During the summer semester, teams of graduate students participated in Georgia Tech’s Pro Bono Consulting Practicum, a 15‑week program that connects motivated graduate students with Atlanta-based nonprofits to address defined strategic challenges. Working closely with each client, teams define project goals, conduct in‑depth analysis, and present actionable recommendations designed for real‑world implementation.
This summer, five nonprofit partners participated in the program: GT Food and Beverage Accelerator, Community Foundation of West Georgia, Ready, Set, Push, Restoration Storehouse, and Maison Mogul.
One student team partnered with Ready, Set, Push (RSP), a nonprofit working to reduce maternal health disparities through accessible, evidence-based prenatal education. RSP empowers families, improves birth outcomes, and serves as a trusted resource for OBs, midwives, and doulas. It offers free or low-cost classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and parenting for low-income families, along with community support initiatives.
The MBA team, Briana Corcoran (MBA ‘26), Kendall Durkee (MBA ‘25), James Strom (MBA ‘26), and Scott Appling (PhD ’23, MBA ‘26), worked closely with Kiana Ayers, Executive Director of RSP, to strengthen the organization’s internal structure and prepare for future growth. While RSP’s work supporting new mothers and infants is deeply impactful, like many early-stage nonprofits, it needed clearer operational foundations to scale effectively.
To better understand the organization’s needs, the team began by mapping internal processes, conducting interviews, and identifying key challenges. Based on their findings, they developed and presented a comprehensive plan to Kiana, which included a sustainability framework to guide future expansion.
“The Georgia Tech MBA team truly exceeded expectations; their kindness, empathy, and deep respect for our limitations created a supportive, trusting space. Through their thoughtful recommendations, we now feel equipped with a clear, actionable roadmap to guide our growth. We are forever grateful for this transformative collaboration.” – Kiana Ayers
Throughout the project, the team demonstrated excellent self-organization, adaptability, and strong communication. They built trust with Kiana and stayed focused on delivering meaningful outcomes during a fast-paced and intensive semester.
“This practicum deepened my appreciation for non-profit consulting, and I’m thankful for the chance to learn while supporting RSP’s mission. I hope our work makes a lasting difference for the families they serve.” – James Strom
One student team partnered with Ready, Set, Push (RSP), a nonprofit working to reduce maternal health disparities through accessible, evidence-based prenatal education. RSP empowers families, improves birth outcomes, and serves as a trusted resource for OBs, midwives, and doulas. It offers free or low-cost classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and parenting for low-income families, along with community support initiatives.