Institute of AI & Sustainability at Menlo College Explores “Organizational Development in the Age of AI” Posted on November 6, 2025November 6, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — November 6, 2025 — Menlo College’s Institute of AI & Sustainability recently hosted an engaging event, “Organizational Development in the Age of AI,” bringing together over 70 professionals to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way organizations understand and build culture. The event featured keynote speaker Claudia Sundberg, whose groundbreaking presentation on Data Sourced Storytelling introduced attendees to an innovative Swedish approach transforming organizational development. This powerful, AI-driven methodology makes workplace culture measurable, actionable, and directly connected to business outcomes — revealing how culture drives engagement, results, and long-term success. The event also recognized the leadership, guidance, and support of VP for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Dave Epstein, and Samuele Mian, whose strategic vision and collaboration continue to advance the Institute’s mission of connecting AI innovation with sustainable organizational practices. As AI continues to redefine the future of work, the Institute remains committed to convening thought leaders and practitioners to explore how technology can be harnessed to build stronger, more adaptive, and more human-centered organizations. Visit our website for more information about upcoming events and initiatives with the Institute of AI and Sustainability. 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 Named Among Best Sport Psychology Master’s Programs in the Nation Posted on November 5, 2025November 5, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA — November 5, 2025 — Menlo College’s Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology (MASPP) has been named to Psychology Degree 411’s list of the Best Sport Psychology Master’s Programs for 2025. The list features top not-for-profit institutions that excel in providing accredited, high-quality education for future sport psychology professionals. Psychology Degree 411 evaluates programs based on accreditation status, tuition, delivery format, and credit requirements, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their education and career goals. “We’re proud to see our program highlighted for the strong foundation it provides students in performance psychology, counseling, and applied practice,” said Dr. Carolynn P. Hobbs, Director of the MASPP program. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students to excellence both in and out of the classroom.” Menlo College’s MASPP program prepares students to work with athletes, performers, and teams to enhance mental performance and well-being. With small class sizes, hands-on training, and faculty mentorship, students gain practical experience that sets them apart in the growing field of sport and performance psychology. The acknowledgement also honors the leadership of former Director Dr. Zackary Bryant and Dean of Arts and Sciences Dr. Melissa Michelson, whose continued support has strengthened the program’s reputation for academic rigor and student success. Visit Psychology Degree 411 to read the full article and learn more about our Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology (MASPP) program on our website. 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 Wins Handshake’s 2025 Career Spark Award for Second Consecutive Year Posted on November 4, 2025November 4, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – November 4, 2025 – Menlo College is proud to announce that its Office of Internships & Career Services (ICS) has once again been recognized with Handshake’s prestigious Career Spark Award, marking the College’s second consecutive year receiving this national honor. Handshake, the largest and most diverse early talent network in the United States, connects 75% of all U.S. college students through their school’s career centers with more than one million employers actively recruiting on the platform. Each year, the Career Spark Awards celebrate top-performing institutions for excellence in student engagement, employer engagement, and reporting and analytics. Out of more than 1,500 schools using Handshake, only 40 were selected in 2025 — and Menlo College is proud to be one of them. “We’re honored to receive this recognition for the second year in a row,” said LaShonda Kennedy, Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement. “It highlights our ongoing commitment to preparing Menlo students for career success through real-world experience, personalized guidance, and strong partnerships with employers.” The ICS team earned recognition for its innovative and student-centered approach to career readiness. Through required internships for all business majors, personalized advising, and signature programs like Career Connect Day, Menlo ensures every student has the opportunity to explore their professional interests, build industry connections, and gain practical experience before graduation. Elijah Valdeolivar, Associate Director of Employer Relations & Career Services, added, “Our Career Services team is committed to bridging meaningful connections between students and employers. We actively use Handshake to help students promote their skills, connect with opportunities, and support employers in finding top talent. This recognition reflects our ongoing dedication to enhance the employment experience for both our student and partner communities.” This back-to-back recognition places Menlo College among the top 2% of career centers nationwide using Handshake, underscoring its continued excellence in student engagement and employer collaboration. Learn more about Handshake’s Career Spark Awards and Menlo College’s Internships & 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.” 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. 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.
Global Perspectives: MSIS & MSFT Students Bring Diverse Experiences to Campus Posted on October 27, 2025October 28, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – October 2025 – Our current cohort of Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) and the Master of Science in Financial Technology (MSFT) students exemplifies the power of global collaboration in technology education. With 23 talented students enrolled this year, our programs have attracted future business tech leaders from 12 countries across four continents. This year’s student body represents a truly international community, with students hailing from China, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This rich diversity brings varied perspectives on AI, business practices, and innovation to our classrooms, creating a dynamic learning environment that mirrors the interconnected nature of today’s digital economy. Students in our international cohort benefit from the high-touch support model provided by the School of Business Graduate Office. From enrollment through graduation and career placement, students receive personalized guidance tailored to their individual academic and professional goals. Faculty members maintain an open-door approach, creating mentorship relationships that extend beyond traditional classroom interactions and actively supporting students’ research interests and career development aspirations. International students have access to comprehensive professional development resources designed specifically for their unique needs. Through targeted assistance with resume development, interview preparation, networking strategies, and navigation of the U.S. job market, students build the professional competencies necessary for career success. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) opportunities enable students to gain valuable work experience while completing their degrees, allowing them to integrate academic knowledge with real-world application in technology organizations and build their professional portfolios. Our MSIS program, designated as a STEM program, allows international students to benefit from up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization after graduation. This designation highlights the program’s strong technical foundation and significantly enhances graduates’ competitiveness in the technology sector, offering greater flexibility and opportunity to build successful careers in the United States. Learn more about our Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) and the Master of Science in Financial Technology (MSFT). 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 School of Business Earns AACSB Reaccreditation, Reaffirming Its Global Excellence in Business Education Posted on July 11, 2025July 11, 2025 by Avery Stump Atherton, CA – July 9, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to share that its School of Business has once again earned reaccreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation reflects more than just meeting global standards — it represents passion, innovation, and dedication to shaping an academic environment to prepare future business leaders to succeed and make an impact, a commitment shared by faculty, staff, students, and alumni alike. “Earning accreditation from AACSB is a significant milestone,” said Steven A. Weiner, President of Menlo College. “It’s a powerful endorsement of the excellence of our academic programs, the dedication and expertise of our faculty, and the shared vision that drives our entire community. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who helped and contributed to this achievement.” Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business, echoed that sentiment: “This recognition validates the purpose-driven work we do every day—preparing agile, ethical, and globally minded business leaders. We take pride in building a business school that is both relevant and exceptional in an ever-evolving global landscape. We are also deeply grateful to the members of our Board of Trustees and Dean’s Executive Advisory Council, and the dedicated faculty and staff whose guidance, expertise, and mentorship are essential to our continued success.” The AACSB review team specifically highlighted Menlo’s student-focused learning, hands-on educational approach, and deep connections with the business world. These elements are the foundation of Menlo’s mission and reflect its core belief: that great business education combines academic rigor with real-world relevance. Since first earning AACSB accreditation in 2014, Menlo has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of students and the global economy. Over the last 18 months, the School of Business introduced two new graduate programs—a Master of Science in Information Systems and a Master of Science in FinTech. And Menlo recently launched an enhanced, forward-looking undergraduate B.S. in AI and Analytics. Menlo’s renewed AACSB accreditation not only reaffirms its place among the world’s leading business schools—it also enhances the value of a Menlo degree for current students, alumni, employers, and academic partners worldwide. To learn more about Menlo College School of Business and its AACSB-accredited programs, visit www.menlo.edu. Contact Information: Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo CollegeLocated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a premier institution dedicated to business education. With a strong focus on personalized learning and hands-on experience, Menlo empowers students to lead, innovate, and excel in today’s dynamic global economy.
Menlo College Professors Featured in National WalletHub Articles Posted on June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 by Avery Stump Menlo College professors Sean Pradhan and Lan Jiang were recently featured in WalletHub articles, offering expert insights on topics ranging from professional hockey to premium credit cards. It’s always great to see Menlo faculty lending their voices to timely conversations in the broader world of business. Dr. Sean Pradhan, Associate Professor of Sports Management and Business Analytics in the School of Business Administration, shared his expertise on professional hockey and fan engagement in WalletHub’s feature on the Best Cities for Hockey Fans. Dr. Pradhan addressed current challenges facing the NHL, particularly declining viewership, and highlighted ways the league could build stronger connections with younger audiences through better marketing of its athletes and increased access to games. He also provided practical tips for hockey fans looking to enjoy the sport affordably, from choosing weekday games to exploring minor league and college-level matchups. Dr. Lan Jiang, Professor of Marketing, contributed insights to WalletHub’s coverage of The Platinum Card® from American Express. Dr. Jiang discussed the considerations consumers should weigh before choosing a credit card with a high annual fee, emphasizing the importance of aligning card benefits with personal spending habits. She also noted how a well-targeted rewards system can deliver value to cardholders while benefiting both the card issuer and affiliated partners like Uber. These interviews underscore the depth of expertise housed within Menlo College’s faculty and the College’s commitment to preparing students for careers that are not only informed by academic rigor but also shaped by industry relevance. Both Dr. Pradhan and Dr. Jiang actively integrate real-world trends and data into their teaching, ensuring that Menlo students are equipped to think critically and act decisively in today’s innovation-driven economy. Menlo College congratulates both professors on being featured and appreciates their continued efforts to share their expertise beyond the classroom. Read the full Wallethub articles here: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-hockey-fans/13283#expert=Sean_Pradhan https://wallethub.com/d/american-express-platinum-219c#expert=lan_jiang Media Inquiries: For media inquiries, please contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a small, private, nonprofit institution founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Menlo offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as graduate programs, including a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology, and a newly launched Master of Science in Financial Technology. With a student body that includes many first-generation college students, Menlo emphasizes experiential learning, requiring internships as part of the curriculum to ensure students graduate career-ready. The College is also proud to be designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
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 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.
