Institute of AI & Sustainability at Menlo College Explores “Organizational Development in the Age of AI” Posted on November 6, 2025November 6, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — November 6, 2025 — Menlo College’s Institute of AI & Sustainability recently hosted an engaging event, “Organizational Development in the Age of AI,” bringing together over 70 professionals to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way organizations understand and build culture. The event featured keynote speaker Claudia Sundberg, whose groundbreaking presentation on Data Sourced Storytelling introduced attendees to an innovative Swedish approach transforming organizational development. This powerful, AI-driven methodology makes workplace culture measurable, actionable, and directly connected to business outcomes — revealing how culture drives engagement, results, and long-term success. The event also recognized the leadership, guidance, and support of VP for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Dave Epstein, and Samuele Mian, whose strategic vision and collaboration continue to advance the Institute’s mission of connecting AI innovation with sustainable organizational practices. As AI continues to redefine the future of work, the Institute remains committed to convening thought leaders and practitioners to explore how technology can be harnessed to build stronger, more adaptive, and more human-centered organizations. Visit our website for more information about upcoming events and initiatives with the Institute of AI and Sustainability. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Named Among Best Sport Psychology Master’s Programs in the Nation Posted on November 5, 2025November 5, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — November 5, 2025 — Menlo College’s Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology (MASPP) has been named to Psychology Degree 411’s list of the Best Sport Psychology Master’s Programs for 2025. The list features top not-for-profit institutions that excel in providing accredited, high-quality education for future sport psychology professionals. Psychology Degree 411 evaluates programs based on accreditation status, tuition, delivery format, and credit requirements, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their education and career goals. “We’re proud to see our program highlighted for the strong foundation it provides students in performance psychology, counseling, and applied practice,” said Dr. Carolynn P. Hobbs, Director of the MASPP program. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students to excellence both in and out of the classroom.” Menlo College’s MASPP program prepares students to work with athletes, performers, and teams to enhance mental performance and well-being. With small class sizes, hands-on training, and faculty mentorship, students gain practical experience that sets them apart in the growing field of sport and performance psychology. The acknowledgement also honors the leadership of former Director Dr. Zackary Bryant and Dean of Arts and Sciences Dr. Melissa Michelson, whose continued support has strengthened the program’s reputation for academic rigor and student success. Visit Psychology Degree 411 to read the full article and learn more about our Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology (MASPP) program on our website. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Wins Handshake’s 2025 Career Spark Award for Second Consecutive Year Posted on November 4, 2025November 4, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – November 4, 2025 – Menlo College is proud to announce that its Office of Internships & Career Services (ICS) has once again been recognized with Handshake’s prestigious Career Spark Award, marking the College’s second consecutive year receiving this national honor. Handshake, the largest and most diverse early talent network in the United States, connects 75% of all U.S. college students through their school’s career centers with more than one million employers actively recruiting on the platform. Each year, the Career Spark Awards celebrate top-performing institutions for excellence in student engagement, employer engagement, and reporting and analytics. Out of more than 1,500 schools using Handshake, only 40 were selected in 2025 — and Menlo College is proud to be one of them. “We’re honored to receive this recognition for the second year in a row,” said LaShonda Kennedy, Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement. “It highlights our ongoing commitment to preparing Menlo students for career success through real-world experience, personalized guidance, and strong partnerships with employers.” The ICS team earned recognition for its innovative and student-centered approach to career readiness. Through required internships for all business majors, personalized advising, and signature programs like Career Connect Day, Menlo ensures every student has the opportunity to explore their professional interests, build industry connections, and gain practical experience before graduation. Elijah Valdeolivar, Associate Director of Employer Relations & Career Services, added, “Our Career Services team is committed to bridging meaningful connections between students and employers. We actively use Handshake to help students promote their skills, connect with opportunities, and support employers in finding top talent. This recognition reflects our ongoing dedication to enhance the employment experience for both our student and partner communities.” This back-to-back recognition places Menlo College among the top 2% of career centers nationwide using Handshake, underscoring its continued excellence in student engagement and employer collaboration. Learn more about Handshake’s Career Spark Awards and Menlo College’s Internships & Career Services. Media Inquiries For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution. About Handshake Handshake’s mission is to democratize access to opportunity, and Handshake is the best place to start or accelerate a career—no connections, experience, or luck required. Our community includes 15 million+ students and young alumni from 1,500+ educational institutions, including four-year colleges, community colleges, boot camps, and 300+ minority-serving institutions. We connect emerging talent with 950K+ employers—from Fortune 500 companies to thousands of public school districts, healthcare systems, nonprofits, and more. Handshake is headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Denver, New York, London, and Berlin and teammates working globally.
Global Perspectives: MSIS & MSFT Students Bring Diverse Experiences to Campus Posted on October 27, 2025October 28, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – October 2025 – Our current cohort of Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) and the Master of Science in Financial Technology (MSFT) students exemplifies the power of global collaboration in technology education. With 23 talented students enrolled this year, our programs have attracted future business tech leaders from 12 countries across four continents. This year’s student body represents a truly international community, with students hailing from China, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This rich diversity brings varied perspectives on AI, business practices, and innovation to our classrooms, creating a dynamic learning environment that mirrors the interconnected nature of today’s digital economy. Students in our international cohort benefit from the high-touch support model provided by the School of Business Graduate Office. From enrollment through graduation and career placement, students receive personalized guidance tailored to their individual academic and professional goals. Faculty members maintain an open-door approach, creating mentorship relationships that extend beyond traditional classroom interactions and actively supporting students’ research interests and career development aspirations. International students have access to comprehensive professional development resources designed specifically for their unique needs. Through targeted assistance with resume development, interview preparation, networking strategies, and navigation of the U.S. job market, students build the professional competencies necessary for career success. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) opportunities enable students to gain valuable work experience while completing their degrees, allowing them to integrate academic knowledge with real-world application in technology organizations and build their professional portfolios. Our MSIS program, designated as a STEM program, allows international students to benefit from up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization after graduation. This designation highlights the program’s strong technical foundation and significantly enhances graduates’ competitiveness in the technology sector, offering greater flexibility and opportunity to build successful careers in the United States. Learn more about our Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) and the Master of Science in Financial Technology (MSFT). Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Introduces New Biotechnology Minor Posted on October 1, 2025November 4, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — October 1, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce the launch of its new Biotechnology Minor, designed to provide students with a strong scientific foundation while preparing them for careers at the intersection of science, business, and technology. The first course in the program, BIO 200 Introductory Biochemistry, will be offered in Spring 2026. The Biotechnology Minor introduces students to the fundamentals of biochemistry, cell biology, laboratory methods, and ethical considerations—providing valuable preparation for those interested in entering the biotechnology field or pursuing postgraduate education in STEM-related disciplines. “The biotechnology industry is reshaping health, technology, and society,” said Dean of Arts & Sciences Dr. Melissa Michelson. “This minor equips Menlo students with both scientific understanding and the ability to apply it in business, entrepreneurship, and policy contexts.” Through coursework that combines hands-on training in genomic technologies such as cloning, barcoding, and CRISPR-Cas9 with explorations of ethics in genome engineering, GMOs, and synthetic biology, students will gain both practical laboratory experience and critical perspectives. By integrating scientific study with Menlo’s emphasis on business applications, the Biotechnology Minor reflects the College’s mission to provide practical, forward-looking learning experiences that prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to industries driving innovation and change. Visit our website for more information about the Biotechnology Minor. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Earns Recognition in Two Prestigious Forbes Rankings Posted on September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — September 3, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce its inclusion in two Forbes rankings: “25 Private Schools with Generous Financial Aid” and “America’s Top 500 Colleges.” These honors reflect Menlo’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education and student success. Menlo College is recognized for providing substantial financial support to students, with an average award of $38,261, making higher education more affordable for talented students from diverse backgrounds. (Forbes, 2025) In addition, Menlo College’s ranking among Forbes’ Top 500 Colleges places it in the top 13% of institutions nationwide, highlighting the college’s strong academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and career-focused approach. (Forbes, 2025) “Being recognized by Forbes for both financial aid and overall excellence reflects our ongoing commitment to making a Menlo College education accessible, transformative, and career-focused for students from all backgrounds,” said Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College. “We are proud to empower our students to achieve their fullest potential and thrive in the world beyond the classroom.” Menlo College’s student-centered approach emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, hands-on learning experiences, and career-readiness programs that equip students for professional achievement and leadership. Read more about Menlo College being featured in Forbes Top 500 Colleges and Top 25 for Financial Aid. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Institute of AI and Sustainability Posted on August 8, 2025November 4, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — August 8, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce the launch of the Menlo College Institute of AI and Sustainability, a bold new initiative that underscores the College’s commitment to innovation, ethical leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Institute is the result of a visionary partnership conceived by Menlo College Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui and NT Capital Management Founder and President Dr. John Nguyen (MSIS ’25). Designed as a vibrant hub for innovation, the Institute will connect students, faculty, and industry leaders through two flagship programs that will be hosted on the Menlo College campus: an annual Summer Accelerator and a year-round Innovation Conference Series. As a cornerstone of this collaboration, NT Capital Management has pledged an investment of $300,000 to support the Menlo College School of Business and the launch of this new initiative. This partnership exemplifies Menlo College’s entrepreneurial spirit and enduring ties to Silicon Valley. Through the AI & Sustainability Institute, Menlo College will empower students to engage with real-world challenges and opportunities at the intersection of ethical AI, sustainability, and entrepreneurship—placing the College at the forefront of impactful innovation. In the next two months, we will be hosting a kick-off event to launch the new institute. The event, titled “AI & Sustainability: Innovation for Impact,” will feature a launch celebration and an interactive panel discussion asking the question, “Can AI Save the Planet?” The panel will include students, faculty, and members and friends of the Menlo College community. Learn more about Menlo’s AI & Analytics major. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College School of Business Earns AACSB Reaccreditation, Reaffirming Its Global Excellence in Business Education Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – July 9, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to share that its School of Business has once again earned reaccreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation reflects more than just meeting global standards — it represents passion, innovation, and dedication to shaping an academic environment to prepare future business leaders to succeed and make an impact, a commitment shared by faculty, staff, students, and alumni alike. “Earning accreditation from AACSB is a significant milestone,” said Steven A. Weiner, President of Menlo College. “It’s a powerful endorsement of the excellence of our academic programs, the dedication and expertise of our faculty, and the shared vision that drives our entire community. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who helped and contributed to this achievement.” Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business, echoed that sentiment: “This recognition validates the purpose-driven work we do every day—preparing agile, ethical, and globally minded business leaders. We take pride in building a business school that is both relevant and exceptional in an ever-evolving global landscape. We are also deeply grateful to the members of our Board of Trustees and Dean’s Executive Advisory Council, and the dedicated faculty and staff whose guidance, expertise, and mentorship are essential to our continued success.” The AACSB review team specifically highlighted Menlo’s student-focused learning, hands-on educational approach, and deep connections with the business world. These elements are the foundation of Menlo’s mission and reflect its core belief: that great business education combines academic rigor with real-world relevance. Since first earning AACSB accreditation in 2014, Menlo has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of students and the global economy. Over the last 18 months, the School of Business introduced two new graduate programs—a Master of Science in Information Systems and a Master of Science in FinTech. And Menlo recently launched an enhanced, forward-looking undergraduate B.S. in AI and Analytics. Menlo’s renewed AACSB accreditation not only reaffirms its place among the world’s leading business schools—it also enhances the value of a Menlo degree for current students, alumni, employers, and academic partners worldwide. To learn more about Menlo College School of Business and its AACSB-accredited programs, visit www.menlo.edu. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo CollegeLocated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a premier institution dedicated to business education. With a strong focus on personalized learning and hands-on experience, Menlo empowers students to lead, innovate, and excel in today’s dynamic global economy.
Menlo College Professors Featured in National WalletHub Articles Posted on June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 by Avery Stump Menlo College professors Sean Pradhan and Lan Jiang were recently featured in WalletHub articles, offering expert insights on topics ranging from professional hockey to premium credit cards. It’s always great to see Menlo faculty lending their voices to timely conversations in the broader world of business. Dr. Sean Pradhan, Associate Professor of Sports Management and Business Analytics in the School of Business Administration, shared his expertise on professional hockey and fan engagement in WalletHub’s feature on the Best Cities for Hockey Fans. Dr. Pradhan addressed current challenges facing the NHL, particularly declining viewership, and highlighted ways the league could build stronger connections with younger audiences through better marketing of its athletes and increased access to games. He also provided practical tips for hockey fans looking to enjoy the sport affordably, from choosing weekday games to exploring minor league and college-level matchups. Dr. Lan Jiang, Professor of Marketing, contributed insights to WalletHub’s coverage of The Platinum Card® from American Express. Dr. Jiang discussed the considerations consumers should weigh before choosing a credit card with a high annual fee, emphasizing the importance of aligning card benefits with personal spending habits. She also noted how a well-targeted rewards system can deliver value to cardholders while benefiting both the card issuer and affiliated partners like Uber. These interviews underscore the depth of expertise housed within Menlo College’s faculty and the College’s commitment to preparing students for careers that are not only informed by academic rigor but also shaped by industry relevance. Both Dr. Pradhan and Dr. Jiang actively integrate real-world trends and data into their teaching, ensuring that Menlo students are equipped to think critically and act decisively in today’s innovation-driven economy. Menlo College congratulates both professors on being featured and appreciates their continued efforts to share their expertise beyond the classroom. Read the full Wallethub articles here: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-hockey-fans/13283#expert=Sean_Pradhan https://wallethub.com/d/american-express-platinum-219c#expert=lan_jiang Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a small, private, nonprofit institution founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as graduate programs, including a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology, and a newly launched Master of Science in Financial Technology. With a student body that includes many first-generation college students, Menlo emphasizes experiential learning, requiring internships as part of the curriculum to ensure students graduate career-ready. The College is also proud to be designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
Menlo College’s Innovation Center Hosts 2025 Entrepreneurship Socratic Salon Speaker Series Posted on April 10, 2025May 30, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – April 2025: Menlo College is excited about our Innovation Center’s Socratic Salon speaker series continuing into Spring 2025. These events are designed to create open, engaging conversations between students, faculty, staff, and industry professionals. The Socratic Salon format encourages interactive dialogue instead of traditional lectures, allowing participants to engage directly with thought leaders and explore new ideas together. The Socratic Salon centers around entrepreneurship and innovation, and provides a unique opportunity for students to discuss innovation and creativity across various industries, from business and technology to psychology and the arts. These sessions invite participants to ask questions, share perspectives, and learn from each other in a relaxed, discussion-based setting. Upcoming Sessions: April 11, 2025Elizabeth Lewis – Commercial Real Estate & Public Service Professional, Mayor of AthertonJoin Elizabeth Lewis, a 40-year veteran of commercial real estate and the current Mayor of Atherton, for a conversation on leadership, real estate, and public service. With over 25 years as the Owner/CEO of Orchard Commercial, Inc., she brings valuable insights into how innovation shapes both business and governance. April 25, 2025Dr. Mark Hager – Psychologist, Mentor, & SpyDr. Mark Hager, Professor Emeritus at Menlo College, will explore the intersection of psychology and innovation. Drawing from his diverse career in business, art, medicine, and psychology, Dr. Hager will discuss how psychology shapes creativity, careers, and community impact. May 9, 2025Richard Maldonado – Director of Product & Engineering, AI Experiences at ServiceNowRichard Maldonado, Menlo College alum and AI product leader, will discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and product management. With over 25 years of experience, Richard will share his entrepreneurial journey and insights into how AI is transforming industries. Time and Location:6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Innovation Center (Florence Moore 319)Menlo College, 1000 El Camino Real, Atherton, CA 94027 RSVP and Attendance:Attendance is free and open to Menlo College students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. Seating is limited, so please RSVP in advance to secure your spot. For more information or to RSVP, please visit www.menlo.edu/innovationcenter. Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
