Emma Bruney

For Emma Bruney, establishing herself in male-dominated spaces might be considered a family tradition.

She grew up surrounded by accomplished women, including her mother, an attorney and businessperson, and her aunts, both business owners. From them, Emma learned the principles of business and the importance of giving back to her community.

“I learned by example. I was always given the opportunity to speak my mind and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.”

Guided by their paths, Emma arrived at LSU ready to dive into her studies and make her mark on the campus community. 

“Getting involved has been one of my biggest blessings at LSU. I met so many people I wouldn't have had the opportunity to connect with otherwise. I got involved in many organizations because of contacts made in the business college.”

In her first year, Emma joined Alpha Delta Pi. Through the sorority, she has held various leadership positions, including roles on the chapter’s executive board and vice president of finance, where she helped manage a six-figure budget, which allowed her to put her business skills to use in a real-world setting. 

It was also during her freshman year that Emma first represented the concerns of business students as a student senator, a role she has retained throughout her time at LSU. She has written and supported legislation to address student concerns and worked with the E. J. Ourso College of Business College Council to enrich the student experience. 

“I have learned so much from being in the senate and student government, and I have been able to advocate for students and student issues, specifically in the business college. That advocacy is something that I will keep with me forever and will take into my future legal career and in life in general.”

Emma coupled skills learned in her marketing courses with her political savvy while interning for US Senator John Cornyn (Texas) in 2022. Working in the senator’s Houston office, she researched and analyzed legal and legislative topics. She also drafted and presented briefing documents, reflecting a deep understanding of complex legal and regulatory frameworks.

Her political career at LSU continued to prosper. In April 2023, Emma was elected Speaker of the LSU Student Senate, the third-highest ranking position within student government. As speaker, she leads a diverse team of more than 90 senators while overseeing student legislation creation, debate, and passage. 

In this role, she is also making LSU history.

“We have six female branch heads, which has never happened before. What’s really special and important for me is women are leaning on other women for support.”

With plans to attend law school and launch a career in corporate litigation, Emma Bruney’s barrier breaking journey is far from over. We know she will use skills and experience gained in the E. J. Ourso College to shape her profession and drive positive outcomes in her community.