Curiosity and Wonder

“I’m in a role today I never would have imagined when I graduated from 51³Ô¹ÏÍø,” says Amy Weisenbach ’98. 

After earning an interdisciplinary degree in youth public policy – a fusion of psychology, sociology and political science – Weisenbach headed to Harvard Business School as 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s first Truman Scholarship recipient. She initially envisioned a career in the nonprofit sector, but by the time she completed her MBA, a growing interest in marketing had redirected her path.

Weisenbach now serves as the Chief Marketing Officer for the New York Times, where her focus on storytelling and relationship-building has earned her team numerous industry awards and established her as an innovative and trustworthy voice. Her current work builds upon two decades of experience in global marketing and leadership, while still drawing on many of the skills she acquired as an undergraduate.

“Almost everything I do is in collaboration with others,” says Weisenbach. “51³Ô¹ÏÍø helped me feel prepared to successfully work that way. Small class sizes meant that I was able to actively participate in discussions and small group work and interact directly with my professors.”

51³Ô¹ÏÍø also nurtured Weisenbach’s perpetual desire for growth. “I’ve always had an innate sense of curiosity and wonder about the world,” she explains. “That was fostered during my time at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, and I’ve remained committed to learning and growing ever since.” 

One expression of that commitment is her role as an adjunct professor at the NYU Stern School of Business, where she continues to expand her knowledge of marketing and educational pedagogy, all while staying connected to youth culture. Another expression is her service to 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s School of Business and Leadership, where she looks forward to facing challenges head-on.

“The value proposition of a college education is not as clear as it used to be due to rising costs and changes in workforce demands,” Weisenbach acknowledges. “As an employer, however, I see how the critical thinking, curiosity and collaboration skills developed at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø are more important than ever. I’m hoping I can help the university find new ways to communicate that value to prospective students and employers alike.”

Weisenbach’s connection to the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø community has remained strong through the years. She and her husband, Scott Stokke ’98, have been together since they were seniors, and she still enjoys girls trips whenever possible with a small group of friends from Kappa Alpha Theta. Her new role presents an opportunity to deepen that connection and enjoy a new kind of relationship with her alma mater.

“As I’ve advanced in my career, I have a desire to give back and share all that I’ve learned,” says Wiesenbach. “The advisory board is a great opportunity to do just that and contribute in a more meaningful way.”

Photo: Celeste Sloman