Monumental Sculpture Impact Installed at Menlo College Posted on May 12, 2025May 28, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – May 28, 2025 — A striking new sculpture has been installed on the Menlo College campus. Titled Impact, the piece was commissioned by Menlo alumnus and trustee David Irmer (’58, ’H22) and created by Los Gatos-based sculptor David Middlebrook. Installed outside John Arrillaga Hall, Menlo’s newest residence hall, Impact joins a growing collection of public artworks that enrich campus life and reflect the College’s deepening integration of art and education. Commissioned in March 2023, shortly after the September 2022 opening of Arrillaga Hall, Impact was formally dedicated in a private ceremony on Friday, May 16, 2025. The event recognized the artist and donor. Taking place one day before the 97th Menlo College Commencement ceremony, the reception also honored the Menlo College Class of 2025 and their families. Middlebrook’s Impact draws on deep historical and cultural symbolism. A canoe delicately balances atop a hand-carved Italian Carrara marble column crafted in 1519, the same year Hernán Cortés first set foot in the Americas. This balancing act evokes the fragility of early relationships between Native Americans and Europeans. Beneath, a crushed helmet and a toppled column represent the violent clash of civilizations that followed. In contrast, a pristine helmet atop the toppled column serves as a quiet testament to resilience and the enduring hope for understanding and progress. The installation is the latest reflection of Menlo’s ongoing commitment to integrating art across its 40-acre Silicon Valley campus. Following the Silicon Valley Sculpture exhibitions held in 2020, 2021, and 2022, Menlo has continued to showcase public artworks by artists such as Ruth Aizuss Migdal, Foon Sham, Antoinette Schultze, and Priyanka Rana. Several works now remain on permanent display, enriching campus life and broadening student perspectives. “Art provides a chance for our students to embrace the unknown, expand their worldview, and be inspired,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Impact embodies this ethos, offering a space for reflection and deeper learning.” As Menlo College approaches its centennial in 2027, Impact represents another step in advancing the College’s mission to provide an education rooted in business and psychology, and enriched by creativity, culture, and global awareness. 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 Launches Non-NCAA Baseball Program Posted on May 7, 2025May 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – May 7, 2025 – Menlo College is thrilled to announce the launch of its new non-NCAA baseball program, set to compete in the National Club Baseball Association (NCBA) Division II Pacific Region, South Conference. This initiative is part of Menlo’s commitment to expanding athletic opportunities and meeting the growing demand for competitive sports among students. The new baseball program will allow student-athletes to compete at a high level while balancing academic pursuits. Athletic scholarships will be available for qualified players, emphasizing Menlo’s dedication to supporting excellence on and off the field. “We’re excited to offer this new opportunity for students who are passionate about baseball,” said Tim Ghormley, Assistant Director of Athletics for Non-NCAA Sports. “Our goal is to build a competitive team that embodies the spirit and determination of Menlo College.” Menlo College has a rich history of athletic achievement, with over 50% of students participating in varsity sports. Adding the baseball program to our non-NCAA department complements recent expansions, which now include men’s and women’s weightlifting, cheer, men’s and women’s wrestling, and men’s and women’s taekwondo. To apply, click the link below or visit the Menlo Athletics website. APPLY NOW Contact: Tim GhormleyAssistant Director of Athletics for Non-NCAA SportsEmail: tim.ghormley@menlo.eduPhone: 650-543-3753 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 Signs new Director of MASPP Program Posted on May 5, 2025May 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – May 5, 2025 – Menlo College is pleased to announce that Carolynn Hobbs will join Menlo College this fall as the second director of the school’s Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Hobbs’ PhD in Human Performance at Middle Tennessee State University dissertation research explores well-being and thriving among elite youth athletes in competitive athletics. Prior to pursuing her doctorate, Hobbs earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Sonoma State University and a Master of Arts in Kinesiology from San Jose State, with specializations in sport psychology, sport management, and sport sociology. In addition to her academic experience, Hobbs has almost two decades of professional experience including working as a mental performance consultant, an athletic coach, directing a competitive cheer program, and, most recently, as Director of Sport Psychology and Mental Performance for Fierce Cheer Elite. She comes to Menlo as an Association for Applied Sport Psychology Certified Mental Performance Consultant®. Hobbs succeeds Dr. Zachary Bryant, who joined Menlo College in early 2023 and was instrumental in designing and launching the MASPP program. The College will graduate its first cohort of master’s students next week, on May 17, 2025. Dr. Bryant will transition to a full-time role as Assistant Professor of Psychology. “I could not be more excited to welcome Carolynn Hobbs as our next MASPP Director,” said Dean of Arts & Sciences Melissa Michelson. “She brings a wealth of real-world experience and academic expertise that will help our faculty and students achieve their full potential. I look forward to seeing how she continues the rapid growth of the program we enjoyed under Zack Bryant while also keeping the curriculum fresh and relevant to professionals in the field.” For more information about the MASPP program and application process, visit the MASPP Program page here. Contact Information: Press 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 Named Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classification Posted on April 24, 2025May 20, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – April, 24 2025 – Menlo College has been designated as an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, recognizing Menlo as an institution that can serve as a model for how campuses can foster student success. The Opportunity Colleges and Universities designation is part of a newly developed Student Access and Earnings Classification published this month by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education. This new classification examines the extent to which institutions foster opportunities for student success by measuring whether institutions are enrolling students reflective of the communities they serve and how the earnings of those students compare to peers in their area. In 2025, 479 institutions were identified as Opportunity Colleges and Universities, which is about 16% of all U.S. colleges and universities that are in the Student Access and Earnings Classification. “We are proud that Menlo College is being recognized as a model institution for access and upward mobility,” said Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College. “Our mission is rooted in opening doors for students from all backgrounds and ensuring they leave Menlo with not just a degree, but the skills and support to thrive economically and professionally. This designation affirms our focus on real-world outcomes and inclusive opportunity.” 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 has been classified as a Special Focus: Business institution in the 2025 Institutional Classification and was named an Opportunity College and University for its success in enrolling underrepresented students and fostering strong post-attendance earnings. These recognitions are based on publicly available data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and the U.S. Census Bureau. The methodology for the new Student Access and Earnings Classification uses multidimensional groupings of the 2025 Institutional Classification to evaluate student access and earnings between similar colleges and universities. More information about 2025 Student Earnings and Access Classifications, including the methodology, can be found here. About the Carnegie Classification The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education. The Carnegie Commission on Higher Education developed the classification in 1973 to support its program of research and policy analysis, and it was updated in 1976, 1987, 1994, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2018, 2021, and 2025 to reflect changes among colleges and universities. It will next be updated in 2028, with subsequent updates every three years. About the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching The mission of the Carnegie Foundation is to catalyze transformational change in education so that every student has the opportunity to live a healthy, dignified, and fulfilling life. Enacted by an act of Congress in 1906, the Foundation has a rich history of driving transformational change in the education sector, including the establishment of TIAA-CREF and the creation of the Education Testing Service, the GRE, Pell Grants, and the Carnegie Classifications for Higher Education. About the American Council on Education ACE unites and leads higher education institutions toward a shared vision for the future. With more than 1,600 member colleges, universities, and associations, ACE designs solutions for today’s challenges and advances public policy to support a diverse and dynamic higher education sector. Learn more at www.acenet.edu or follow ACE on X (formerly Twitter) @ACEducation and LinkedIn american-council-on-education. Media Contacts Tess Rewickpr@menlo.edu Jon Riskind (ACE)202-697-0741jriskind@acenet.edu Kito Cetrulo (Carnegie Foundation)650-566-5100kcetrulo@carnegiefoundation.org
Menlo College Welcomes Simone Stolzoff, Author and Work-Life Thought Leader, as 2025 Commencement Speaker Posted on April 19, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – April 2025 – Menlo College is honored to welcome Simone Stolzoff, acclaimed author, journalist, and leading voice on the future of work and well-being, as the keynote speaker for its 97th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2025. A San Francisco native, Stolzoff has emerged as a prominent thought leader at the intersection of work, identity, and personal fulfillment. His groundbreaking book, The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work, published by Penguin Random House, became a national bestseller and earned the #1 spot in the work-life balance category. Drawing on his background in journalism and design thinking, Stolzoff challenges outdated workplace norms and advocates for more sustainable, human-centered definitions of success. “Simone Stolzoff’s work resonates deeply with the values we hope to instill in our students,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “As our graduates take their next steps, his message about purpose and balance in professional life will offer both inspiration and practical wisdom.” Stolzoff’s writing has appeared in leading publications, including The New York Times and The Atlantic. As a former design lead at the renowned innovation firm IDEO, he collaborated with influential leaders from the U.S. Surgeon General to executives at Google, to foster more thoughtful and human-centered work environments. With degrees from both Stanford University and The University of Pennsylvania, Stolzoff uniquely blends academic rigor with practical experience. His keynote promises to deliver an inspiring and timely message as Menlo College’s Class of 2025 gathers to celebrate this milestone on the College’s Atherton campus. For more information about Menlo College’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony, please visit: https://menlo.edu/commencement/ 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 Takes First Place in Prestigious Global Scaling Challenge Posted on April 15, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – April 2025 – Menlo College is excited to announce that a team of its business students has won first place in the 2025 Global Scaling Challenge, a globally recognized competition hosted by the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico. In recognition of their achievement, the team earned a total of $8,000 in prize money, including $7,500 for winning first place overall, and an additional $500 for earning silver in the first round. This year’s challenge featured 46 teams from leading universities around the world, all tasked with solving real-world growth and scaling issues for live entrepreneurial firms. Representing Menlo College were students Marc Hegele (Team Lead), Carlotta Stern, Lars Faessler, and Martin Fiala, supported by Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, Mikael Hilmersson. The Global Scaling Challenge is a one-of-a-kind competition that pairs student teams with real companies seeking to grow in complex, diverse markets. Over the course of the event, students assess the challenges these companies face and develop both short-term and long-term strategies to help them scale. The experience culminates in a high-stakes, live virtual pitch to company leaders and a panel of expert judges—an intense and highly practical application of global business strategy. “Winning this competition is a powerful reflection of the caliber of our students and the excellence of the business education they receive at Menlo,” said Mouwafac Siddaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. “Their success in a global arena highlights not only their talent and dedication, but also the outstanding guidance of faculty like Professor Mikael Hilmersson, whose mentorship played a key role in this achievement. We are incredibly proud of our team.” The Global Scaling Challenge offers over $35,000 in awards and provides both students and participating firms with meaningful, innovative experiences that span industries and continents. Menlo’s victory demonstrates the strength of its hands-on, globally-minded business education and reflects its ongoing commitment to preparing students to thrive in real-world environments. Congratulations to our Menlo College winners on this well-deserved victory! Read more about the Global Scaling Challenge here. 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.
Reimagining Business Analytics: Menlo College Introduces Enhanced AI & Analytics Major Posted on April 12, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – April 2025: Menlo College School of Business is proud to announce the launch of its newly enhanced academic program: the Artificial Intelligence & Analytics (AIA) major. This cutting-edge offering is the first undergraduate major of its kind among business schools in Northern California. Formerly known as Business Analytics, this future-focused program positions Menlo College at the forefront of innovation in business education, responding to accelerating demand for professionals who can navigate the convergence of business, data, and emerging technologies. “At Menlo College, we are committed to preparing our students for the future of business,” said President Steven Weiner. “The AI & Analytics major reinforces our mission to deliver innovative, market-responsive education that equips students with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in a digitally-driven economy.” Designed with a future-focused curriculum, the AIA major integrates applied artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and ethical decision-making in business settings. Students will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard platforms and tools, preparing them to become leaders in data-intensive and AI-enabled environments. “This major represents Menlo College’s bold step forward in reimagining business education,” said Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. “We are deeply grateful to our faculty for their vision and commitment in shaping a program that ensures our students are not only career-ready, but future-ready.” With this enhanced program launch, Menlo College continues to raise the bar for academic excellence, aligning its programs with industry trends and delivering education that empowers the next generation of business and technology leaders. 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.
Menlo College Names TJ Curry as Inaugural Director of Taekwondo Posted on April 4, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick By: Ally Salzwedel Atherton, CA – April 4, 2025: Menlo College Athletics is proud to announce the hiring of world-renowned taekwondo athlete and coach TJ Curry as the program’s first Director and Head Coach for Taekwondo. A decorated competitor and experienced international coach, Curry brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the Oaks as they launch this historic new program. A World-Class Leader to Build a Historic Program “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome TJ to the Menlo Athletics family,” said Tim Ghormley, Assistant Athletic Director for Non-NCAA Sports. “His elite experience as both an athlete and a coach makes him the perfect leader to establish and build our Taekwondo program. We are confident that under his guidance, Menlo College will become a premier destination for taekwondo athletes looking to compete at the highest levels.” A Legacy of Excellence: Curry’s Competitive & Coaching Achievements Curry’s career as an elite taekwondo competitor spans over a decade, earning him national and international recognition. His achievements include: 2012 Olympic Alternate Multiple appearances on the U.S. National Team Gold Medalist at the U.S. Open, President’s Cup, National Championships, and more! World Cup & Pan American Games team member As a coach, Curry has been instrumental in developing top-tier athletes through his leadership at Precision Taekwondo and as a member of the USA Taekwondo coaching staff. His coaching accomplishments include: Developing multiple national champions and national team members Leading U.S. athletes in major international tournaments, including the World Championships Coaching Olympic-bound athletes through high-performance training camps With Curry at the helm, Menlo College is poised to become a powerhouse in collegiate taekwondo, fostering a program built on skill development, mental toughness, and a winning culture. For more information on Menlo College Athletics and the new Taekwondo program, click HERE. 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.
Menlo College and Al Ain University Forge Enhanced Partnership for Global Student Mobility Posted on March 31, 2025May 6, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – March 31, 2025 – Menlo College and Al Ain University (AAU) are pleased to announce the formalization of an expanded strategic partnership dedicated to enhancing student mobility and enriching academic opportunities worldwide. In response to the evolving needs of students and educational trends, this partnership introduces comprehensive degree completion and study abroad programs, offering students transformative experiences. Through this innovative collaboration, AAU students will have the chance to immerse themselves in a semester or year-long study abroad experience at Menlo, with the option to transfer to Menlo College for their senior year to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) after completing three years at AAU. Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, VP for Academic Affairs, Chief Academic Officer, and Dean of the School of Business at Menlo College, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership exemplifies our dedication to offering students diverse learning opportunities and preparing them for success in an interconnected world.” The partnership between Menlo College and Al Ain University marks a significant advancement in promoting international education and fostering cultural understanding. By facilitating academic exchanges and cross-cultural interactions, both institutions aim to empower students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global landscape. AAU and Menlo College are both AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accredited, a distinction earned by fewer than five percent of the world’s business schools. Menlo and AAU take pride in being among the elite schools globally that have earned this accolade. The Menlo-AAU partnership leverages the strengths of both institutions, offering students unparalleled opportunities for academic and professional growth in the field of business administration. Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Al Ain University: Established in 2004, Al Ain University (AAU) is a leading higher education institution located in the United Arab Emirates. Committed to academic excellence and innovation, AAU provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for success in a dynamic global environment. 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 Gold at the 40th Annual Educational Advertising Awards Posted on March 29, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – March, 2025: Menlo College is proud to announce its recognition in the 40th Annual Educational Advertising Awards, one of the largest and most prestigious educational marketing competitions in the country. This year, over 2,000 entries were submitted from more than 1,000 colleges, universities, and secondary schools across the United States and beyond. The competition saw standout winners across multiple categories, and Menlo College is honored to be among them. Menlo College was awarded a Gold Award in the Newsletter category for the June 2024 edition of the “What to KnOAK Campus Newsletter”. The publication, which highlights key campus events, student achievements, and updates for the Menlo College community, was praised by judges for its creative design and engaging content. In addition, Menlo also earned a Merit Award in the Special Video category for its “Welcome to Menlo College” video. The Educational Advertising Awards is the largest of its kind, with entries reviewed by a national panel of higher education marketers, advertising professionals, and creative directors. This year, Menlo College was among the 432 institutions that received a Gold Award. “These awards are a testament to the dedication and creativity of our marketing team,” said Tess Rewick, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. “We take pride in creating content that celebrates our students, faculty, and the transformative impact of higher education.” For more information, please visit the Educational Advertising Awards website. 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.
