Mariah Kreutzer, MBA, MSHRM
Mariah Kreutzer, MBA, MSHRM, is the Assistant Director of Operations in the Office of International Education at Carnegie Mellon University, where she leads operational initiatives that support international students and global engagement. In her role, she oversees an operations team, manages financial processes related to study abroad programs, and develops departmental policy under enrollment management. She also co-leads the university’s International Host Family Program, connecting international graduate students with local families to foster cultural exchange and community support.
Mariah brings a diverse professional background that bridges healthcare operations and higher education administration. Prior to joining Carnegie Mellon, she worked with UPMC and UPMC Health Plan in project coordination and provider advocacy roles, where she supported physician training programs and developed both virtual and in-person learning experiences for international medical professionals. Her early experience working in a family-run optical practice sparked her initial interest in healthcare and operations, shaping a career focused on building efficient systems that support people and organizations.
She holds dual master’s degrees—an MBA and a Master’s in Human Resource Management—from Robert Morris University, which she completed while balancing professional responsibilities and starting a family. Known for her analytical mindset, leadership skills, and commitment to collaboration, Mariah is passionate about strengthening international education programs and building supportive environments where students and colleagues can thrive.
• University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown
• Robert Morris University- M.B.A.
• Robert Morris University- M.H.R.M.
• Women in Leadership at Carnegie Mellon
• Easter Seals Walk for children with disabilities
• ABCD-DS (Alzheimer's Biomarker research related to Down syndrome)
• West Side Elementary School
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to completing graduate school and earning two master’s degrees, which strengthened my confidence and leadership skills, along with the support of my husband, persistence in pursuing my goals, and the professional networks I’ve built along the way.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from my father, who always encouraged me to network. He taught me to attend conferences and interviews even when it feels uncomfortable, because those experiences open doors and create opportunities you might not expect.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say really standing firm in who you are, and not allowing others to diminish you, or diminish your voice, or any value that you have. I think that happens a lot, at least from what I experienced prior to this role - sometimes women just aren't looked at the same, and that's a shame. I would just say pursue your aspirations with any persistence that you have, and even if the path is difficult, set goals that can surely challenge you, but keep them attainable if possible.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is overcoming gender bias, where women do not always receive equal recognition for their work. At the same time, there are strong opportunities to advance through networking, mentorship, and ongoing professional development.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity in how I represent myself is extremely important to me—standing firm in who I am while leading with honesty and professionalism. I also value persistence, strong leadership, meaningful networking, and the support of family and community in both my work and personal life.