Dr. Kate Gemma was the 2025 commencement speaker for the WilmU College of Business and the 2025 Ruth Norman Distinguished DBA Scholar. Dr. Gemma specializes in market analysis, feasibility planning and human-centered design. She leads strategic planning and development initiatives at Carl M. Freeman Companies, where she blends analytical insight with a passion for building vibrant, sustainable communities. Her work is driven by curiosity, purpose and a long-term vision to create places that thrive for generations.
Q: Can you tell us about your WilmU journey?
Years ago, I was living in Newark and had just completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware, preparing for a career in medicine. When that path didn’t work out, I pivoted and decided to pursue an MBA. Wilmington University was the clear choice, as it offered the flexibility and support that working professionals need, along with online options that fit my uncertain future. Years later, those same strengths led me back to WilmU for my Doctor of Business Administration. Balancing full-time work, school and personal relationships wasn’t easy, but WilmU’s flexibility and dedication to professionals made it possible. While I once imagined myself becoming a Doctor of Medicine, I’m now a Doctor of Business Administration — a full-circle journey I never expected but one I’m incredibly grateful for.
Q: What prompted you to choose the Doctor of Business Administration program?
I thought I was done with formal education after my MBA until I came across an online ad for another doctoral program that reignited my curiosity. After talking with family and friends, I realized I was ready for the next step if I found the right program at the right school. Wilmington University had been a great experience while obtaining my MBA, so it was a top choice. When I researched their doctorate programs, I was delighted to see DBA was an option, as it felt like a perfect fit. It built on my past education and work experience, offered flexibility across business fields, and had a rigorous, selective admissions process that reflected the quality of the program.
Q: Did you have a favorite course and/or instructor?
It’s difficult to choose just one favorite course or professor because each class offered meaningful moments that I still reflect on today. In fact, I was so inspired that I created a wall in my office filled with quotes and lessons from the program. They are daily reminders of the insights I gained each week. As for instructors, I was fortunate to learn from many fantastic professors, including Dr. Ruth Norman, Dr. Catharine O’Dell, Dr. Kathy Kennedy-Ratajack, Dr. Patricia Claghorn, Dr. Guillermina Gonzalez, Dr. John Satterfield, Dr. Timothy Carrington and Dr. Amy Danley.
Q: Did you have any meaningful hands-on learning experiences or opportunities to apply what you were learning in class to your current position?
One of the most valuable aspects of Wilmington University’s DBA program is the diversity of industries represented within each cohort. Every member brought unique experiences, which meant coursework was designed to be adaptable across a wide range of professional settings. This approach not only allowed us to apply what we learned directly to our own fields but also gave us valuable insight into other sectors. Many assignments were practical and immediately relevant to my work. A standout example was from Dr. Satterfield’s Managing Innovation and Change course. For my final paper, I developed a proposal that I submitted to my company’s chief financial officer. That proposal led to a signed contract and the implementation of an innovation we’ve successfully used for the past three years.
“Balancing full-time work, school and personal relationships wasn’t easy, but WilmU’s flexibility and dedication to professionals made it possible.”
— Dr. Kate Gemma
Q: Now that you’ve completed your degree, what’s next for you?
For the past 30 years, my focus has been on education and building a career. In December, I became a first-time mom ¾ so it’s safe to say that what’s next for me is a blend of boardrooms and playdates, strategy meetings and snack prep, and suits and mom jeans. What excites me most is that my DBA isn’t just tied to my career — it’s tied to me. It reflects one facet of who I am and what I’ve accomplished. While I’m not planning on any immediate changes, the degree opens up a world of possibilities for the future.
Q: What do you love about Wilmington University?
What I love about Wilmington University is that, while it welcomes students from across the country and around the world through its online programs, at its heart it is a Delaware university. As a Delawarean, I take great pride in seeing my state contribute to the development of the next generation of leaders through education. Another standout quality that I love is WilmU’s strong commitment to flexibility for working professionals — a value that’s clearly embraced and celebrated by both the faculty and administration.
Q: Do you have any words of wisdom, advice or encouragement for people who are thinking about taking their education further?
If the idea of furthering your education keeps coming back to you, but obstacles inhibit you from moving forward, my advice would be to take a moment to write out your “why” — the reason you want to pursue this goal — and the obstacles standing in your way. It’s easy to go in circles when thoughts stay in your head. Writing them down can help you identify ways to diminish or remove the obstacles. Even more importantly, share your “why” with someone you trust. When others know what you’re striving for, they can help keep you motivated and accountable. For me, it was the support of the people around me that made all the difference.
Q: Lastly, is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for helping you achieve your goals?
There are so many people I’d like to acknowledge — it truly took a village. My husband, Joe Gemma, and my parents, Earl and Kathy Cramer, were my biggest supporters. I’m incredibly thankful for my family and friends — Sara Cramer, Autumn Cooper, Kacy Cassat, Julia Carter, Cait Skocypec, Maggie Cooper and Becky Hodge — whose love and support carried me through. Dr. Ruth Norman and Dr. John Sparco were exceptional mentors throughout my dissertation journey, and I hold deep respect for them as educators. I’m also grateful to every professor I have had the privilege to learn from over the past three years. To my DBA cohort — Melanie Daniels, Isaac Mills-Owoo, Jen Gondolfo, Bukky Olubukola and Troy Donato — thank you for the camaraderie and shared determination.
In addition, my company’s support was instrumental, with special thanks to Michelle Freeman, Jeff Evans and Twig Burton. Finally, I deeply appreciate the many individuals who offered insight, advice or thoughtful reviews during my time at Wilmington University, including Josh Mastrangelo, Chris Veirs, Michelle Christopher, Rich Rishel, Rachel Allen, Erika Cook, Smith Purdum, Lisa Meck, James Milam, Igor Vakser, Toni Wilkerson, Jen Sliwa, Scott Bergstrom, Dave Levitsky, Steve Morgan, Ted Stephens, Jake Booth, Donna Villani, Eileen Hennessy, Marc Duey and Barbara Turner.
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