patrick’s academic and professional path was not always conventional. His first year of undergraduate study did not unfold as expected, leading him to step away from school and focus on gaining life and professional experience. That period ultimately opened the door to a long and evolving career in banking and finance.
As his professional journey progressed, Patrick returned to higher education through an online associate degree program, long before online learning was commonplace. He earned his bachelor’s degree online as well, allowing him the flexibility to work while learning. His career later took him across the globe, including two years living and working in London, followed by leadership roles across the U.S. and a transition into the financial technology (fintech) industry where he worked with international audiences. Patrick completed his MBA in 2023, believing he was finished with formal education: until the idea of a doctorate surfaced.
“I wasn’t originally planning on pursuing a doctorate,” Patrick admits. “But I wanted to challenge myself in ways my 18-year-old self could have never imagined.”
Finding Belonging at Edgewood University
As Patrick explored doctoral programs, flexibility was essential. He wanted an affordable, accredited DBA with a leadership focus that would allow him to study from anywhere in the world while maintaining balance. After researching dozens of institutions, he discovered Edgewood University.
Though unfamiliar at first, Edgewood’s Dominican heritage, emphasis on community, and commitment to accessible, high-quality education immediately stood out to him.
“There was a sense that I had found a place where I belonged,” Patrick says. “Edgewood holds true to traditional academic values while still being innovative and accessible for busy professionals.”
Traveling all the way from Texas, a campus visit to Madison, Wisconsin where Patrick met with Edgewood’s Graduate Admissions team, solidified his decision and brought the Edgewood community to life in front of his eyes.
“The visit reaffirmed that I had made the right decision. I felt genuinely welcomed and connected. Campus radiated that community feel,” Patrick states.
Overcoming Uncertainty
Despite his extensive professional experience and advanced education, Patrick admits he entered the DBA program with doubts, especially around the dissertation.
“The dissertation felt intimidating at first,” he admits. “I kept asking myself, ‘Can I really do this?’”
The language of academic research was unfamiliar, and the commitment felt significant. He was pleasantly surprised to find how the program is intentionally designed to support students through the process: breaking the dissertation down into manageable milestones while faculty provide continuous feedback along the way.
“I’ve grown so much from the first day of the program to the day I defended my dissertation,” Patrick reflects. “Not just as a student, but as a researcher and an academic.”
Building Real Community in an Online Program
One of the most defining aspects of Patrick’s experience was the sense of connection he built, despite being in an online program.
As members of the inaugural cohort, Patrick and several peers stayed connected through a group chat created by fellow students. Patrick quickly became an active presence in the space, encouraging participation, sharing resources, and helping keep classmates engaged and connected. Over time, the group began hosting video check-ins every two weeks to ask questions, share progress, and support one another. Their grassroots effort continues today creating a bridge between students at all different stages in the program.
“These connections happened organically,” Patrick says. “And through them, I’ve built real friendships and professional connections.”
One particularly meaningful connection was with fellow inaugural cohort graduate, Dr. Ingrid Ciano ‘25. The two supported each other through every stage of the program: the challenges, breakthroughs, and long nights! Meeting in person for the first time at commencement, seated side by side in the front row, was a full-circle moment.
Patrick also stayed closely connected to Edgewood through social media, using it as a vital bridge to campus life. By following university channels, celebrating milestones, and actively engaging, he experienced the rhythms of the Edgewood community despite the distance.
“Through social media, I could see Edgewood living its values in real time,” he shares. “It helped me feel connected to my school as an online student.”
Research with Purpose
With guidance and collaboration from Professor Ken Kavajecz, Patrick chose a dissertation topic deeply personal to him: leadership and family business dynamics within his Native American tribe. His dissertation, “Leading from Legacy: A Case Study to Examine Family Business Dynamics in the Constitutional Governance of the Whitetop Nation,” allowed him to contribute original research while strengthening connection to his community.
“The qualitative interviews done during my research phase were incredibly meaningful,” Patrick shares. “Hearing directly from members of my tribe changed how I see leadership, and how they see me. Contributing new knowledge to an underrepresented area of research was both fulfilling and surreal.”
A Full-Circle Finish and What’s Ahead
Patrick’s Edgewood journey concluded with a moment he will never forget: being selected as the 2025 Winter Commencement speaker, nominated by his dissertation chair, Dr. Victoria Palmisano.
“That nomination meant everything to me,” he says. “It showed how strong the faculty connections can be, even in an online program.”
Graduation day was a powerful close to the chapter. Patrick met peers in person for the first time, celebrated alongside his family, and reflected on just how far he had come.
As he looks ahead, Patrick is launching Intelgen Group, a consulting firm focused on banking, financial technology, and digital transformation. He is also exploring adjunct teaching opportunities, inspired by a growing love for academia sparked through the DBA program.
The Edgewood University Difference
Patrick’s experience, shaped by the moments that led to his hooding as Dr. Patrick Runyon, define the heart of Edgewood University’s Doctor of Business Administration program. Those moments represent rigorous scholarship, meaningful connection, and a community that supports students through challenge and growth. As an inaugural graduate, his journey sets a powerful example for future scholars, proving that with courage, commitment, and community, even the most intimidating goals are within reach.