Menlo College Students Gain Global Business Insight Through Academic Global Immersion Program in the UAE Posted on January 27, 2026February 27, 2026 by menlocollege Atherton, CA – January 27, 2026 – Students from Menlo College recently returned from an intensive international learning experience as part of the College’s Academic Global Immersion (AGI) program, a short-term study abroad course designed to prepare students for leadership in an increasingly interconnected global economy. Held from January 3-18, the program took students to the United Arab Emirates, with immersive academic and professional experiences across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Guided by Menlo College Business School faculty, the AGI program blends classroom instruction with hands-on engagement in global business environments. Students explored key topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, analytics, and financial technology while visiting global companies and engaging directly with leaders from the private, public, academic, and government sectors. The structure allowed students to connect theory with practice while gaining firsthand exposure to international market dynamics. A major highlight of the program was an official reception in Abu Dhabi, during which the student delegation met with His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. He underscored the UAE’s commitment to education as a cornerstone of sustainable development and commended Menlo College’s AGI program as a forward-looking model that integrates academic knowledge with real-world application. Group photo at DP World after a wonderful buffet catered by Emirates. For students, the meeting offered a powerful perspective on values-driven leadership. “My meeting with His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan reinforced a vital truth: leadership is not defined by status, but by a profound sense of responsibility to serve and a relentless commitment to creating meaningful impact,” said Menlo College student Ananyaa Vengurlekar, majoring in AI & Analytics. Reflecting on the broader global significance of the conversation, Menlo College student Kaiqi Yu, a Marketing major, added, “My conversation with His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan left a lasting impression: in an increasingly divided world, unity and shared humanity remain essential to building a better global future.” Throughout the program, students participated in site visits to leading institutions and companies spanning finance, technology, energy, and real estate. These collaborative experiences offered students practical insight into how global organizations operate within fast-growing markets. For many students, the opportunity to combine professional exposure with cultural immersion was especially impactful. “Dubai offered an unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion alongside direct exposure to the international business landscape,” said Menlo College student Kenzie Finken who is majoring in Finance. “We were welcomed with exceptional hospitality and had the rare chance to engage with industry leaders who generously shared their insights and answered our questions.” She added that she was especially inspired by the UAE’s innovative spirit, noting a palpable sense of ambition, creativity, and forward-thinking energy throughout the region. Kenzie Finken on the 73rd floor of the future Cavalli tower with DAMAC. Beyond business and academics, the AGI program allowed students to broaden their worldviews and build meaningful connections within the Gulf region. By combining rigorous academics and cross-cultural engagement, Menlo College’s Academic Global Immersion program continues to prepare students for success in today’s dynamic business landscape. Learn more about Menlo College’s Academic Global Immersion program. 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 Staff Strengthens Global Ties Through Historic China Visits Posted on January 26, 2026February 27, 2026 by menlocollege George Retelas (right) participating in the WWII Doolittle Raid artifact exchange in Quzhou, China. Retelas presented the original 1942 training footage from the USS Hornet Museum in exchange for a fragment of the B-25 aircraft that crashed in China. The American crew had to bail from their aircraft and were rescued by Chinese locals. Atherton, CA – January 26, 2026 – Menlo College continues to build meaningful international connections through the work of its faculty and staff, exemplified by Director of Media Marketing George Retelas and his recent trips to China in 2025. Through cultural exchange, historical preservation, and student engagement, Retelas’ efforts highlight Menlo’s commitment to global learning and cross-cultural collaboration. Retelas’ first trip took place in April 2025 as part of a cultural exchange between the USS Hornet Museum in the Bay Area and the Doolittle Raid Memorial Hall in Quzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. The exchange commemorated the historic Doolittle Raid, a pivotal moment in China-U.S. wartime cooperation. Representing the American delegation, Retelas helped facilitate the exchange of historical artifacts and fostered relationships that preserved this shared history. “This exchange was about much more than artifacts,” Retelas said. “It was about honoring a shared history and building relationships that continue to matter today.” Accompanying Retelas on the trip was Menlo College student Mathias Durfee, who participated through an internship with the USS Hornet Museum, approved for credit by Menlo College’s Career Services Office. At Menlo, internships are a vital part of students’ education and career preparation, required for business majors and strongly encouraged for psychology majors. Durfee documented the cultural exchange through photography and video, providing a student perspective on the event. His work was later featured by NBC Bay Area. “Being part of this cultural exchange was an incredible experience,” said Durfee, a Marketing major. “It allowed me to apply what I’ve learned at Menlo in a real-world, international setting while documenting history that still resonates today.” Mathias Durfee capturing media coverage for the USS Hornet Museum of the historic exchange and event activities for his Menlo College internship. In December 2025, Retelas returned to China to continue the relationships formed during the initial exchange. He visited sites where American airmen parachuted into China and met with descendants of Chinese civilians who helped rescue and protect the pilots—honoring the bravery and compassion that defined the mission’s legacy. During the visit, Retelas connected with Menlo College students from China who were home for the holidays. China is the second most represented international country on Menlo’s campus, and international students make up nearly a quarter of the student body. These interactions reinforced the College’s welcoming, globally connected culture, ranked #7 Most Diverse Colleges in America by Niche. “Meeting with Mr. Retelas in China meant a great deal to me and my family,” said Ling Ding, a Psychology major from China. “It reminded me that even while studying far from home, Menlo truly cares about its international students and our cultural identities.” Yanxi Zhou, an AI & Analytics major from China, added: “I am extremely grateful there are people at Menlo College, like Mr. Retelas, who take the initiative to learn about my home country and its culture. That care eases my homesickness and makes me feel connected even from far away.” Looking ahead, Retelas will continue supporting Menlo’s international students on campus, including assisting with preparations for the upcoming Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) celebration in February. George Retelas’ international work reflects Menlo College’s mission to link education with real-world impact, offering students unique opportunities to explore history, culture, and global perspectives. 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.
New “Library Oakie” Sculpture Installed in Bowman Library Posted on November 25, 2025November 25, 2025 by menlocollege Atherton, CA — November 24, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to introduce a new addition to the Bowman Library: a handcrafted “Library Oakie” sculpture created by Youth of Suha Suha (YOS), a Bay Area high school art volunteer group led by Menlo instructor and artist Hae Lee Choi. Lee, whose artwork is also displayed in the Administration Building, approached Menlo with the idea of creating a sculptural version of Oakie, inspired by her group’s previous work on public art projects – including projects for the Santa Clara Fire Department. The students spent six months designing and building the piece before presenting it on campus last week. With Menlo College’s 100th anniversary approaching, the sculpture arrives at a meaningful moment. “Since May, our young artists have put their hearts into making Menlo’s Oakie,” said Hae Lee. “Most of my students come from tech-driven, academically competitive families. They’re brilliant and results-oriented, but that’s why projects like this matter so much. When students create something for someone else, they experience a different kind of joy, one you can’t measure with scores or outcomes. And once they feel the joy of giving, it becomes part of who they are.” Lee added that her students “loved creating Oakie and learning more about Menlo College,” noting that they’ve become “unofficial ambassadors” after sharing their experience with friends and family. “We hope Menlo students and faculty enjoy seeing Library Oakie and that it brings a smile whenever someone walks by,” she said. “I even hope it becomes an Insta hotspot for students.” The sculpture is now on display in the Bowman Library, where it welcomes visitors into a space filled with student creativity, community pride, and the Menlo-Oak spirit. Visit the Youth of Suha Suha website and Instagram page for more information about their history and work. 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.
Institute of AI & Sustainability at Menlo College Explores “Organizational Development in the Age of AI” Posted on November 6, 2025November 6, 2025 by menlocollege 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 menlocollege 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 menlocollege 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 menlocollege 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 Introduces New Biotechnology Minor Posted on October 1, 2025November 4, 2025 by menlocollege Atherton, CA — October 1, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce the launch of its new Biotechnology Minor, designed to provide students with a strong scientific foundation while preparing them for careers at the intersection of science, business, and technology. The first course in the program, BIO 200 Introductory Biochemistry, will be offered in Spring 2026. The Biotechnology Minor introduces students to the fundamentals of biochemistry, cell biology, laboratory methods, and ethical considerations—providing valuable preparation for those interested in entering the biotechnology field or pursuing postgraduate education in STEM-related disciplines. “The biotechnology industry is reshaping health, technology, and society,” said Dean of Arts & Sciences Dr. Melissa Michelson. “This minor equips Menlo students with both scientific understanding and the ability to apply it in business, entrepreneurship, and policy contexts.” Through coursework that combines hands-on training in genomic technologies such as cloning, barcoding, and CRISPR-Cas9 with explorations of ethics in genome engineering, GMOs, and synthetic biology, students will gain both practical laboratory experience and critical perspectives. By integrating scientific study with Menlo’s emphasis on business applications, the Biotechnology Minor reflects the College’s mission to provide practical, forward-looking learning experiences that prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to industries driving innovation and change. Visit our website for more information about the Biotechnology Minor. 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 Earns Recognition in Two Prestigious Forbes Rankings Posted on September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by menlocollege Atherton, CA — September 3, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce its inclusion in two Forbes rankings: “25 Private Schools with Generous Financial Aid” and “America’s Top 500 Colleges.” These honors reflect Menlo’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education and student success. Menlo College is recognized for providing substantial financial support to students, with an average award of $38,261, making higher education more affordable for talented students from diverse backgrounds. (Forbes, 2025) In addition, Menlo College’s ranking among Forbes’ Top 500 Colleges places it in the top 13% of institutions nationwide, highlighting the college’s strong academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and career-focused approach. (Forbes, 2025) “Being recognized by Forbes for both financial aid and overall excellence reflects our ongoing commitment to making a Menlo College education accessible, transformative, and career-focused for students from all backgrounds,” said Steven Weiner, President of Menlo College. “We are proud to empower our students to achieve their fullest potential and thrive in the world beyond the classroom.” Menlo College’s student-centered approach emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, hands-on learning experiences, and career-readiness programs that equip students for professional achievement and leadership. Read more about Menlo College being featured in Forbes Top 500 Colleges and Top 25 for Financial Aid. 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 Institute of AI and Sustainability Posted on August 8, 2025November 4, 2025 by menlocollege Atherton, CA — August 8, 2025 — Menlo College is proud to announce the launch of the Menlo College Institute of AI and Sustainability, a bold new initiative that underscores the College’s commitment to innovation, ethical leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Institute is the result of a visionary partnership conceived by Menlo College Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui and NT Capital Management Founder and President Dr. John Nguyen (MSIS ’25). Designed as a vibrant hub for innovation, the Institute will connect students, faculty, and industry leaders through two flagship programs that will be hosted on the Menlo College campus: an annual Summer Accelerator and a year-round Innovation Conference Series. As a cornerstone of this collaboration, NT Capital Management has pledged an investment of $300,000 to support the Menlo College School of Business and the launch of this new initiative. This partnership exemplifies Menlo College’s entrepreneurial spirit and enduring ties to Silicon Valley. Through the AI & Sustainability Institute, Menlo College will empower students to engage with real-world challenges and opportunities at the intersection of ethical AI, sustainability, and entrepreneurship—placing the College at the forefront of impactful innovation. In the next two months, we will be hosting a kick-off event to launch the new institute. The event, titled “AI & Sustainability: Innovation for Impact,” will feature a launch celebration and an interactive panel discussion asking the question, “Can AI Save the Planet?” The panel will include students, faculty, and members and friends of the Menlo College community. Learn more about Menlo’s AI & Analytics major. 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.
