Alumni Spotlight: Rachel Burns

Rachel Burns poses for a photo at Bold Spoon Farm

Over the past 110 years, more than 200,000 individuals have graduated from Webster University around the world. Join us as we highlight their Webster stories.

Meet Rachel Burns, who earned an MBA with an Emphasis in Finance from Webster in 2000 and is the founder of Bold Spoon Creamery.

What enticed you to choose Webster University for your degree?

Academically, Webster was renowned for its strong programs in my field of interest. The curriculum was both rigorous and innovative, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application which I found particularly appealing. The faculty's reputation for being both accessible and actively engaged in their fields also played a significant role in my decision.

Rachel Burns and her son share a moment following Rachel's graduation from Webster in 2000

What stood out about your studies at Webster?

What particularly stood out was the depth and relevance of the finance curriculum. The courses were designed not just to impart theoretical knowledge but to prepare students for real-world challenges. The emphasis on finance allowed for a tailored approach to understanding complex financial markets, investment strategies and corporate finance, which was both challenging and rewarding. Webster's international student body and faculty brought a global perspective to my studies.

How did your Webster degree help advance you in your career?

My degree from Webster University was pivotal in launching and advancing my career in finance, which spanned over two decades. The MBA from Webster was crucial in securing my initial role in finance as an analyst at A.G. Edwards (now Wells Fargo). The practical knowledge and skills I gained were directly applicable, allowing me to hit the ground running in my first job. I then grew my career to be focused on institutional asset management and more recently as a corporate investment consultant and all this started with Webster University. Today, I leverage my financial knowledge to strategically manage Bold Spoon's growth.

What is your favorite part about your job?

As the founder of Bold Spoon Creamery, my favorite part of the job is seeing the joy on people's faces when they taste our ice cream. There's something truly special about creating a product that brings people together, sparks conversations and adds a little sweetness to their day. It's rewarding to witness our flavors become part of memorable moments, whether at a family gathering, a community event or just a quiet evening at home. This connection with our customers and the community we've built around our brand is what I cherish the most. Equally, I find immense satisfaction in managing Bold Spoon's strategic growth initiatives, ensuring that we expand thoughtfully while preserving the essence of what makes our ice cream special.

Bold Spoon Creamery ice cream flavors

What is something valuable you have learned during your career?

Throughout my career, one of the most valuable lessons I've learned is the importance of making data-driven decisions. In my past career in finance, every decision was rooted in data and risk assessment. This approach has proven to be incredibly helpful for Bold Spoon Creamery. Moreover, my career has always been deeply rooted in client service, which has been immensely beneficial in managing Bold Spoon. In my finance career, client service was key, and this carries over to the ice cream business. By offering exceptional service, responding to customer inquiries and creating a community around our brand, we've cultivated a loyal customer base. This loyalty is not just about repeat business but also about turning customers into advocates for our brand.

What advice would you give to others who are considering Webster University for their degree?

If you're seeking a blend of academic rigor, practical experience and a global perspective, Webster University could be an excellent choice. It excels in areas like business, communications, arts and international studies, making it particularly suitable if your interests align with these fields, especially for programs with an international focus. Webster's global campus network offers unique opportunities for studying abroad and engaging in a culturally diverse educational environment, enhancing both your learning and professional network. The faculty at Webster are accessible and engaged, providing mentorship that can significantly influence your academic and career paths with their industry insights.

What is your favorite spot on your Webster campus? Favorite spot around the University?

My favorite place on campus was Sverdrup Hall because its collaborative spaces always provided a great environment to work alone or collaborate with classmates.

Around the University, I particularly enjoyed the quaint atmosphere of Old Webster. This historic district encapsulates the charm and community spirit of Webster Groves.

What has your life journey looked like?

I grew up in St. Louis City, where I also built a significant part of my life and career. I spent over 20 years working in finance, a field that not only shaped my professional skills but also my approach to business and decision-making.

Now, I live on a farm, Bold Spoon Farm, in Park Hills, Missouri; a stark contrast from the urban environment of my past. This change of scenery came about when my husband and I decided to sell our house in the city to move to this farm, a decision deeply intertwined with our vision for Bold Spoon Creamery. We relocated Bold Spoon's production to our farm, embracing a lifestyle that includes not just the business of making ice cream but also growing many of the fruits and herbs that we use in the ice cream on our farm.

A sign leading to Bold Spoon Farm in Park Hills, Missouri

My life journey has been quite transformative. From a career in finance to becoming an entrepreneur in the food industry. My husband, Corey, also underwent a significant transformation, leaving his career in aviation to focus on Bold Spoon alongside me. Leaving behind our previous careers to manage Bold Spoon full time was a leap of faith, but necessary to help Bold Spoon strive toward reaching its full potential.

What was your first job, and what do you remember most about it?

My very first job was working in the coat check room at Cafe Balaban in the Central West End. What I remember most about it was the vibrant atmosphere and the diverse array of people I encountered every day. It was a bustling, iconic spot that attracted everyone from local regulars to visiting celebrities, and being part of that environment taught me a lot about hospitality and the importance of small interactions. I learned how to read the room and handle busy rushes with a calm demeanor—skills that have proven invaluable in both my finance career and now in running Bold Spoon Creamery. Reflecting on my past, it's amusing how my experiences in the coat check room at Cafe Balaban still bubble up in my present life.

How do you spend your free time?

In my free time, I love trying new restaurants and traveling. We have not been able to travel lately, given how busy Bold Spoon has kept us. However, we've prioritized adding travel back into our life as it refreshes our creativity and broadens our perspectives.

Is there anything else you want to share?

If there's anything else I want to share, it would be my gratitude towards the faculty and peers who inspired and supported me during my time at Webster. Webster University is a pivotal chapter that shaped my professional growth.

Today, you can find Bold Spoon ice cream in over 70 grocery stores in Missouri and Illinois, including Schnucks, Fresh Thyme and Straub's; three professional sports stadiums: Energizer Park (MLS), Enterprise Center (NHL) and The Dome (USFL); universities and events throughout the St. Louis region.