Menlo College School of Business Announces Official Approval of Master of Science in FinTech Program Posted on March 11, 2025May 5, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – March 2025 – Menlo College School of Business is excited to announce that its Master of Science in Financial Technology (FinTech) program has been officially approved by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This achievement marks the college’s second master’s degree launch in just three years, reinforcing Menlo College’s dedication to providing cutting-edge business education. The inaugural class will begin in Fall 2025. The Master of Science in FinTech (Pending SEVP approval for students holding F-1 visas) is designed to prepare students for success in the ever-changing landscape of financial technology. Notably, the M.S. in FinTech will be designated as a STEM program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This STEM designation reflects the program’s dedication to providing graduate students with the critical skills needed to thrive in data-driven, technology-centric roles within finance. Whether working with startups or established financial institutions, the M.S. in FinTech offers an ideal platform for students to dive deep into the dynamic intersection of finance and technology. “The launch of this program represents a significant step in Menlo College’s continued expansion of graduate offerings, providing our students with the tools they need to succeed in one of the most dynamic industries in the world,” said Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of the School of Business. “We are committed to delivering an educational experience that equips students with deep expertise at the intersection of finance and technology.” With the launch of the Master of Science in FinTech, Menlo College continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing innovative, high-quality education that meets the evolving demands of business and technology. This program is just one more step in the College’s mission to empower the next generation of leaders in finance and technology. For more information about the Master of Science in FinTech program, please visit Menlo College MS in Financial Technology. 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 three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, 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 Marketing Professor Lan Jiang, Ph.D., Featured in WalletHub Article on Amica Insurance Posted on March 6, 2025March 7, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – March, 2025: Menlo College is pleased to announce that Dr. Lan Jiang, Professor of Marketing, was recently featured in a WalletHub article on Amica Insurance. Professor Jiang shared valuable insights on evaluating car insurance companies, emphasizing the growing importance of online reviews and social media in consumer decision-making. “Consumers are increasingly relying on customer reviews from sources like Reddit to conduct their research,” said Jiang, referring to the concept of ZMOT (Zero Moment of Truth). She also offered advice for those considering Amica, recommending thorough research to gather insights from multiple perspectives. Professor Jiang commented on Amica’s tagline, “Empathy is our best policy,” stating that empathy can build trust, but must be genuine to be effective. She also credited Amica’s high auto insurance claims satisfaction to their consistent service quality, backed by unbiased consumer reviews. Professor Jiang’s expertise continues to be recognized in the industry, and Menlo College is proud to have such a distinguished faculty member. Read the full WalletHub article here: https://wallethub.com/edu/ci/amica-car-insurance-review/62600#expert=Lan_Jiang 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 Finance Professor Dima Leshchinskii, Ph.D., Featured in WalletHub Article Posted on February 26, 2025March 7, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – February, 2025: Menlo College is proud to announce that Dr. Dima Leshchinskii, Professor of Finance, was recently featured as an expert contributor in a WalletHub article discussing the best (and worst) options for same-day loans and alternatives to payday lending. With the allure of quick cash, same-day loans and no-credit-check options can be tempting, but Dr. Leshchinskii cautions consumers to proceed with extreme caution. In his insightful commentary, he advises, “Avoid it unless you have an established relationship with the lender! If someone is ready to give you money without checking who you are, either you will be charged exorbitant fees or, even worse, you will get yourself into a dangerous situation.” The WalletHub piece delves into the often-hidden costs of payday loans, with Dr. Leshchinskii illustrating how seemingly small fees can translate into triple-digit APRs. He then offers practical alternatives, including employer cash advances, loans or lines of credit from banks or credit unions, and even careful use of credit card cash advances. Dr. Leshchinskii emphasizes the importance of research and comparison, urging consumers to “explore all options available to you.” He recommends using online comparison tools and creating a detailed comparison table that includes interest rates, loan amounts, maturity dates, fees, and any fine print like prepayment penalties or other loan covenants. His advice empowers consumers to make informed financial decisions and avoid the pitfalls of predatory lending practices. Read the full WalletHub article here: https://wallethub.com/best-no-credit-check-loans-same-day#expert=Dr._Dima_Leshchinskii 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 Raises $10.7 Million in Record-Breaking Matching Campaign Posted on February 25, 2025March 7, 2025 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA – February, 2025: Menlo College is proud to announce the successful completion of its $5 million matching campaign, a bold fundraising initiative that exceeded expectations and raised $10.7 million in just a little more than six months. Set in motion by a transformative $5 million donation from a grateful alumnus in late May 2024, the challenge inspired trustees, alumni, and community members to rally behind the College in unprecedented ways. With a pledge to match all donations dollar for dollar through the end of 2024, the campaign motivated many donors to double or even triple their annual contributions, demonstrating a deep commitment to Menlo’s mission and future. Key contributions included: $1.7 million future bequest from a generous alumnus and his wife $1.1 million from two foundations to expand student scholarships $1 million from current trustees to fund targeted initiatives $334,000 from a foundation to cover the cost of new bleachers for the Haynes-Prim Pavilion “This campaign was a testament to the incredible generosity of our donor community,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Not only did we meet our original goal, we surpassed it. The challenge inspired a level of giving that will have a lasting impact on our students and campus.” While many contributions were designated for scholarships and campus enhancements, the campaign also underscored the need for continued investment in Menlo’s operational sustainability. With its centennial approaching in 2027, the College remains committed to expanding educational access, strengthening student support, and preparing future leaders in business and psychology. For more information or to contribute to future initiatives, visit the Menlo College Giving Page. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as two graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo 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.
