Menlo College Excels in Global Scaling Challenge, Securing 2nd Place Posted on May 13, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College proudly secured 2nd place in the recent Global Scaling Challenge hosted by the Anderson School of Management at the University of New Mexico on April 26-27, 2024. This competition provided a platform for student teams worldwide to address real-world scaling needs in an immersive online format. Participants, focused on consulting for three innovative space-tech startups, were tasked with devising strategies to propel their operations to a global scale. Menlo College’s team diligently crafted tailored recommendations, aimed at fostering sustainable growth and technological advancement within the space sector. Under the exceptional leadership of Professor Fabian Eggers, Menlo’s dedicated business students showcased remarkable talent and strategic acumen, maintaining the institution’s tradition of success in national competitions. Among 29+ competing universities globally, Menlo distinguished itself through innovative solutions and collaborative teamwork. Javier Banson (Finance Major), Chloe Schnepf (Marketing Major), Julius Stiemer (Finance Major), and Sabrina Yahi (Accounting Major) demonstrated exceptional leadership and ingenuity throughout the challenge, earning accolades for their remarkable achievements. Each student will receive approximately $820 in cash prizes from the Global Scaling Challenge committee. Reflecting on their experience, Chloe Schnepf stated, “The Global Scaling Challenge is a renowned international competition, and I’m ecstatic to have been given this opportunity! After countless hours of dedicated work and impassioned discussions, our team successfully achieved our objectives.” Julius Stiemer added, “What lingers most vividly in my mind is the spirited debates we engaged in and our unwavering unity in achieving our goals. Our team brilliantly secured second place in this global scaling challenge, showcasing our dedication and teamwork.” Menlo College extends its sincere congratulations to the winning team and expresses gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and supporters who contributed to the success of the Global Scaling Challenge. About Menlo College Menlo College, established in 1927, is a small, private, non-profit, and accredited residential college located in Atherton, California. It offers four-year 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. Located in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative regions, Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.
Menlo College Names Leading Changemaker Ian Simmons as 2024 Commencement Speaker Posted on April 23, 2024April 8, 2025 by Kayla Stuart Menlo College proudly announces Ian Simmons, a pioneering changemaker in business, education, and democracy, as the speaker for the College’s 96th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Simmons has made a significant impact across various industries, including education technology, renewable energy, financial services, affordable housing, healthcare, combating misinformation, and reducing student debt. His efforts align with Menlo College’s mission to develop students with the skills, integrity, and passion needed to contribute meaningfully to the innovation economy. Since 2012, Simmons and his wife, Liesel Pritzker Simmons, have led Blue Haven Initiative as co-founders and principals. The initiative invests globally in businesses offering solutions to social and environmental challenges. In 2018, Blue Haven received the global industry award for GSG Impact Asset Owner of the Year. “Ian Simmons embodies the spirit of Menlo College, where innovation meets purpose,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “His leadership in driving progress and making impactful contributions across industries will serve as a powerful inspiration for our graduates as they embark on their next chapter.” Ian Simmons has also initiated research, civic learning, and policy projects to improve higher education in the United States. His research is used by over 1,200 colleges and universities to measure student outcomes, while his civic learning projects have partnered with over 1,000 institutions. His policy projects have unlocked $1.2 billion, enabling more students to engage in public service across America. Additionally, Ian co-founded Democracy House and serves on the boards of Freedom House, U.S. Impact Investing Alliance, Social Finance, Issue One, and Scholars Strategy Network. Simmons’ dedication to impactful change and his ability to inspire will provide the graduating class of 2024 with valuable insights as they begin their journeys toward shaping a better future. Learn more about 2024 Commencement Read More: Menlo College Names Leading Changemaker Ian Simmons as 2024 Commencement Speaker Menlo College and LSB for 1+1 MIM + MSIS Menlo College Wins NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge About Menlo College Menlo College, established in 1927, is a small, private, non-profit, and accredited residential college located in Atherton, California. It offers four-year 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. Located in Silicon Valley, one of the world’s most entrepreneurial and innovative regions, Menlo College cultivates in its students the skills, integrity, and passion to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.
Menlo College Students Lobby at the State Capitol Posted on March 7, 2024April 8, 2025 by Kayla Stuart Menlo College students demonstrated their dedication to accessible higher education by participating in the AICCU 2024 Day at the Capitol in Sacramento on February 27, 2024. Representing Menlo were students Sophia Umanzor ’25, Brandy Ix Dzib ’26, and Jaedyn Tillis ’25. This premier annual gathering brought together nearly 100 institutional staff and students from various California colleges and universities, converging in Sacramento to amplify the unified voice of independent higher education institutions. AICCU comprises over 80 colleges and universities throughout California. Their goal is to be a positive influence on the California higher education system and strengthen institutions to help serve students and communities. Through policymakers, business, and community leaders, AICCU hopes to make college more accessible and effective for students. During the event, Jaedyn, Brandy, and Sophia engaged in discussions with California Legislature members and staff, addressing critical policy and budget priorities for AICCU institutions including advocating tirelessly for the continuation of support for the Cal Grant. The Cal Grant, a vital resource for over 300,000 students across California, is of particular importance to Menlo College students. It not only aids in accessing higher education but also opens doors to transformative experiences and numerous opportunities. Reflecting on the experience, Brandy remarked, “As a first-generation Latinx student who has benefited from the Cal Grant to pursue my education, participating in these discussions reinforced the importance of collaboration in shaping policies that support students like myself in achieving their academic goals.” The AICCU 2024 Day at the Capitol highlighted the steadfast commitment of Menlo College students to drive positive change. It celebrated empowerment, community engagement, and the boundless opportunities afforded by higher education. 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 just outside San Francisco, Menlo College offers four-year undergraduate degrees in business and psychology and 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 College Wins NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge Posted on March 7, 2024January 27, 2025 by Kayla Stuart The Menlo Oaks team, composed of Charles Williams, Tracey Hatch, and Jayden Sanders, has clinched victory in the highly competitive NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge. Hosted annually by NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, this renowned Real Estate Competition attracts top talent from leading universities. This year, the Menlo Oaks rose to the occasion, emerging triumphant against formidable opponents from Stanford University, Santa Clara University, San Jose State University, and UC Berkeley. The NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge serves as a platform for undergraduate students to showcase their skills in real estate development. Teams are tasked with crafting innovative proposals for a selected piece of real estate and presenting them to a panel of judges. The fierce competition demands creativity, strategic thinking, and industry knowledge. The success of the Menlo Oaks team reflects the college’s commitment to providing students with opportunities for experiential learning and professional development in the field of real estate. Those interested in learning more about the real estate program at Menlo College are encouraged to contact the Office of Admission for further information. The Real Estate Symposium for 2024, hosted by The Real Estate Center (TREC) at Menlo College, is scheduled for March 13, 2024, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, with a reception to follow from 5:00 to 6:30 PM. This symposium promises to be an enriching event for industry professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike, offering insights into the latest trends and developments in the real estate sector. Our Menlo students’ victory will be commemorated on the prestigious NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge trophy, proudly displayed at Menlo College for the next year. As the reigning champions, the team looks forward to defending their title in the upcoming competition. Read more: Menlo College Joins Niche Direct Admissions Program for 2024 4 More Students Named University Innovation Fellows at Menlo College Menlo College Receives U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support International Education 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 just outside San Francisco, Menlo College offers four-year undergraduate degrees in business and psychology and 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 College Shines in Global Bloomberg Trading Challenge, Securing Prominent Rankings Posted on January 10, 2024January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College proudly announces its remarkable achievement in the annual Bloomberg Trading Challenge, attaining significant standings in a highly competitive global arena. This year’s competition saw Menlo College secure an impressive #3 position among North American competitors and a prestigious #7 rank globally, contending with 2,007 teams executing a total of 48,061 trades. Under the leadership of team captain Andrew Salamon ’24, accompanied by Javier Banson ’24, Karla Martinez ’25, and Jan Zuazo ’24, and guided by faculty advisors Manish Tewari and Faten Ben Bouheni, the Menlo College team showcased strategic aptitude and resilience throughout the rigorous competition. “The experience has been incredibly enriching, not just in terms of the financial knowledge gained, but also in seeing the power of a resilient and determined team working toward a common goal. The Bloomberg Trading Challenge was, without a doubt, a defining moment in my educational journey.” – Javier Banson ‘24 The Bloomberg Trading Competition, exclusively conducted within the Bloomberg Terminal, provided a platform for 2,000 teams to maneuver a virtual $1 million dollars across securities from the WLS Index. The competition imposed strict guidelines, including constraints on ETFs, short positions, leverage, and a cap on single-position investments, effectively evaluating the strategic agility and real-time decision-making capabilities of participating teams. Reflecting on the experience, team members acknowledged the challenges faced and highlighted their adaptability, collaboration, and dedication during market fluctuations. Despite varying levels of experience in trading, each member expressed gratitude for the peer support and the valuable insights gained during the competition. Menlo College’s outstanding performance in the Bloomberg Trading Challenge underscores the dedication and collaborative spirit of its students and faculty advisors. “Menlo College’s exceptional rankings in the 2023 Bloomberg Trading Challenge signify the excellence of our students and faculty in a competitive landscape. I congratulate the leadership of team captain Andrew Salamon ’24, and team members Javier Banson ’24, Karla Martinez ’25, and Jan Zuazo ’24, alongside faculty advisors Manish Tewari and Faten Ben Bouheni. Their dedication and collaboration in this rigorous competition exemplify Menlo’s innovation and tenacity. This accomplishment is a proud moment for our institution. It showcases our students’ ability to thrive in real-world challenges. Kudos to the team for their remarkable performance.” – Steven Weiner, Menlo College President Learn more about the Finance degree program at Menlo Read more: Menlo College Joins Niche Direct Admissions Program for 2024 4 More Students Named University Innovation Fellows at Menlo College Menlo College Receives U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support International Education 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 master’s 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.
Menlo College Exceeds National Average of Male Students, Attracting Top Talent to Its Campus Posted on January 10, 2024January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College, a leading institution in higher education in Silicon Valley, proudly announces that it has consistently exceeded the national average of male student enrollments, positioning itself as a top choice for young men of all racial and ethnic groups seeking academic excellence and career-focused education. Recent data from the Pew Research Center reveals that Menlo College continues to outperform national trends, showcasing its commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse campus environment. Menlo College achieved a noteworthy milestone as 56% of its students were male, significantly surpassing the national average of 42%, a testament to the exceptional dedication of its faculty and staff. Their continuous efforts have fostered an environment that supports students throughout their academic journey. Jacob Vargas ’24, a transfer student, commended Menlo College for its inclusivity, particularly in accommodating his Veteran status and supporting the Yellow Ribbon Program matching his GI Bill. Vargas highlighted the personalized aid available at Menlo, emphasizing that, unlike larger campuses, the college provides essential one-on-one assistance, ensuring students get the help they need. Recent data and analysis from the Pew Research Center, in a report titled “Fewer young men are in college, especially at 4-year schools” highlights how the number of young men pursuing higher education has decreased significantly over the past decade. Menlo College, however, remains steadfast in its commitment to reversing this trend and ensuring that young men of all racial and ethnic groups have access to a transformative college experience. Menlo College’s dedication to providing a holistic education extends to International Students like December graduate Denis Vanin ’23. Initially drawn to Menlo College for soccer, he found his ‘home away from home’ relocating from Switzerland to Silicon Valley. Beyond his contributions to the Men’s soccer team, he engaged in various academic programs, including the Academic Global Immersion program and the University Innovation Fellows (UIF) cohort in 2022. Dennis acknowledges Menlo’s impact, thankful for the College instilling in him the belief that success is achievable in both sports and business. He looks forward to the next phase of his life with eagerness. “At Menlo College, we take immense pride in supporting all of our students, and we are pleased that it has allowed us to surpass the national average of the proportion of male students enrolled in college year after year,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Our dedicated admissions team, talented faculty, outstanding athletic programs, and comprehensive student success services are the driving forces behind our success. We are committed to creating an environment that empowers young men and nurtures their academic, personal, and professional growth.” Menlo College’s commitment to providing a comprehensive education geared toward the evolving job market has played a pivotal role in attracting and retaining numerous male students in recent years, contributing to overall enrollment growth. The institution’s array of undergraduate and new master’s programs, coupled with extensive internship and networking prospects, serve as compelling factors for students choosing Menlo College as their educational home. Initiatives like the Global Bloomberg Trading Challenge and the UIF program offer opportunities for young male students to collaborate with their peers and customize their college experience. In a summary of his time in the competition, student Javier Banson, reflected, “The experience has been incredibly enriching, not just in terms of the financial knowledge gained, but also in seeing the power of a resilient and determined team working toward a common goal. The Bloomberg Trading Challenge was, without a doubt, a defining moment in my educational journey.” As Menlo College continues to exceed expectations, its dedication to academic excellence, inclusive campus culture, and commitment to fostering the success of all students, regardless of gender, remains unwavering. Apply to Menlo Read more: Menlo College Joins Niche Direct Admissions Program for 2024 Menlo College Receives U.S. Department of Education Grant to Support International Education Not Your Average Rankings: Job Placement and Personal Growth Lead to Newest Top College Rankings 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 master’s 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.
Menlo College Joins Niche Direct Admissions Program for 2024 Posted on January 5, 2024January 27, 2025 by menlocollege Menlo College is excited to announce a partnership with Niche and its Direct Admissions program as an innovative way to provide real-time acceptance and scholarship offers to students. Based on the information in their Niche Profile, high school seniors who meet the criteria for enrolling at Menlo College will immediately be notified that Menlo College wants them to join its incoming class. “Partnering with Niche is a game-changer for us,” says Keith Spataro, Menlo College’s VP of Enrollment and Athletics. “This initiative resonates with our commitment to streamline admissions and connect with exceptional students. It marks an exciting step towards further expanding our reach, allowing students to discover the unique opportunities Menlo College provides from the outset. It’s about making higher education accessible and tailored to individual aspirations from the start.” Direct admissions programs are rapidly expanding across the country and increasing in popularity as more forward-thinking colleges like Menlo College look to provide students and families with a simplified process and to encourage more high school students to pursue higher education. Every year, one in two college-bound seniors creates a profile on Niche, and over 50 million people annually rely on Niche to research and choose their best-fit college. Through their personalized Niche dashboard, Niche users who meet predetermined criteria can instantly see that they’ve been accepted into Menlo College, along with detailed information about the institution and the option to initiate the enrollment process. “Niche is changing how colleges connect with students and build their future classes,” says Luke Skurman, Founder and CEO of Niche. “By leveraging Niche Direct Admissions, admissions teams are equipped with an efficient, user-friendly way to meet students where they are, providing a modern experience that drives meaningful, measurable results.” For students interested in learning more about Niche Direct Admissions, visit: niche.com/about/direct-admissions/. Apply to Menlo! Envision your future at Menlo College and read more: Choose your major at Menlo College! Student Success at Menlo College All of Menlo College’s Rankings and Reviews 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 Niche Niche is changing how colleges connect with students and build their future classes. As the trusted partner to hundreds of colleges, Niche is helping higher education institutions across the country streamline operations, forge genuine connections with students and achieve their enrollment targets. Our nationally recognized Niche Direct Admissions program enables colleges to proactively accept qualified students based on their Niche Profile alone. Through real-time acceptance and scholarship opportunities, Niche Direct Admissions offers a modern experience for today’s students, resulting in more enrollments for college admissions teams. Learn more about how nearly 100 institutions are already leveraging Niche Direct Admissions.
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.
