Cory Varona Corniel, MBA
About Cory Varona Corniel, MBA
Cory Varona Corniel, MBA, is a co-founder of OCOA and currently serves in multiple roles, including as a Controllership Manager at Santander Bank, N.A. She focuses on empowering curly-haired women through culturally relevant hair care products and has a background in accounting and business management.
Work at OCOA - Curly Hair Care
Cory Varona Corniel serves as the Co-Founder of OCOA, a company focused on curly hair care products. Founded in 2018 alongside her sister Nicol, OCOA emphasizes empowering women with curly hair to embrace their natural beauty. The brand utilizes luxe, minimal ingredients sourced from Latin America, ensuring that the products are culturally relevant. Cory's personal journey of embracing her natural hair texture has significantly influenced the company's mission and product offerings.
Current Roles and Responsibilities
Cory Varona Corniel holds multiple positions in various organizations. Since 2022, she has been part of the Digital Undivided- Philly 2022 Breakthrough Cohort, Coralus as an Activator, and Credo for Change 2022 Cohort. Additionally, she has worked at Santander Bank, N.A. as a Controllership Manager since 2020. Her diverse roles reflect her commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and managing financial operations.
Education and Expertise
Cory Varona Corniel has a strong educational background in business and accounting. She earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Penn State University from 2016 to 2018. She also holds a diploma in a natural formulations course. In 2023, she completed the Executive Program for Diverse Business at The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Her education equips her with the skills necessary for her entrepreneurial and managerial roles.
Background and Personal Journey
Cory Varona Corniel was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and immigrated to the United States in 2003. Her personal experiences, including overcoming extreme preeclampsia and hormonal issues during pregnancy, have shaped her perspective and drive. As a Latina and an immigrant, she actively participates in programs that support small businesses and entrepreneurs, such as the Amika Rooted in Growth Program and the Square Forward Accelerator.
Achievements and Recognition
Cory Varona Corniel has been recognized for her contributions to entrepreneurship and the beauty industry. She was a finalist in the Black Ambition 2023 competition, which supports Black and Latinx entrepreneurs. Additionally, she has engaged in a 15-month rebranding journey for OCOA, showcasing her dedication to the growth and development of her brand. Her efforts reflect her commitment to empowering others and promoting diversity in business.