Menlo College to Add Women’s Flag Football as 15th Varsity Sport Head Coach Search to Begin Immediately; Team to Launch in 2026–2027 Academic Year Posted on March 5, 2026March 5, 2026 by George Retelas Atherton, Calif. — Menlo College Athletics announced today the addition of Women’s Flag Football as the College’s 15th varsity sport. The program will begin competition during the 2026–2027 academic year, with a national search for a Head Women’s Flag Football Coach launching immediately. Women’s flag football has been designated by the NCAA as an Emerging Sport, reflecting its rapid national growth and increasing adoption by colleges nationwide. Participation across California and the Western United States has expanded significantly in recent years, aligning closely with Menlo College’s primary recruiting regions. According to the California Interscholastic Federation, nearly 20,000 girls participated in CIF-sanctioned high school flag football statewide last season — an 84 percent increase year over year. The College will begin recruiting immediately to build a full roster for the inaugural 2026–2027 season. Given the sport’s rapid regional growth, Menlo’s 2026–2027 launch positions the College among the early NCAA Division II adopters in the West. “This is a strategic and mission-aligned step for Menlo College,” said Keith Spataro, Vice President for Athletics. “Women’s flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, especially in California and Hawaii, two of our strongest recruiting regions. The timing is right, the regional interest is strong, and the opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up is incredibly exciting.” Spataro emphasized that the addition reflects both institutional vision and long-term program sustainability. “Women’s flag football expands competitive opportunities for women while strengthening our overall Athletics portfolio,” Spataro added. “We believe this sport will attract driven, high-character student-athletes who want to compete at a high level while pursuing academic excellence. We are committed to building a program that reflects Menlo’s values from day one.” The Head Women’s Flag Football Coach will be hired this spring to lead recruiting efforts, develop program infrastructure, and prepare for the inaugural season. The program will compete as a varsity NCAA Division II sport. Menlo College President Steven Weiner expressed enthusiasm for the addition and its alignment with the College’s broader strategic direction. “Women’s flag football represents both innovation and opportunity,” said President Weiner. “As an institution committed to growth, access, and student engagement, we are proud to expand our athletic offerings in a way that responds to emerging national trends while serving the interests of our students. This addition strengthens our commitment to providing meaningful leadership and competitive opportunities for women.” More information regarding the Head Coach search and recruiting process will be available at menloathletics.com. About Menlo CollegeMenlo College is a private, non-profit institution offering four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Atherton, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo integrates academic excellence with leadership development and competitive athletics. Known for its strong business and psychology programs, Menlo prepares students to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose. Menlo College Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports and competes at the NCAA Division II level, with women’s flag football set to become the College’s 15th varsity program in 2026–2027.For media inquiries, please contact: Athletics CommunicationsMenlo Collegeathletics@menlo.edu
Menlo College Sweeps 2026 CFA Institute Research Challenge Posted on February 24, 2026February 26, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, CA – Menlo College proudly hosted the 2026 CFA Institute Research Challenge – Northern California Finals, welcoming 19 teams from 13 universities across the Bay Area for a full day of rigorous financial analysis and professional competition. Menlo College team presenting in Brawner Hall. Often referred to as the “Investment Olympics,” the CFA Institute Research Challenge brings together top finance students to conduct in-depth equity research and present investment recommendations before senior industry professionals. This year’s competition centered on a comprehensive analysis of Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK), a San Francisco-headquartered company. Hayley Narahar, Martin Fiala, Marc Hegel, and Donvan Kerr with their trophy. After advancing through a highly competitive preliminary round, the students representing Menlo College, Haley Narahara, Martin Fiala, Marc Hegele, and Donovan Kerr delivered an exceptional final presentation and emerged as Northern California Champions. They will now advance to the Western U.S. Regional Finals in April, with the opportunity to compete at the Global Finals in Hong Kong in May. The event brought together 13 colleges and universities, including Chico State, Cal State East Bay, Cal State Fresno, Dominican University, Golden Gate University, Menlo College, St. Mary’s College, Sacramento State, San Francisco State, San Jose State, UC Santa Cruz, University of Nevada – Reno, and University of San Francisco. In total, six MBA teams and thirteen undergraduate finance teams participated, with more than 100 student competitors presenting before senior investment professionals and CFA charter holders serving as judges. The day also featured an inspiring keynote address by Menlo College Trustee Jim Davlin, whose remarks on ethical leadership, discipline in capital markets, and long-term value creation resonated strongly with students and faculty alike. Jim Davlin, Hayley Narahar, Martin Fiala, Mouwafac Sidaoui, Marc Hegel, Donvan Kerr, Manish Tewari, and Faten Ben Bouheni. Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Menlo College, emphasized the importance of collaboration and mentorship, stating: “We were honored to partner with the CFA San Francisco team to host this prestigious competition at Menlo College, reflecting our strong commitment to experiential learning and academic excellence. I am grateful to Trustee Jim Davlin for his inspiring keynote and proud of Professor Manish Tewari and our outstanding students, whose analytical rigor, professionalism, and teamwork demonstrate the strength of our Finance program.” Finance Professor Manish Tewari, serving in his sixth year as Faculty CFA Team Advisor, added: “Menlo College’s continued success in the CFA Challenge reflects the strength and rigor of our Finance program. For more than a decade, our students have competed alongside top universities in this prestigious competition, consistently demonstrating exceptional analytical skill, professionalism, and teamwork. As I enter my sixth year as CFA Faculty Team Advisor, I am proud that Menlo teams have become a respected and competitive presence across the Northern California region.” For more than a decade, Menlo College students have consistently distinguished themselves among leading institutions at the CFA Challenge. The 2026 victory reinforces the School of Business’s commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in investment management, financial analysis, and capital markets. Menlo College congratulates its winning team and looks forward to cheering them on at the Western U.S. Regional Finals, and on to the global stage. Media 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 Investing Club Partners with Foothill College for AI × VC Panel Exploring the Future of Venture Capital Posted on February 20, 2026February 27, 2026 by George Retelas Los Altos Hills, Calif. — Students, founders, and investors from across Silicon Valley gathered at Foothill College on February 19 for AI × VC: Redefining the Value of the Future, a dynamic cross-college collaboration between the Menlo College Investing Club and the Foothill College Startup Club. Held in the Foothill College Dining Hall, the afternoon event explored how artificial intelligence is transforming venture capital across industries, from startup valuation and investor behavior to due diligence and deal-making. The panel brought together leaders representing multiple sectors and stages of investment to share insights on how founders can strategically position themselves in an increasingly AI-driven capital landscape. Rightful Fong, Bill Sautter, Leon Jon, Tonya J. Long, Konstantine Gugunava, and Jimena Ortiz. Panelists included Bill Sautter, a veteran investor and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience spanning venture capital and mergers and acquisitions; Leon Jon, an early-stage investor at MS&AD Ventures focused on scaling high-growth startups; Tonya J. Long, a venture strategist and capital formation expert specializing in AI-driven innovation and structured investment vehicles; and Konstantine Gugunava, an early-stage founder building ventures at the intersection of fintech and artificial intelligence. The event featured an interactive Q&A session, followed by dedicated networking time that connected students directly with venture capitalists, founders, and Menlo College representatives, including transfer admissions staff. For many attendees, the opportunity to engage face-to-face with active investors provided practical insight into what venture firms are prioritizing in today’s competitive funding environment. Foothill student Rightful Fong and Menlo student Jimena Ortiz. “As a senior, I want to leverage the connections built through the club and give back to Menlo College through impact, visibility, and community efforts,” said Jimena Ortiz, Finance and Business Analytics double major and President of the Menlo College Investing Club. In addition to examining AI’s role in venture capital, the event highlighted educational pathways for students interested in pursuing bachelor’s degrees in fields such as Artificial Intelligence and Analytics and Finance at Menlo College. The cross-college partnership reflects a shared commitment to preparing students for innovation-driven industries and the rapidly evolving future of work. Menlo College Press Contact: pr@menlo.edu Foothill College Press Contact: penningtonsimon@fhda.edu About Foothill College: Founded in 1957, Foothill College is a nationally recognized public community college located in Los Altos Hills and part of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District. The college serves more than 13,000 students annually and is known for its academic excellence, innovative programs, and strong transfer pathways to leading universities, including the University of California and California State University systems. Foothill offers a wide range of associate degrees, career technical education, and certificate programs designed to prepare students for both the workforce and continued study. With a longstanding commitment to equity, access, and student success, Foothill College plays a vital role in developing Silicon Valley’s skilled workforce and advancing educational opportunity in the region. 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, psychology, and Artificial Intelligence, as well as graduate degrees including 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 and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving Institution.
Menlo College to Launch Latino Leadership Program with Special Campus Event on February 20 Posted on February 16, 2026February 27, 2026 by George Retelas ATHERTON, Calif. — Menlo College will officially launch its new Latino Leadership Program with a campus-wide celebration on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 3:00 PM on the College’s Atherton campus. While focused on inspiring leadership within and for Latino communities, the program is designed to benefit students of all races and ethnicities as they pursue their academic and career goals. The event will welcome U.S. Congressman Sam Liccardo and California Assemblymember Marc Berman as in-person guest speakers, who will share perspectives on public service, representation, and leadership in diverse communities. U.S. Senator Alex Padilla will offer recorded remarks in recognition of the program’s launch as well. Refreshments will be served, and members of the campus community are encouraged to attend. Congressman Sam Liccardo Assemblymember Marc Berman The Latino Leadership Program reflects Menlo College’s identity as a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution, a distinction first earned in 2019. Latino students now represent 41 percent of Menlo’s domestic student population, underscoring the importance of programs that cultivate cultural competence, professional preparation, and leadership development. Students from the Latino Leadership Program Developed under the leadership of Dr. Melissa Michelson, Dean of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Political Science, the program builds on Menlo’s longstanding commitment to Latino-focused coursework and mentorship. For more than a decade, courses such as Latino Politics and Latino Literature have resonated with students of all backgrounds who recognize the growing influence of Latino communities in the United States. Melissa R. Michelson, PhD “Our designation as an HSI reflects the changing demographics of our student population. I am proud of the work Menlo faculty have done to better serve our Latino students and their communities through ongoing changes to the curriculum,” said Dean Michelson. “This program, and the proposed minor, will help all of our students develop the cultural competency and leadership skills to better serve their communities.” Menlo College students The February 20 launch marks the beginning of the program, with its first graduates expected to cross the stage in spring 2026. Menlo faculty are currently reviewing an associated minor, which includes courses in Leadership Theories and Practice; Leadership, Ethics, and Social Change; and Community Leadership. The capstone course in the proposed minor will include an off-campus experiential learning placement paired with weekly cohort discussions designed to strengthen civic engagement and practical leadership skills. Professor Peña at Menlo College, Atherton. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, prospective students, and community members are invited to attend and learn more about how the Latino Leadership Program is helping shape Menlo’s next generation of changemakers. For more information, visit the Menlo College website: https://www.menlo.edu/events/latino-leadership-program-launch/ Learn more about the program here: https://www.menlo.edu/degree/latino-leadership-program/ Media Contact: pr@menlo.edu About Menlo College: Menlo College is a small private, nonprofit college founded in 1927 with a mission to “ignite potential and educate students to make meaningful contributions in the innovation economy.” Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College offers undergraduate degrees in business and psychology, as well as three graduate degrees: a Master of Science in Information Systems, a Master of Science in Financial Technology, and a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology. Menlo is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander-Serving (AANAPISI) Institution.
Menlo College Students 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.
Menlo College Showcases Leadership in AI and Innovation Through Faculty Thought Leadership and Cutting-Edge Programs Posted on November 30, 2025February 26, 2026 by Tess Rewick Atherton, CA — November 30, 2025 — Menlo College is accelerating its leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven innovation through academic programs, faculty thought leadership, and the launch of the Institute of AI and Sustainability. The College is preparing students to tackle real‑world challenges at the intersection of technology, ethics, business, and even athletics. Institute of AI and SustainabilityIn August 2025, Menlo College launched the Institute of AI and Sustainability, a pioneering initiative designed to connect students, faculty, and industry leaders. The Institute focuses on ethical AI applications and sustainable innovation through two flagship programs hosted on campus: an annual Summer Accelerator and a year-round Innovation Conference Series. “Menlo College is committed to preparing students for a future shaped by AI,” said Sidaoui. “Through our programs, faculty expertise, and initiatives like the Institute of AI and Sustainability, we are equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to innovate responsibly and lead in the AI-driven economy.” The Institute’s inaugural event, “AI & Sustainability: Innovation for Impact,” took place on October 2, 2025, and featured a panel discussion with faculty and members of the Menlo College community. The conversation explored the question: “Can AI Save the Planet?” and highlighted how students and faculty are engaging with AI to address real-world sustainability challenges. Faculty & Staff Thought Leadership Driving the Conversation on AI Associate Professor Lisa Mendelman, PhD, who teaches English and Digital Humanities at Menlo, spoke at the IEEE International Symposium on Technology and Society (ISTAS25) in September 2025, where she participated in a lunchtime roundtable titled “AI and the Power of the Written Word: A Godzilla or Gutenberg Impact?” Drawing on her expertise at the intersection of literature, mental health, and digital culture, Mendelman examined AI not merely as a tool, but as a cultural and ethical force reshaping how we write, read, and understand one another. Her thought leadership highlights the broader implications of AI for communication, creativity, and society. In addition, Assistant Director of Athletics for Non‑NCAA Sports Tim Ghormley represented Menlo College as a panelist at the FITOFAN AI Sport Forum, held during SF Tech Week. He joined industry founders and sports‑tech investors to explore how AI is transforming performance, training, athlete development and engagement. Further underscoring Menlo College’s growing leadership in AI-related scholarship, Assistant Professor Sonia Tahareh, PhD, who teaches AI & Analytics and Information Systems courses at Menlo, recently published a peer-reviewed research article examining how patients perceive AI-enabled diagnostic tools in healthcare. Her study, grounded in Behavioral Reasoning Theory and developed through a sequential mixed-methods design, identifies the key motivations and concerns that shape patient acceptance of AI in medical diagnosis. The research highlights the importance of trust, perceived accuracy, privacy, and the continued desire for human interaction, offering timely insights for healthcare leaders and policymakers working to integrate AI responsibly and effectively into medical practice. AI‑Enabled Recruitment StrategyThis recruiting season, Menlo’s Admissions Office is embracing advanced tools to better engage students and streamline outreach. The College will deploy CollegeVine’s AI Recruiter tool, a next‑generation platform that allows institutions to deliver hyper‑personalized outreach at scale and integrate with CRM systems to target students more effectively. By implementing this AI‑driven recruitment partner, Menlo is enabling its admissions counselors to spend more time on direct interactions with prospective students, while AI handles routine outreach and helps narrow the pool of high‑potential candidates. This approach ensures counselors can focus on the most meaningful connections without sacrificing efficiency. Learn more about Menlo College’s AI-focused programs: AI and Analytics Major, Master of Science in Information Systems, and Master of Science in Financial Technology, and discover how the Institute of AI and Sustainability is driving innovation and ethical leadership. Contact Information: 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.
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.
