Honoring Outstanding Oaks at 3,000+ In-Person OAKtoberFest 2022 Posted on October 18, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College was thrilled to award Maya Payne-Sewald ’73 (pictured left) as this year’s Outstanding Oak for her commitment and service to the College in the years since her graduation. Maya made history at Menlo by being in the first cohort of women to attend the College, and ever since graduating, she has devoted her time and efforts to philanthropy, mentoring the Menlo College community, and serving on the Board of Trustees, to name a few of her efforts on campus. Every year at OAKtoberFest, the College recognizes one alumnus for their unwavering service to Menlo, strength of character, professional excellence, and selfless guidance of Menlo students. The alumnus is presented with the Outstanding Oak Award as a symbol of their dedication to Menlo and the larger community. Mrs. Payne-Sewald was presented her Outstanding Oak award at this past weekend’s OAKtoberFest celebration, the first time the event was celebrated in person since the start of the pandemic. Speaking at the presentation, Mrs. Payne-Sewald said, “I am deeply honored to be awarded the Outstanding Oak Award by the Alumni Council! However, the award doesn’t really belong to me. It belongs to generations of Menlo Alums who have contributed their time, treasure, and talents to make Menlo College the success it is today.” She continued, “The dedication of alums coming back to help out by working on committees, giving talks on their careers, serving as mentors, or in whatever way the College needs them – they are to be recognized and honored. Therefore on behalf of all these Menlo alums, I accept this award with great honor and respect.” In addition to her involvement with Menlo College, Mrs. Payne-Sewald has led a successful real estate career, owns a thriving business, is a leader of the Menlo Park Rotary Club and Foundation as well as her church, and is deeply involved with her children and grandchildren. In his comments about Mrs. Payne-Sewald, Menlo College President Steven Weiner said, “She is one of those rare people who carry their warmth and compassion on their sleeve in a way that invites everyone around her to ask where they too can sign on to her causes – whatever they may be! Her many attributes extend to include humor, intelligence, and seemingly boundless energy. I treasure the fact that she leverages her talents to the benefits of Menlo alumni and current students alike.” Celebrating Two Honorees due to Pandemic Delay At Menlo’s largest gathering of the fall semester, Menlo College’s Advancement Office also acknowledged Frances Mann-Craik ’76 as the 2020 winner of the Outstanding Oak Award. Due to Mrs. Mann-Craik receiving the award in a virtual setting two years prior, Menlo was eager to celebrate her as the 2020 Outstanding Oak Award recipient in person and as a community at OAKtoberFest this year. In his remarks during the 2020 award presentation, President Steven Weiner said, “Frances is truly one-of-a-kind. She is known for her warmth and involvement over the decades by students, staff, faculty, and board members alike.” Maya Payne-Sewald ’73 and Frances Mann-Craik ’76 were joined by Menlo Alumni Council members Caitlin Sorensen ’19 and Jessica Carlson ’19. Enjoy more from OAKtoberFest! Watch a video recap of this year’s OAKtoberFest!Menlo College Athletics Hall of Fame AwardeesVisit the OAKtoberFest webpageVisit the Menlo College Alumni Blog! About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
Students Move into New John Arrillaga Residence Hall at Menlo College Posted on October 4, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College is thrilled to announce that nearly 300 more students can now live on its leafy green, residential campus. Students started moving into the John Arrillaga Residence Hall on September 16, 2022, and more of the College’s students will now find a home on campus as they look to earn their bachelor’s degrees. Take the video tour! Ready to see in Person? Come Visit Menlo! Residence Hall to Serve Students and Energize for Menlo’s Second Century The John Arrillaga Residence Hall is the College’s first new building in nearly 45 years. It features double-occupancy rooms spread over three floors, lounges, and spaces dedicated for quiet study or group collaboration, and others for e-gaming, movies, socializing, and more. Importantly, the hall is also fully ADA compliant. “Menlo College is energizing for the future,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Not only are we opening a new building designed to foster student connection and well-being, our College is nimbly adapting our degree programs to meet the demands of students and employers, galvanizing the strength of our athletics programs, and harnessing the commitment of our entire community – on campus and elsewhere – to meet its mission of educating students to make contributions in the innovation economy.” “With our 100-year anniversary on the horizon, this new building marks an important milestone on the way to preparing for our next 100 years,” said Chair of the Board of Trustees Micah Kāne ‘91. Schedule a Tour in Person! New Residence Hall Made Possible By Donor Generosity The College is particularly grateful for the support of the late John Arrillaga Sr. in building this new residence hall. “John Arrillaga was an incredible philanthropist who left his mark across the Bay Area and globally,” said President Weiner. “On behalf of our entire community – particularly the students whose lives he has touched today, and those whose lives he will touch in the future – I am grateful for his investment and his vote of confidence in the value of a Menlo College education.” Read more: Learn more about Scholarships and Financial Aid at MenloFocused on Student Success: Menlo College Earns Three New 2022 Top College RankingsMenlo College Student Internship Program Participants Impress Business LeadersMenlo College Breaks Ground on New Residence Hall About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
From Menlo Athletics: Menlo College Honored as an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Posted on August 9, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege As recently announced by the NAIA, Menlo College is one of the 157 NAIA schools honored as a Five-Star Champions of Character institution, and was one of just 67 schools given the Gold Level distinction. This marks the 11th time Menlo has earned the Five Star Distinction since 2010 and the fourth time that Menlo has earned the Gold Level Distinction. Institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character and earn points in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year. Menlo, alongside all nine other members of the Golden State Athletic Conference, were honored with the Five Star Champions of Character distinction, and the GSAC itself was named a Five Star Champions of Character Conference. Joining Menlo with Gold Level Distinction are Arizona Christian, Hope International, OUAZ, San Diego Christian, Vanguard, Westmont, and William Jessup. Read More About the 2021-2022 Academic Year: Focused on Student Success: Menlo College Earns Three New 2022 Top College RankingsCelebrating Volunteers at Menlo CollegeMenlo College Students Explore International Business in Inaugural Academic Global Immersion ProgramMenlo College’s Dean of Arts and Sciences Expands on Commitment to Engaging Student Voters ahead of 2022 ElectionsMenlo College Offers Two New In-Demand Degree Programs with Business Analytics Major and Political Science Minor
David Irmer Sr. and James Davlin V Earn Menlo College Doctorate of Humane Letters Posted on July 28, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege During Menlo College’s Commencement on May 21, 2022, Board of Trustees members David Irmer Sr. ‘58 and James Davlin V were each awarded a Doctorate of Humane Letters for their service to the College. The degrees were presented by Micah Kāne ‘91, Chair of the Board of Trustees. The two were honored during a celebration of the Class of 2022, as more than 150 Oaks who persevered through the COVID-19 pandemic earned their bachelor’s degrees from Menlo College. “David Irmer and Jim Davlin earned this extraordinary honor through their commitment and dedication to Menlo College and its students over the years,” Menlo College President Steven Weiner said. “The College is incredibly grateful for all they’ve both provided as members of the Board of Trustees, and we look forward to their continued support in the years to come.” Menlo College Honors David Irmer’s Lifelong Dedication David Irmer is the president, founder, and owner of the Innisfree Companies, a real estate development firm he established in 1970 in the Bay Area. Over the past 25 years, Innisfree has succeeded in finding creative solutions for eight major urban revitalization projects in the Bay Area. Before Innisfree, Irmer established and managed the General American Development Corporation. Irmer spent one year at Menlo in 1958 before transferring to the University of Miami for his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. “I came away from Menlo understanding that I could do just about anything I set my mind to,” Irmer said. “In just that one year at Menlo, we earned his lifelong dedication,” Kāne said. “He joined our Board of Trustees in 2010, and he has given exemplary service every day since then. He supports Menlo in so many ways, and it’s high time he is able to boast a Menlo College degree. Mr. Irmer has been involved as a member of the Urban Land Institute, the International Council of Shopping Centers and the California Redevelopment Association, and is actively involved in various Chambers of Commerce. Menlo College Recognizes James Davlin V’s Meaningful Commitments to Students James Davlin V led General Motors’ global treasury operations, including capital planning, capital market activities, worldwide banking, and pension funding. Davlin joined General Motors from Deere & Company, a global leader of agricultural and construction equipment, where he first served as Vice President and Treasurer, and then as Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Business Development. He also worked at The Procter & Gamble Company and at Eli Lilly and Company. “Jim has served as a Menlo College Trustee since 2014 and has served as Vice Chair of the Board, as well as chairing the Investment Committee since 2017,” Kāne said. “He regularly provides career advice to Menlo students, which has frequently included meaningful introductions for students interested in networking with well-placed individuals in the corporate finance world.” In addition to his service to Menlo College, Mr. Davlin is a trustee of Wabash College and a member of the Advisory Board for the Duke Center for Finance. Davlin earned his JD from Duke University School of Law, an MBA from the University of Chicago, and a BA from Wabash College. Read More: Menlo College’s Board of TrusteesMenlo College Celebrates Class of 2022 at Commencement2021-2022 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Place at Case Competitions and Present Research2021-22 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Celebrated with Scholarships and Recognition
2021-2022 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Place at Case Competitions and Present Research Posted on July 12, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College students earned second place in a case competition this year, further distinguished themselves elsewhere, and presented their research findings at conferences. “Much as the College continues to climb through College rankings, our students are evermore making an immediate impact in academia and beyond.” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “With support from faculty and the broader community, our students are clearly demonstrating their readiness to lead on the frontiers of industry as well as expand our understanding of critical issues.” Student Team Places Second at 2022 UNM Anderson Global Scaling Challenge Menlo students Basil Merk ’23, Calle Helmertz ’22, and Dennis Vanin ’24 won second place at the 2022 UNM Anderson Global Scaling Challenge this past April in New Mexico. They participated as one of 24 colleges and universities to devise business growth strategies for three space-tech companies. The teams presented their findings to a panel of judges, including the companies’ executives. Vanin described the techniques they used as strategies that highlight “different variables including analyzing and evaluating the company’s current offerings, and implementing a marketing and fundraising strategy. We also proposed possible pathways to acquire talent and how to achieve higher success with diverse staffing.” Faculty advisors Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Fabian Eggers, Professor Emeritus of Management and Innovation Bruce Paton, and Dean of the School of Business and Professor Mouwafac Sidaoui provided important mentorship and support. Learn more about Menlo’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Major! Menlo Real Estate Students Compete at the NAIOP SV University Challenge NAIOP’s – a Commercial Real Estate Development Association – Silicon Valley Chapter held the Inaugural University Challenge Case Study Competition this last academic year. Representing Menlo College was Wiley Gross ’22, Van Wolfgang Lachance ’23, and team captain Michaela Haynes ’22, with the guidance of Team Advisor and The Real Estate Center (TREC) Director Dr. Margaret McFarland. In just three weeks, the students underwent an intensive education in commercial real estate development as they created proposals for a new project in Sunnyvale’s Moffett Park. The team’s final report, PowerPoint, and resumes can be found on the SV NAIOP website. Although the team did not take home the Silicon Valley Sledgehammer this year, these hard-working students impressed hundreds of CRE professionals with their presentation. They also showcased the professionalism and ambition that characterizes Menlo College as a top business school. Learn about Menlo’s Real Estate Major! Menlo Competes in the Annual CFA Institute Research Challenge From September 2021 through February 2022, Menlo College’s team members Fredrik Ingul ’22 (team lead), Christian Ingul ’22, Wendy Mouat ’22, and Cheryl Singh ’22 competed in the annual 2022 Northern California CFA Research Challenge. Under the guidance of Associate Professor of Finance Manish Tewari and CFA San Francisco Society mentor Edmund Neo, the group collaborated to analyze the equity value of PayPal using techniques employed by professionals on Wall Street. With their own rigorous research, the team’s goal was to convince a panel of judges that PayPal’s stock price is currently undervalued and poses an excellent BUY opportunity for investors. The Menlo team gave a compelling presentation, as well as a thorough valuation report, earning praise from the judges. Though intense, the competition was a great learning experience for the students, having been thrown into the deep end in the world of equity research. Learn more about Menlo’s Finance Major! Students Present Research at the Alpha Chi National Honor Convention Alpha Chi members Christian Ingul ’22 and Fredrik Ingul ’22, with the support of Dean of the School of Business Mouwafac Sidaoui, submitted their paper “Psychological Distress on College Students During COVID-19” to the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society conference. Accepted for presentation in March, they showcased their research that evaluated which areas of higher education are most impacted by the pandemic and offered insights on the student psyche as colleges reopen. The Ingul brothers’ presentation was the event’s centerpiece at the Austin, Texas convention, as they were also invited to speak on Menlo’s Alpha Chi chapter’s community engagement. A preview of their speech is currently featured on LinkedIn. The brothers also had the opportunity to present their findings on campus through a Bowman Library Research Colloquium. Alpha Chi is an academic honor society limited to the top 10% of junior and senior students of chapter colleges and universities in the US. Learn more about Menlo’s Business Analytics Major! Learn more about academic achievement at Menlo: 2021-22 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Celebrated with Scholarships and RecognitionBianca Neme-Barros ‘21 Named FEISV Scholarship WinnerMenlo College Students Explore International Business in Inaugural Academic Global Immersion ProgramFour Student Innovators Named to Stanford’s University Innovation Fellows Program
2021-22 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Celebrated with Scholarships and Recognition Posted on June 29, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Throughout the first year back on campus since the start of the pandemic, students clearly made their mark representing Menlo College. Supported by faculty, staff, and alumni, Menlo College students earned prestigious scholarships and recognition from various organizations. “These students are highly deserving of all of the recognition bestowed upon them. The entire community can be inspired by their recognition, and I am thankful for the continued support our alumni, faculty, and staff show for the next generation of industry leaders,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. Five Oaks join Financial Executives International Advisory Board This year, two Menlo College juniors Khalid Shatrat ’23 and Margaux Theol ’23 (pictured above) were each named winners of the 2022 Financial Executives International Silicon Valley (FEISV) scholarship. The Silicon Valley chapter of FEI awards scholarships to approximately a dozen outstanding students in Finance and Accounting from Bay Area colleges. Through a competitive selection process, the scholarship candidates were vetted by FEISV’s faculty and administrative contacts. Menlo College finance and accounting faculty facilitated the scholarship selection process, and former Menlo trustee and alumnus Harry Kellogg ’63 sponsored the scholarships for Menlo College students. Samuele Mian ’22, Mary Felienne Rose Dante ’23, and Jake Tranter ’23 were also nominated for the scholarship. All finalists received an invitation to join the FEI Rising Stars Advisory Board and are eligible to join FEISV as complementary undergraduate members. Learn more about Menlo’s Finance Major! Four Oaks earn CalCPA Scholarships During the CalCPA Awards Night in December 2021, four Menlo students were honored with CalCPA scholarships. Congratulations to (from clockwise, top left) Nick Camacho ‘22, Anjelie Jen Reveche ‘23, Khalid Shatrat ‘23, and Stina Svanlund ‘21! CalCPA is a professional association dedicated to bringing together, and providing continuing education for, certified professional accountants in California. Learn more about Menlo’s Accounting Major! Menlo College Names Fifth Annual Cohort to Stanford’s UIF program This year’s Menlo College University Innovation Fellows cohort of student innovators was represented by Chara Higaki ‘22, Lina Lakoczky-Torres ‘22, Andrea Restrepo ‘23, and Bryan Zaremba ‘23. The UIF group aimed to deepen the connections within the student body, enhance the attractiveness of clubs and events, and foster professional development opportunities for all students. This is the fifth year Menlo has participated in the program, run by Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design. Guided by Professor Emeritus of Management and Innovation Bruce Paton and VP of Student Success and Strategic Planning Angela Schmiede, former fellows launched the Innovation Center, led three TechStars Startup Weekends, and organized the first-ever TEDxMenloCollege event. “I have seen just how these student innovators have created important change at our school,” Professor Paton said. “It’s a privilege to support them and a credit to the work we do in the entrepreneurship and innovation major at Menlo College.” Learn more about the UIF program from Lina’s episode of Menlo Faces or read the article on menlo.edu! First-to-Go College Student Celebrated Rita Abdel-Malek ‘22 was featured as a PCF Scholar at The Peninsula College Fund’s “Empowering a New Generation of Leaders” annual fundraiser. The event is held to support first-generation college students from low income households, and this year honored Rita for her college journey as a PCF Scholar. Rita has amplified community voices with policy making and activism throughout her academic career. She secured three internships, including one in Congresswoman Jackie Speier’s office and one working as Chief of Staff for the Democratic Congressional Campaign for Greg Tanaka. Rita is well-positioned for opportunities after graduation with long-term goals to work in a congressional office as a legislative aide and run for County Board Supervisor in the Bay Area. Find out more about Menlo’s required Internship Program! Learn more about academic achievement at Menlo: Bianca Neme-Barros ‘21 Named FEISV Scholarship WinnerMenlo College Students Explore International Business in Inaugural Academic Global Immersion ProgramFour Student Innovators Named to Stanford’s University Innovation Fellows Program
Menlo College Celebrates Class of 2022 at Commencement Posted on June 23, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege On May 21, 2022, Menlo College gathered for Commencement to celebrate the Class of 2022. Commencement marked the final day of an academic year that saw a full reopening of campus in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a return to in-person classes and an in-person Career Connect Day, the inaugural Academic Global Immersion trip to the United Arab Emirates, and numerous academic competitions throughout each semester. In athletics, Menlo competed in 271 games and tournaments, won two conference championships, and saw a women’s wrestler – Alleida Martinez ‘22 – win a national title. “We’ve been through a lot together since we first heard about COVID-19 — way, way back at the end of 2019,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “For much of 2020 and 2021, the pandemic was front and center. But this year, we managed to allow it to recede just enough so that this, your senior year, could be that special year that you deserved.” More than 150 Oaks came together for an in-person ceremony on the Quad, accompanied by friends, family, and various members of the Menlo community. Away from the Quad, thousands were able to celebrate the new graduates in a virtual setting, with more than 40,000 video views on social media and more than 1,000 views of the livestream of the ceremony. “I wanted these years at Menlo College to be the best of your life so far, but my hope now is that even better times are ahead for each of you. You deserve it,” President Weiner told the Class of 2022. “Thank you for choosing Menlo College and for including our school in your life’s journey. As you go forward, wear that ‘M’ proudly – always.” Class of 2022 Perseveres through COVID-19 Pandemic Back on August 20, 2018, the Class of 2022’s journey at Menlo officially began. Less than two years later, their experience was greatly impacted by the start of the COVID-19 pandemic during their sophomore year in March of 2020. These Oaks got accustomed to the idea of change early on in their college experience, and didn’t let the effects of a global pandemic derail their time at Menlo. That theme was evident throughout this year’s Commencement, specifically during Class of 2022 Valedictorian Rufus Pappy’s speech. “Change is the one thing in the world which is constant,” Pappy said. “And in our college journey, we have seen so many big changes. COVID came, we persevered, and right now, we’re sitting here looking back on all of our accomplishments and celebrating them with all of our family members, friends, and everyone.” Pappy urged his classmates to keep that experience with change in mind as they moved on to the next chapters in their lives as Menlo College alumni. “As we enter the working world and hold leadership positions, and as we gain the power to drive change, we must take the steps to fill the needs that we see in this world,” Pappy said. “Little by little, with the power of love, compassion, and determination, we can change the world in a big way.” Student Government Association President Rasmia Shuman ‘22 encouraged her classmates to “remain curious, ignite potential, serve the community, and continue to grow” as they prepared to enter a world post-Menlo, reminding those in attendance that every interaction with someone is an opportunity to make change. “The past four years have been pivotal in every single way,” Shuman said. “But we are now ready to branch out, explore beyond the roots that are so strong, and always remember that, no matter where we go, we are and always will be Oaks.” Commencement Speaker Mark Speckman Inspires Class of 2022 During a celebration of students who endured the COVID-19 pandemic during the majority of their college experience, Mark Speckman ‘74 motivated this year’s graduates with stories of his own resiliency as the Class of 2022’s Commencement Speaker. With an impressive, 40-year coaching career in professional, college, and high school football, Speckman has excelled throughout with a major physical disability: being born without hands. Overcoming the challenge, Speckman is recognized nationally for his football expertise. In 2008, Speckman was a finalist for the Liberty Mutual National Coach of the Year and he was named American Football Coaches Association West Region Coach of the Year. In all, he has been named a conference Coach of the Year 12 times. Speckman has also been inducted into four Athletic Hall of Fames as a player or coach, including the Menlo College Athletics Hall of Fame. Speckman went on to build a lifelong career in football, coaching at Menlo College, Willamette University, the Canadian Football League’s Montreal Alouettes, Lawrence University, and presently with UC Davis. His experiences playing and coaching football with a physical disability also paved the way for Speckman’s accomplished motivational speaking career and his own book: Figure it Out: How I Learned to Live in a Digital World Without Digits. “My generation’s done a lot of cool stuff. A lot of these people here, we’ve done a lot of great things, but there’s still problems out there,” Speckman told the Class of 2022. “Now you guys have to figure out, how are you going to make it better? How are you guys going to figure out how to save the children? How are you going to make it happen? But you know, you can do it. We’ve done it, you’ve done it, your kids are going to do it. We have this ability to figure it out.” “It’s great to be an Oak,” Speckman continued. “Congratulations, and thank you for this opportunity.” Read More About the 2021-2022 Academic Year: Focused on Student Success: Menlo College Earns Three New 2022 Top College RankingsCelebrating Volunteers at Menlo CollegeMenlo College Students Explore International Business in Inaugural Academic Global Immersion ProgramMenlo College’s Dean of Arts and Sciences Expands on Commitment to Engaging Student Voters ahead of 2022 ElectionsMenlo College Offers Two New In-Demand Degree Programs with Business Analytics Major and Political Science Minor About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
Menlo College Says Farewell to Provost Grande Lum Posted on June 16, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege The entire Menlo College community sends its best wishes to Grande Lum, who has accepted a posting as a Senior Partner with the Rebuild Congress Initiative (RCI). His final day at Menlo College will be June 30, 2022. “It is with reluctance that I accepted Provost Lum’s resignation. Grande has provided critical leadership to many areas of the College, while also serving as a key member of the senior leadership team. He has been essential to the progress our College has realized since he joined Menlo College in June 2018. I will miss the extent to which I have enjoyed his counsel and partnership these last four years, though I can understand, and I fundamentally support his desire to create bridges across political party lines at such a critical juncture in our nation’s history,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. Going forward, Lum’s considerable talents will be dedicated to furthering RCI’s mission. As he shared in a recent LinkedIn post, “Our society desperately needs those who can work through differences and find common ground. While we have made additional steps in this overarching journey, there is much more still to be done.” Lum’s initial areas of focus will include engaging leading Black pastors on strengthening democracy, and engaging key leaders to address election violence and social media’s effects on polarization. Sharing Lum’s Reflections on the Menlo College Community Lum credits his renewed resolve to move democracy forward to Menlo College students: “Just as I challenged Menlo students to make an impact on the world, Menlo students have reciprocated and galvanized me to re-enter this fray, to do what I can, in service of our democracy. … I will profoundly miss seeing student faces light up when they convey to me what they have figured out in the classroom, in their sport, or their post-graduation plans.” Lum also commented, “When I started at Menlo, I was eager to help students explore, discover, and grow. That desire came to fruition, and my time here has been more gratifying than I could have ever hoped. What I was unprepared for, though, was how fundamentally I would be changed. I leave altered by the caring, devotion, and commitment I have seen from colleagues. I leave humbled by the sacrifice, curiosity, and gratitude I have seen from students. They all have my deepest appreciation and thanks. … Menlo has been and will continue to be a special place, inhabited by special people.” Read Lum’s entire message here. Interim Operations and College Progress Among his many contributions to Menlo College, Provost Lum was central to the appointments of Dean of the School of Business Mouwafac Sidaoui and Dean of Arts and Sciences Melissa Michelson. According to President Weiner, “Both deans are proving to be exceptionally adept in fulfilling even the most ambitious of our hopes for their respective roles. Their success gives me the confidence to predict that we will be able to look to them to help guide our academic programs as, together with faculty, we consider the structure of the leadership of academic affairs going forward. In the interim, both deans will report directly to me.” “Further, the recent promotion of Laura Koo, PhD to Chief Advancement Officer, and the appointments of Devin Carr as our new Dean of Student Affairs, and Alexis Lopez as our Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, will ensure that the Menlo College community continues to make important progress,” said Weiner. “Along with the continued leadership of Angela Schmiede, VP of Student Success and Strategic Planning, as well as Keith Spataro, VP of Enrollment Management and Athletics, Menlo College is positioned to go from strength to strength.” “The first person from Menlo I spoke to was Steven Weiner, Menlo’s president. Steven’s burning passion for the school and his unwavering commitment to student excellence was striking. As I met students, faculty, and staff, what became crystal clear was how seemingly every member of the Menlo community was passionate about the College. … While I will no longer be a staff member, I am reassured by the amazing faculty and staff here who will continue to enact its core mission to serve and engage our students so well,” said Lum. Read more: Meet the Menlo College Management TeamFormer Food Bank CEO Kathryn G. Jackson Joins Board of TrusteesOpening with Artistry: Menlo College Reopens Campus with a New Sculpture Donation About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
Focused on Student Success: Menlo College Earns Three New 2022 Top College Rankings Posted on May 5, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College is proud of its three latest top college rankings. By focusing on student success, Menlo College lands on top for ROI (return on investment), equity creation, and careful resource management. As a leading business school, Menlo College is committed to all of its diverse students. With:99% of students receiving financial aid;A 360-degree academic support system; and,A mandatory internship program, Menlo College students are positioned for future success. College rankings systems are increasingly changing their analyses to include what Menlo College has long known: A college education is a major investment for any student, and a college community must therefore squarely focus on student success.#45 Globally for Alumni EmploymentOnce again showing the success of Menlo College graduates, alumni rank #45 in the world for having held executive positions at the world’s largest companies. This is a top 3% ranking among the nearly 1,600 colleges and universities the CWUR considered. The College also ranks in the top 7% globally for academic excellence, demonstrating that Menlo students are educated to achieve success at large companies and more.Simply put: “Menlo gave me the skills on how to build relationships,” says Saeed Amidi ‘83, founder of Plug and Play, a Silicon-Valley based start-up incubator, in an interview on his Menlo College experience. Maximizing ROI for Low-Income StudentsThe Center for Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University ranked Menlo in the top 8.0% of colleges in America for ROI among its low-income students. This ranking was calculated based on the average price of a degree, graduation rate, and future earnings for this group of students. With these three factors, Menlo College ranks highly on ensuring Pell Grant recipient students achieve the same results as their non-Pell Grant recipient peers. Pell Grant recipients represent 35% of Menlo College students, and supporting them as they pursue their degrees is a priority for the campus community.The Financial Aid office at Menlo College works with all students to meet their financial needs to ensure they can attend Menlo College. With this aid, students earn an affordable college degree that reflects a relevant, effective education. #11 in America for Academic StewardshipAdding to the new top college rankings is Menlo College’s ranking as #11 in Academic Stewardship by Academic Influence. Menlo College is recognized for being financially efficient and mission-focused. In other words, as a small, private, mainly residential college with proven-ROI, Menlo College delivers the best possible education, experience, and outcome for its diverse student population.“Every member of the Menlo College community can take pride in the recognitions we are earning. These awards reflect our commitment to be the best investment students can make in themselves. These rankings reflect Menlo’s focus on helping every student to succeed,” Menlo College President Steven Weiner said.Menlo College: The Best Investment a Student Can Make in ThemselvesThe College is squarely focused on creating an environment that fosters student success and changes the trajectory of student lives. Menlo graduates maximize their ROI and post-graduation earnings by landing jobs at Silicon Valley’s top companies – or starting companies of their own! This commitment to success is reflected in the College’s most recent rankings by the Center for World University Rankings, Georgetown University, and Academic Influence.“As a Political Science student, I have direct access to Dean Melissa Michelson, the Dean of Arts & Sciences and Professor of Political Science, who teaches and works in the fields of Political Science and Public Policy. She has taken the time to connect me with regional leaders who tackle issues revolving around affordable housing, financial aid, and immigration. Most recently, I was connected with a Community Engagement professional who hired me to work on a county campaign, tackling systemic disparities.” Diana Guardado ‘23, Social Media Marketing Intern at Hope and Heal Fund.These rankings add to Menlo’s current standings as:The 16th most diverse college in America by Niche;The 11th best business school in the U.S. by Money;Top 16% of colleges by Forbes;A “Best in the West” college by The Princeton Review for the 12th year in a row, and;A Five-Star Champions of Character Institution by the NAIA.Read more about Menlo’s recognition for focusing on student success:All of Menlo College’s Recent Rankings and ReviewsFour New Top College Rankings: Menlo College Students See ROIMenlo College Offers Two New In-Demand Degree Programs with Business Analytics Major and Political Science MinorHigh ROI for Menlo Students: New Top College RankingsMenlo College Designated as a Minority Serving InstitutionAbout Menlo CollegeMenlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
Celebrating Volunteers at Menlo College Posted on April 28, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Volunteerism and service are at the heart of the Menlo College community. Academic Achievers Give Back to the Community This academic year, led by Accounting Professor Ruixue Du, Menlo relaunched its participation in the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program. One of Menlo’s standout Accounting students, Moncerrat Barriga Villalobos ’22 undertook five training sessions followed by a VITA exam. After passing her exam, Moncerrat subsequently volunteered five Saturdays in a row to help prepare tax filings for low-income residents in San Mateo County. “Participating in VITA was a wonderful experience and it was an honor to put my skills to use. I appreciated the opportunity to help these residents complete their tax filings while also honing my accounting skills,” said Moncerrat. What’s more, Menlo College also relaunched its Alpha Chi program this year. The program is reserved for Menlo students who have secured a spot among the top 10% of academic performers in the College. After earning their place in the program, Alpha Chi participants then hosted students from local Sequoia High School to share the benefits of a college education with prospective students. “This program helps high school students develop critical social skills and encourages their academic achievement,” Dean of the School of Business and Professor of Business Analytics Mouwafac Sidaoui related. “It helps them discover their sense of belonging in a college community and broadens their perspectives for future career and academic opportunities. Menlo College students have an important role to play in helping high school students envision themselves on their way to success.” Supporting One Another on Campus In addition to volunteerism with the local community through academics, Menlo formally launched its Community Refrigerator and Food Pantry in the 2021-22 academic year. Since then, in addition to the support from seed funding from the Menlo Park Rotary Foundation, the Basic Needs Task Force raises funds from those on campus as well as secures volunteers to go food shopping, to keep the provisions plenished. “Our goal on the Basic Needs Task Force is to ensure that no one goes to class hungry,” said Student Government Association President and Basic Needs Task Force Chair Rasmia Shuman ’22. “Thanks to an amazing team of volunteers, the refrigerator and pantry are constantly replenished, keeping our community fed and strong. The team has plans to expand into other areas of identified need, like health and hygiene supplies, and professional clothing, too.” Service to others is also reflected in alumni involvement on campus. For example, at the most recent Career Connect Day, a record number of more than 20 alumni volunteered to share their insights and wisdom into achieving professional success with current students. “I was a full-tuition room and board scholarship student. I would never have had the opportunity for a successful career without the education, skills, knowledge I gained at Menlo. I never would’ve had this beautiful network of Menlo friends to get jobs from and give jobs to. I owe my career to Menlo College, and so what I owe, I pay back. … Being involved at Menlo post-graduation has enriched me in a million ways,” Frances Mann-Craik ’76 said. Menlo Athletics Consistently Earn National Recognition in Volunteerism The Menlo Athletics program is another area of the College that excels in volunteerism. For more than 10 years (with a pandemic interruption), Menlo Athletics was named a “Champions of Character” institution by the NAIA. Part of the recognition is due to the program’s dedication to service. For example, the Athletics Department runs a drive every year for a local organization to provide gifts for underserved youth in the San Francisco Bay Area. A complete list of recent activities by team is available on the Menlo Athletics website. “Service is very important to Menlo Athletics. It is our aim that our student-athletes become leaders, and part of learning to be a leader is to be in service to others. It’s a cornerstone of athletic programming that reinforces the role athletics can play in molding the leaders of tomorrow,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Athletics Keith Spataro. A History of Service at Menlo College Beyond the volunteer programming embedded in the Menlo curricula, Menlo also serves as a physical host for various civic and cultural events. During election time, Menlo transforms into a community polling station. The College also co-hosts the annual sculpture show, bringing larger-than-life art from around the world to campus for the Bay Area to enjoy. “Menlo’s mission is for its graduates to make meaningful contributions to the innovation economy. The students of today are interested in doing so, as well as creating a more just, equitable, and harmonious world. Their passion is reflected in the time and dedication they – and our whole community – put into serving those around them,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. Read more: Applying to Menlo CollegeOpening with Artistry: Menlo College Reopens Campus with a New Sculpture DonationMenlo College Named NAIA Five Star Champions of Character Institution for 10th Consecutive Year About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California. Menlo College’s location in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative geographical areas, has enabled the college to create a valuable market niche for its students locally — as well as globally. Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in an innovation economy.
