A journey of career, family and ambition

How Carly Shotmeyer (MBA ’24) elevated her career with the University of Florida’s Online MBA program.

Carly Shotmeyer (MBA ’24) has paved a path of ambition, perseverance, and family values – one that seamlessly blends professional success, academic rigor and personal fulfillment. Born and raised in New Jersey, Shotmeyer credits her upbringing and the support of her family for shaping her personal and professional journeys.

Growing up as the eldest child, Shotmeyer was determined to explore a multitude of interests, from music to art to student council to soccer, her childhood was marked by a diverse set of passions that helped her develop skills she still relies on today. 

“Playing soccer and piano competitively from a very early age while juggling honors classes and other activities impressed upon me the importance of discipline and time management,” said Shotmeyer. “I also learned to love the idea of competing against myself and constantly improving.”

Shotmeyer’s family had a pivotal role in shaping her values and career aspirations. Her father, who transitioned from a promising career at Ernst & Young to leading a nonprofit healthcare organization as CEO, became an enduring role model. Shotmeyer spent time volunteering at Christian Health in Wyckoff, NJ, where her father served, particularly in the Alzheimer’s and Dementia unit. These formative experiences taught her the power of connection and compassion – lessons that continue to guide her professional journey.

“Seeing my dad’s passion for his vocation and the lives he changed fortified the importance of doing meaningful work,” she said.“I dreamed that one day I would be able to create such value for others in my own career.” 

Her love for travel, fueled by family adventures across 30 countries and over half of the 50 states, ignited an interest in global markets and cultures. 

“I always thought of the markets as fascinating puzzles,” said Shotmeyer. 

Encouraged by her family’s unwavering support, Shotmeyer pursued a degree in finance and marketing at Elon University. This allowed her to marry her analytical skills with creative problem-solving. 

“Considering my current work, I could not have chosen a better combination,” she said.

After graduating, Shotmeyer had the opportunity to join Goldman Sachs in wealth management. Surrounded by some of the brightest minds in finance and being expected to perform at the highest caliber, she embraced every chance to learn and grow. 

“One of the biggest lessons I learned was to stay curious… When a thread can be pulled to go deeper – do it,” she said.

While Shotmeyer cherished her role at Goldman Sachs, she found herself yearning for a greater alignment between her work and personal values. This search led her to Eventide Asset Management in Boston, where she had the ability to focus on investments that prioritized positive impact. 

“I took a leap of faith and quit my first job… to start what felt like my dream job,” Shotmeyer said. “This was five years ago, and I have never looked back.”

Managing the South Florida sales division for Eventide proved to be a challenging yet rewarding experience, allowing her to build meaningful client relationships while growing a new territory.

Her professional journey continued to evolve as she took on a strategy and operations role, helping launch Eventide’s first venture capital fund and ETF. The initiatives came with a multitude of challenges, but Shotmeyer leaned into trust and collaboration. 

“Having the humility to take unforeseen challenges as they come, ask questions, and move forward has served our team well,” Shotmeyer said.

As her career flourished, Shotmeyer remained committed to personal growth. Motivated by her desire to advance her education, she enrolled in the University of Florida’s One-Year Online MBA program – all while managing a demanding career and welcoming her first child. 

“I never thought it would be possible to work full time, be a full-time mom, and earn my MBA all at the same time, but the flexibility of the program has made that possible,” said Shotmeyer.

She credits her supportive husband and community for helping her navigate this season of life. 

“It has not been easy… but it has been such a special and rewarding time,” she said. “Incredibly, I can do all of these things, and when it gets difficult, I speak into those moments with gratitude that I get to run this race.”

Through UF’s MBA program, Shotmeyer has refined her skills in strategic decision-making, professional communication and brand management – tools that have already aided her professionally at Eventide. 

Shotmeyer’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to balancing ambition and family. Whether navigating global markets, launching initiatives, or managing her duties as a mother and MBA student, she remains determined in all her pursuits.