Originally from Germany, Emma Richey moved to Eugene at the age of eight after her parents completed their military service and chose the city for its welcoming community and quality of life. After spending several years away pursuing university studies and professional opportunities, she returned to Eugene to raise her children and continue contributing to the community in meaningful and impactful ways.
Emma’s journey into business and finance began through the lens of creativity. With a BA and MFA in Creative Writing, she launched a storytelling-based business that evolved from the wedding industry to handmade products, coaching, consulting, and online courses. Despite success in branding and marketing, Emma found herself drawn to the technical side of business—finance, risk assessment, and long-term planning—seeking to understand the decision-making tools that shape sustainable success.
Transitioning into a more analytical world presented both challenges and opportunities for growth. Coming from a qualitative background, she has learned to navigate new “languages” such as finance, statistics, and accounting. She often compares the process to watching her toddler learn to write his name; clunky and slow at first, but deeply rewarding with persistence and patience.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Emma’s experience in the Oregon MBA program has been engaging with professors who bring depth and nuance to topics like leadership, market fit, and capital budgeting. As a former business owner, she finds immense satisfaction in exploring these subjects with intellectual rigor and real-world relevance.
Building on her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for empowering others, Emma is currently serving as president of the Graduate Women in Business club at the University of Oregon. In this role, she leads a dynamic team in organizing events that support graduate women in advancing their careers with confidence and purpose. Her leadership reflects the same blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and community focus that has defined her professional path.
Emma also channels her analytical growth by leading a team representing Oregon in the MBA Impact Investing & Network Training (MIINT) competition with guidance from director of the Cameron Center, Anjit Anand. This initiative allows her to apply her evolving finance and investment skills in a collaborative, high-impact setting.
Emma continues to bridge the worlds of art and business through a creative writing project with her mentor, Tina Boscha, exploring the human side of finance and entrepreneurship. Whether through leadership, competition, or storytelling, Emma remains committed to making meaningful contributions that reflect both her creative roots and analytical evolution.
Outside of academics, Emma channels her creativity through writing, painting, playing piano and flute, traveling, swimming, and spending time with her family. Her favorite place on campus is any spot in Lillis with a window overlooking the quad, a peaceful setting that fuels both reflection and productivity.
Emma welcomes connection and conversation with anyone who enjoys bringing fresh ideas and perspectives. She welcomes anyone who is interested in discussing creativity, business, or the intersection of both to reach out to her on LinkedIn!