Menlo College Expands Oak Shack Capacity with New Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Posted on April 27, 2026April 28, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College has received a grant of $6,442.34 from the Raley’s Food For Families Fund that is held with the Sacramento Region Community Foundation (SRCF) to purchase a new commercial-grade refrigerator and freezer for its Basic Needs Pantry, known as the Oak Shack. This critical upgrade will significantly expand the pantry’s ability to serve the campus community. With the addition of this new equipment, the Oak Shack will be able to distribute an additional 68,670 pounds of food annually, more than doubling its current impact and strengthening Menlo College’s commitment to addressing food insecurity among students. Menlo College students Angel Cody, Ellen Helmertz, and Liv Brunzell hold a ‘thank you’ message to the Sacramento Region Community Foundation (SRCF). Coordinated by the Office of Student Affairs, the Oak Shack provides free food and essential items to students, faculty, and staff. The pantry operates through strong community partnerships, including support from the Menlo Park Rotary Club and weekly food donations from Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and Samaritan House. These collaborations ensure a consistent supply of fresh and nutritious food available to those in need. The new refrigeration and freezer units will allow the Oak Shack to safely store larger quantities of perishable items, increasing both the variety and volume of food available to the Menlo community. The new refrigerator units can hold 3x the amount of previous cold storage. “As a student-worker in the Oak Shack, I see firsthand the significant impact our food pantry has on the Menlo community. This new equipment significantly expands our pantry’s capabilities, allowing us to provide fresh, nutritious food while actively fighting food insecurity on campus. We are very grateful to the Sacramento Region Community Foundation for investing in the health and well-being of our students and faculty.” – Liv Brunzell ’26 The new dedicated freezer unit will allow for more frozen items to stay fresh. The project is funded by the 2026 Raley’s Food For Families Fund of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation (SRCF). The Sacramento Region Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy that leads to a just and vibrant Sacramento region. This grant was made possible by the Raley’s Food For Families Fund of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation. The new equipment is currently installed, marking an important milestone in Menlo College’s ongoing efforts to support student well-being and success. To learn more about Health and Wellness services at Menlo College, please visit: https://www.menlo.edu/life-at-menlo/health-wellness/ 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 and Atherton Community Convene for “Future of AI” Seminar Posted on April 24, 2026April 27, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College, in collaboration with the Atherton Senior Task Force and the Atherton Library, recently hosted a community-focused seminar exploring the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on careers and employment opportunities. Held at the Atherton Library on April 22, 2026, the event brought together students, local residents, and industry-minded attendees for an engaging discussion on how AI is shaping the future of work. Titled “How AI Will Change Careers and Future Employment Opportunities,” the seminar highlighted the growing importance of understanding AI across all industries. Featured panelists in the Atherton Artificial Intelligence Seminar. Entrance to the Atherton Library. Fabian Eggers introduces panelists, Eric Lane, Sonia Saheb, Sam Thapaliya, and Lars Fassler. The event was initiated through a collaboration between Menlo College’s Business & Environment Club and Atherton community leader Ken Frederick. Menlo College student leaders Lars Faessler, Carlotta Stern, and Marc Hegele, all members of Menlo College’s 2025 Global Scaling Challenge championship team, connected with Frederick to explore ways to engage the local community around emerging technologies. Sam Thapaliya and Lars Fassler. “Organizing this seminar gave us the opportunity to take ownership of an important topic and bring together voices from across campus and the community to learn from one another,” said Marc Hegele, an Entrepreneurship and Innovation major. Supported by Menlo College President Steven Weiner, the group launched the seminar as a pilot initiative designed to bring academic expertise and community insight into one shared space. “By convening our students and neighbors in conversations about AI, we’re creating the conditions for shared learning that benefits everyone. Understanding AI isn’t a luxury reserved for technologists, it’s a civic responsibility,” said President Weiner. “When academic institutions and communities collaborate like this, we don’t just prepare students for the future; we collectively author it.” The seminar featured presentations from Menlo College faculty and Atherton leaders, including Assistant Professor of Business Analytics & Information Systems Dr. Sonia Saheb, Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Dr. Fabian Eggers, and Atherton City Council Member Eric Lane. Eric Lane. Speakers explored how generative AI is expected to reshape the labor market, emphasizing that, rather than eliminating jobs, AI is likely to create new, high-demand roles centered on human-AI collaboration. Attendees gained insight into how these shifts will impact future career paths and the skills needed to succeed. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where participants engaged directly with speakers to ask questions and share perspectives. Feedback gathered during the discussion will help inform a larger “AI & Careers” workshop planned for September. Marc Hegele. Conor Morger. “What spreadsheets once did for efficiency, generative AI is now doing for creativity in city governance,” said Professor Saheb. The seminar reflects Menlo College’s continued commitment to experiential learning, community engagement, and preparing students and the broader public to navigate and lead in an AI-driven future. Entrance to the Atherton Library. 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 Launches AmplifyAI Pilot with CR8.io to Advance Future-Ready Ecosystem Posted on April 24, 2026April 24, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College has launched a six-month pilot of AmplifyAI, a higher education-focused generative AI platform. The pilot provides 50 licenses for use by faculty, staff, and a select group of students, positioning the College at the forefront of responsible AI adoption in higher education. Developed at Vanderbilt University and launched as a hosted enterprise solution by Cr8, AmplifyAI is designed for organizations of all sizes. The platform offers access to more than 20 leading large language models, including Gemini and Claude, within a single secure environment. Users can engage with multiple AI models, create customized AI agents, and optimize prompts using a built-in prompt optimizer. With enterprise-level security, AmplifyAI ensures that institutional data and user inputs are not used to train external AI models, which is a key consideration as colleges nationwide evaluate the role and responsible use of generative AI in teaching, learning, and operations. The six-month pilot will assess how AmplifyAI can enhance classroom learning, streamline administrative processes, and empower students to build AI fluency as part of their academic and professional development. If successful, Menlo College intends to expand access campus-wide beginning in the fall 2026 semester. “As AI tools rapidly transform every industry, it is essential that our students develop competencies, including ethical reasoning, in utilizing them,” said Angela Schmiede, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success. “Launching the AmplifyAI pilot reflects Menlo College’s commitment to innovation and our responsibility to prepare graduates for a world where AI literacy is foundational. This initiative aligns directly with our strategic plan and strengthens our Future-Ready ecosystem.” Menlo’s engagement with AI is part of its broader strategic vision and its institutional commitment to The Menlo Edge: Future-Ready initiative, which integrates academic learning, experiential opportunities, and professional development to cultivate the competencies students need to thrive professionally, personally, and civically. Grounded in the NACE Career Readiness Competencies, the initiative helps students build adaptability, ethical decision-making skills, and critical thinking skills, which are increasingly important as students use AI in the classroom and workplace. Bzur Haun, CEO of CR8.io, shared: “AmplifyAI democratizes access to a variety of AI models in a cost-effective way, which is particularly impactful for a mission-driven, minority-serving institution like Menlo College. We’re excited to implement Amplify AI by CR8.io at Menlo and support innovation on their campus.” By piloting AmplifyAI, Menlo aims to ensure that AI engagement on campus is guided, ethical, and mission-driven, empowering students, faculty, and staff not just to use technology, but to lead in an AI-shaped future. 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 Taekwondo Caps Historic 2025–2026 Season with National, International Success Posted on April 23, 2026April 23, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College Taekwondo completed a landmark 2025–2026 season defined by rapid growth, national team selections, international competition, and a series of podium finishes that firmly established the program among the nation’s elite. From its earliest competitions in fall 2025 through a breakthrough spring 2026, the Oaks demonstrated a consistent ability to compete at the highest levels of collegiate and international taekwondo. Though still in its early stages as a program, Menlo Taekwondo has built a reputation for developing high-performance athletes while fostering a culture rooted in discipline, resilience, and global ambition. Menlo College 2025-2026 Taekwondo Competition Team. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team in our first year. We’re building something special, and this is just the beginning. This season was about more than results. It was about building a culture, proving we belong on the national and international stage, and setting the standard for what Menlo College Taekwondo will become.” – TJ Curry, Head Coach A Strong Start on the National Stage The season opened with immediate impact at the 2025 U.S. Season Final & Sport Festival, where freshmen Christina Chavez and Jaslyn Yu-Hian set the tone for the year ahead. Chavez delivered a dominant run to capture gold in the bantamweight division, defeating higher-seeded opponents in each round, while Yu-Hian secured bronze in her national-level debut. Canadian students Jacob Boodoo and Sophia Flokas competed and took gold at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships. Their performances signaled the arrival of a new program ready to contend. All four athletes showcased composure and technical precision, laying the foundation for a season that would quickly expand beyond domestic competition. Sophia Fokas competing at the PacWest Regional at Stanford University on February 21, 2026. Gaining Ground Internationally Menlo Taekwondo wasted no time stepping onto the global stage. At the 2025 Muju World Taekwondo Grand Prix in South Korea, athletes Sarah Grabot, Kylie Lewis, and Nicholas Carlo competed against Olympic medalists and world champions. While podium finishes proved elusive at this early stage, the experience proved invaluable. Carlo secured a first-round victory, while Lewis and Grabot gained exposure against elite international competition. The event served as a benchmark, reinforcing the program’s long-term potential and readiness to compete globally. Lewis continued to build on that experience as a member of the U.S. National Team, competing at the World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China from October 24–30. Facing top international talent, the event provided critical high-level experience that has fueled her current run of success on the international stage. Nicholas Carlo competing at the Grand Prix Challenge in Muju, South Korea on August 30, 2025. That global presence continued throughout the fall semester, with Menlo athletes competing across five countries and multiple elite events. The team’s growing confidence quickly translated into results, including: Gold medals at the USA Taekwondo Grand Prix Final Strong performances at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships A deep run by Kylie Lewis at the World Taekwondo U21 Championships in Nairobi Building a Championship-Caliber Foundation A critical component of Menlo’s success this season has been its investment in elite coaching. Assistant coaches Jae Sung Lee and Julia Vasconcelos dos Santos Penfield brought world-class experience to the program. Lee was the previous Qatar National Team coach. As an athlete, he was on the Korean National team and was also a member of the Samsung Pro Team. He brings over two decades of international competition and coaching experience in high-pressure environments. Meanwhile, Penfield, a former Brazilian National and Olympic Team member, added technical expertise and performance training insight. Together, the coaching staff has helped shape a program identity focused on high-level preparation, international standards, and athlete development. Breakthrough at U.S. Team Trials The spring semester marked a turning point for the program, highlighted by a historic performance at the U.S. Team Trials in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Nicholas Carlo, Kaitlyn Marie Reclusado, and Kylie Lewis each earned gold medals in their respective divisions, qualifying for the U.S. National Team. Their achievements positioned Menlo College among a select group of programs producing national team athletes and underscored the rapid rise of the Oaks on the national stage. Carlo dominated the +87kg division with a series of decisive victories Reclusado delivered a standout freestyle poomsae performance to secure gold Lewis defeated multiple national champions to win the -73kg bracket Kylie Lewis competing at the U-21 World Championships in Nairobi, Kenya on December 4, 2025. Continued Success at State and Collegiate Events Momentum carried into April as Menlo athletes delivered another standout performance at the NCTA Team Trials and the USA Taekwondo California State Championships in Fresno. Nicholas Carlo and Kaitlyn Reclusado each added to their remarkable seasons with gold medal performances at the Team Trials, earning spots on the Collegiate National Team and the opportunity to represent Team USA at the FISU Pan American Championships in July. Shayler Guymon and Sam Aloubeady each secured a bronze medal in a highly competitive bracket. Carlo and Reclusado continued their dominance at the state championships, each capturing gold to cap off an impressive weekend for the Oaks. Continued International Success and Individual Excellence Menlo’s momentum extended beyond domestic competition with standout performances at two of the sport’s premier international events, the U.S. Open and the Canada Open. Kylie Lewis and Nicholas Carlo each earned bronze medals at the Canada Open, with Lewis adding a silver medal to her impressive international resume. Their performances reinforced Menlo’s growing presence on the global stage and ability to consistently reach the podium against elite international competition. Kaitlyn Reclusado continued what has been one of the most dominant individual seasons in program history. She captured gold medals at both the U.S. Open and Canada Open, extending an undefeated run that has defined her year. Kylie Lewis also walked away with a silver medal, adding more to her list of achievements. Kaitlyn Reclusado winning first place at the PacWest Regional at Stanford University on February 21, 2026. Reclusado’s remarkable season included gold medal performances at every event she entered, highlighted by a gold medal at the FISU World University Games. She also earned a place on the U.S. National Team and is currently ranked No. 2 in the world, solidifying her position among the top athletes in international taekwondo. Her consistency, composure, and elite execution have not only set a new standard for Menlo College Taekwondo but have also elevated the program’s reputation on the world stage. A Season Defined by Momentum Across every phase of the 2025–2026 season, Menlo College Taekwondo demonstrated a clear trajectory: rapid growth, competitive resilience, and increasing success at the highest levels. What began as a promising new program has quickly evolved into a national contender with international aspirations. Key highlights included: Multiple medalists at national and international competitions Three athletes qualifying for the U.S. National Team Gold medal performances across major domestic events Participation in elite global tournaments against world-class competition Continued investment in coaching, training, and athlete development Head Coach, TJ Curry addressing the Taekwondo team at the 1st Annual Mat Madness at Menlo College on October 17, 2025. Expanding the Program’s Reach Beyond competition, Menlo Taekwondo continued to invest in the future of the sport through initiatives like its Second Annual Elite Summer Training Camp, scheduled for July 2026. The camp is designed to bring together high-level black belt athletes from across the country for intensive training, including technical development, sparring simulations, and strength conditioning. This initiative reflects Menlo’s broader mission to serve as a hub for elite taekwondo development while strengthening its pipeline of future collegiate athletes. Looking Ahead for the New Initiative With a strong foundation now established, Menlo Taekwondo enters the next phase of its development with confidence and momentum. The program’s combination of elite coaching, international exposure, and high-performing student-athletes positions it for continued success in the years ahead. “We’ve shown we can compete at the highest levels, and now the goal is to serve the broader taekwondo community by creating a grassroots sparring and poomse team.” – TJ Curry, Head Coach Jacob Boodoo and Sophia Fokas celebrate with their medals at the Taekwondo Ontario Provincial Championships on October 5, 2025. The program looks to expand with a General Taekwondo Program that serves a non-competition team. This new initiative will allow recruits to participate in Taekwondo while also pursuing their degree at Menlo College. “By creating one of the first collegiate pathways in the nation for taekwondo, we’re expanding access for students to pursue the sport at any level while earning their bachelor’s degree here at Menlo College.” – Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics As the Oaks look toward the 2026–2027 season, one thing is clear: Menlo College Taekwondo is no longer emerging; it has arrived. About Menlo College Menlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027. For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo College Launches Start-Up Pitch Competition, Showcasing Student Innovation and Entrepreneurial Excellence Posted on April 13, 2026April 13, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College hosted the inaugural Menlo Pitch Competition on April 11, 2026, where students presented innovative ideas, products, and services to a panel of judges. The event featured eleven students across five teams, including four undergraduate teams and one graduate team. The competition marked the launch of a new annual spring initiative designed to expand opportunities for student innovation and entrepreneurship. Teresa Gong Students pitched ventures across multiple industries, demonstrating their ability to solve real-world problems and communicate compelling business strategies. Judges, including alumni, industry professionals, and venture capital representatives, provided feedback to help refine each idea. David Epstein and Professor Dariush Rafinejad “Our marketing professor trusted our team and coached us to improve the precision of our pitch,” said Paul Chaubet, an International Business major. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this experience, especially with the feedback and support from judges and alumni.” Paul Chaubet “This experience was truly inspiring, giving me the opportunity to present a solution aimed at helping vulnerable communities,” said Mahtab Kazemi Zanjani, a graduate student. “The feedback I received strengthened my commitment to turning this idea into a real and impactful solution.” Vaskila Gautama The event brought together the Menlo community to support student entrepreneurs, connect with alumni and industry professionals, and engage in meaningful conversations during a closing reception. Kathy Jackson One student was named the top winner and awarded support to further develop their venture. “When Bibue becomes a unicorn and people ask me about its journey, I will point to Menlo College, the coaches, and the investors as the driving force behind making it happen. I never focused on whether I would win or lose. I believed so strongly in the vision that it became reality,” said Louis Tenant De La Tour, an International Business major. Sam Thapaliya, Andy Ogawa, Louis Tenant De La Tour, Kathy Jackson, and Anupam Awasthi “This competition reflects the core of who we are at Menlo College. Our students are not just learning. They are building, testing, and leading real ideas with confidence and ownership,” said Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. “Supported by faculty, engaged alumni, and our Silicon Valley ecosystem, they are challenged to execute at a high level. This is our DNA. Applied, connected, and forward-looking. At Menlo, we develop individuals who are ready to create value from day one for organizations and for society.” Angel Cody The Menlo Pitch Competition highlights the College’s commitment to experiential learning and preparing students for success in a dynamic business environment. For more information, visit https://www.menlo.edu/. 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 Students Win 2026 Global Scaling Challenge, Extend Four-Year Dominance Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Continuing a semester filled with standout student achievements on national and international stages, Menlo College has once again claimed the top spot in the Global Scaling Challenge. On Friday, a team of Menlo students took first place in the 2026 competition, reclaiming their 2025 global title and extending the College’s remarkable four-year winning streak. Filippo Sernesi Gori, Oliver Richard, and Nays Seck. The Global Scaling Challenge brings together top universities from around the world to solve complex growth and scaling challenges for real-world, high-growth companies. Competing against a formidable international field, Menlo’s undergraduate students once again rose above the competition, outperforming even graduate-level teams to secure the No. 1 position. Professor Fabian Eggers. This year’s winning team is Filippo Sernesi Gori, Oliver Richard, and Nays Seck. They demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking and a deep understanding of global business dynamics. Guided by faculty mentor Professor Fabian Eggers, the team delivered a professional and compelling presentation that earned high praise from a panel of industry judges. In addition to the global title, the team was awarded a $9,000 cash prize, further underscoring the significance of their achievement. Nays Seck. Filippo Sernesi Gori. Oliver Richard. “This victory is a testament to the caliber of our students and the dedication of our faculty in preparing them to lead in a global economy,” said Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College. “Our students consistently demonstrate the Menlo spirit of innovation, resilience, and practical problem-solving.” The winning team walks through campus. Menlo College’s sustained success in the competition is especially notable given the level of competition. For four consecutive years, Menlo undergraduates have competed against and surpassed teams from universities of all sizes, including graduate programs from leading institutions worldwide. Filippo Sernesi Gori, Oliver Richard, Nays Seck, and Professor Fabian Eggers. At the heart of this achievement is Menlo’s distinctive approach to business education, which blends rigorous academics with hands-on, experiential learning. Through close faculty mentorship and real-world application, students develop the skills and confidence needed to tackle complex global business challenges. This latest victory not only highlights the strength of Menlo’s academic programs and faculty scholarship, but also reinforces the College’s position as a leader in applied business education and global competitiveness. 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 Wrestling Caps Historic Championship Weekend with National Title and Record Performances Posted on April 3, 2026April 3, 2026 by George Retelas Menlo College wrestling delivered a championship performance for the record books this weekend in Louisiana, as the Oaks once again proved themselves among the elite programs in collegiate wrestling. Kanaipono Tapia attempts to score on his opponent. The Menlo men’s wrestling team captured the national championship in dominant fashion, finishing nearly 40 points ahead of the runner-up. The Oaks controlled the tournament from start to finish, securing individual titles in more than half of the contested weight classes and showcasing the depth that has become a hallmark of the program. All-American Michael Torres celebrates after winning the 141 pound national title. The victory marks Menlo’s fifth national title since 2019, underscoring a sustained era of excellence across both the men’s and women’s programs. Adding to the historic weekend, Menlo’s newly launched NCWA women’s team made an immediate impact in its first-ever national championship appearance. The Oaks earned a second-place team finish and celebrated an individual national champion, signaling a strong future for the program. Menlo athletes dominated the podium throughout the tournament, with seven national champions crowned. On the men’s side, Javier Martinez, Diego Morales, Isaiah Morales, Tyger Taam, Kanaipono Tapia, and Michael Torres each claimed titles. Neila Fritts led the way for the women, capturing a national championship in her division. Tapia’s standout performance earned him Male Outstanding Wrestler honors, highlighting an exceptional tournament run. All-American Maya Barrios gets her hand raised after taking 7th Place. Nela “Atlas” Fritts hugs NCWA Associate Head Women’s Coach Julissa Taitano. In total, 21 Oaks earned All-American recognition: Jeramiah Steele, Michael Torres, Tyger Taam, Ezekiel Lara, Kanaipono Tapia, Isaiah Morales, Mathias Collins, Diego Morales, Javier Martinez, Daniel Arellano, David Arroyo, Maya Barrios, Matthew Porras Diamond, Neila Fritts, Leia Hernandez, Siomara Hernandez, Lastevia Muir, Lina Perez, Giancarlo Plaza, Gwendolyn Tomkins, and Kayla Zeidler. Behind the success is a coaching staff that continues to set the standard nationally. NCAA Men’s Wrestling Head Coach Joey Martinez was named Coach of the Year, while Director of NCWA Wrestling Cristian Vasquez and Associate Head Coach of NCWA Women’s Wrestling Julissa Taitano played key roles in guiding both programs to national prominence. NCWA Women’s Wrestling Awarded National Runner-Up Trophy. The championship culture at Menlo is also supported by the leadership of Vice President and Director of Athletics Keith Spataro, whose vision and commitment to student-athlete success continue to drive the Oaks’ rise on the national stage. With another championship secured and a new program already making history, Menlo College wrestling continues to build a legacy defined by excellence, depth, and sustained success. NCAA Men (6 Individual National Champions, 9 All-Americans in 10 Weight Classes, National Team Champions) 133: Jeramiah Steele | 5th Place, All-American 141: Michael Torres | NCWA National Champion 141lbs, All-American 149: Tyger Taam | NCWA National Champion 149lbs, All-American 157: Ezekiel Lara | NCWA National Runner-Up, All-American 165: Kanaipono Tapia | NCWA National Champion, All-American 174: Isaiah Morales | NCWA National Champion, All-American 184: Mathias Collins | 3rd Place, All-American 197: Diego Morales | NCWA National Champion, All-American 295: Javier Martinez | NCWA National Champion, All-American NCWA Men (4 All-Americans) 125: Daniel Arellano | 5th Place, All-American 133: Giancarlo Plaza | 6th Place, All American 149: David Arroyo | 4th Place, All-American 184: Matthew Porras Diamond | 5th Place, All American NCWA Women (1 Individual National Champion, 8 All-Americans in 11 Weight Classes, 2nd Place as a Team) 110: Lina Perez | 6th Place, All American 117: Maya Barrios | 7th Place, All American 131: Lastevia Muir | 5th Place, All-American 138: Gwendolyn Tomkins | | 5th Place, All-American 145: Kayla Zeidler| 6th Place, All-American 160: Leia Hernandez | NCWA National Runner Up, All-American 207: Siomara Hernandez | 6th Place, All-American 240: Neila Fritts | NCWA National Champion, All-American, First Ever Champion in Program History About Menlo CollegeMenlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027.For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo Wrestling Alum Rysan Leong Wins Professional MMA Debut, Expands Impact Through Coaching in Hawaiʻi Posted on March 30, 2026March 30, 2026 by George Retelas ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Rysan Leong ’24 won his professional MMA debut by unanimous decision on March 22 at Anthony Pettis Fighting Championships 22. Facing previously undefeated Khetag Moroav in a lightweight bout, Leong delivered a composed performance across three rounds, controlling key moments to secure the judges’ decision and hand Moroav his first loss. Known for his finishing ability and a 5-0 amateur record, the 2023 NAIA National Champion showed a new dimension by going the distance for the first time. Rysan Leong ’24 wins his professional MMA debut on March 22, 2026. The victory adds to an already accomplished résumé as the Hawaiʻi-born and -raised athlete continues his transition from national champion wrestler to professional MMA fighter. Leong’s path reflects Menlo College’s emphasis on hands-on learning, where students apply classroom experience to real-world opportunities that can evolve into careers and community impact. While at Menlo College, Leong launched Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps (HIWC) as part of his Sports Management internship. What began as a project to explore careers within his Sports Management major has grown into a program that provides high-level wrestling training within Hawaiʻi, eliminating the need for athletes to travel to the mainland for elite instruction. Rysan Leong teaching the next generation of wrestlers at the Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps (HIWC). Each summer, HIWC hosts clinics and an overnight intensive camp at Kamehameha Schools Kapālama. Athletes train in a structured environment focused on skill development, discipline, and resilience. The program has quickly become a key part of Hawaiʻi’s wrestling community. Leong’s motivation comes from personal experience growing up in Hawaiʻi, where travel costs often limited access to exposure and training opportunities. “Back then, my family had to start a GoFundMe just to get me to camp,” Leong said. “When I returned, I knew we needed something like this in Hawaiʻi. We have the talent right here, so why send our kids across the ocean when we can build it ourselves with Hawaiʻi-grown wrestlers that have competed at the collegiate level?” That idea became reality during the COVID-19 pandemic when Leong created HIWC as his internship project. Today, the camp brings together top Hawaiʻi athletes and collegiate wrestlers from across the country to train and mentor the next generation. At Menlo College, students are encouraged to build, test, and launch ideas before they graduate. Through both his professional career and his work with HIWC, Leong continues to represent Menlo College while helping shape the future of wrestling in Hawaiʻi. Learn more about Hawaii Intensive Wrestling Camps: https://hawaiiwrestlingcamps.com/ About Menlo Menlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Contact pr@menlo.edu
Menlo College to Add Women’s Flag Football as 15th Varsity Sport Head Coach Search to Begin Immediately; Team to Launch in 2026–2027 Academic Year Posted on March 5, 2026March 5, 2026 by George Retelas Atherton, Calif. — Menlo College Athletics announced today the addition of Women’s Flag Football as the College’s 15th varsity sport. The program will begin competition during the 2026–2027 academic year, with a national search for a Head Women’s Flag Football Coach launching immediately. Women’s flag football has been designated by the NCAA as an Emerging Sport, reflecting its rapid national growth and increasing adoption by colleges nationwide. Participation across California and the Western United States has expanded significantly in recent years, aligning closely with Menlo College’s primary recruiting regions. According to the California Interscholastic Federation, nearly 20,000 girls participated in CIF-sanctioned high school flag football statewide last season — an 84 percent increase year over year. The College will begin recruiting immediately to build a full roster for the inaugural 2026–2027 season. Given the sport’s rapid regional growth, Menlo’s 2026–2027 launch positions the College among the early NCAA Division II adopters in the West. “This is a strategic and mission-aligned step for Menlo College,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics. “Women’s flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, especially in California and Hawaii, two of our strongest recruiting regions. The timing is right, the regional interest is strong, and the opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up is incredibly exciting.” Spataro emphasized that the addition reflects both institutional vision and long-term program sustainability. “Women’s flag football expands competitive opportunities for women while strengthening our overall Athletics portfolio,” Spataro added. “We believe this sport will attract driven, high-character student-athletes who want to compete at a high level while pursuing academic excellence. We are committed to building a program that reflects Menlo’s values from day one.” The Head Women’s Flag Football Coach will be hired this spring to lead recruiting efforts, develop program infrastructure, and prepare for the inaugural season. The program will compete as a varsity NCAA Division II sport. Menlo College President Steven Weiner expressed enthusiasm for the addition and its alignment with the College’s broader strategic direction. “Women’s flag football represents both innovation and opportunity,” said President Weiner. “As an institution committed to growth, access, and student engagement, we are proud to expand our athletic offerings in a way that responds to emerging national trends while serving the interests of our students. This addition strengthens our commitment to providing meaningful leadership and competitive opportunities for women.” More information regarding the Head Coach search and recruiting process will be available at menloathletics.com. About Menlo CollegeMenlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027.For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo College Delegation Champions Cal Grant Reform at AICCU Day in the Capitol Posted on February 28, 2026March 4, 2026 by George Retelas SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A delegation from Menlo College traveled to Sacramento on February 25, 2026 to participate in Day in the Capitol hosted by the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU). The annual event brings together students and university leaders to engage directly with legislators about the importance of the Cal Grant program and equitable access to higher education. Jessica Oseguera Santoyo, Norma Guerrero, and Mandi Roberts. Representing Menlo College were students Jessica Oseguera Santoyo and Mandi Roberts, along with Assistant Director of Student Financial Resources Norma Guerrero. The group spent the day meeting with lawmakers and staff to advocate for AB 402, legislation aimed at correcting longstanding inequities in the Cal Grant system. Inside the Legislative Chambers. AB 402 proposes two key reforms. The first would restore the maximum Cal Grant tuition award for students attending nonprofit private institutions from $9,358 to $9,708. Since 2001, Cal Grant awards for independent colleges have decreased by 4 percent, while awards for UC and CSU students have increased by more than 220 percent. The second reform would extend Transfer Entitlement portability to nontraditional students age 25 and older who transfer to independent colleges. Currently, those students retain their grant if transferring to a UC or CSU campus but lose it if they choose a nonprofit institution such as Menlo College. Nearly 1,000 students had awards rescinded between 2023 and 2025 due to this limitation. Menlo College students Jessica Oseguera Santoyo and Mandi Roberts. For Jessica Oseguera Santoyo, majoring in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, the experience was personal. “We talked about the real impact the Cal Grant has had on our journey at Menlo College, and why continued support for students like us matters as it allows for equitable access and institutional choice when selecting a college,” she said. During the visit, the delegation met with Marc Berman, whose office committed to reviewing AB 402, as well as the office of Josh Becker, which confirmed support for the bill. They also met with policy staff from the office of Robert Rivas, who has expressed support. The advocacy effort reflects Menlo College’s mission to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences needed to succeed and lead in a global society. Expanding equity in the Cal Grant system supports access, upward mobility, and the promise of higher education as a pathway to leadership and impact. To learn more about AICCU, visit https://aiccu.edu/. Entrance to the California State Capitol building. 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.
