4 More Students Named University Innovation Fellows at Menlo College Posted on January 5, 2024January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College is proud to announce the arrival of its latest cohort of (UIF) University Innovation Fellows— Filippo Sernesi Gori ’26, Melisa Ibrahimovic ’25, Victoria Michelacci ’26, and Ruby Juballa ’25. In their newly appointed roles, these students are ready to spearhead creativity, drive change, and cultivate a thriving community centered around innovation. With guidance from former member Raymond Juballa ’23 and support from Vice President for Student Success & Strategic Planning, Angela Schmiede and Professor Emeritus, Management and Innovation Bruce Paton, the group hopes their project will positively impact Menlo for years to come. The students involved in the UIF (University Innovation Fellows) program emphasize its pivotal role in personal and academic development. Their involvement in the program offered learning experiences in leadership, collaboration, and design thinking, fueling a passion to contribute to higher education and their campus community. The team outlined a project to enhance public speaking skills through a unique card deck crafted to inspire and elevate Public Speaking skills. Each card presents challenges and prompts tailored to communication development. They aimed to distribute this tool widely across campus, not confining it to a singular center or space. “Being a University Innovation Fellow means being part of an inspiring community. Once you become a UIF member, you get to be part of a network filled with people who want to make a lasting and positive impact, not just in their institutions but also in everyday life. Being part of that community is very inspiring and makes me feel proud.” — Melisa The cohort found inspiration in witnessing the impactful projects from previous years, motivating them to participate and engage. Their experiences exceeded expectations, cementing their commitment to create positive change in the UIF program. They aim to leverage their projects to enhance student experiences on and off campus. “Being a University Innovation Fellow is a huge step on my journey towards impacting my community, connecting me to amazing people, and providing me with resources that support my development.” — Victoria For these students, involvement in UIF signifies the power of individuals as change-makers. They believe in the potential of their projects to transform campus life and celebrate student entrepreneurship. “My friends played a significant role in my decision to apply to UIF. I was not familiar with the program initially, but thanks to them, I learned about it and fell in love with the concept of helping students and striving to change our entire institution for the better.” — Fillipo UIF serves as more than just a program—it is a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, offering invaluable experiences for student growth. The collective participation of the Fellows highlights their dedication to their education and developing careers. Menlo College continues to position all students to launch their entrepreneurial careers and create change in the innovation workforce. “This year’s group of fellows continues to build our growing tradition of student innovation at Menlo College. It is our hope to continue to sponsor Menlo College students to participate in the UIF program for years to come!.”Dr. Angela SchmiedeVice President of Student Success and UIF Faculty Champion Learn more about Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Menlo College: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Major at Menlo College Four Student Innovators Named to Stanford’s UIF Program Innovation @ Menlo TechStars StartUp Weekend is Back Stanford Names 8 Menlo College Students as University Innovation Fellows About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, four-year, undergraduate, 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. About the University Innovation Fellows program The University Innovation Fellows program empowers students to become agents of change at their schools. The Fellows are a global community of young leaders working to ensure that all students gain the necessary attitudes, skills and knowledge required to compete in the economy of the future. Fellows create new opportunities that help their peers develop an entrepreneurial mindset, build creative confidence, seize opportunities, define problems and address global challenges. They are creating student innovation spaces, founding entrepreneurship organizations, hosting experiential events, and working with faculty and administrators to develop courses. They serve as advocates for lasting institutional change with academic leaders and represent their schools at national events. The University Innovation Fellows is a program of Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (d.school).
Menlo College Receives U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support International Education Posted on December 12, 2023January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College, in partnership with Foothill College, has been awarded a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education for its “Menlo College and Foothill College Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Programs” project under the Title VI Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Languages (UISFL) program. The U.S. Department of Education will fund 50 percent of the cost of the project through an award of $525,867, with Menlo and Foothill contributing matching expenditures. The project director is Erik Bakke, Menlo College Executive Director for International Student Services. Ka’Ilihiwa Kāne ’20 in Rome, Italy in the Spring of 2019 Funds for the project will be used by Menlo College and Foothill College in a collaboration to promote international studies, study abroad, and foreign language study. Project objectives include: creating transfer pathways from Foothill College to the Menlo College B.S. in Business degree; expanding access to Menlo’s Study Abroad and Academic Global Immersion Programs; and engaging Menlo students in foreign language study at Foothill College. Lucrezia Povero ’20 in Japan in the Fall of 2018 The project aims to increase the participation in international education programs by students at Menlo College and Foothill College who have traditionally been underrepresented and face barriers to participation in those programs. “With generous support from the U.S. Department of Education, Menlo and Foothill will build on their institutional strengths so that more students will have access to these important international and intercultural educational opportunities that are often out of reach financially,” said Angela Schmiede, Vice President for Student Success & Strategic Planning at Menlo College. Kurt Hueg, Associate Vice President of Instruction at Foothill College said: “Foothill is thrilled to partner with Menlo College in expanding opportunities to students in study abroad, foreign language and international education, and in strengthening a transfer pathway for students seeking degrees in Business Administration and International Business. We are grateful for this grant to enable us to create exciting new opportunities for students.” 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 is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution. About Foothill College Foothill College, a public community college, is part of the Foothill–De Anza Community College District. Founded in 1957, it is located in Los Altos Hills, California. Foothill’s vision includes educating “…students from diverse backgrounds that represent the demographics of the Bay Area, with particular attention to underserved and underrepresented populations.” The college is consistently ranked as one of the top community colleges in the nation, and offers associate degrees and certificates, career education, and preparation for transfer to a four-year university. Foothill also offers a baccalaureate degree in dental hygiene and will soon offer a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy.
Saint Michael Trio Appointed to Artistic Residency at Menlo College Posted on August 22, 2023January 27, 2025 by Tess Rewick The Saint Michael Trio has been named Artists in Residence at Menlo College, President Steven Weiner announced today. The appointment, initially to last for a period of five years, establishes a slate of new musical offerings for the Menlo College community and beyond. Established in 2007, the Saint Michael Trio (www.saintmichaeltrio.org) is considered California’s premiere piano trio. Though branded as a trio, the ensemble draws on the talents of multiple musicians, principally including violinists Daniel Cher and Robin Sharp, cellist Michel Flexer, and pianist Russell Hancock. In every combination, the ensemble is praised for their vivid interpretations of the classic chamber literature and hailed for the way they make their concerts accessible and informative. They also perform jazz and lighter fare. Their recordings have won accolades in the national press, and are heard on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Amazon, and FM stations nation-wide. President Weiner observed how the appointment marks a return engagement for the Trio. “Saint Michael cut its teeth at Menlo College in 2008 and quickly outgrew the auditorium. Now, after their many travels, they feel a particular nostalgia for the intimate musical experiences our campus can provide.” Though classically trained and highly experienced on the concert stage, three of the members hail from the private sector. Violinist Daniel Cher is a medical doctor who leads clinical trials and regulatory affairs for breakthrough medical devices; cellist Michel Flexer is a software architect and entrepreneur, most recently the founder of Duck Duck Moose (a subsidiary of Khan Academy); and pianist Russell Hancock is president and CEO of Joint Venture Silicon Valley, an influential group of business and government leaders tackling regional issues. The group’s final member, violinist Robin Sharp, is on the music faculty at Stanford University. “All of these musicians model the success and multi-dimensionality we intend for our graduates,” continued President Weiner. “They bring an enterprise approach to their music-making, and they will add significantly to the intellectual life of the College.” In addition to regular campus concerts, the Trio will conduct master classes, hold open rehearsals, and offer collaborative performance opportunities. They will also present “informances” (programs featuring commentary and demonstrations of compositional techniques), a format they made popular during their first appointment at the College. “Saint Mike began its musical life on this campus, and we’re excited to return,” said Russell Hancock, speaking for the Trio. “We’re especially pleased to do it in an environment where artistic excellence and business achievement are viewed as complementary and mutually reinforcing.” The Trio’s appointment is effective as of August 1, and their kick-off concert will take place September 30, 2023 in Florence Moore Auditorium on the Menlo College campus. Read more: Empowering Student Voices: A Q&A with Dean Melissa Michelson Opening with Artistry: Menlo College Reopens Campus with a New Sculpture Donation See more Menlo College Events! About Menlo College Menlo College was established in 1927. It is a small, private, non-profit, undergraduate and graduate, accredited, residential college located in Atherton, California, designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American, Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), a dual designation achieved by only 1% of all colleges and universities. 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. About the Saint Michael Trio The Saint Michael Trio is Silicon Valley’s update to the chamber music scene, making the form fresh and accessible for the rising generation.
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.
A Story to Resonate and Inspire: Menlo College Announces 2023 Commencement Speaker Victor Nunnemaker Posted on May 2, 2023January 27, 2025 by Kauahoa Hermosura Menlo College is honored to announce Victor Nunnemaker, a first-generation college graduate and serial entrepreneur who rose above childhood adversity to become a successful father, business owner, and philanthropist, as the speaker for the College’s 95th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 20, 2023. As approximately 30% of Menlo College students are the first in their families to attend college, 98% receive financial aid, and nearly 80% study business, Nunnemaker’s story is sure to resonate with and motivate the more than 200 graduates at this year’s Commencement. “Victor’s personal narrative will allow him to connect with the Class of 2023. Menlo College students come from exceptionally diverse backgrounds; many of them are overcoming significant barriers to pursue their degrees in business and psychology. Students persisted through the pandemic and as a result, they have an even stronger commitment to success – for themselves and for our community,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Nunnemaker’s story illuminates what I know is possible for each and every Menlo College graduate.” Showcasing Education as a Pathway to the Future “I hope to provide the Class of 2023 with a sense that adversity can create resilience, and education leads to opportunity,” said Nunnemaker. “I ran track and worked three jobs to pay for college. I believe I can directly relate to many of this year’s graduates, having overcome a challenging and traumatic childhood to become the first and only person in my family to get both a college and graduate degree,” Nunnemaker continued. “My perseverance and persistence in education and learning changed my life. I gained the perspective and confidence to pursue and realize the life of my dreams and learned the incredible value of having great mentors and also of being one.” Shining a Light on Life Post-Graduation and the Value of Community Today, Nunnemaker has amassed an impressive resume: Serial entrepreneur, investor, mentor, coach, and board member. After his graduation from higher education, Nunnemaker went on to a successful career at Price Waterhouse, Genentech, and Oracle. Then, after taking one tech company public and serving as the CFO of another, Nunnemaker went “rogue.” He founded several successful companies, growing one of them over 12 years to an eight-figure Enterprise and orchestrating several successful exits, e.g. sales of his companies. Nunnemaker believes in the value of community building; serves in several philanthropic and other company board roles, and is the President-elect of the San Francisco Entrepreneurs Organization, the local chapter of 16,000 successful, multi-million dollar company owners. “Looking to graduation comes with excitement, anticipation, and a bit of uncertainty. My classmates and I are set to begin our new adventures. As an entrepreneur and community-builder myself, I am eager to hear Nunnemaker’s speech. I think it will inspire me and all my fellow graduates,” said Kaua Hermosura ‘23. Most recently, Nunnemaker purchased property in Northern California’s wine country. He loves spending time with, and is most proud of, his two children and spouse of 21 years. Together, they divide their time between Silicon Valley and learning how to graft trees, make cider, and tend to their Anderson Valley Apple Farm, called “Poleeko Ranch.” More about Victor Nunnemaker Victor Nunnemaker earned his B.A. in Business Economics and German from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and his masters equivalent in International Finance at the Hochschule (University) St Gallen (HSG) in Switzerland after being awarded the prestigious Rotary Foundation Scholarship for graduate studies. He is an advocate of a “healthy body, healthy mind”, working out daily and believes in the merits of meditation, cold plunges and a healthy semi-keto diet. Nunnemaker has many interests and hobbies, including: Cessna airplane pilot, research scuba diver, Cal Eco-Challenge adventure racer, triathlete, abalone diver, and adventurer. He is bilingual German/English, and enthusiastically, mediocre in Spanish (due to lack of practice, but he hopes to rectify that soon with trips to Spain and Latin America). Victor Nunnemaker will join a long list of notable commencement speakers. Learn more here: Mark Speckman ‘74 – Tenacious Football Legend – 2022 Dr. Maya Soetoro-Ng – Political Peace Builder, Educator, Author – 2021 Mary Bitterman – President of the Bernard Osher Foundation – 2020 Yasunobu Kyogoku – Venture Capitalist, Innovator, Serial Business Executive- 2019 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 Energizes Students’ Professional Journeys at Career Connect Day 2023 Posted on April 24, 2023April 15, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College students were able to learn about ways to pursue potential career paths and make connections for their futures as Menlo College hosted another Career Connect Day on April 4, 2023. More than 300 students and 13 alumni registered for the event, organized by Menlo College’s Office of Internships and Career Services. “We were excited to continue the tradition of Career Connect Day, an event packed with opportunities for Menlo students to expand their understanding of the opportunities available and make connections with alumni and industry leaders who share valuable nuggets about their career journeys to help inform students’ own career searches,” Executive Director of Internships and Career Services Jocylen Ashton said. “It was great to see the students engage and the energy as they spoke with alumni, the presenters, and employers.” Expert panelists, including Menlo College alumni, spoke in five morning breakout sessions highlighting careers in psychology, nonprofit organizations, sports, and sustainability, along with ways to utilize the Meaningful Work Kit. “The speakers were very engaging,” Yamini Prasad ‘24, who attended The Business of Sustainability session, said. “I learned more about the different areas within sustainability and their advice for college students interested in this field was the most useful to me.” Attendees were also able to take advantage of the annual Career Fair featuring employers spanning a variety of industries as students search for internships and full-time opportunities for life after graduation. “I made tons of connections at Career Connect Day, some of whom I have already moved forward in the internship process with,” Thomas Depontes ‘24 said. “I think these connections will help to get me a jump start into my desired career path.” Keynote Speakers Teach Students and Alumni about Using Tech in Job Searches During the breakfast Keynote Speech, attendees learned from Jeremy Schifeling, LinkedIn’s former Education leader and one of the founders of The LinkedIn Guys – a powerful, leading tool to use for personal branding as well as building up network connections. “Menlo College is THE hidden gem of Silicon Valley!” Schifeling wrote on LinkedIn after the event. “Such a powerhouse in opening opportunity to all. Big props to Jocylen Ashton and the whole Menlo team!” At lunch, students heard from Michael Watson, head of Global Customer Evangelism at Eightfold.ai, about navigating the job market in the age of artificial intelligence, and how HR professionals use cutting-edge technologies in their talent acquisition work. “Throughout the day, I learned how easy it is to connect with people in the industry that you want to pursue,” Thomas Depontes ‘24 said. “You also see how much they love to share about their experience and give you tips for you to get in like they did.” Office of Internships & Career Services Continues to Help Students Succeed Career Connect Day is one of many resources the Office of Internships & Career Services offers students to provide unique opportunities to envision and pursue their professional goals. Those efforts contributed to Menlo College’s Outstanding College Work Experience & Internship Award from the California Internship & Work Experience Association in 2019. This award in part recognizes Menlo’s flagship student internship program that provides students with the opportunity to gain on-the-job training experiences while also offering the chance for self-reflection on future career choices. With initiatives like Career Connect Day and the student internship program, the Office of Internships & Career Services has recently propelled more than 75% of Menlo College students to employment or graduate programs within six months of their graduation. “We know that, for our students to be successful, we must help them determine what careers are available, what their interests are, and what skills they have or need to develop,” Ashton said. “Our flagship internship program gives students the chance to gain practical knowledge, develop networks, and allows them an opportunity to explore what they like and do not like about certain careers. Getting students market ready with a focus on matching interest to skills with experiential education helps them come out on top in their job search post-graduation.” 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.
Empowering Student Voices: A Q&A with Dean Melissa Michelson Posted on April 12, 2023January 27, 2025 by Kauahoa Hermosura As the Dean of Arts & Sciences at Menlo College, Professor Melissa Michelson seeks out new ways to involve students in the administration of Menlo College. Read on to learn more about her recent initiative where students participated on faculty hiring committees, as well as other ways she empowers students on and off campus. You have an upcoming presentation entitled “Nothing About Us Without Us: Empowering Student Voices” at the 2023 WSCUC Senior College and University Commission Accreditation Resource Conference – ARC2023. What was the inspiration behind your presentation? When I was a college student, I sometimes got the feeling that campus administrators didn’t care what students thought and that they slowed down decision processes to wait students out. In other words, if students were asking for something, administrators could wait until the summer, or for graduation, to avoid giving students more of a voice. When I went to the WSCUC meeting last year I was reminded of that sentiment when I heard a student representative use the phrase “Nothing about us, without us.” I came back to Menlo determined to make sure I was always giving students a voice, even if it was on behalf of future students. What are some examples of ways that student voices are being incorporated into academic planning in Arts & Sciences and the General Education curricula that fall under your purview? The major ways in which I’ve incorporated this as Dean of Arts & Sciences include hiring a student assistant who is my liaison to student perspectives, asking students in the classes I teach to weigh in on issues I’m making decisions about as dean, and including students in committees and task forces. For example, in the faculty searches conducted this year, I asked faculty to always include a student as a voting member. These students reviewed applications and participated in interviews and decisions of those hiring committees. Most recently, I asked a student (Diana Guardado ‘23) to join a planning meeting for gathering information about our Hispanic students and Asian American/Native American/Pacific Islander students to help determine what might enhance their ability to succeed at Menlo College. “As a student representative [on the faculty hiring committee], I had the privilege of sharing my perspective and advocating for what we value in a professor. Alongside faculty members, I participated in multiple interview rounds and asked questions about the candidates’ professional background and teaching methodology. Additionally, I was invited to observe a teaching presentation, which provided further insight into the candidates’ instructional approach. After thoroughly evaluating each candidate, I provided my individual opinion from a student’s perspective. I am grateful to Menlo College for giving students a way to voice their opinions and contribute to important decisions. I highly recommend that other students take advantage of similar opportunities, such as attending teaching presentations, to ensure that their voices are heard. Ultimately, it is the students who benefit most from quality teaching, and we should take every opportunity to advocate for the best education possible.” – Mali Korn ‘25 In your classroom, how does empowering student voices tie into your political science teachings? The thing about political science is that, while there are some facts that I want to ensure students take away from my classes, there are also unsettled debates. It’s not like math, for example, where 2+2 is always 4. There are always multiple perspectives and multiple players, and in every instance, there are students who agree with those different perspectives. This semester, I’m teaching Civil Liberties and we’re discussing cases about freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the Second Amendment. The diversity of the student body at Menlo College is a huge strength in that it means a diversity of perspectives and opinions are represented in my class. Empowering students to voice their perspectives in discussing these cases makes the classes more vibrant and more effective. Students come away with a better understanding of the issues at play because they’ve heard their peers talk about them in their own voices. You are also active in the public sphere with your research. What are some ways you like to empower students through your research – such as Get out the Vote (GOTV), ALL IN Student Voting, and more? Why do you think it is important that students be involved in the political process? Doing research means recognizing what you don’t know. I know it’s important for everyone to vote and that many students don’t exercise that right, but I don’t know what it’s like to be a student in 2023, or why so many students don’t participate. Because students vote at lower rates than older Americans, they have less power to influence the issues. As the Chair of the Student Vote Research Network (SVRN), a national group I helped found, I’m hoping to generate best practices toward the goal of 100% student voting participation. That means putting student perspectives and experiences front and center so that we can find out what barriers they face and how they can be removed. Those might be logistical barriers like whether students have convenient access to the voting process, or sociocultural barriers such as ensuring that they appreciate the power of their vote and believe that voting will make a difference. Students should vote because voting is power to shape the future. Local issues like pedestrian and bicycle safety, state issues related to housing affordability and food and housing insecurity, and federal issues such as federal student debt relief, access to reproductive care, gun control, climate change – it’s all decided by elected officials. In addition, you were also appointed to the Board of the American Council of Academic Deans. What do you hope to accomplish as a member of this board and how do you hope it will benefit Menlo College students? The American Council of Academic Deans serves multiple roles, but the one that drew me to the group is how it brings deans together to share common challenges and potential solutions. Instead of always reinventing the wheel, members can ask if other deans have had similar challenges, or what their approaches have been. Often these national organizations are dominated by larger schools, and by public institutions. I’m hoping as a board member that I can ensure those conversations more often involve small, private colleges like Menlo College. Menlo College can help other similar institutions learn from our experiences, and we can learn from theirs. Finally, what are some other upcoming projects in your area that you are excited to move forward? I’m working on a number of projects right now: One is about how college students serve as GOTV knowledge brokers, bringing information about how to register and vote back to their families and communities, especially first-generation students. Another is about how drag performers can increase voting participation. I’m also going to be leading sessions at the UC Berkeley Executive Leadership Academy Professional Development Retreat this summer on supporting LGBTQIA+ community. I’ve hosted the second annual SVRN Workshop in Chicago, where we heard updates on the research folks conducted in 2022 and what they have planned for 2023 and 2024. Finally, I’m wrapping up the first draft of my latest book about the Party at the Mailbox project and mobilizing Black voters with celebrations of community. 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: Menlo College’s Dean of Arts and Sciences Expands on Commitment to Engaging Student Voters ahead of 2022 Elections Immersing Yourself in Silicon Valley: Menlo College Students Gain Exposure in New Course Flexible Study Paths and Diversity Enrichment: Menlo College Announces New International Agreements with Other Institutions
Menlo College Career Connect Day 2023 is Officially Set for April 4 Posted on March 9, 2023April 15, 2025 by menlocollege Following the return of the in-person Career Connect Day in 2022, Menlo College’s annual event will continue the tradition of bridging students with industry with this year’s Career Connect Day on April 4, 2023. “Career Connect Day is for all Menlo College students, across all majors and interests,” said Executive Director of Internships and Career Services Jocylen Ashton. “This is a good opportunity for students to immerse themselves in self-understanding as it comes to their career. They will network with trusted alumni and learn from other industry experts on how they might prepare for their futures. Then, the Career Fair gives students the opportunity to apply what they learn as they connect with potential employers.” Exploring Emerging Fields and Developing Self-Understanding Students will have a chance to get in touch with experts from different industries and acquire important professional guidance. Morning panels sessions will be hosted by volunteers (some of whom are alumni), connecting across Menlo’s business and psychology degree programs. As they learn, students can iteratively evaluate the suitability of their majors and eventual career paths. This year’s breakfast Keynote Speaker is Jeremy Schifeling, one of the founders of LinkedIn Guys – a powerful, leading tool to use for personal branding as well as building up network connections. Offered by the Office of Internships and Career Services, Menlo students can register on LinkedIn Guys for free LinkedIn Masterclasses. LinkedIn is an auxiliary tool to use to charge a career search and increase exposure to recruiters. Career Connect Day Highlights the Office of Internships & Career Services’ Commitment to Student Success Career Connect Day is part of the Office of Internships & Career Services’ ongoing efforts to provide students with unique opportunities to envision and pursue their professional goals. Those efforts helped Menlo College earn the Outstanding College Work Experience & Internship Award from the California Internship & Work Experience Association in 2019. This award in part recognizes Menlo’s flagship student internship program that provides students with the opportunity to gain on-the-job training experiences while also offering the chance for self-reflection on future career choices. With initiatives like Career Connect Day and the student internship program, the Office of Internships & Career Services has recently propelled more than 75% of Menlo College students to employment or graduate programs within six months of their graduation. “Our Office aims to provide professional, comprehensive, and practical assistance to our students,” said Ashton. It contributes to Menlo College’s top college rankings by PayScale, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Menlo alumni can be found at countless elite companies like Google, Apple, LinkedIn, and more. Many also go on to start their own businesses. 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.
Aaron Santillan ’03 Joins the Board of Menlo College Posted on February 9, 2023January 27, 2025 by Kauahoa Hermosura Aaron Santillan ‘03 first joined the Menlo College community as an international student from Mexico and a member of the Men’s Basketball team. Throughout graduate school and his employment at VISA, over the decades Santillan has continued to engage with the College in important ways. Now, Menlo is honored to announce that he continues to strengthen his engagement by joining the Menlo College Board of Trustees. “I’ve always seen Menlo as a ‘choose your adventure’ place. Students can take advantage of Menlo’s unique faculty-to-student ratio, its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, and a genuine commitment to the Students from everyone, starting with President Weiner,“ said Aaron. 2001-2002 Menlo College Men’s Basketball Team Staying Connected to Menlo for More Than 20 Years Since his time as a student, Aaron and his family have remained closely connected to the College. He and his wife, Eda Cano, are heartfelt supporters of Menlo College basketball, Santillan’s sport during his time as an Oak. Aaron and his family frequently attend home and away games, and generously make their home a welcoming place for the teams. As Aaron observed, “As a student, athletics provide discipline, competition, camaraderie, and lifelong friends.” Aaron also provides guidance as a member of the advisory board for Menlo’s Academic Program in Finance. His valuable reflections on the needs and desires of the industry have led to refinements in Menlo’s curriculum in ways that help students secure internships and jobs. Choosing Menlo for the Future Generation Most recently, Santillan became a Menlo College parent, adding to his affinity for the College. His son Alexander (pictured above) joined the Class of 2025 in the fall, and is currently spending his Sophomore year in Japan. “As a parent, I cannot ask for better. Alexander is not only encouraged to come up with lofty goals, he is encouraged and provided with the tools to pursue them while having faculty and friends that sincerely want him to succeed,” he said. Santillan Represents the Best of Menlo; College Expands on DEI Commitment “In many ways, Aaron is a model alumnus and ideal trustee,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “With his valuable professional experience, his continuous service to our academic and athletic programs, and now as a parent to Alexander, Aaron brings broad and deep knowledge, as well as a vital perspective. His participation will undoubtedly ensure the College is prepared to guide our students to become even more successful as we approach our second century. This important appointment reflects how Menlo College continues to activate its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at all levels and across the community.” After graduating from Menlo College in 2003, Aaron received a Master’s of Science (MS) degree in Information Systems from the University of San Francisco. And after a couple ventures, he joined VISA in 2006, beginning as a Pricing Analyst. Santillan now serves as Vice President / Head of US Interchange Pricing Strategy. Eda and Aaron have two children: Alexander (19), who is currently attending Menlo College as a member of the class of 2025, and Luka (3), who attended his first Menlo Oaks’ basketball game at 4 weeks old! Read More: Honoring Outstanding Oaks at 3,000+ In-Person OAKtoberFest 2022Menlo College Honored as an NAIA Champions of Character Five Star InstitutionMenlo College Designated as Hispanic and Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander Serving Institution
Flexible Study Paths and Diversity Enrichment: Menlo College Announces New International Agreements with Other Institutions Posted on December 13, 2022January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College is pleased to announce new, flexible international study abroad programs, a dual-degree program, and a transfer program with other institutions! Starting in the fall of 2022, a short-term exchange (one semester to a year) and dual degree program developed by Menlo College and Centre d’Études Franco-Américain de Management (CEFAM) was officially launched. The upcoming exchange and 2+2 programs with Al Ain University (AAU) will begin in Spring 2023. AAU is an AACSB accredited institution – a recognition afforded to only 5% of the world’s business schools. France: Study Abroad Semester(s) or Earn Two Degrees in Four Years! Through the agreement reached with CEFAM, students are eligible to either participate in a short-term exchange or the 3+1 dual-degree program: Short-Term Exchange: The semester abroad program is built for students who are seeking a study abroad experience lasting one semester to a year. Students are also required to take a language course. 3+1 Dual-Degree Business Program: The 3+1 program is a transfer program tailored for students seeking to earn two degrees. After three years of study at the college of origin, students can transfer to the other for one academic year of study with a scholarship. After finishing a total of four years of college study, students receive diplomas from both CEFAM and Menlo College. Ready to apply to Menlo? Click here! United Arab Emirates: Study Abroad or Easily Transfer In addition to France, students can also easily choose to go to or from the United Arab Emirates. Menlo College and AAU recently signed a cooperation agreement for short-term exchanges and a 2+2 transfer program: Short-Term Exchange: After completing the first academic year, students of both sides can choose a semester or a year of exchange study and have their courses recognized at their home institution. 2+2 Transfer Business Program: The 2+2 program is a transfer program tailored for students from AAU. After completing two years of study, students can transfer to Menlo College. After finishing a total of four years of college study, students receive a diploma from Menlo College. Did you know that in 2022-23, international students make up 22% of the student population at Menlo? Why Study Abroad? Menlo student Alexander Santillan ’25, who recently completed a semester in Japan, shared: “My advice is to meet as many local students as possible. It is amazing to see their perspective and how they see the same issue differently and how they see the US from the outside. I can’t stress enough how much it has opened my perspective and opportunities here in Japan. I hope others can do the same and experience a new student life.” “We see students’ strong desire to increase the flexibility of their studies, as well as their curiosity for global exploration,” said Chief Academic Officer, VP of Academic Affairs, and Dean of the School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui. “These programs are designed to provide them with a variety of options as well as further enhance Menlo’s nationwide lead in campus diversity.” Ready to apply to Menlo? Click here! Broadening Students’ Worldviews Through International Exchange Programs Henry Miller once wrote in his book Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch (1957): “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” The experience of studying abroad has various benefits and meanings for everyone, but the purpose is alike in all important essentials, the differences being of a minor nature: for something new, no matter for new people, new environment, or new life. Menlo College has a mission to educate students for the 21st century, part of which includes cultivating in students a rich worldview. By encouraging the new generation to judge the world objectively, Menlo supports them by involving them in an environment filled with cultural differences. Students develop a broad vision to pursue innovative approaches to solving the world’s problems. As part of the effort for students to experience and celebrate diversified cultures, Menlo College has reached new agreements with CEFAM and AAU. Read more: Menlo College Students Explore International Business in Inaugural Academic Global Immersion ProgramImmersing Yourself in Silicon Valley: Menlo College Students Gain Exposure in New CourseMenlo College and Silicon Valley Japan University Partnership 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.
