Menlo College Students Champion Civic Engagement Ahead of November Election Posted on October 21, 2026October 21, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — With the November 3, 2026, general election approaching, Menlo College students are promoting civic participation through the student-led Civic Engagement Coalition. From hosting discussions with elected officials to visiting classrooms and helping peers navigate the voting process, the club is empowering students to become informed and engaged voters. An “I Love Menlo College So I Vote” poster welcomes visitors at the entrance to the Russell Center, where the student-led Civic Engagement Coalition hosted an election forum on October 7, 2026, encouraging voter awareness and participation ahead of the November general election. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Menlo College student and Civic Engagement Coalition member Lesly Bonner welcomes and checks in guests at the Civic Engagement Forum held in the Russell Center on October 7, 2026. The student-led event encouraged voter education and civic participation ahead of the November general election. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College On October 7, the Civic Engagement Coalition hosted a voter education forum inthe Russell Center, located on Menlo College’s campus. The event brought together elected officials, political experts, and election representatives to help students better understand the upcoming November election, including statewide and local races, ballot propositions, and the importance of informed voter participation. Panelists included California State Senator Josh Becker; San Mateo County Supervisor and Menlo College adjunct faculty member Ray Mueller; political consultant Jason Galisatus; San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division Outreach Coordinator Chephren Goree; and Menlo College Interim Chief Academic Officer and Professor of Political Science Dr. Melissa R. Michelson. During an interactive Q&A session, students explored the electoral process, the importance of informed voting, and opportunities to participate in civic affairs. The Russell Center, located in El Camino Hall at Menlo College, is named in honor of John D. “Judge” Russell (1911–1996), who dedicated nearly 60 years of service to the College. A bronze bust commemorating his legacy stands outside the entrance. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Menlo College student and Civic Engagement Coalition member Orion Jenkins-Schell moderates the Civic Engagement Forum on October 7, 2026, in the Russell Center. The student-led event brought together elected officials and community leaders to discuss statewide and local elections, ballot propositions, and voter participation ahead of the November general election. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College San Mateo County Supervisor and Menlo College adjunct faculty member Ray Mueller (left), Menlo College Interim Chief Academic Officer Dr. Melissa R. Michelson (center), and Chephren Goree (right), Outreach Coordinator with the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division, participate in the Civic Engagement Forum hosted by Menlo College’s student-led Civic Engagement Coalition on October 7, 2026. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Bringing Civic Engagement Into the Classroom Beyond the forum, Civic Engagement Coalition members visited Menlo classes to encourage voter registration, answer election-related questions, and introduce students to the importance of civic participation early in their college experience. For coalition member Orion Jenkins-Schell, the classroom visits offered an opportunity to strengthen students’ understanding of the political process. “We truly believe it to be our mission to be the backbone of the education for the populace here on campus,” Jenkins-Schell said, emphasizing the club’s efforts to help students better understand political parties, ballots, and propositions. The forum further supported this mission by connecting students with civic leaders and real-world perspectives on public policy. Dr. Melissa R. Michelson highlighted the educational value of these experiences. “Civic engagement is an essential part of preparing students to become informed, thoughtful leaders,” Michelson said. “Events like this allow students to move beyond the classroom, ask meaningful questions, and better understand how they can contribute to the democratic process and their communities.” California State Senator Josh Becker speaks during the Civic Engagement Forum hosted by Menlo College’s student-led Civic Engagement Coalition on October 7, 2026. Becker joined fellow elected officials and community leaders to discuss statewide and local elections, ballot propositions, and the importance of voter participation ahead of the November general election. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Political consultant Jason Galisatus participates as a panelist during the Civic Engagement Forum hosted by Menlo College’s student-led Civic Engagement Coalition on October 7, 2026. The forum brought together political experts, elected officials, and community leaders to discuss the upcoming November elections and encourage student voter participation. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College San Mateo County Supervisor and Menlo College adjunct faculty member Ray Mueller (left), Menlo College Interim Chief Academic Officer Dr. Melissa R. Michelson (center), and Chephren Goree (right), Outreach Coordinator with the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division, share a lighthearted moment during the Civic Engagement Forum hosted by Menlo College’s student-led Civic Engagement Coalition on October 7, 2026. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Menlo College student Brooklyn Small, a member of the Civic Engagement Coalition, helps coordinate the student-led Civic Engagement Forum in the Russell Center on October 7, 2026. Small played a key role in organizing the event, which brought together elected officials and community leaders to encourage voter education and civic participation ahead of the November general election. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Extending Community Engagement Through Rotaract Menlo College students are also demonstrating civic responsibility through the Menlo College Rotaract Club, which connects students with volunteer opportunities and community organizations. In September, Rotaract Club members volunteered at the annual Tour de Menlo, a community cycling fundraiser organized by the Rotary Club of Menlo Park. The event raises funds for need-based college scholarships for local high school students, bringing together volunteers, cyclists, and community supporters. “Being part of Rotaract gives us the opportunity to make a difference beyond campus while building meaningful relationships with our community,” said Menlo College student Angel Cody, president of the Menlo College Rotaract Club. “Volunteering at Tour de Menlo was a great example of how students can come together to support a cause that directly benefits others. It’s rewarding to know that our involvement helps create opportunities for future college students.” The partnership extends beyond the cycling event. Through the Menlo Rotary Community Foundation, the Rotary Club has also provided financial support to the Oak Shack, Menlo College’s on-campus basic needs pantry, which offers food and hygiene essentials to students and other members of the Menlo College community. Members of the Menlo College Rotaract Club gather on September 26, 2026, highlighting their dedication to community service and student leadership. Top row, from left: Angel Cody, Mateja Ueligitone, Angela Erika Serrano, and Luciana Rodriguez. Bottom row, from left: Polanikulea Leong-Wilkinson, Anika Shaw, and Madeleine Boquiren. The relationship has historical roots: John D. “Judge” Russell (1911–1996), an influential figure who dedicated nearly 60 years of service to Menlo College, was among the founding members of the Rotary Club of Menlo Park. The Russell Center on the Menlo campus, named in his honor, reflects his legacy of education, mentorship, and community service. Menlo College Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement LaShonda Kennedy sees these experiences as opportunities for students to develop leadership skills while making a difference in their communities. “At Menlo College, we want students to recognize that leadership and civic responsibility extend far beyond the classroom,” Kennedy said. “Whether they’re helping their peers prepare to vote, volunteering with the Rotary Club, or supporting initiatives that address basic needs, our students are learning the value of showing up for their communities. These experiences help them develop the confidence, empathy, and leadership skills to make a meaningful difference both during college and throughout their careers.” Together, the Civic Engagement Coalition and Rotaract Club demonstrate how Menlo College students are applying their education through service, leadership, and community involvement. A bronze bust of John D. “Judge” Russell (1911–1996) stands outside the Russell Center in El Camino Hall at Menlo College. Russell dedicated nearly 60 years of service to the College and was among the founding members of the Rotary Club of Menlo Park. The center, named in his honor, celebrates his lasting legacy of education, mentorship, and community service. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College Menlo College to Serve as Official Vote Center In addition to providing an on-campus ballot drop box, Menlo College will also serve as an official San Mateo County Vote Center for the November 3, 2026, general election, offering students and community members convenient access to voting services. Located in the Russell Center at 1000 El Camino Real in Atherton, the Vote Center will be open October 31 through November 3. Voters can cast ballots in person, return completed vote-by-mail ballots, register to vote, or request replacement ballots. An official San Mateo County ballot drop box located at the entrance to Menlo College provides students and community members with a convenient way to return their completed ballots ahead of the November 3, 2026, general election. The drop box supports the College’s ongoing efforts to encourage civic engagement and voter participation. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College A designated ballot drop-off parking sign near the entrance to Menlo College directs voters to convenient, 10-minute parking spaces for returning completed ballots. The signage supports voter accessibility ahead of the November 3, 2026, general election. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College Menlo College Vote Center Hours: October 31–November 2: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. November 3 (Election Day): 7 a.m.–8 p.m. For a complete list of San Mateo County Vote Centers and additional voting information, visit: https://www.athertonca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12821/52-ENG-Info3-VoteCenterMap-Location-GU-v5 Register to Vote Eligible California residents can register to vote, update their registration, or learn more about the process through the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division: https://smcacre.gov/elections/voter-registration California’s regular online voter registration deadline for the November 3 election was October 19, 2026. Eligible voters who missed the deadline can still register and vote through California’s conditional voter registration process at designated voting locations, including Vote Centers. As Election Day approaches, the Civic Engagement Coalition encourages students and community members to check their registration status, research candidates and ballot measures, and make a plan to vote. Through student leadership, community partnerships, and hands-on experiences, Menlo College continues to prepare students to be informed, engaged, and Future Ready Now. Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu 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.
Menlo Faculty Connect Students with Business Leaders Posted on October 16, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — At Menlo College, learning from industry professionals is an important part of the classroom experience. Faculty draw on their professional networks to connect students with executives, entrepreneurs, alumni, and business leaders who bring real-world perspectives directly into their courses. Recent guest experiences hosted by professors Marzieh Yaghini, Fabian Eggers, and Harsh Jadhav show how these connections help bridge coursework and careers across marketing, entrepreneurship, and accounting. Dr. Marzieh Yaghini (center), Assistant Professor of Marketing and International Business, gathers with Menlo College students following a guest presentation on product development and marketing. From Marketing Plans to Product Launches Assistant Professor of Marketing and International Business Marzieh Yaghini recently welcomed two product leaders to give students an inside look at how product development and marketing come together. Throughout the semester, students in Yaghini’s marketing course develop their own product idea from the ground up. They start with a marketing pitch and build it into a full marketing plan. Along the way, they use AI tools to create product demos and promotional materials, much as product and marketing teams do in industry today. Pia Chakrabarti, Lead Product Manager at Glassdoor/Indeed, presented “Creating Products that Resonate,” walking students through a real Glassdoor product launch and explaining how Product Managers and Product Marketing Managers collaborate. She then led a workshop where students pitched their product ideas and received feedback using her three-question filter: Does it meet an unmet need? Is it a “vitamin” or a “painkiller”? What is the investor upside? Sonia Hashim, whose product career has included experience at Apple, Google, and Pluto TV, presented “Product 101,” focusing on four pillars of product craft: focusing on the problem, influencing without authority, critical thinking, and creating experiences that delight customers. Students tested their pitches against her PM cheat sheet of 10 questions every product team should ask. The sessions directly supported students’ semester-long projects and gave them a firsthand look at the work behind successful products. “Industry professionals help students see how the concepts they are learning are applied in the real world,” Yaghini said. “By bringing those insights into their own projects, students strengthen their work while building the practical skills and confidence to be Future Ready Now.” Menlo College students listen as guest speakers share real-world perspectives on entrepreneurship during Professor Dr. Fabian Eggers’ class. Exploring a Different Path to Entrepreneurship Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Fabian Eggers also draws on entrepreneurs and alumni to expand how students think about building businesses. In September, Eggers welcomed Sam Thapaliya, a Menlo College alumnus and serial entrepreneur, for a workshop on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), a path to entrepreneurship through purchasing and growing an existing business rather than launching a startup. The session explored how acquisition works, financing options, and the opportunities and challenges of business ownership. Menlo College alumnus and serial entrepreneur Sam Thapaliya (left) shares insights on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition with students as Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Dr. Fabian Eggers looks on. “Bringing entrepreneurs and alumni into the classroom helps students see that there is no single path to building a business,” Eggers said. “These conversations expand what students believe is possible and offer practical perspectives they can carry into their own entrepreneurial journeys.” Connecting Students with Accounting Careers Adjunct Professor Harsh Jadhav brought together professionals from Deloitte, Frank, Rimerman + Co., Aprio, WWC.PC, and PwC for a Spring 2026 accounting panel. Speakers represented roles across audit, assurance, and tax, giving students exposure to different firms and career paths within the profession. Panelists included Menlo College alumni Sophia Umanzor and Andrea Vlasceanu of Deloitte, Natalya Alvarez of Frank, Rimerman + Co., Jessica Goldstein of Aprio, Miguel Arguello of WWC.PC, and Abigail Parises of PwC, representing experience across audit, assurance, and tax. “It’s especially rewarding to welcome Menlo alumni back to the classroom and have students learn from professionals who once sat in their seats,” Jadhav said. “Hearing how alumni turned their Menlo education into successful careers helps students see the possibilities ahead and better understand the path from college to the workplace.” Menlo College alumni return to campus for the Spring 2026 Accounting Panel. From left: Natalya Alvarez, Abigail Parises, Andrea Vlasceanu, Sophia Umanzor, and Miguel Arguello shared their professional experiences and career journeys with current students. Building Networks Before Graduation While Yaghini, Eggers, and Jadhav teach different areas of business, their approach shares a common purpose: connecting classroom learning with the people putting those ideas into practice. Through these interactions, students can explore career paths, ask questions, and begin building professional relationships before graduation. Combined with faculty expertise and experiential learning, these connections are another way Menlo prepares students to be Future Ready Now, turning classroom knowledge into skills, perspectives, and opportunities for life after Menlo. Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu 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
Menlo College Awarded $10,000 Parker Dewey Grant to Expand Micro-Internship Opportunities Posted on October 14, 2026October 14, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College has been awarded $10,000 through Parker Dewey’s SIGNALS Micro-Internship Program, creating 30 new paid Micro-Internship opportunities for students to gain professional experience through short-term, real-world projects with employers. The award will support 30 Micro-Internships, each consisting of 15 hours of project-based work with participating employers. Led by Menlo College’s Internship and Career Services team within the Office of Student Affairs, the program is scheduled to run from September 1, 2026, through March 1, 2027. Menlo College students gather on campus, reflecting the vibrant community at the heart of the College’s commitment to experiential learning and career readiness. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College The initiative advances Menlo College’s commitment to preparing students to be Future Ready Now by connecting classroom learning with meaningful professional experiences. Through Micro-Internships, students can apply what they are learning at Menlo to real employer projects while developing practical skills, exploring career paths, and building professional connections. “This opportunity gives our students another way to turn what they are learning at Menlo into meaningful professional experience,” said LaShonda Kennedy, Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement at Menlo College. “Micro-Internships allow students to work on real projects, demonstrate their skills to employers, and gain greater confidence as they prepare for internships and careers.” Building Experience Through Micro-Internships Unlike traditional internships that may span an entire semester or summer, Micro-Internships are short-term professional projects that allow students to complete defined assignments for employers while gaining hands-on experience. Through the SIGNALS program, Menlo students will have access to projects with employers selected as part of the College’s program. Parker Dewey will work with Menlo College to provide consultation, marketing resources, administrative support, and payment to participating students throughout the initiative. Together, the 30 funded Micro-Internships will provide Menlo students with 450 hours of professional, project-based experience. For participating organizations, the program offers an opportunity to engage with Menlo students while receiving support on meaningful projects. Creating Pathways From College to Career The SIGNALS Micro-Internship Program complements Menlo College’s broader emphasis on experiential learning and career preparation. Internships, project-based learning, employer engagement, and career development provide students with opportunities to connect their academic experiences with the skills, relationships, and professional experience they will need after graduation. “Experiential learning is an essential part of a Menlo education,” said Alexa Breault, Associate Director of Future Ready Pathways at Menlo College. “Opportunities like these provide students with direction when it comes to identifying what pathways they would like to pursue.” Menlo College and Parker Dewey will work together to finalize the program’s goals, structure, student and employer participation criteria, project details, and outreach strategy ahead of the planned September launch. All 30 SIGNALS-funded Micro-Internships are expected to be awarded to students by March 1, 2027, with participating employers marking projects complete no later than April 1, 2027. Menlo College has received a $10,000 award through Parker Dewey’s SIGNALS Micro-Internship Program, supporting 30 new paid opportunities for students to gain hands-on professional experience through real-world employer projects. The initiative reinforces the College’s commitment to preparing students to be Future Ready Now. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu 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
Menlo College Awarded Federal Grant to Expand Career Readiness Posted on October 12, 2026October 16, 2026 by George Retelas First-year award of $1,196,629 supports a five-year initiative expected to total approximately $2,970,000 ATHERTON, Calif. – Menlo College has received a federal grant award of $1,196,629 to fund the first year of its Menlo College Career Pathways and Workforce Readiness Initiative. The five-year initiative is expected to total approximately $2,970,000, with additional funding anticipated through annual awards in Years 2 through 5. Menlo College students engage with career professionals during Career Connect Day, an event that helps students explore career opportunities, build professional connections, and prepare for success beyond the classroom. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College The initiative will strengthen the connection between academic learning and career preparation by expanding experiential learning opportunities, supporting faculty and staff development, enhancing career services, and providing students with additional academic resources. The project is supported through the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program, a federal program designed to help eligible institutions of higher education strengthen academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability while expanding their capacity to serve low-income students. The application process for this award was managed by the U.S. Department of Labor on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education. Menlo College students review career resources during Career Connect Day. The College’s new federally funded Career Pathways and Workforce Readiness Initiative will expand opportunities for students to develop professional skills and gain real-world experience. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College “At Menlo College, we believe the value of an education is measured not only by what students learn, but by what they can do with that knowledge,” said President Steven Weiner. “Through this initiative, we are strengthening the connections between classroom learning and professional experience, giving students more opportunities to apply their skills, work on real-world challenges, and prepare for meaningful careers. We want every Menlo graduate to leave ready to contribute, make a difference, and create value in their chosen field.” Experiential learning has long been an important part of the Menlo College student experience. All undergraduate business students complete an internship before graduation, gaining professional experience and applying their academic knowledge in workplace settings. The Strengthening Institutions Program will allow the College to build on this foundation, expanding resources that help students connect their education with their career goals. Key components of the initiative include: Experiential learning: Menlo College will activate established applied learning resources, implement the Riipen experiential learning platform, and expand access to AmplifyAI. A multi-year professional development program will help faculty and staff incorporate more applied learning into courses and student experiences. Career development: An Associate Director of Future Ready Pathways will establish a Career Peer Advisor program to help students explore career options, develop professional skills, and navigate career preparation opportunities. Academic and research resources: A Career Development Librarian will help connect academic research with career readiness. Students will also benefit from expanded access to books, specialized research databases, professional publications, and loanable technology devices. Internship and credentialing support: Menlo College will begin fundraising for an endowed Student Internship, Licensure, and Credentialing Fund during the first year, with a goal of establishing the fund by Year 3. The fund is intended to provide longer-term support for students pursuing internships, professional licenses, and credentials. Through this investment, Menlo College will build on its commitment to preparing students to be Future Ready Now, with the knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills to pursue meaningful careers and adapt to a changing workforce. For more information about Menlo College and its academic programs, visit www.menlo.edu. Menlo College’s iconic blue and white “M” sculptures stand on its Atherton campus. A new federal grant will support the College’s commitment to preparing students to be Future Ready Now through expanded experiential learning, career development, and academic resources. Photo: Kayla Stuart / Menlo College 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, visit www.menlo.edu or contact pr@menlo.edu.
Finance Hybrid Conference Connects Menlo Students with Industry Leaders Posted on October 9, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College welcomed academics, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and students to the fourth annual Finance Hybrid Conference (FHC 4.0), exploring how fintech, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies are reshaping finance and real estate. Held on Menlo’s Atherton campus and online, the conference featured keynotes, panels, and fireside chats connecting students with professionals at the forefront of these industries. Helen Chong, founder and CEO of Silicon Valley-based HAYLEN, speaks during Menlo College’s FHC 4.0. Chong is a real estate leader, entrepreneur, mentor, and author of Power to Change Lives. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Venture capitalist Bill Reichert, General Partner at Pegasus Tech Ventures, delivers a keynote at Menlo College’s FHC 4.0, sharing insights from his work investing in early-stage technologies and advising entrepreneurs. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Christina Bui, Vice President of Managed Business Solutions at Robert Half & Protiviti, shares industry insights with Menlo College students during FHC 4.0. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Keynote speakers Bill Reichert of Pegasus Tech Ventures, Kirsten Rhodes of Deloitte, and Christina Bui of Robert Half shared insights from venture capital, professional services, and the evolving workplace. A Real Estate & Technology panel featured Darwin Ling of Good AI Capital, Alina Aeby of the Silicon Valley Proptech Association, and Martin Kirkwood of Estate Legend. Fireside conversations with Prof. Iftekhar Hasan of Fordham University, James Wang of Creative Ventures, Prof. Faten Ben Bouheni of Menlo College, and Dr. Jacques Benkoski of U.S. Venture Partners expanded the discussion across academia, venture capital, and innovation. The Real Estate Market Outlook panel brought practical industry experience to the conversation with real estate leader John McNellis and Menlo alumnus Chop Keenan ’66. Menlo College student Juliette Chabrier moderated the discussion, drawing on McNellis’ book, Making It in Real Estate, to help guide the conversation. “Moderating the panel gave me the opportunity to learn directly from professionals who have spent decades navigating the real estate industry. Reading Making It in Real Estate helped me prepare thoughtful questions, but hearing John McNellis and Chop Keenan share their experiences brought those lessons to life and gave me insights I can carry into my own career,” said Chabrier. Menlo College student Juliette Chabrier, left, moderates the Real Estate Market Outlook panel as John McNellis, center, speaks and Menlo alumnus Chop Keenan ’66, right, listens during FHC 4.0. Menlo College student Juliette Chabrier moderates the Real Estate Market Outlook panel during FHC 4.0, bringing a student perspective to a discussion with industry leaders. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Copies of Making It in Real Estate by John McNellis are displayed during the Real Estate Market Outlook panel at Menlo College’s FHC 4.0 Finance Hybrid Conference. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Now in its fourth year, FHC is led by Prof. Dr. Faten Ben Bouheni, Ph.D., HDR, who designed the conference to bring academia and industry together while giving students an active role in the exchange. “The Finance Hybrid Conference was created to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Seeing researchers, founders, investors, and our students exchange ideas in the same room is exactly what this conference is about,” said Ben Bouheni, organizer and chair of the Finance Hybrid Conference. “What makes FHC special is our students. They moderated every session, engaged with industry leaders, and showed the real-world, hands-on learning that defines Menlo College.” Prof. Dr. Faten Ben Bouheni, organizer and chair of Menlo College’s Finance Hybrid Conference, participates in a discussion during FHC 4.0. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College Guest speakers and student planners gather at the conclusion of Menlo College’s FHC 4.0 Finance Hybrid Conference, held in the Student Union on Sept. 25, 2026. Photo: Miranda Canniff / Menlo College FHC 4.0 reflects Menlo College’s Future Ready Now approach by putting students at the center of conversations about where their fields are headed. By engaging with industry leaders, asking questions, and helping lead discussions, students build the knowledge, professional connections, and practical experience that prepare them to turn what they learn into career impact. 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
Menlo College Recognized Among TIME’s America’s Best Colleges 2026-2027 Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College has been recognized in the inaugural TIME – America’s Best Colleges 2026-2027 ranking, developed by TIME and Statista to evaluate colleges based on measurable student outcomes and institutional performance. The new national ranking recognizes 500 colleges across the United States and offers a data-driven perspective on the value institutions deliver for their students. An aerial view of Menlo College’s Atherton campus, where students connect classroom learning with hands-on experiences as part of the College’s Future Ready Now approach to education. Institutions were evaluated across three core areas: Student Outcomes, Learning Environment, and Attractiveness. The ranking draws on objective federal data, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard. For Menlo College, the recognition reflects the College’s focus on preparing students to be Future Ready Now by connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. Through experiential learning opportunities such as internships, hands-on projects, career development, and professional connections, students gain the practical skills and experience to prepare for successful careers. Brawner Hall on the Menlo College campus in Atherton, California, framed by the mature oak trees that reflect Menlo’s mascot moniker, the Oaks. “Menlo’s inclusion in this list is especially meaningful because of its focus on the outcomes colleges create for their students,” said Angela Schmiede, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success at Menlo College. “Our Future Ready Now approach is about ensuring students don’t have to wait until they are close to graduation to begin preparing for what comes next. Through experiential learning, internships, close faculty mentorship, and opportunities to engage with industry professionals, our students build the knowledge, confidence, and experience to turn their education into meaningful careers and lives.” The recognition adds to Menlo College’s growing list of national distinctions highlighting its commitment to educational access, student success, experiential learning, and career preparation. The complete TIME – America’s Best Colleges 2026-2027 ranking is now available. Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu 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
Menlo College Students Turn Summer Internships Into Career-Launching Experiences Posted on August 12, 2026August 12, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — From financial planning and artificial intelligence to accounting, sports marketing, public health, entrepreneurship, and luxury real estate, Menlo College students spent the summer putting their education into practice and gaining experience that will help shape their careers after graduation. As Menlo College prepares to welcome students back for the fall semester, a sample of this year’s internship cohort returns to campus with new professional skills, expanded networks, and a clearer understanding of how their academic experiences translate to the workplace. Menlo students have multiple pathways to incorporate internships into their degree programs. Business majors complete a required six-unit internship curriculum, while Psychology majors can apply six elective units toward an internship experience. The Office of Internships & Career Services (OICS) supports students throughout the process with career coaching, internship preparation, and professional development. Elijah Valdeolivar (left), Senior Associate Director of Employer Relations & Career Services, and LaShonda Kennedy (right), Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement at Menlo College, support students as they connect their academic experiences with internships, professional development, career opportunities, and meaningful student engagement. Photo by Menlo College / Kayla Stuart. “At Menlo College, internships are where students translate their full experience—from academics, clubs, events, and athletics—into real professional impact,” said Elijah Valdeolivar, Senior Associate Director of Employer Relations & Career Services. “Every internship gives students the opportunity to empower themselves, build meaningful relationships, and create momentum in their chosen field. Watching students return to campus with a greater connection to themselves, the world around them, and their future is one of the most rewarding parts of our work.” This summer’s experiences demonstrate just how many forms that professional preparation can take. Building a Career in Accounting Accounting student Ronielle Bico spent the summer in the Assurance Technology Practice at PwC in San Francisco, working alongside audit professionals supporting quarterly financial reporting. Her responsibilities included reviewing SEC filings such as 10-K and 10-Q reports, verifying financial information, reconciling internal controls, assisting with revenue recognition processes, and maintaining key audit documents. Bico credited Menlo’s accounting faculty—including Professors Du, Yeh, and Harsh—as well as the Accounting Club with helping prepare her for the fast-paced professional environment and giving her the foundational knowledge she needed to contribute from the start. Menlo College accounting student Ronielle Bico outside the PwC office in San Francisco, where she spent the summer interning in the firm’s Assurance Technology Practice and gaining hands-on experience in auditing and financial reporting. Turning Data Into Business Insights As an Analyst Intern at TechEquity AI, Ananyaa Vengurlekar spent the summer transforming complex datasets into information that project managers could use. She gathered, cleaned, and analyzed data while developing dashboards and reports using Tableau, Excel, and Google Sheets, helping make performance metrics more accessible while maintaining data integrity. For Vengurlekar, the process of securing the internship proved valuable in its own right. Working firsthand in Menlo’s Internship and Career Services office gave her a different perspective on navigating a competitive internship search. “By utilizing the career resources Menlo College provides, I learned how to bounce back from the ‘no’s,’ refine my approach, and build the professional confidence needed to secure this role,” she said. Menlo College student Ananyaa Vengurlekar connects with an employer during Career Connect Day 2026 at Menlo College, an event designed to help students build professional relationships and explore career and internship opportunities. Making an Impact Through Public Health Martha Zurita-Ortez served as an intern with the Santa Cruz County Safe Drug Use and Overdose Prevention Program (SUOPP), supporting the county’s harm reduction and public health efforts. Zurita-Ortez conducted community outreach, distributed lifesaving and essential resources including Narcan, wound care supplies, food, water, and tents, provided overdose safety and public health education, and connected participants with local healthcare, housing, and financial resources. The experience reinforced a lesson she had already begun learning through her time at Menlo College. “Being a student-athlete at Menlo showed me that not all things can be taught in a classroom, rather they must be experienced,” Zurita-Ortez said. “You can’t create an experience, you must undergo it.” Menlo College student Martha Zurita-Ortez (left) assists alongside fellow volunteers during her summer internship with the Santa Cruz County Safe Drug Use and Overdose Prevention Program (SUOPP), where she supported community outreach and harm reduction efforts. Bringing an International Perspective to Luxury Real Estate For Juliette Chabrier, an internship in Paris connected experiences on both sides of the Atlantic. Originally from France, Chabrier came to Menlo College for the opportunity to study International Business in Silicon Valley. After completing her first three years at Menlo, she returned to France for the summer and spent nearly three months interning with Coldwell Banker Paris in the city’s luxury real estate market. Chabrier assisted with property valuations, administrative follow-up, property listings, and preparing apartments for client visits. Working with an international clientele also reinforced the importance of discretion and careful listening. “Selling the Parisian dream takes more than a beautiful property. I learned that the real work is in the details, relationships, and trust behind it,” Chabrier said. Returning home also allowed Chabrier to approach France from a new professional perspective, applying three years of International Business education and experiences in Silicon Valley to a French workplace serving clients from around the world. “Menlo College has encouraged me to think globally while gaining the practical experience to turn my goals into a career,” she said. “I’m coming back for my final year with more experience, more confidence, and a clearer idea of where I want to go next. To me, that’s what being Future Ready Now is all about.” Chabrier now returns to Menlo for her final year with plans to complete her International Business degree while working toward earning her California real estate license. Her goal is to combine her roots in France, education in Silicon Valley, and professional experience in Paris to pursue a career in California’s luxury real estate market. Menlo College International Business student Juliette Chabrier at Coldwell Banker Paris, where she spent nearly three months gaining hands-on experience in the city’s luxury real estate market during her summer internship. Marketing a Growing Sports Organization Kiana Lew spent the summer supporting Momentum Sports Facility in South San Francisco and its partnership with Kamikaze Volleyball Club, putting her marketing education to work in a growing sports organization. While Momentum Sports Facility remained in the planning stages, Lew focused much of her work on marketing for Kamikaze Volleyball Club. She developed marketing strategies, created photos and videos, designed promotional materials, and managed content across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and the club’s website. She also helped develop website content, including the homepage, program descriptions, coach biographies, navigation structure, and other elements of the user experience. Lew said Menlo’s marketing coursework gave her a foundation in communication and business strategy while teaching her how to understand audiences, tailor content for different platforms, and use constructive feedback to strengthen her work. Entrepreneurship in Action For Jessica Oseguera Santoyo, an internship with Northwestern Mutual expanded her understanding of what entrepreneurship can look like in practice. As an Entrepreneurship major, Oseguera Santoyo initially associated professional opportunities in her field with startups or launching a company. At Northwestern Mutual, however, she had the opportunity to build her own client base, manage her schedule, and take ownership of growing her business within an established organization. Her work included helping build flexible financial plans for clients with different personal, professional, and financial goals. While working alongside mentors and financial advisors, she also developed experience building client relationships and taking responsibility for her own professional success. “My experience showed me that entrepreneurship can look different,” Oseguera Santoyo said. “Even though I worked with mentors and financial advisors, I also learned what it takes to build relationships with clients and be responsible for my own success. Those are valuable entrepreneurial skills that I can use in any career.” Menlo College student Jessica Oseguera Santoyo at her Northwestern Mutual internship, where she gained hands-on experience in financial planning, client relationship-building, and developing her own book of business. Learning the Business of Financial Planning Fellow Northwestern Mutual intern Andrue Perkins also gained hands-on experience in financial services, applying skills he developed through Menlo’s small classes and close faculty relationships. His responsibilities included meeting with clients, conducting financial fact-finding conversations, learning about risk management and insurance solutions, and strengthening his professional networking and relationship-building skills. “Menlo College has given me the confidence to step into a professional environment and apply what I’m learning in the classroom,” Perkins said. “The small class sizes and supportive professors have helped me strengthen my communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which I use every day during my internship.” For Perkins, the summer provided more than exposure to an industry—it also offered an opportunity to see how those skills translate into serving clients. “The internship has given me real-world exposure to financial planning and client service while helping me grow professionally,” he said. Menlo College student Andrue Perkins (right) at Northwestern Mutual, where he gained hands-on experience in financial planning, client service, and relationship-building during his summer internship. Fellow Menlo students Jessica Oseguera Santoyo (center) and Alexander Gee (left) also interned with Northwestern Mutual. Bringing Experience Back to Menlo The industries, responsibilities, and locations varied, but each internship gave Menlo students something that cannot be replicated entirely in a classroom: the opportunity to put their skills to work in real professional environments. They reviewed financial statements and analyzed datasets. They worked directly with clients and community members. They developed marketing campaigns, helped people navigate financial decisions, supported public health efforts, and learned the intricacies of luxury real estate halfway around the world. Just as importantly, they discovered more about themselves—the kind of work they find meaningful, the skills they still want to develop, and the careers they hope to pursue. Now, they bring those experiences back to Menlo College. As the new academic year begins, the lessons students gained over the summer will become part of what they contribute to classrooms, clubs, teams, and the broader campus community. Their internships represent not only preparation for what comes after college, but another step in becoming Future Ready Now. Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu 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
Lecturer Lakiba Pittman Brings Mindfulness and Experiential Learning to Menlo College Classrooms Posted on June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College Arts & Sciences Lecturer Lakiba Pittman is helping students engage more deeply with learning through mindfulness, creativity, reflection, and community-building. As part of completing the Morning Altars Teacher Training certification program, Pittman recently introduced a nature-based experiential learning project into three Menlo College courses, reaching approximately 60 students. Menlo College Arts & Sciences Lecturer Lakiba Pittman. The project was incorporated into two sections of DEIB in the Workplace (HUM 307) and one section of Cultural Expression in Media (MCM 308). Through guided observation practices, mindful wandering, reflective dialogue, and collaborative outdoor altar-making using natural materials found on campus, students explored how attention, perception, and connection shape the way they understand themselves, others, and their surroundings. In the DEIB courses, students connected the experience to the Iceberg Metaphor and themes of identity, assumptions, and belonging, examining how visible and invisible aspects of identity influence workplace interactions and inclusion efforts. “What we overlook isn’t always unimportant; it’s often just unnoticed,” said student Rachel Brans. “Just like I overlooked parts of my environment, it’s easy to overlook people or make assumptions without really noticing them.” In Cultural Expression in Media, students explored how attention and perspective influence media, storytelling, and representation. Through mindful observation and collaborative creation, they experienced how meaning can emerge through intentional focus. Student Bat-Orgil Yaruukhan described the experience as both creative and connective. “It created a shared rhythm, almost like everyone was participating in the same invisible conversation with the environment,” Yaruukhan said. “Sometimes what seems small or ordinary becomes meaningful when we pay closer attention, finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.” For student Taliyah Thornton, the activity encouraged a different kind of classroom interaction while reinforcing course concepts. “Usually, everyone is focused on schoolwork or just trying to get through class, but this activity allowed people to show more of their personalities,” Thornton said. “Media and society often focus on certain people or stories while overlooking smaller details, just like how we overlook things in everyday life.” The project reflects Pittman’s commitment to experiential and healing-centered education. Her work is informed by her participation as a Fellow in the Acosta Institute’s Healing-Centered Education program and her ongoing studies in compassion and mindfulness education through Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) and the Compassion Institute. Insights from the Morning Altars project will help inform a Future Forward grant-supported belonging workshop planned for Fall 2026, expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to explore community-centered approaches to learning and engagement. As she prepares to begin her 15th year at Menlo College, Pittman continues to explore innovative ways to integrate mindfulness, reflection, creativity, and belonging into higher education. “I believe these experiences help students develop the awareness, empathy, and adaptability that serve them both during college and throughout their lives and careers,” Pittman said. Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu 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 650-543-3753.
Future Ready Now: Menlo College Expands AI & Analytics Major Through Student Innovation, Ethical AI, and Silicon Valley Partnerships Posted on June 22, 2026June 22, 2026 by George Retelas California’s first AI & Analytics major combines artificial intelligence, business, ethics, and experiential learning to prepare students for the future of work. ATHERTON, Calif. — As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, employers are increasingly seeking graduates who can combine technical expertise with creativity, critical thinking, and ethical judgment. Across higher education, institutions are racing to prepare students for a workforce being transformed by AI. In the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is helping lead that evolution with its AI & Analytics major. “At Menlo College, we’re preparing students to lead in an AI-shaped economy by combining technical fluency with business insight, ethical reasoning, and hands-on, industry-connected learning,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner. “Our AI & Analytics major and initiatives like our generative AI pilot reflect our Future Ready Now commitment, helping graduates use AI responsibly and creatively to solve real-world problems.” Menlo College President Steven Weiner (left) and Melissa Michelson (right) present an award to Luciana Rodriguez, Freshman Class President for the Class of 2029 and an Artificial Intelligence & Analytics major, during Menlo College’s Honors Convocation on April 23, 2026. The annual ceremony recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service. Photo credit: Menlo College / Kayla Stuart According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, technological advancements including artificial intelligence are expected to transform millions of jobs globally over the coming decade, increasing demand for workers who can combine technical expertise with uniquely human skills. California’s First AI & Analytics Degree In Fall 2025, Menlo College became the first college in California to launch a Bachelor of Science in Business with a major in Artificial Intelligence & Analytics, positioning students at the intersection of technology, business, ethics, and innovation. “Higher education must anticipate the future rather than react to it,” said Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business. “Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we have both a unique opportunity and a responsibility to equip future leaders with the technical knowledge, ethical foundation, and innovative mindset needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.” Just minutes from many of the world’s leading technology companies, Menlo College provides students with direct access to entrepreneurs, investors, founders, and industry leaders shaping the future of artificial intelligence and innovation. Key Facts California’s first Bachelor of Science in Business with a major in Artificial Intelligence & Analytics was launched in Fall 2025. Students combine AI, data analytics, business strategy, ethical reasoning, and experiential learning. AmplifyAI provides faculty, staff, and students access to more than 20 leading AI models. Students are applying AI through entrepreneurship, venture creation, workforce innovation, and research. The Future Ready Now strategy integrates AI literacy, industry engagement, and career preparation. The Human Skills AI Cannot Replace That focus on preparing students for a rapidly changing future was echoed by Christoph Burkhardt, Menlo College’s 2026 commencement speaker, who challenged graduates to think beyond technology and focus on the uniquely human qualities AI cannot replicate. While artificial intelligence can increasingly generate answers, Burkhardt argued that the future will belong to those who ask better questions, think creatively, and pursue ideas with curiosity and purpose. “What’s the question you can’t answer right now that will drive all your exploration for the next ten years?” he asked graduates. “AI has no chance of coming up with any of those questions.” Commencement speaker Christoph Burkhardt addresses graduates during Menlo College’s 98th Commencement ceremony on May 16, 2026. Burkhardt, an innovation strategist and futurist, challenged members of the Class of 2026 to embrace curiosity, ask bold questions, and lead with creativity in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Photo credit: Menlo College / Kayla Stuart His message reinforced a central theme of Menlo College’s approach to AI education: technical fluency alone is not enough. As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into everyday life and work, students must also develop creativity, critical thinking, ethical judgment, and human-centered leadership to thrive in the innovation economy. From Afghanistan to Artificial Intelligence The program has also attracted students from around the world who are seeking to combine AI education with Silicon Valley opportunities and global career pathways. Among them is Nargess Hassani, who graduated in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Business, majoring in Artificial Intelligence & Analytics, as a member of the program’s inaugural graduating class. After arriving at Menlo College from Afghanistan in 2022, where political upheaval had disrupted educational opportunities for women, Hassani began a new chapter just as advances in artificial intelligence were transforming industries and reshaping the future of work. As she adapted to life in the United States, she also discovered a passion for technology, innovation, and problem-solving, transforming adversity into opportunity. Nargess Hassani ’26, a member of the inaugural graduating class of Menlo College’s AI & Analytics major, reflects on her journey from Afghanistan to Silicon Valley. Photo credit: Menlo College / George Retelas Inspired by the power of education to create new possibilities, she began exploring how emerging technologies could be used to solve real-world challenges. Over four years, she pursued independent projects involving computer vision, image recognition, machine learning, and AI-powered career tools. One recent project involved developing an application that helps job seekers evaluate how closely their resumes align with specific job descriptions, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can be applied to address workforce challenges. “I have the power to believe in myself—that I can make it.”Nargess Hassani ’26 Building Solutions Through AI “I challenged myself to build an end-to-end application to help job seekers better understand how their resumes align with a specific job description,” said Hassani. “My goal was not only to learn more about AI and full-stack development, but also to create something practical that could help people improve their job search process.” Through projects like these, Hassani discovered the value of experiential learning and problem-solving. “One of the biggest lessons I learned is that the best way to learn new technologies is by building something real,” she said. “Every challenge, bug, and deployment issue became an opportunity to grow and improve my skills. I’m excited to continue exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence, business analytics, and data analytics through future projects.” Hassani’s commitment to education and opportunity extends beyond technology. In her TEDx Menlo College talk, We Are Not a Footnote: The Unsilenced Voice of the Afghan Girl, she reflected on resilience, identity, and the importance of ensuring that young women have access to education and the opportunity to shape their own futures. Her journey reflects how education, mentorship, and experiential learning can empower students to transform challenges into opportunities for innovation and leadership. Nargess Hassani ’26 delivers her TEDx Menlo College talk, We Are Not a Footnote: The Unsilenced Voice of the Afghan Girl, on November 15, 2025. Photo credit: Menlo College / Kayla Stuart Turning Ideas Into Reality With AI That same spirit of innovation can be found in Lachlan Ming ’27, an international student from Australia who is combining athletics, entrepreneurship, and emerging technology. A member of the Menlo College tennis team, Ming has leveraged AI tools to streamline daily tasks and launch GNG Engine, a platform designed to connect Australians studying at U.S. colleges and universities. Lachlan Ming ’27 balances the demands of collegiate tennis and academics while pursuing his passion for artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship. An international student from Australia majoring in Artificial Intelligence & Analytics, Ming leverages AI tools to transform ideas into innovative projects and explore new applications of emerging technologies. Photo credit: Menlo College / Miranda Canniff His experience reflects how advances in generative AI are lowering barriers to innovation, enabling students to transform ideas into working products and ventures. This summer, Ming and fellow AI & Analytics students are building on that momentum as participants in the AI Venture Velocity Challenge hosted by Texas A&M University, where they are applying AI to develop new drone scanning technologies. “AI has become a bridge that allows people like me to turn ideas into reality.”Lachlan Ming ’27 Together, their experiences illustrate how Menlo College students are using artificial intelligence not only to understand emerging technologies, but also to solve problems, launch ventures, and explore questions that matter to them. Lachlan Ming ’27 collaborates with classmates on AI-powered business and analytics projects as part of Menlo College’s Artificial Intelligence & Analytics program, applying emerging technologies to solve real-world challenges. Photo credit: Menlo College / George Retelas Leading With Ethics and Responsibility For Luciana Rodriguez ’29, a San Jose native and rising sophomore in Menlo College’s Artificial Intelligence & Analytics program, the curriculum’s emphasis on ethics is just as important as its technical foundations. Luciana Rodriguez ’29 works with AI-powered technologies on the Menlo College campus. Rodriguez is a rising sophomore in the College’s Artificial Intelligence & Analytics program, which combines technical skills, ethical reasoning, and experiential learning to prepare students for careers in the innovation economy. Photo credit: Menlo College / Miranda Canniff “AI is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace, and Menlo College’s Artificial Intelligence & Analytics program has taught me how to use AI as a tool for innovation, growth, and problem-solving rather than as a substitute for learning and critical thinking,” said Rodriguez. “Through courses like AI Ethics with Professor Tahereh Saheb, I’ve also learned the importance of responsible AI governance and understanding the broader societal impact of these technologies.” That emphasis on responsible innovation is intentionally embedded throughout the curriculum. Dr. Tahereh Saheb, who teaches in the program and helped develop its curriculum, said students examine both the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence, including AI governance, data ethics, algorithmic bias, and responsible innovation. “I want to help create a future where AI is not only transformative, but also ethical, safe, and human-centered.”Luciana Rodriguez ’29 Luciana Rodriguez ’29 (center), a Menlo College Artificial Intelligence & Analytics student, joins Congressman Sam Liccardo and fellow classmates during the launch celebration of the Menlo College Latino Leadership Program on February 20, 2026. The program provides leadership development, mentorship, civic engagement, and professional growth opportunities, helping students develop the communication, leadership, and community-centered skills that complement technical education in preparing future-ready leaders. Photo credit: Menlo College / Kayla Stuart Building a Future-Ready Ecosystem Menlo College is expanding access to emerging technologies through a six-month pilot of AmplifyAI, a higher education-focused platform developed at Vanderbilt University and implemented through CR8.io. The platform provides faculty, staff, and students with secure access to more than 20 leading AI models while supporting AI literacy, AI fluency, prompt engineering, responsible AI use, and innovation. The pilot reflects Menlo College’s broader commitment to future-ready learning through The Menlo Edge: Future Ready Initiative, which integrates emerging technologies, experiential education, career preparation, and industry-connected learning throughout the student experience. “As AI tools rapidly transform every industry, it is essential that our students develop AI fluency and the ethical reasoning needed to use these technologies responsibly,” said Angela Schmiede, Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Student Success. “Launching the AmplifyAI pilot reflects Menlo College’s commitment to innovation and preparing graduates for a world where AI literacy is foundational. This initiative aligns directly with our strategic plan and strengthens our Future Ready Now ecosystem.” As businesses increasingly integrate generative AI into everyday operations, preparing students for the future of work requires more than classroom instruction alone. An aerial view of Menlo College’s campus in Atherton, California, highlights the College’s location in the heart of Silicon Valley. Situated near Stanford University and some of the world’s leading technology companies, Menlo College provides students with direct access to innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-connected learning opportunities. Photo credit: Menlo College / George Retelas AI Literacy Beyond the Classroom Menlo College complements academic learning with opportunities for students to engage directly with entrepreneurs, investors, civic leaders, and technology professionals shaping the future of artificial intelligence and innovation. This spring, events hosted by the Menlo College Business & Environment Club and Investment Club connected students with entrepreneurs, investors, civic leaders, and technology professionals to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping careers, business, and venture capital. These experiences reinforce the College’s emphasis on AI literacy, innovation, and entrepreneurship while helping students apply classroom learning to real-world opportunities. Students walk across the Menlo College campus toward Brawner Hall, a central academic and administrative building in the heart of the College’s Atherton campus. Menlo College’s Silicon Valley location provides students with opportunities to connect classroom learning with industry engagement, experiential education, and career preparation. Photo credit: Menlo College / Miranda Canniff Industry Leaders on the Future of AI Menlo College’s AI ecosystem is further strengthened by alumni and industry leaders who help connect classroom learning with real-world innovation. Among them is Hans Sandhu, Class of 2013 and Chief Business Officer at TheAgentic, who regularly mentors students and participates in career and entrepreneurship initiatives. “The biggest misconception about AI is that the future belongs to those with the best technology,” said Sandhu. “In reality, the future belongs to those who understand problems best. As AI continues to lower barriers to building software, value shifts toward business judgment, domain expertise, creativity, and execution.” Hans Sandhu leads a breakout session during Menlo College Career Connect Day on March 11, 2026. Sandhu shared insights on artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and the future of work, connecting students with industry perspectives and career pathways in the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Photo credit: Menlo College / Miranda Canniff Sandhu believes Menlo College’s combination of AI education, entrepreneurship, and business fundamentals gives students a distinct advantage in the innovation economy. “Menlo College is uniquely positioned to prepare students for that future by combining AI education with the entrepreneurial and business foundations needed to turn ideas into real-world outcomes,” he said. “It was one of the best decisions of my life to come here.” Preparing Future Ready Leaders As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and redefine the future of work, Menlo College is creating opportunities for students not only to understand emerging technologies, but to build with them, question them, and lead responsibly with them. Through Silicon Valley connections, experiential learning, and its Future Ready Now vision, Menlo College is preparing graduates to transform ideas into solutions, navigate emerging technologies responsibly, and help shape the future of work. Learn more about Menlo College’s Bachelor of Science in Business with a major in Artificial Intelligence & Analytics and how students are becoming Future Ready Now. Menlo College’s iconic “M” sculpture is overlaid with an AI-inspired digital network visualization, symbolizing the College’s commitment to innovation, emerging technologies, and preparing students to be Future Ready Now in an increasingly connected world. Photo credit: Menlo College / George Retelas Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu 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 650-543-3753.
Menlo College Students Gain Global Business Insight Through Academic Global Immersion Program in the UAE Posted on January 27, 2026August 24, 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. 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.
