ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College welcomes Zoanne Nelson as Chair of its Board of Trustees, effective November 1, 2026. Nelson succeeds Micah Kāne ’91, who has served as Board Chair since 2018, and will continue serving as a member of the Board.
The College extends its sincere appreciation to Kāne for his leadership, service, and dedication to Menlo. A proud alumnus, Kāne brought extensive executive and community leadership experience to the Board. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Parker Ranch, Inc., and previously served as CEO of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation from 2017 to 2025, where he oversaw significant organizational growth and expanded the foundation’s community impact.
“Micah Kāne has been an incredible advocate for Menlo College, and I am grateful for his leadership, perspective, and commitment over the years. During his tenure as Board Chair, the College has experienced significant milestones, opening John Arrillaga Residence Hall, achieving full NCAA Division II membership, and launching Menlo’s first-ever graduate programs, to name just a few accomplishments. He has been a valued partner throughout these changes, and I am pleased that he will continue serving on the Board. I also look forward to working with Zoanne Nelson in her new role. She brings tremendous experience in finance and strategic leadership, along with a strong understanding of the College and its priorities. I am confident she will help guide Menlo through the opportunities and decisions ahead.”
Nelson currently serves as Associate Vice President of Finance and Strategy for UC Health at the University of California Office of the President. Since joining UCOP in 2012, she has held several senior leadership positions, including Chief Strategy Officer and Associate Vice President of the Strategy and Program Management Office. She currently chairs Menlo College’s Presidential Search Committee, which is guiding the process of identifying the College’s next president ahead of Weiner’s planned retirement in June 2027.
Menlo College looks forward to Nelson’s leadership as Board Chair and to the continued guidance and support of its Board of Trustees.
About Menlo College
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a small, residential liberal arts and business college dedicated to preparing students to be Future Ready Now. Through a highly personalized educational experience that combines rigorous academics, applied learning, mentorship, and direct access to one of the world’s most innovative economies, Menlo College helps students convert education into measurable career and life outcomes. For more information, please visit our website or contact pr@menlo.edu.
