The Big Picture 

Matthew Braxton has been selected as the first recipient of the UTEP MBA Fellowship, a merit-based award for high-potential students entering the UTEP Online MBA and UTEP Professional MBA programs. 

For Braxton, the fellowship comes at a turning point.  

After leaving his role as an Amazon Area Manager, he began reassessing his next move and looking for a graduate program that could help him grow as a business leader. 

He found that path in UTEP’s Professional MBA program. 

“I was at a crossroads of what I wanted to do career wise,” Braxton said. “I knew I wanted to move back to El Paso. With both factors at play, I decided to go back to school to learn more about business, entrepreneurship and management.” 

Why It Matters 

The UTEP MBA Fellowship adds a new layer of support for students entering the University's MBA programs while recognizing strong applicants with leadership potential. 

The award provides financial support and more room for Braxton to focus on his education, career goals, and future business plans. 

“My ultimate goal is to become a leader of an organization that provides a social good for my local community,” Braxton said. 

UTEP MBA Fellowship 

Sacnité Ramos, Director of the UTEP Graduate Business Center, said the UTEP MBA Fellowship reflects the program’s commitment to investing in talented professionals. 

“The fellowship is an important funding opportunity for students because it demonstrates Hunt College’s commitment to recognizing and investing in high-potential students,” Ramos said. 

Ramos said Braxton’s selection reflects the strength of the overall applicant pool.  

The fellowship review process considers GMAT performance, academic achievement, and professional accomplishments. While the GMAT is optional for MBA admission, it is required for fellowship consideration. 

A Career Path  

Braxton was drawn to the UTEP Professional MBA because of its accelerated course schedule, evening meeting times and the strong reputation it carried among people he trusted. 

He also saw the program as an avenue to reconnect with El Paso’s entrepreneurship community while building the skills to eventually launch his own venture. 

“Part of being a successful business leader is learning how to balance operational efficiency with emotional intelligence,” Braxton said. 

What’s Next 

As Braxton begins the UTEP Professional MBA program, he plans to continue developing the skills needed to lead, manage and build something of his own. 

Ramos said students interested in opportunities like the MBA Fellowship should apply early and prepare a strong application. 

“Applying early demonstrates commitment and readiness – and it helps secure a place in the cohort before capacity is reached,” Ramos said. 

To learn more about the UTEP MBA Fellowship, click here.

Last Updated on May 29, 2026 at 2:30 PM | Originally published May 29, 2026
Posted by Hunt Creative