Menlo College to Launch New Developmental Women’s Wrestling Program Posted on January 10, 2025April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College to Launch New Developmental Women’s Wrestling Program Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is thrilled to announce the launch of a developmental Women’s Wrestling Program. This program not only expands opportunities for female student-athletes but also enriches the college’s sports culture and contributes to the growth of women’s wrestling in the community. It will provide aspiring wrestlers with top-tier training, competitive opportunities, and academic support, paving the way for success in the sport while earning a world-class education at Menlo College. Wrestling has become one of the fastest-growing high school sports for girls in the United States. According to USA Wrestling, over 30,000 female wrestlers are participating at the high school level nationwide, a dramatic increase from just a decade ago. Despite this growth, opportunities at the collegiate level remain limited, leaving many talented athletes needing pathways to continue their careers. “At Menlo, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing opportunities for student-athletes to continue their competitive careers while pursuing an excellent education,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics at Menlo College. “The introduction of a developmental women’s wrestling program bridges the gap for female wrestlers, offering them the resources and support they need to succeed at the next level. We established men’s wrestling as a developmental sport two years ago, and the resounding success of that program has set a strong precedent for this new initiative.” “We’ve seen the immense impact a well-structured developmental program can have,” Spataro added. “Our program will empower female athletes, enhance their competitive edge, and contribute to the long-term stability of the sport in California and beyond. Menlo College, with its unique position, is ready to meet the needs of these student-athletes. By providing a developmental program, we’re not just strengthening women athletes but also playing a significant role in the growth and future of women’s wrestling. Menlo’s new women’s program will compete for national titles alongside our men’s program in the NCWA, and we look forward to the continued success and growth of the sport.” To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim GhormleyAssistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
Menlo College Adds Ultimate as New Sport for Men and Women Posted on January 10, 2025March 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is excited to announce the addition of Ultimate as a sport for both men and women. This move expands the College’s athletic offerings and continues its commitment to providing diverse student-athlete opportunities. This new initiative reflects Menlo’s forward-thinking approach to collegiate athletics, emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and athleticism in a sport gaining tremendous popularity. Ultimate has seen remarkable growth in the United States, with over 6.5 million participants nationwide, earning its place as one of the fastest-growing team sports in high schools and colleges. By introducing Ultimate, Menlo College is creating exciting new opportunities for students to engage in a sport that prioritizes strategy, sportsmanship, and athleticism, perfectly aligning with the College’s core values. “Ultimate is a sport that embodies teamwork, fair play, and discipline, values at the heart of Menlo College,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics. “By introducing Ultimate for men and women, we offer students a chance to participate in a rapidly growing sport with a strong community ethos. This new initiative adds to our commitment to providing a dynamic, well-rounded student experience where academic and athletic success go hand in hand.” The introduction of Ultimate at Menlo also opens the door for regional competition against top-tier schools that sponsor the sport, such as UC Davis, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and Stanford University. Ultimate’s global popularity further supports Menlo’s decision to add the sport. Played by millions worldwide, the International Olympic Committee recognizes it as a sport with a strong international presence. This global appeal provides a compelling opportunity for athletes worldwide to join a team that values inclusivity, excellence, and cultural exchange. “The growth of Ultimate at the collegiate level reflects the increasing demand for dynamic, inclusive team sports,” said Spataro. “As Menlo College continues to enhance its role as a global destination for higher education, adding Ultimate for both men and women presents an exciting opportunity for students to engage in an internationally recognized sport while developing valuable skills that transcend the playing field.” Menlo College’s Ultimate program will begin in the 2025-2026 academic year, and recruitment efforts are already underway. Interested student-athletes are encouraged to contact the College’s Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural, and Recreation for more details on recruitment, scholarships, and program structure. The College offers a range of scholarships for talented athletes and is committed to supporting students who are passionate about Ultimate and dedicated to their academic and athletic success. To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim Ghormley Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
Menlo College Announces Addition of Taekwondo as a New Sport Posted on January 7, 2025April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – January, 2025: Menlo College is proud to introduce Men’s and Women’s Taekwondo to its athletics program. The sport provides students with a unique chance to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most esteemed martial arts, and it aligns with Menlo’s commitment to broadening its student-athlete offerings. According to USA Taekwondo, the sport is one of the most popular martial arts in the United States, with over 3.8 million people practicing it nationwide, including over 100,000 high school athletes. By embracing this growing sport, Menlo College positions itself as a forward-thinking institution offering new avenues for student-athletes to excel academically and athletically. “As a college that values academic and athletic excellence, Menlo College is excited to introduce the sport of Taekwondo,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics at Menlo College. “The discipline, perseverance, and respect inherent in Taekwondo align perfectly with our core values and our current athletic programs. We are confident this sport will bring a new and exciting dimension to Menlo athletics.” The Taekwondo program will provide Menlo student-athletes with opportunities to compete in regional tournaments across the Western United States, including conference and non-conference events. These competitions will help student-athletes hone their skills and gain valuable experience in a competitive collegiate environment. Through the National Collegiate Taekwondo Association, Menlo athletes will also have the chance to compete against premier programs that also offer the sport, including those at MIT, UC Berkeley, Stanford, UCLA, the University of Washington, and the University of Texas. Taekwondo’s international reach is another compelling reason for its inclusion in Menlo’s athletics roster. As an Olympic sport practiced in over 200 countries, Taekwondo attracts millions of participants worldwide. Its global appeal aligns with Menlo College’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, drawing students from around the world and enriching their college experience. “Taekwondo is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life that promotes mental and physical strength, respect, and global citizenship,” added Spataro. “As Menlo continues to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking, inclusive institution, we are excited to offer this unique opportunity to our student-athletes and to add another avenue for students from around the world to pursue their academic and athletic dreams.” Menlo College’s Taekwondo program will begin in the 2025-2026 academic year. Interested student-athletes are encouraged to contact the college’s Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation for more details on recruitment, scholarships, and program structure. To learn more, please visit: www.menloathletics.com. Contact: Tim Ghormley Assistant Director of Athletics for Club Sports, Intramural and Recreation tim.ghormley@menlo.edu Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College and Menlo Athletics Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems. Athletics features prominently at Menlo, with more than 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and yet more students engaged in athletics through club, intramural, and recreation sports. In 2024, Menlo College proudly joined the NCAA Division II Pacific West Conference, while select sports, including wrestling and men’s volleyball, will compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain Pacific Sports Federation.
Menlo College to Launch Co-Curricular Performing Arts Program Starting Fall 2025 Posted on December 17, 2024March 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – December 17, 2024: Menlo College is thrilled to announce the launch of a new Co-Curricular Performing Arts Program, set to launch fall 2025. This new initiative aims to allow students to engage in various performing arts while pursuing their primary academic disciplines, filling a growing void left by the dismantling of performing arts programs across the nation. As part of Menlo College’s unwavering commitment to student engagement, satisfaction, and a well-rounded college experience, the new program will cater to students who love the arts but choose to major in other areas. The program will allow students to explore and develop their artistic talents without committing to a performing arts degree, whether through acting, singing, music, dance, or other forms of creative expression. “We recognize that many students have a passion for the arts but may not want to pursue a degree in the field,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President of Menlo College. “By offering this performing arts program as a co-curricular activity, we’re providing a space for students to stay engaged creatively while focusing on other academic goals. It’s an exciting opportunity for all students, regardless of their major, to participate in a wide range of performing arts.” Menlo College is also eager to leverage its unique connection to Hawaii to allow students to explore the rich cultural heritage of Hawaiian dance and music, adding a unique and diverse dimension to the artistic experiences available. Recruitment is underway for students and community members interested in participating in the program. The College hopes to attract students who enjoy all types of performing arts and plans to build the program around the talents and interests of those who get involved. More information about the application process, including requirements and deadlines, will be available on the Menlo College website at https://www.menlo.edu/performing-arts and through the Admissions Office. “We’re looking for individuals with a wide range of artistic interests and are excited about shaping a performing arts program from the ground up,” said Spataro. “Whether it’s acapella, dance, instrumental performance, acting, or Hawaiian music and dance, we want to create a space for students to connect with their passions and contribute to a vibrant campus culture.” Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Founded in 1927, Menlo College is a private, nonprofit institution located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Guided by its mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy,” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, along with master’s programs in sport and performance psychology and information systems.
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 Finance Professor Dima Leshchinskii, Ph.D., Featured in MoneyGeek Articles Posted on November 15, 2024January 27, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Finance Professor Dima Leshchinskii, Ph.D., Featured in MoneyGeek Articles Menlo College’s own Dr. Dima Leshchinskii, Professor of Finance, has been featured as an expert in a series of MoneyGeek articles, offering valuable insights into critical topics such as FHA loans, behavioral finance, and California’s housing market In his contributions, Dr. Leshchinskii shares expertise on:• FHA Loans and Homebuying: Discussing how FHA loans can help first-time homebuyers, Dr. Leshchinskii highlights their lower down payment requirements and higher debt-to-income ratio allowances, making homeownership more accessible to those with limited income or credit scores. He also explains the factors determining loan eligibility, such as local loan limits and borrower financials.• Behavioral Finance: Dr. Leshchinskii explores how psychological and emotional factors influence financial decisions, delving into concepts like herd instinct, where individuals make choices based on others’ actions, and confirmation bias, the tendency to favor information that aligns with pre-existing beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and awareness to avoid costly financial mistakes.• Navigating California’s Housing Market: In a guide for homebuyers, Dr. Leshchinskii provides advice on overcoming challenges in one of the nation’s most competitive housing markets. He shares tips on preparing finances, understanding local market trends, and working with real estate professionals. Through these articles, Dr. Leshchinskii’s insights underscore Menlo College’s dedication to equipping students and the community with knowledge that drives informed decision-making in today’s financial landscape. Read the full MoneyGeek articles featuring Dr. Leshchinskii:• Understanding Herd Instinct• What is Confirmation Bias?• Behavioral Finance Explained• How to Buy a House in California 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 Dorms Recognized Among Best in California Posted on September 19, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Dorms Recognized Among Best in California Atherton, CA – September, 2024 – Menlo College is proud to announce that its residence halls have been recognized as some of the best in California, according to a recent article published by University Magazine on September 17, 2024. The article, titled “The Best College Dorms in California,” highlights 25 college dorms across the state, praising Menlo’s residence halls, including the recently-completed John Arrillaga Hall, for their modern amenities, stunning location, and strong sense of community. John Arrillaga Hall, a 288-bed residence hall, opened in 2022 and was officially dedicated in 2023 in memory of Bay Area developer and philanthropist John Arrillaga Sr., whose support was instrumental to the project’s success. Reflecting on the importance of on-campus living , Menlo College President Steven Weiner said, “The residence halls at Menlo are more than just places to live — they serve as the heart of our student community. They provide an environment where students can thrive academically, build lifelong friendships, and fully immerse themselves in the Menlo experience.” 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. To learn more about our residence halls, please visit our website at Menlo College Housing and Residence Life. 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.
