Maris Panjada
Henry W. Bloch School of Management Alumni
Bachelor of Business Administration, Emphasis in Marketing
Graduated Fall 2017
Maris Panjada, Bloch alumna, leads marketing and communications efforts for a certifying board in emergency nursing. Her professional journey began while studying at UMKC, where she balanced part-time roles in wedding planning with internships in marketing and PR. Maris credits hands-on marketing classes at Bloch for fostering her creative thinking and practical skills, laying a solid foundation for her career.
Maris’s shift into healthcare marketing was unexpected yet pivotal. “Once you find your niche, you become deeply committed.” Her time at a healthcare-focused marketing agency provided invaluable insights into industry intricacies, preparing her for leadership roles in healthcare marketing strategy.
Networking has been instrumental in Maris’s career progression. “Building a professional network is vital,” she stresses. From internships to industry events and personal connections, her proactive approach opened doors to critical career opportunities. “Networking can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for growth,” she adds, noting that four out of five jobs post-graduation came through her network.
Maris emphasizes continuous professional development and staying abreast of industry trends. “Marketing evolves in the digital space—it’s a constantly moving target,” she observes, relying on resources like the American Marketing Association and Content Marketing Institute.
Reflecting on her career’s start, Maris wishes she had been more forgiving of herself after she graduated from UMKC. “I wish I had given myself more grace,” she shares. “It’s not realistic for everyone to find their perfect job right after college.” She values environments that foster professional growth, emphasizing the importance of learning from both successes and failures along one’s career path.
Maris Panjada’s career path shows the dynamic nature of marketing careers. Her unwavering dedication to innovation, continuous learning, and professional excellence positions her for ongoing success in the healthcare marketing landscape.
By: Payton Covert (she/her), Alumni Director
UMKC Alumni Relations
