Menlo College Celebrates 15 Years as a “Best in the West” College Posted on September 10, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Celebrates 15 Years as a “Best in the West” College Atherton, CA – September, 2024 – Menlo College is thrilled to announce its inclusion in The Princeton Review’s 2025 college guide, which recognizes it as one of the top 79 schools designated as “Best in the West.” This accolade, announced in a news release on August 27, 2024, places Menlo College among the top 25% of more than 2,500 U.S.-based four-year colleges. “We always appreciate being recognized for the value of a Menlo College education,” said Menlo President Steven Weiner. “The Princeton Review ranking tells prospective students that they can expect to receive an outstanding education here at Menlo.” The Princeton Review’s rankings are based on student feedback collected through an extensive 85-question survey of over 160,000 students. Menlo College has been featured in every edition of The Princeton Review’s college guide for the past 15 years. This continued recognition underscores the College’s commitment to a hands-on, leadership-oriented education that significantly contributes to the success of its graduates. Media Inquiries For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution. About The Princeton Review The Princeton Review is a leading tutoring, test prep, and college admissions services company that helps millions of students and professionals achieve their educational and career goals. Established in 1981, the company offers a range of services, including online and in-person courses, resources, and publications. Its Tutor.com brand is one of the largest online tutoring services in the U.S. For more information, visit PrincetonReview.com and follow them on X (@ThePrincetonRev) and Instagram (@theprincetonreview).
Menlo College Selects OculusIT for IT Outsourcing Services Posted on August 23, 2024January 27, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Selects OculusIT for IT Outsourcing Services Atherton, CA – August 2024 – Menlo College is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with OculusIT, a leading provider of managed IT services and solutions for higher education. This collaboration will see OculusIT play a vital role in advancing Menlo College’s IT infrastructure, security posture, and support systems, reflecting the college’s commitment to providing a cutting-edge technological environment for its students, faculty, and staff. Under this agreement, OculusIT will deliver a comprehensive suite of IT outsourcing services to Menlo College, including network management, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and technical support. By partnering with OculusIT, Menlo College aims to strengthen its technology framework, ensuring that IT operations are secure, efficient, and aligned with the college’s mission of academic excellence and student success. “We are thrilled to partner with Menlo College and contribute to their mission of delivering high-quality education through advanced technology,” said Jim Tandon, Vice President of Client Engagements at OculusIT. “Our team is dedicated to providing Menlo College with innovative and reliable IT solutions that will empower their staff and students and support the college’s continued growth and success.” Menlo College chose OculusIT for its exceptional track record in delivering IT services tailored to the unique needs of educational institutions. By leveraging OculusIT’s expertise, the college is positioned to enhance its IT capabilities and provide an exceptional technological experience across its campus community. “The collaboration with OculusIT underscores our dedication to responsibly managing our financial resources while maintaining top-tier IT infrastructure, which directly contributes to the success of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Kristina Powers, PhD, Vice President for Finance & Administration at Menlo College. This partnership represents a significant step in Menlo College’s ongoing efforts to harness technology for educational advancement. With OculusIT’s support, the college remains at the forefront of technological innovation within the higher education sector. Contact Information Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. About OculusIT OculusIT is a global and all-inclusive managed IT, security, and cloud services company dedicated to serving the education industry. Our strategy is to offer the most cost-effective and responsive partnership that provides flexibility and nimbleness in response to economic changes and directly contributes to higher education’s ability to provide and maintain the highest quality IT services. Learn more about OculusIT: www.oculusit.com.
Olympian Oak Gulomjon Abdullaev Claims Bronze Medal at 2024 Paris Olympics Posted on August 9, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick By: Ally Salzwedel, Director of Sports Marketing and Communications PARIS, FRANCE – In a thrilling conclusion to his Olympic journey, Uzbekistan’s Gulomjon Abdullaev has secured a Bronze medal in Wrestling at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Friday. Abdullaev showcased his remarkable skills and resilience, defeating Bekzat Almaz Uulu from Kyrgyzstan with a score of 4-1 in the Bronze medal match. Gulomjon’s path to the podium was marked by impressive victories, beginning with a commanding performance in the Round of 16, where he faced Aliabbas Rzazade of Azerbaijan. Abdullaev set the tone for the rest of his Olympic campaign as he outscored his opponent 11-4. In the quarterfinals, Abdullaev faced off against Arsen Harutyunyan of Armenia. Displaying a dominant performance, he controlled the match and earned his spot in the semifinals. However, the road to Gold was interrupted in the semifinals when Abdullaev faced off against Spence Lee of the United States. Despite a fierce battle, Abdullaev fell by technical fall, sending him to the Bronze medal match. In the pivotal Bronze match against Almaz Uulu, Abdullaev’s experience and determination shone through. He executed a well-crafted game plan which resulted in a 4-1 decision victory to officially title himself a Bronze medal Olympian. Menlo College’s Vice President and Director of Athletics, Keith Spataro, and Head Coach Joey Martinez, are elated by the news of Gulomjon. Martinez mentions, “We are incredibly proud of Gulomjon Abullaev for his remarkable achievement in bringing home the Bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics. His dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship exemplify the spirit of our program and inspire us all at Menlo College. This victory is a testament to his hard work and the unwavering support of our coaching staff and community” Before making his Menlo debut in 2022, Abdullaev built an impressive resume, including a remarkable 7th place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Known for his resilience and competitive spirit, he also achieved 7th place at the World Championships on two separate occasions, proving his ability to consistently perform at the highest level. Gulom would go on to secure his status of National Champion by winning the NAIA National Championship Title with an undefeated record, further cementing his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the wrestling community. Gulomjon Abdullaev’s remarkable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics not only highlights his dedication and hard work but also elevates the profile of Uzbek wrestling on the international stage. As the Olympics come to a close, Abdullaev’s achievement will undoubtedly inspire future Oak athletes. To Read More from Menlo Athletics: Click Here Contact Information Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Athletics plays a prominent role at Menlo College, with over 50% of students participating as varsity athletes, and many more engaged in club, intramural, and recreational sports. As a member of the NCAA DII PacWest Conference, the Department of Athletics complements the Menlo College experience by developing future leaders through its intercollegiate athletics program.
Menlo College and Abu Dhabi University Posted on July 31, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Partners with Abu Dhabi University to Launch Innovative Agreement for 3+1 Undergraduate Business and 4+1 Master of Science in Information Systems Degrees Atherton, CA – July, 2024 – Menlo College is delighted to announce a strategic educational partnership with Abu Dhabi University (ADU). This alliance introduces a groundbreaking degree program, marking a significant advancement in international higher education collaboration. This innovative education model offers a unique opportunity for ADU students who complete three years of their business program at ADU to then transfer to Menlo College for their senior year. Moreover, students who earn their bachelor’s degree in business at ADU can further their education by enrolling in the Menlo College Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program, opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Menlo College President Steven Weiner emphasized the program’s alignment with the College’s international strategy, stating, “This partnership with Abu Dhabi University demonstrates Menlo College’s commitment to global education. Together, ADU and Menlo College will provide students with essential skills for success in an interconnected world, opening up promising exceptional opportunities for global learning and professional advancement.” The partnership between ADU and Menlo College reflects the institutions’ meticulous planning and dedication to crafting a comprehensive, internationally-focused educational experience. The two schools are proud to offer this unique academic pathway, which aims for international academic and professional excellence. Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of the School of Business, and Founder of the MSIS program at Menlo College, reflected on the significance of this collaboration: “This transformative partnership enriches students’ educational experiences and underscores our commitment to innovative, globally-focused education that prepares graduates for success in the world of international business.” Please visit the Menlo College website for additional information about the MSIS program and other global initiatives. Read More: Menlo College Launches $5 Million Matching Campaign Following Major Donation Menlo College Wins NAIOP Silicon Valley University Challenge Menlo College Joins Niche Direct Admissions Program for 2024 Contact Information Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Launches $5 Million Matching Campaign Following Major Donation Posted on July 17, 2024April 8, 2025 by Tess Rewick Menlo College Launches $5 Million Matching Campaign Following Major Donation Atherton, CA – July, 2024 – Menlo College, founded in the heart of Silicon Valley, has embarked on a significant fundraising initiative following a generous $5 million donation announced at its May 17 Board meeting. The campaign aims to match this transformative contribution to further enhance educational opportunities for its diverse student body. Since the campaign’s inception, Menlo College has garnered remarkable support from trustees, alumni, and community members, raising over $2.2 million towards the $5 million goal. Established nearly a century ago, Menlo College remains committed to empowering students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. A recent highlight includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art Public Speaking Center, made possible by a generous gift from distinguished alumnus John Pritzker ’76. During the pandemic, the College also expanded its on-campus housing capacity by 50% through the construction of the John Arrillaga Residence Hall, ensuring students have access to affordable housing amid external challenges. “We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from our community,” stated President Steven Weiner. “This campaign underscores our commitment to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares our graduates for success in today’s competitive landscape.” For those interested in contributing to the campaign, donations can be made online via the Menlo College Giving Page. As Menlo College prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2027, the institution looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence and impact in higher education. Contact Information Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
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.
