CFO of Texas Medical Center Credits Cameron MBA with her Success

Denise Castillo-Rhodes, CFO of the Texas Medical Center, credits her work and success to the her MBA degree from the University of St. Thomas – Cameron School of Business.

Growing up in El Paso, Texas, Castillo-Rhodes had a simple childhood. While El Paso was a loving and down-to-Earth place, it did not necessarily foster the skills she would ultimately require to become Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the world’s largest medical center. According to Castillo-Rhodes, these skills came from her experience in the Cameron MBA program.

“It stands out for me —  how my MBA professors continually emphasized critical thinking and helped us to develop that skill,” said Castillo Rhodes. “In today’s complex and fast-paced business environment, that skill is crucial and I use it all the time.”

Finding the right program was not easy for Castillo-Rhodes, who at the time was a single mom and serving as controller for Nabisco Biscuit Company. She required a program within Houston with a respected reputation but offering a flexible schedule.

Castillo-Rhodes pursued the Cameron MBA based on recommendations from fellow colleagues at Nabisco. Viewing campus for the first time, she immediately felt at home. In particular, she was drawn to Cameron’s three pillars: spiritual development, professional development, and community.

“I learned in small classes in which professors took the time to really work with us,” said Castillo-Rhodes. “As students, we were encouraged to work with one another, study together and form relationships. I got to know others who were just like me- hungry to expand their knowledge of all aspects of business while working full time and balancing busy family lives.”

Today, Castillo-Rhodes is one of only three female CFOs in the world’s largest medical center. Crediting her hard-work and helpful mentors along the way for her success, Castillo-Rhodes hopes to reach out to younger people in situations similar to hers who deserve a boost.

regions: Houston

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