Collaborate with graduate business students, university administrators and Austin business leaders

The Graduate Business Student Association (GBSA) promotes increased awareness and access to career opportunities in management, helps grow students’ personal networks, develops leadership skills and promotes the benefits of postgraduate business education.

For additional details regarding the GBSA's structure, objectives and guiding principles, refer to the GBSA Constitution and Bylaws.

Email the GBSA  |  Join the GBSA Facebook Group  |  Review the Meeting Minutes

Thamires Koha, President

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Thamires developed an interest in business and entrepreneurship at an early age, following in the footsteps of her grandparents and parents, who built their own successful businesses. She studied law and started her own practice, focusing on consumer and family law. Two years ago, she moved to Austin, Texas to pursue new opportunities and experiences. She is currently doing an MBA at St. Edward’s University, aiming to eventually work in digital marketing and branding.

When she's not busy studying or working, Thamires loves to travel and explore new cultures. She is also an avid cook and enjoys experimenting with new recipes in her spare time. But perhaps her greatest joy comes from playing with her beloved dog, Chanel.

TK

Eirini Alikampioti, Social Media Manager

Eirini Alikampioti, originally from Athens, Greece, relocated to Austin, Texas during the pandemic and has been there for nearly 4 years. She holds an undergraduate degree in Shipping from the University of Piraeus, Greece, and a shipbroking diploma from the Hellenic Shipbrokers Association, focusing on negotiation skills. With experience in prominent Greek shipping companies, Eirini decided to pursue her dreams in the United States. She is currently a second-year MBA candidate at St. Edward’s University and aims to pursue a career in marketing and social media after graduation. Eirini's passion for connecting people globally and overcoming cultural barriers drove her to pursue a master’s degree in business. She enjoys the friendly atmosphere of Austin and has hobbies including spinning, hiking, pilates, and exploring different states. Eirini is honored to join the Graduate Business Student Association as a Social Marketing Officer and looks forward to contributing to its mission.

EA

Zach Falkenbury, Treasurer

An Austin native, Zach has seen plenty of changes in his hometown over the years and is excited for what the future holds for the greatest city in Texas. After earning his B.A. in Government from the University of Texas at Austin, Zach entered the world of commercial tech sales, where his experience navigating the complexities of supply chain disruptions inspired him to pursue his MBA at St. Edward's. After graduation, he hopes to apply his knowledge and skills to help whatever organizations he finds himself a part of run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. In his free time, Zach enjoys traveling (especially to national parks!), aviation, and watching movies with his wife and two cats."

ZF

Lora Pena, Secretary

Lora is originally from Michigan and enjoys living in and learning about all things Texas. She is an avid learner who focuses on reading and traveling as her two main mediums to experience different cultures and people groups. Lora started her first small business in 2008 and her first non-profit in 2015. She is honored to bring value to organizations through partnership, consulting, and strategic development. Lora is a Certified John Maxwell Coach and is pursuing completion of certification Patrick Lencioni's Working Genius Model as well as Process Communication Model. On any given day, Lora can be found at the library, on an airplane, in the gym, or organizing and participating in volunteer relief efforts. After graduation from the St. Edward's MBA program Lora looks forward to adding value to the journey of other entrepreneurs and small business owners on a local and international level (and checking off a bucket list item of visiting her 7th continent, Antarctica!).

LP