Menlo College Raises $10.7 Million in Record-Breaking Matching Campaign Posted on February 25, 2025March 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – February, 2025: Menlo College is proud to announce the successful completion of its $5 million matching campaign, a bold fundraising initiative that exceeded expectations and raised $10.7 million in just a little more than six months. Set in motion by a transformative $5 million donation from a grateful alumnus in late May 2024, the challenge inspired trustees, alumni, and community members to rally behind the College in unprecedented ways. With a pledge to match all donations dollar for dollar through the end of 2024, the campaign motivated many donors to double or even triple their annual contributions, demonstrating a deep commitment to Menlo’s mission and future. Key contributions included: $1.7 million future bequest from a generous alumnus and his wife $1.1 million from two foundations to expand student scholarships $1 million from current trustees to fund targeted initiatives $334,000 from a foundation to cover the cost of new bleachers for the Haynes-Prim Pavilion “This campaign was a testament to the incredible generosity of our donor community,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Not only did we meet our original goal, we surpassed it. The challenge inspired a level of giving that will have a lasting impact on our students and campus.” While many contributions were designated for scholarships and campus enhancements, the campaign also underscored the need for continued investment in Menlo’s operational sustainability. With its centennial approaching in 2027, the College remains committed to expanding educational access, strengthening student support, and preparing future leaders in business and psychology. For more information or to contribute to future initiatives, visit the Menlo College Giving Page. 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 two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, 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 Athletics Donates Over 550 Toys to Good Tidings Foundation Posted on December 11, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo Athletics Department Donates Over 550 Toys to Good Tidings Foundation’s Winter Wonderland Program By: Ally Salzwedel, Menlo Athletics Department Atherton, California, December, 2024 – Despite a busy month filled with sports seasons and final exams, Menlo College student-athletes, coaches, and staff dedicated time to embrace the holiday spirit by giving back to their community. Continuing an annual tradition, Menlo Athletics partnered with the Good Tidings Foundation to support their Winter Wonderland program, an initiative focused on providing gifts to children in underserved communities all across the Bay Area. The Winter Wonderland program, which began five years ago, collects toys through local drives to benefit non-profit partners, schools, and communities in need. Menlo Athletics has been a proud supporter of this initiative, and this year’s contributions exemplify their commitment to making a difference. In 2023, Menlo donated about 500 toys to the program. This year, the Oaks surpassed that benchmark by donating close to an impressive 550 toys, contributing to the overall success of the Winter Wonderland effort. Last Holiday season, the program served over 1,955 children and distributed 5,800 toys, bringing joy to countless families. “Life in athletics is demanding,” said Athletic Director Keith Spataro. “Training, recruiting, traveling, academics, and competition require undivided attention. Yet, our athletes, coaches, and staff prioritize giving back to the community, especially during this season of giving. We are proud to bring smiles to local children and spread holiday cheer.” 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.” A residential college in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, and masters degrees in sport and performance psychology and information systems.
Menlo College Welcomes Dr. Simmie Raiford to Board of Trustees Posted on October 30, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Welcomes Dr. Simmie Raiford to Board of Trustees FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Atherton, California, October 31, 2024 – Menlo College proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Simmie Raiford to its Board of Trustees. Dr. Raiford, the Executive Director of the Schultz Center for Teaching and Leadership, brings over 40 years of experience in educational leadership and policy to Menlo College, furthering the institution’s commitment to innovative, data-driven educational practices. Since 2017, Dr. Raiford has led the Schultz Center in Jacksonville, Florida, overseeing regional initiatives that enhance educational effectiveness. Her work includes coaching school principals and teachers in transforming underperforming schools through instructional development, collaborative planning, and curriculum alignment. Her efforts as an educational policy analyst for the Florida legislature and a consultant for MGT Consulting Group and Cambridge Education underscore her dedication to academic and operational improvement in the educational sector. Dr. Raiford’s insights are well-regarded in the educational community, with her podcast for Apple’s “One Big Idea” series, Build a Child, Build a Nation, inspiring educators and policymakers to prioritize holistic skill development. In her role as a trustee, she will bring this progressive vision to Menlo College, supporting its mission of preparing students for success in a dynamic, interconnected world. Dr. Raiford holds a B.S. and M.A.T. from Jacksonville University and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Florida State University. Her background includes teaching, school administration, and faculty positions at Florida State University and Valdosta State University, where she continues to teach part-time. Menlo College Board Chair Micah Kāne ’91 said that “Menlo is honored to welcome Dr. Raiford to the Board of Trustees. We anticipate benefitting enormously from her vision and experience as we work together to positively shape the College community.” 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.” A residential college in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, and masters degrees in sport and performance psychology and information systems.
Menlo College Wins Handshake’s 2024 Career Spark Award for Outstanding Student Engagement Posted on October 18, 2024April 15, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Wins Handshake’s 2024 Career Spark Award for Outstanding Student Engagement FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Menlo College among top 2% of institutions recognized for student engagement by Handshake Atherton, California, October 15, 2024 – Menlo College is proud to announce that its Office of Internships & Career Services (ICS) has been honored with Handshake’s prestigious 2024 Career Spark Award for exceptional student engagement. This award places Menlo College among the top 2% of higher education institutions using Handshake, the leading early talent network in the U.S. Over 1,500 schools were evaluated, with Menlo College standing out for its innovative and effective approach to career readiness. The Career Spark Awards recognize institutions excelling in three key areas: student engagement, employer engagement, and reporting and analytics. Menlo College earned recognition in the student engagement category for its outstanding efforts to connect students with meaningful career opportunities through initiatives like personalized career advising, workshops, and major events such as Career Connect Day and its award-winning Internship Program. As part of Menlo College’s commitment to career readiness, all business majors are required to complete at least one internship before graduation, providing real-world experience that sets them apart in the competitive job market. Career Connect Day, a hallmark event at Menlo College, unites students with alumni and industry leaders for career exploration and networking, culminating in a Career Fair where students connect directly with employers for internships and full-time positions. “We are thrilled to receive this honor from Handshake,” said Jocylen Ashton, Executive Director of Internships & Career Services at Menlo College. “This recognition reflects our commitment to equipping students with the tools they need for career success—through hands-on internships, personalized advising, and strong partnerships with employers. It’s a validation of our efforts to create a supportive and engaging environment for our students as they transition into the workforce.” Maria Mendoza, Associate Director of Employer Relations & Career Services, added, “by leveraging Handshake’s powerful marketing tools, we’ve not only amplified student engagement but also strengthened our relationships with employers. This award highlights how our strategic use of Handshake has created new opportunities for students and deepened connections with organizations eager to recruit them.” Handshake connects 75% of all U.S. college students with over 950,000 employers, serving as a critical bridge between students and potential career opportunities. This award underscores Menlo College’s leadership in student engagement and opens doors for future collaborations on thought leadership projects, speaking engagements, and new opportunities for enhancing career services. For more information on Menlo College’s Internships & Career Services, please visit www.menlo.edu/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.” A residential college in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, and masters degrees in sport and performance psychology and information systems. 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.
Menlo College Receives Record-Breaking U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support Student Success Posted on October 1, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Receives Record-Breaking U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support Student Success FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Atherton, California, October 1, 2024 – Menlo College has been awarded $2,979,409 from the U.S. Department of Education for its “From Hispanic-Enrolling to Hispanic-Serving: Improving Outcomes for Hispanic and Low-Income Students at Menlo College” project under the Department of Education Title V Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program. This award represents the largest grant that the College has ever received in its nearly 100-year history. This grant marks an important milestone in the College’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts, as the campus has evolved from a predominantly white men’s college at its founding, to becoming co-educational in the 1970s, and now serving as one of a handful of US universities designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution. Menlo College is grateful to enter its next century well positioned to offer innovative and holistic student services that address the needs of a diverse student population. Menlo College provides a variety of residence hall options, from traditional dormitories to suite-style living, all designed to offer a comfortable and supportive environment that encourages academic achievement and personal development. Funds for the five-year project will be used to shape a comprehensive life-cycle approach to student services, emphasizing academic, mental health, and basic needs support. The project aims to open doors for people who may face hurdles and barriers to completing higher education. Proposed grant activities will include:• Creating student advising services specifically targeted to support the unique needs of transfer students• Implementing a peer success coaching program to provide 1:1 peer support to students• Expanding and improving mental health and basic needs student services, including engagement programming to enhance belonging; and• Focusing and improving student communications through technology and programming. The U.S. Department of Education will fund 74% percent of the cost of the project. The remainder will be supported by Menlo College. “This transformative grant from the U.S. Department of Education will have a profound impact on our students’ lives,” said Devin Carr, Dean of Student Affairs at Menlo College. “We are committed to creating a campus environment where all students can thrive. This funding will enable us to strengthen our existing support systems and provide essential resources that empower our evolving student body to achieve their academic and career goals.” Contact Information: Angela Schmiede, Ph.D.Project Director & Vice President for Student Successangela.schmiede@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.” A residential college in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, and masters degrees in sport and performance psychology and information systems.
Menlo College Celebrates 15 Years as a “Best in the West” College Posted on September 10, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Celebrates 15 Years as a “Best in the West” College Atherton, CA – September, 2024 – Menlo College is thrilled to announce its inclusion in The Princeton Review’s 2025 college guide, which recognizes it as one of the top 79 schools designated as “Best in the West.” This accolade, announced in a news release on August 27, 2024, places Menlo College among the top 25% of more than 2,500 U.S.-based four-year colleges. “We always appreciate being recognized for the value of a Menlo College education,” said Menlo President Steven Weiner. “The Princeton Review ranking tells prospective students that they can expect to receive an outstanding education here at Menlo.” The Princeton Review’s rankings are based on student feedback collected through an extensive 85-question survey of over 160,000 students. Menlo College has been featured in every edition of The Princeton Review’s college guide for the past 15 years. This continued recognition underscores the College’s commitment to a hands-on, leadership-oriented education that significantly contributes to the success of its graduates. 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 two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, 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 The Princeton Review The Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep, and college admissions services company that helps millions of students and professionals achieve their educational and career goals. Established in 1981, the company offers a range of services, including online and in-person courses, resources, and publications. Its Tutor.com brand is one of the largest online tutoring services in the U.S. For more information, visit PrincetonReview.com and follow them on X (@ThePrincetonRev) and Instagram (@theprincetonreview).
Olympian Oak Gulomjon Abdullaev Claims Bronze Medal at 2024 Paris Olympics Posted on August 9, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick By: Ally Salzwedel, Director of Sports Marketing and Communications PARIS, FRANCE – In a thrilling conclusion to his Olympic journey, Uzbekistan’s Gulomjon Abdullaev has secured a Bronze medal in Wrestling at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Friday. Abdullaev showcased his remarkable skills and resilience, defeating Bekzat Almaz Uulu from Kyrgyzstan with a score of 4-1 in the Bronze medal match. Gulomjon’s path to the podium was marked by impressive victories, beginning with a commanding performance in the Round of 16, where he faced Aliabbas Rzazade of Azerbaijan. Abdullaev set the tone for the rest of his Olympic campaign as he outscored his opponent 11-4. In the quarterfinals, Abdullaev faced off against Arsen Harutyunyan of Armenia. Displaying a dominant performance, he controlled the match and earned his spot in the semifinals. However, the road to Gold was interrupted in the semifinals when Abdullaev faced off against Spence Lee of the United States. Despite a fierce battle, Abdullaev fell by technical fall, sending him to the Bronze medal match. In the pivotal Bronze match against Almaz Uulu, Abdullaev’s experience and determination shone through. He executed a well-crafted game plan which resulted in a 4-1 decision victory to officially title himself a Bronze medal Olympian. Menlo College’s Vice President and Director of Athletics, Keith Spataro, and Head Coach Joey Martinez, are elated by the news of Gulomjon. Martinez mentions, “We are incredibly proud of Gulomjon Abullaev for his remarkable achievement in bringing home the Bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics. His dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship exemplify the spirit of our program and inspire us all at Menlo College. This victory is a testament to his hard work and the unwavering support of our coaching staff and community” Before making his Menlo debut in 2022, Abdullaev built an impressive resume, including a remarkable 7th place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Known for his resilience and competitive spirit, he also achieved 7th place at the World Championships on two separate occasions, proving his ability to consistently perform at the highest level. Gulom would go on to secure his status of National Champion by winning the NAIA National Championship Title with an undefeated record, further cementing his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the wrestling community. Gulomjon Abdullaev’s remarkable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics not only highlights his dedication and hard work but also elevates the profile of Uzbek wrestling on the international stage. As the Olympics come to a close, Abdullaev’s achievement will undoubtedly inspire future Oak athletes. To Read More from Menlo Athletics: Click 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 two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Athletics plays a prominent role at Menlo College, with over 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and many more engaged in club, intramural, and recreational sports. As a member of the NCAA DII PacWest Conference, the Department of Athletics complements the Menlo College experience by developing future leaders through its intercollegiate athletics program.
Menlo College Launches $5 Million Matching Campaign Following Major Donation Posted on July 17, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Launches $5 Million Matching Campaign Following Major Donation Atherton, CA – July, 2024 – Menlo College, founded in the heart of Silicon Valley, has embarked on a significant fundraising initiative following a generous $5 million donation announced at its May 17 Board meeting. The campaign aims to match this transformative contribution to further enhance educational opportunities for its diverse student body. Since the campaign’s inception, Menlo College has garnered remarkable support from trustees, alumni, and community members, raising over $2.2 million towards the $5 million goal. Established nearly a century ago, Menlo College remains committed to empowering students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. A recent highlight includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art Public Speaking Center, made possible by a generous gift from distinguished alumnus John Pritzker ’76. During the pandemic, the College also expanded its on-campus housing capacity by 50% through the construction of the John Arrillaga Residence Hall, ensuring students have access to affordable housing amid external challenges. “We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from our community,” stated President Steven Weiner. “This campaign underscores our commitment to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares our graduates for success in today’s competitive landscape.” For those interested in contributing to the campaign, donations can be made online via the Menlo College Giving Page. As Menlo College prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2027, the institution looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence and impact in higher education. 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 two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, 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.
2022-23 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Win at Academic Competitions; Earn Awards Posted on June 8, 2023January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Throughout the past academic year, with the unwavering support of faculty, staff, and alumni, the students of Menlo College showcased their talents in various renowned competitions. They left an indelible mark on experts and professionals across diverse academic and business disciplines. Menlo College students also attained prestigious scholarships as a result of their exceptional performances this year. #1 – Priscilla Perey Ratonel ‘25 wins Mathematics Prize at the Alpha Chi conference Under the guidance of Assistant Professor of Mathematics Jakob Kotas, Priscilla Perey Ratonel ‘25 was awarded the prestigious Joseph E. and Bessie Mae Pryor Prize in Mathematics at the Alpha Chi conference held in Albuquerque, New Mexico in April. Priscilla’s award-winning paper and presentation, titled “COVID Campus Simulation: Predicting and Modeling SIR Populations as Preventative Policies are Implemented Over Time,” stood out among hundreds of academic works presented by student members and alumni to multidisciplinary audiences of peers and faculty advisors. The Joseph E. and Bessie Mae Pryor Prize in Mathematics is one of only 30 discipline-specific prizes awarded during the annual Alpha Chi convention, celebrating excellence in scholarly and creative work. “It was a fulfilling experience to meet like-minded people and feel comfortably prepared that I was on par with some of the greatest students in the nation. … This recognition helped me realize that even though I am from a small school, the spirit, support, and opportunities for growth are no smaller than any other college.” – Priscilla Perey Ratonel ‘25 Apply to Menlo! #1 – Menlo College Student Team Wins First Place in the Global Scaling Challenge With the support of Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Fabian Eggers, Paul Breuer ‘25, Mary Antonette Reyes ‘25, Anthea Weiland ‘25, and Bryan Zaremba ’23 won the 2023 Global Scaling Challenge and each won a scholarship. This prestigious competition was hosted by The University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management. The Menlo team competed against 35 teams comprising undergraduate and graduate students from 25 universities worldwide. Following last year’s team’s second-place finish, this year’s group’s success can be attributed to their exceptional consultancy services provided to three space-tech startups. Using their knowledge of AI and the space industry, the team conducted thorough research to evaluate the growth potential of each firm. They presented comprehensive scaling objectives encompassing marketing, product development, financing, and expansion strategies. “I am so grateful for this amazing learning experience, and would like to extend my thanks to our mentor, Fabian Eggers, who supported and trusted us throughout the competition. It has undoubtedly been the highlight of my year.” – Mary Antonette Reyes ’25 Learn more about Menlo’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Major! Jaccob Vargas ‘24 Named FEISV Scholarship Winner Veteran student and Accounting major Jaccob Vargas ‘24 has been named this year’s recipient of the Financial Executives International Silicon Valley (FEISV) scholarship. Supported by former trustee, Harry Kellogg ’63, the FEISV Scholarship is awarded to an accounting or finance student from the College each year. Juliette Charpentier ’24, Javier Manson ’24, Liam O’Hara ’24, Andrew Salomon ’24, and Vargas were this year’s five nominated Menlo College students, and all are invited to become members of the FEI Rising Stars program with other students from across the Bay Area. “[The quality of the student presentations] demonstrates the success of Menlo’s faculty and, ultimately, its students in cultivating the critical presentation and communication skills required to advance in business,” Bob Farkas, the FEISV Academic Relations Committee lead, wrote in his feedback to the College. Learn more about Menlo’s Accounting program! Four Oaks Participate in the NorCal Regional CFA Research Challenge Competition Menlo College’s team participated in the NorCal Regional CFA Research Challenge Competition in February. Under the instruction of Adjunct Professor Edmund Neo, Menlo College’s team composed of Samuele Mian ‘22, Zandanbal Arslankhuyag ‘22, Bryan Zaremba ‘23, and Andrez Dayap ‘23 submitted a valuation report that focused on Santa Clara-based technology firm AMD. The report was evaluated by a panel of equity analysts and portfolio managers from the investment sector. Despite not making it to the final round, the Menlo team’s research was highly appreciated by the judges and their coach. “Their recommendation to purchase AMD stock at $83.04 turned out to be a great investment decision as the stock price reached a high of $101.82 on March 23, 2023, resulting in a 23% gain. The competition demonstrates how equity research standards are elevated through such events, and Menlo team’s performance illustrates the importance of thorough research and critical thinking in investing.” – Professor Edmund Neo Learn more about Menlo’s Finance major! Four Oaks Compete in the NAIOP Silicon Valley Real Estate University Challenge Tristan Guerrero ‘22, Tracey Hatch ‘24, Carlos Becerril ‘26, and Enzo Cior ‘26 represented Menlo College and the Real Estate Club at the NAIOP Silicon Valley Real Estate University Challenge. With the leadership of Professor in Residence in Real Estate Sarahann Shapiro, they competed against Santa Clara University and San Jose State University. The team was tasked with “evaluating the site of a previously completed development project to devise a current ground-up development plan based on the current market environment. Learn more about Menlo’s Real Estate major! “The contributions and commitment of professors to our students make Menlo the exceptional place that it is. Our professors cultivate curiosity and passion in their students, who come from all backgrounds to study business and psychology. The fruits of their collaborations are demonstrated in this year’s outstanding achievements – across all our different majors. Congratulations to our students and their professors on all they have achieved this year,” said VP for Academic Affairs, Chief Academic Officer, and Dean School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui. 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. Read More: 2021-22 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Celebrated with Scholarships and Recognition 2021-22 Year in Review: Menlo College Students Place at Case Competitions and Present Research Student Success at Menlo College All of Menlo College’s Rankings and Reviews
Menlo College’s 95th Commencement Shines a Light on 2023 Standouts and a Bright Future for All Posted on May 24, 2023January 27, 2025 by Chieri Abe More than 200 graduates from the Class of 2023 had much to celebrate at Menlo College’s 95th commencement on May 20, 2023. All graduates received messages of immense praise as they reached this important milestone. Most of this class started their higher education as part of the largest enrollment wave in Menlo College history. They began on campus in the fall of 2019, only to be faced by the pandemic and in-person campus closure that following spring. Coming through online learning together and returning to campus in the fall of 2021, these graduates overcame this significant barrier as well as others to complete their degrees in business and psychology. Strength, Innovation, and Community: Speakers Touch on Common Themes Hundreds of family members, friends, and alumni joined the graduates on the Quad on a beautiful, sunny Northern California day to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. President Steven Weiner spoke about the Class of 2023 being “strong as Oaks.” He relayed that this class of graduates came back stronger than ever for their final year on campus, building important momentum for themselves and the College. Weiner expressed his confidence that the graduates would have “even better times in years ahead,” and thanked them for including Menlo College on their journey. His parting message was for the new alumni to continue to stay involved, paving the way for future generations of Oaks to follow. Class Valedictorian Samuele Mian ‘22, a FinTech major, congratulated his fellow graduates. He credited Menlo with teaching him “more than [he] could have ever expected,” and reflected on coming to know that Menlo is like family and a home, “a place where you feel loved.” Mian encouraged his fellow graduates to take risks so as to continue their learning journeys and to surround themselves with the right people who encourage them. Raymond Juballa ‘23, president of the Student Government Association, echoed President Weiner’s sentiments, encouraging his classmates to give back to future generations of Menlo College students. He also commended them on maintaining their growth mindset – “Don’t be a complainer. Be an innovator.” – a Menlo College hallmark. Juballa advised that in the face of the pandemic, he saw the Menlo community come together. “We pivoted. We innovated,” Juballa said. “We saw a problem, and instead of just complaining and asking ‘Why me?’, we did something about it, we persisted.” Commencement Speaker Reinforces the Value of Education, Persistence, and Mentorship Victor Nunnemaker, a first-generation college graduate and serial entrepreneur who rose above childhood adversity to become a successful father, business owner, and philanthropist, served as the speaker for the commencement ceremony. Speaking to the group, which was made up of approximately 30% who are the first in their families to attend college, 98% who received financial aid during their studies, and nearly 80% who studied business, Nunnemaker’s story resonated with the graduates in attendance. He expounded on the value of education as a tool for embracing adversity and using it as a superpower for inspiration, learning, resilience, and drive. Nunnemaker congratulated the graduates on “earning” their moment. Like he imbues in his children, Nunnemaker strove to relay to the graduates that adversity can be character-building, leading to “resilience, perseverance, and resolve.” He advised them to take “bold, calculated risks” and their current advantage of health and time, especially important in the face of the “exponential change” that is present with the rise of rapid technological advances, climate change, and the pandemic. Nunnemaker counseled the Class of 2023 to ask themselves, “How do we build resilience, adapt and thrive, when we are suddenly confronted with extreme adversity?” He relayed his own experiences of childhood violence and trauma, and asked the students to reflect on their own moments of suffering to give them resolve. Nunnemaker let the graduates know that “we each get to choose” and that “great things come out of the worst places.” In the next part of his address, Nunnemaker recommended the graduates choose their company wisely and find mentors, sharing the moments of hope and encouragement that those in his life gave to him. He advised that eventually the graduates will find that “success begets success; it builds upon itself like compounding interest.” Nunnemaker pointed to education as “creating opportunity,” and counseled that every failure is an opportunity to learn. Nunnemaker’s speech concluded with a reflection on “four “s”s: struggle, stability, success, and significance.” He advised that the graduates were likely on their way to the third, and then to “be a mentor” and that it was “incumbent upon [them] to pay it forward,” sharing how he created a foundation in his mother’s name. At closing, Nunnemaker shared a Winston Churchill quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” 95th Commencement Shines a Light on 2023 Standouts and a Bright Future for All Other members of the Menlo College community played roles in the proceedings. Trustee Emeritus Charles “Chop” Keenan, III ‘66 gave the Declaration and Welcome, Sofia Costantini ‘23 sang the national anthem, Chair of the Board of Trustees Micah Kāne ‘91 offered congratulations from the board, and Dean of Arts & Sciences and Professor Melissa Michelson and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Chief Academic Officer and Dean of the School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui offered special commendations to this year’s Honors Convocation awardees. When asked for her reflection on Commencement, new graduate Thea Campbell ‘23 said, “Commencement was a way for me to look back on all of the challenges that I faced personally in the last four years, and what the class has faced together. My family and I were able to get together and celebrate all of the triumphs too. Commencement was a way of knowing that I am done for now. After the confetti went off, I was filled with excitement and felt ready for the next chapter.” Much as the graduates moved their tassels on their mortarboards, one of the steps marking the official conferral of their degrees, the ceremony overall embodied a symbol of change for the more than 200 now-Menlo College alumni. Speaking to the latest graduates of Menlo College, President Weiner summarized a major theme of the day: “Expect bumps in the road, and maybe even the occasional pig that flies, but my hope is that you will be open to learning from your experiences in the years ahead.” Rewatch Commencement here! More Menlo Stories: A Story to Resonate and Inspire: Menlo College Announces 2023 Commencement Speaker Victor Nunnemaker Menlo College Reopens Campus; Reaches Goal of 100% Vaccination Excluding Exemptions Not Your Average Rankings: Job Placement and Personal Growth Lead to Newest Top College Rankings About 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.
