DEAN’S REPORT 2024
FROM THE DEAN
Reflecting on the Graziadio Business School’s 56th year, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. We’ve strengthened our standing as a premier global Christian business school committed to delivering transformative experiences for our students. Through innovative applied research and access to leading entrepreneurs and distinguished alumni across various fields, we empower our students to drive business with purpose and service. Our vibrant community invites students from around the world, offering unique opportunities to travel to top business destinations, enhancing their learning and leadership skills.
Key 2023–2024 highlights:
• Impressive National Rankings: Pepperdine Graziadio has achieved significant recognition in national rankings. Our Part-Time MBA program advanced to the number 14 position in Fortune’s 2024 Best Part-Time MBA programs, marking a remarkable jump of 35 places from last year. LinkedIn ranked us as the number 46 Top MBA Program in its inaugural 2023 list of Top MBA Programs in the US. In addition, Poets & Quants included our Online MBA program among the Top 50 Best Online MBA Programs, highlighting the quality and impact of our educational offerings.
• Increased Enrollment in Marquee Programs: We saw remarkable growth in our MBA programs, with Full-Time MBA enrollment up by 95 percent and Part-Time MBA enrollment increasing by 22 percent.
• Advancing Innovation Through Signature Events: Throughout the year, we hosted several flagship events that have become integral to our community. The sixth annual Most Fundable Companies Showcase continues to champion the success of second-stage entrepreneurs. The Future of Healthcare Symposium, featuring keynote speaker New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu, and the Entertainment Evolution Symposium provided platforms for industry dialogue, showcased our graduate programs, enhanced recruitment efforts, and offered valuable learning opportunities, further solidifying our reputation as a top choice for innovative leaders.
• Enhanced Community Partnerships: We continue to strengthen our long-standing partnerships with corporations that share our mission, and we’re excited to welcome iHeartMedia and Mattel as our newest corporate partners.
• Faculty Research: Our esteemed faculty members have published groundbreaking research in prominent business journals and publications. Their work not only advances knowledge within their fields but also enhances the academic experience for our students, providing them with cutting-edge insights and perspectives.
These accomplishments reflect the dedication and collaboration of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Together, we continue to advance our mission of cultivating purpose-driven leaders who are poised to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Thank you for your steadfast support and commitment to the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. I eagerly anticipate our continued journey of excellence and innovation.
Appreciatively,
Deborah Crown Dean Pepperdine Graziadio Business School
ABOUT GRAZIADIO
At Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, we offer a transformational education rooted in experiential and ethical learning. With a network of 50,000 alumni and connections to award-winning entrepreneurs across diverse fields, including healthcare, our students are primed to lead and innovate. Through global travel and leadership opportunities, we prepare them to revolutionize the businesses they launch, the companies they lead, and the communities they impact.
Guided by Christian values of purpose, service, and leadership, we empower students to make a meaningful difference in businesses and communities around the world.
Mission
Inspired by our Christian values, we seek to
• Foster transformational learning,
• Advance academic excellence,
• Create applied knowledge, and
• Equip our students to lead lives of purpose, service, and leadership.
Values
• Today, not tomorrow
• Integrity always
• Courage with compassion
• Pioneering spirit
Guided by our mission, we build upon our success and are dedicated to the following strategic priorities outlined in the Pepperdine 2030 Strategic Plan:
• Fostering and promoting a culture of academic excellence
• Cultivating a vibrant community grounded in Christian faith
• Delivering transformational educational experiences that prepare students for global servant leadership
• Strengthening and deepening a community of belonging
• Elevating the University’s presence in Malibu, Los Angeles, and globally
• Reimagining the University’s model for academic and operational excellence
These priorities will enable us to continue to deliver an exceptional business education and equip our students for future success.
2023/2024 RANKINGS
Fortune
According to Fortune magazine, our Part-Time MBA was ranked number 14, and the nation’s number one Protestant Christian School program. Our Online MBA was ranked number 17, and the number two program at a Protestant Christian School. Our Executive MBA was ranked number 38, and the number three Protestant Christian School in the nation.
CEO Magazine
Pepperdine Graziadio secured a coveted Tier One spot on CEO Magazine’s Global MBA List, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to excellence in business education. Additionally, the Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program attained premier status on the Global DBA List, highlighting Graziadio’s dedication to producing high-caliber research and thought leadership in the field.
Notably, the school’s Executive MBA program retained its global standing at number 38, while the Online MBA program maintained a strong position at number 24, demonstrating Pepperdine Graziadio Business School’s enduring impact and relevance in the evolving landscape of business education.
Princeton Review
Pepperdine Graziadio was recognized by the Princeton Review for excellence in its Online MBA program, ranking number 16 overall. We also ranked number 4 for Greatest Resources for Minority Students and number 2 for Best MBA for Nonprofit.
Pepperdine Graziadio’s MBA program was ranked number 46 Best MBA by LinkedIn.
U.S. News & World Report
Pepperdine Graziadio’s Full-Time MBA program was ranked number 89 by U.S. News & World Report, climbing a remarkable six positions from the previous year.
The Graziadio School’s Part-Time MBA program also climbed four positions to number 42 in the rankings.
In online programs, Graziadio was ranked number 58 in Best Online Master’s in Business Programs, number 28 in Best Online Master’s in Business Programs for Veterans, number 94 in Best Online MBA Programs, and number 71 in Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Part-Time MBA: Key Program Updates
The updated program includes interactive Saturday sessions embedded in new foundation courses, providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Students will benefit from a balanced mix of hybrid and online courses, offering flexibility and convenience. We have also refined our concentration offerings to better meet the needs of our students and the market.
Part-Time MBA Healthcare Management Specialization
Additionally, we rolled out our new healthcare management specialization. This specialization is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in the healthcare sector, focusing on change management and leadership excellence. Comprising 6 credit units, the curriculum addresses essential and emerging healthcare management issues, preparing students to effectively impact healthcare systems, organizations, and patient care.
Simplified PTMBA Application Process
We streamlined the Part-Time MBA application process by making components like letters of recommendation, essays, resumes, and GMAT/GRE scores optional.
The revamped hybrid Part-Time MBA program and simplified application process underscores our dedication to experiential learning, attracting top-tier, academically focused business professionals to the Graziadio School and strengthening our vibrant student and alumni community.
Online MBA Streamlining
Bringing the Online MBA program in-house has created significant synergies, allowing students in both the Part-Time MBA and Online MBA programs to choose between hybrid and online courses on a course-by-course basis. This shift enhances flexibility and streamlines the process, offering students the ability to tailor their MBA experience to their needs. Combined, these changes support the concept of “One MBA” with ultimate flexibility across modalities.
ENROLLMENT TRENDS AND
DIVERSITY
Program Breakdown
Master of Business Administration Programs 37%
Master of Science Programs 34%
Bachelor’s Programs (BSM) 7%
Program 2% Online Programs 20%
Ethnicity
Fostering Belonging: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Graziadio
Pepperdine Graziadio Business School celebrates and embraces the rich diversity of cultures and backgrounds within our community. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every individual is valued, respected, and recognized for their unique perspectives. By fostering a community where students, staff, and faculty from all backgrounds can learn together, we empower leaders who excel in cross-cultural understanding and global leadership with purpose.
Graziadio Diversity and Belonging Council
The purpose of the Graziadio Diversity and Belonging Council is to promote and advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at Graziadio. The council serves as an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and actively promotes and implements initiatives to create sustainable change for their advancement.
Faculty, Staff, and Student Representatives
• Arman Davtyn
• Genesis DeLong
• Jill-Ashley Gooman
• Bernice Ledbetter
• Elizabeth Pode
• Cristel Russell
• Dana Sumpter
• Robyn Watkins
2023–2024 Council Co-Chairs
Dean of Students Director of Center for Women in Leadership Pepperdine
Associate Professor of Organizational Theory and Management Pepperdine
Bernice Ledbetter
Graziadio Business School
Dana Sumpter
Graziadio Business School
CENTER FOR WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
The Pepperdine Graziadio Center for Women in Leadership (CWL) is dedicated to cultivating impactful leaders, building confidence, and instilling a strong sense of competency and readiness for the challenges and rewards of leadership. Through mentorship programs, industry engagement, and research on gender diversity, CWL contributes to a global dialogue on leadership. The purpose is to educate and empower women to achieve leadership positions, and all individuals, regardless of gender, are welcomed and encouraged to participate in CWL’s programs and events.
Women in Leadership News
• The CWL recently announced two new executive board members: alumna Grace Kangdani (MBA ’08), senior vice president for the Technology Industry Group at Bank of America, and Maria Lane, chief human resources officer at Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling. Read more on Newsroom.
• Pepperdine Graziadio alumna Kimberly K. Rath (MBA ’18, PKE 138) and Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer shed light on the underrepresentation of women in the C-suite and gender wage gap disparities in Real Clear Markets. Read more on Newsroom.
Events and Programming
The Center for Women in Leadership proudly hosts events to empower the next generation of female leaders. Featuring global experts from faculty, staff, students, alumni, Fortune 500 executives, and entrepreneurs, our events bring together diverse thought leaders to inspire and drive community change. Fourth Annual Women’s Leadership Awards Ceremony
“Now
is the time. Tomorrow may be too late.”
Bernice Ledbetter Dean of Students Director of Center
for Women in Leadership Pepperdine Graziadio Business School
CORPORATE PARTNERS
We take pride in long-standing partnerships with corporations that share our mission’s values through their culture and operations. These valuable collaborations offer employees a range of educational benefits, such as discounted tuition, fast-track admission, waived application fees, and more. In return, our corporate partners gain exclusive access to a talent pool of purpose-driven graduates ready to join their organizations.
Current
• 99 Cents Only Store
• Activision Blizzard
• AEG
• Amazon
• Aon
• Boeing
• Bright Horizons EdAssist
• Caltech/JPL
• Cheesecake Factory
• CoolSys
• Dollar Shave Club
• Edcor
• Farmers Insurance
• FOX
• Hyundai Capital America
• The Honest Company
• HRL Laboratories, LLC
• JSL Technologies, Inc.
• Kaiser Permanente
• Northrop Grumman
• Pepperdine Graziadio Business School Purpose Partners
• Professionals in Human Resources Association
• Randstad
• Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
We are excited to welcome iHeartMedia and Mattel as our newest corporate partners, expanding our mission worldwide.
EXPERIENCING BUSINESS THROUGH A GLOBAL LENS
This past year, we’ve expanded opportunities for students to gain global business experience beyond the classroom. Through our Global Business Intensive courses and partnerships with more than 40 international universities, students navigate the complexities of the modern economy alongside peers, faculty, and seasoned executives. These programs deepen cross-cultural understanding and equip students to develop impactful solutions for real-world challenges, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected global market.
Global Business Intensives Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Countries 6 9 Cities
Themes
• Social Marketing: A Force for Good
• Managing Global Business Operations in the Digital Economy
• Food for Thought: Managing Food and Beverage Products for Global Markets
• Real Estate in Singapore
• Brazilian Global Business
• Sustainability in Action: From Manufacturing to Tourism, Exploring the Business Climate of the Caribbean
DESTINATIONS
Christchurch and Auckland, New Zealand
Dublin, Ireland
Geneva and Vevey, Switzerland
Singapore
ORGANIZATIONS
Pullman Hotel, American Chamber of Commerce, Sustainable Business Council, The Sustainable Company: Cleanery, Fonterra Cooperative Group, Air New Zealand, NZ Merino Company Limited, Fable Hotel, Wasteco, Christchurch City Council, Otakaro Orchard, Greystone Winery
Citibank Innovation Lab, Autodesk, Google, Stripe, Smurfit Graduate School of Business, Microsoft, Mastercard, LinkedIn, State Street Global Cybersecurity Center, Fidelity Investments
UN Food Assistance Organization, World Trade Organization, Laudate Deum: Apostolic Exhortation on the Climate Crisis (hosted by the Vatican and the UN), Partage, Nespresso, Obrist, Macheret Fromage, Nestle Switzerland, EHL Hospitality Business School
Urban Redevelopment Authority, Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis (CBRE), Ohmyhome, Brilliance Capital, IOI Properties, OPERVA.AI, ION Orchard, Raffles Singapore, The Macallan House
São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
FIESP, Retalhar, JBS, Oficina Muda, Leroy Merlin, Human Rights in Brazil, TikTok
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Foundation for Puerto Rico, Discover Puerto Rico, Ali Jamal, Casa Bacardi, Hacienda Munoz, Invest Puerto Rico, Concentrico, Sotheby’s International Realty, Alex Kramarchuk
INDUSTRY-LEADING FACULTY
The heart of Pepperdine Graziadio’s renowned business education is its distinguished faculty. With extensive industry experience and advanced academic credentials (most holding PhDs and DBAs), our faculty are celebrated for their innovative teaching and research. They serve as inspiring practitioners, educators, and mentors within the Graziadio community and beyond.
Research Awards and Honors
Larry Cox
• Fulbright US Scholar for 2023–2024 for Austria
James DiLellio
• Fulbright US Scholar for 2023–2024 for United Kingdom
Cristina Gibson
• Winner of the Humanitarian Impact Award American Psychological Association
• Distinguished Winner of the 2023 Responsible Research in Business and Management Award Academy of Management
Maretno Agus Harjoto
• 2024 Ethics Symposium’s Best Empirical Research Award, American Accounting Association
Cristel Russell
• Outstanding Area Editor Award Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science
• Top 10% of all consumer researchers in the world, Journal of Consumer Research
Cole Short
• Number one most-cited and -downloaded in Journal of Business Venturing Insights
Dana Sumpter
• Exemplary Performance as an Outstanding Reviewer Academy of Management Review
Editorial Review Board Appointments
James DiLellio
• Associate Editor - Financial Services Review
• Editorial Review Board - Financial Planning Review
Ann Feyerherm
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of Applied Behavioral Science
Jenny Franczak
• Special Issue Editor - International Human Resource Management Journal
Cristina Gibson
• Area Editor - Academy of Management Annals
• Area Editor - Journal of International Business Studies
• Editorial Review Board - Academy of Management Journal
• Editorial Review Board - Organization Science
• Editorial Review Board - Journal of Applied Psychology
• Editorial Review Board - Academy of Management Review
Darren Good
• Editorial Review Board - Journal of Applied Behavioral Science
Maretno Agus Harjoto
• Associate Editor - Review of Managerial Science and Advances in Accounting
• Editorial Review Board - Journal of Business Ethics
Sean Jasso
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of Academy of Business and Economics
Clark Johnson
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of Advertising
Dongshin Kim
• Editorial Board Member - Korea Real Estate Review
Miriam Lacey
• Editorial Board Member - Development and Learning in Organizations: An International Journal
Jaclyn Margolis
• Area Editor - Group & Organization Management
• Editorial Review Board - Journal of Organizational Behavior
Gary Mangiofico
• Area Editor - Organization Development Review
Christel Russell
• Senior Associate Editor - Journal of Advertising
• Area Editor - Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science
• Guest Associate Editor - Journal of Consumer Research
Bobbi Thomason
• Editorial Board Member - Organization Science
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of International Business Studies
Dana Sumpter
• Editorial Board Member - Academy of Management Review
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of International Business Studies
Chris Worley
• Editorial Board Member - Journal of Applied Behavioral Science
• Editorial Board Member - Recherches en Sciences de Gestion (Research in the Management Sciences)
• Advisory Board - Journal of Applied Behavioral Science
Top Academic Journal Publications
Our faculty’s research has been featured in leading academic journals, including the Academy of Management Discoveries, Academy of Management Journal, Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, Harvard Business Review, Human Relations, Journal of Advertising, Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of Operations Management, Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, and MIT Sloan Management Review.
Jillian Alderman
• (2023). The Role of Personality, Self-Disclosure, and Envy in Maladaptive Social Media Engagement. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 26(8), 640–647.
• (2024 Forthcoming) From CFO to CEO, Why Financial Professionals Are a Great Fit for the CEO Role, Strategic Finance.
Levan Efremidze
• (Forthcoming) Which capital flow surge methods are better at predicting reversals and sudden stops?: Balancing Type 1 and Type 2 errors. Open Economies Review.
Ann Feyerherm
• (2023). Cultural intelligence as a global leadership competency in disruptive contexts. In D. C. Thomas & Y. Liao (Eds.), Handbook of Cultural Intelligence Research (pp. 214–230). Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.
Joetta Forsyth
• (2024 Forthcoming) From CFO to CEO, Why Financial Professionals Are a Great Fit for the CEO Role, Strategic Finance.
Jenny Franczak
• (2023). Dignity inherent and earned: The experience of dignity at work. Academy of Management Annals, 17(1), 218–267.
• (2023). Immersed in Coleman’s bathtub: multilevel dynamics driving new venture survival in emerging markets. Management Decision, 61(7), 1857–1887.
• (2023). Shifting foci of ethical concerns: a new generation enters the corporate world. Ethics & Behavior, 33(7), 616–636.
• (2024). How and when does founder polychronicity affect new venture performance? The roles of entrepreneurial orientation and firm age. Journal of Business Research, 172, 114408.
Cristina Gibson
• (2023). Dignity inherent and earned: The experience of dignity at work. Academy of Management Annals, 17(1), 218–267.
• (2023). Enhancing work relationships across cultures: The role of energy in cross-cultural work interactions. International Journal of Cross Cultural Management, 23(1), 193–214.
• (2024). A meta-theory of global work encounters. Academy of Management Review, (ja), amr-2021.
Nelson Granados
• (2023). The Role of Social and Technological Predispositions in Participation in the Sharing Economy. Journal of Marketing Development and Competitiveness, 17(3)
Kevin Groves
• (2023). Dignity inherent and earned: The experience of dignity at work. Academy of Management Annals, 17(1), 218–267.
• (2023). Cultural intelligence as a global leadership competency in disruptive contexts. In D. C. Thomas & Y. Liao (Eds.), Handbook of Cultural Intelligence Research (pp. 214–230). Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.
Maretno Agus Harjoto
• (2024). Economic policy uncertainty and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure: the moderating effects of board network centrality and political connections., Corporate Governance.
• (2024). Ethics and banking: Do banks divest their kind? Journal of Business Ethics, 192(1): 191–223.
Brian Jacobs
• (2024). Reducing Industrial Water Consumption: The Impact of Organizational Learning in Production and Operations Management.
Sean Jasso
• (2023). Governing the Pandemic: A Comprehensive Policy Analysis of the $4.1T Strategy. International Journal of Strategic Management, 23(1), 106–115.
Clark Johnson
• (2023). An open-source solution for social change: The Goodpush Alliance. In Social Marketing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (pp. 61–78). Springer.
• (2023). “I Thought My Idea to Use Your Idea Was a Great Idea”: Inadvertent Plagiarism in Marketing. Journal of Advertising, 52(2), 300–309.
Dongshin Kim
• (2023). Urban Flight: A Short-term Phenomenon or Longterm Trend? Real Estate Economics.
Jaclyn Margolis
• (2023). Dignity inherent and earned: The experience of dignity at work. Academy of Management Annals, 17(1), 218–267.
Roger McMahan
• (2023). Theory and Analysis of Disruptive Deception: SME Responses to B2B Supply Chain Opportunism. Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing. 39(1), 85–98.
Brandon Parsons
• (2023). Statutory Corporate Tax Rates and Income Distribution—Panel Data From 95 Countries Using Driscoll and Kraay Standard Errors and Quantile via Moments. Journal of Applied Business and Economics, 25(5), 119–138.
• (2023). Panel data analysis of internal conflict and income inequality. European Journal of Government and Economics, 12(1), 79–101.
Cristel Russell
• (2023) Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, Being, 14th edition. Pearson.
• (2023). ChatGPT, AI advertising, and advertising research and education. Journal of Advertising, 52(4), 477–482.
• (2023). The Role of Personality, Self-Disclosure, and Envy in Maladaptive Social Media Engagement. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 26(8), 640–647.
• (2023). The Role of Social and Technological Predispositions in Participation in the Sharing Economy. Journal of Marketing Development and Competitiveness, 17(3)
Doreen Shanahan
• (2023). An open-source solution for social change: The Goodpush Alliance. In Social Marketing and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (pp. 61–78). Springer.
• (2023). Shifting foci of ethical concerns: a new generation enters the corporate world. Ethics & Behavior, 33(7), 616–636.
• (2023). The Role of Personality, Self-Disclosure, and Envy in Maladaptive Social Media Engagement. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 26(8), 640–647.
• (2023). The Role of Social and Technological Predispositions in Participation in the Sharing Economy. Journal of Marketing Development and Competitiveness, 17(3).
Cole Short
• (2024). Accentuate the Positive? Strategic Negativity Amid the Hazard of High Expectations in Strategic Management Journal.
Dana Sumpter
• (2023). Cultural intelligence as a global leadership competency in disruptive contexts. In D. C. Thomas & Y. Liao (Eds.), Handbook of Cultural Intelligence Research (pp. 214–230). Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.
• (2023). Enhancing work relationships across cultures: The role of energy in cross-cultural work interactions. International Journal of Cross Cultural Management, 23(1), 193–214.
Bobbi Thomason
• (2023). Dignity inherent and earned: The experience of dignity at work. Academy of Management Annals, 17(1), 218–267.
• (2023). “Woke” diversity strategies: Science or sensationalism?. Academy of Management perspectives, 37(2), 193–201.
• (2024). A meta-theory of global work encounters. Academy of Management Review, (ja), amr-2021.
Rick Walton
• (2024 Forthcoming) From CFO to CEO, Why Financial Professionals Are a Great Fit for the CEO Role, Strategic Finance.
Gia Honnen-Weisdorn
• (2023). Does the U.S. Constitution Apply to Big Tech? Applying The “State Actor” Doctrine to Big Tech in The Shadow of Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act (“CDA”). 66.
Chris Worley
• (2023). Navigating conflicting influences during complex strategic changes: The contribution of diagnosis, congruence, and leadership. The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, 59(1), 30–60.
Media/Business Impact
Clemens Kownatzki
• Featured as a Finance expert in more than 15 articles in business media and publications such as CNBC, Wallethub, DataBento, Cherry Picks, and Structured Products Daily.
FROM THE CLASSROOM
The students at Pepperdine Graziadio are ambitious professionals committed to making a positive impact, whether within their current organizations or through their own ventures. We proudly share their inspiring stories and global contributions on our business and alumni blogs. Discover more about the experiences and achievements of our students and alumni through our recent features.
From Military to MBA: Insights on Navigating the Transition from US Navy Veteran Ervin Mercado
Continuing the Journey: MSAF Student Trang Vo Shares Her Experience Participating in the Bryant Stibel Internship Program
Leadership Learning Through Stories: Claudia C. Corleto (MBA ’18) Shares the Power of Narratives
Empowering Your Academic Journey: Christina Carmelle Lopez (’02, MBA ’21) Shares Insights from Get the Degree Without Losing Your Mind
STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHTS
Graziadio Women’s Business Association
Empowering Women Leaders of Tomorrow
Graziadio Black Student Association
Net Impact at Graziadio Taking Positive Actions to Create a Sustainable World
CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
At Pepperdine Graziadio, our mission transcends merely helping students secure employment; we are dedicated to shaping them into purpose-driven leaders who make meaningful contributions throughout their careers. By emphasizing professional development, we equip our students with a broad spectrum of core competencies, ensuring they are thoroughly prepared for rewarding and impactful careers postgraduation.
Career Impact Postgrad
Full-Time Class of 2023
• Average base salary: $101K
• Employment rate within three months of graduation: 77%
• Top hiring companies: AT&T, Blue Shield of California, Citi, and Nike, Inc.
Where Our Students Work
• Alteryx
• Amazon
• Blue Shield of California
• The Boring Company
• Citi
• Daily Harvest
• Epsilon
• Henkel
• JPMorgan Chase & Co.
• Nike, Inc.
• Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
Student Career Stories
“I have always believed that a life of meaningful work is a force of good in society. My ultimate motivation is to use my flexibility, my ability to adapt, and my leadership skills to love and value others like myself. No matter where I am, I want people to experience love and kindness, and be an encouragement to whomever I surround myself with.”
Able Kusaloka
MS Student
Victoria Shackelford is a people operations manager in the technology industry who aspires to go into coaching and people development. She firmly believes in developing human potential and lives by the saying, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” Alongside her professional pursuits, Shackelford is also a recent alumna of the Part-Time MBA program, who successfully managed the challenges of graduate school while raising her two daughters. Her commitment to personal and academic growth showcases her remarkable resilience and ability to excel in multiple areas of life. Shackelford’s curiosity about the inner motivations of others drives her to empower those around her, making a positive impact on both personal and professional levels.
Victoria Shackelford (MBA ’23)
People Operations Manager, Revenue.io
EVENTS
Commencement Ceremonies
The summer 2023 and spring 2024 commencement ceremonies were joyous occasions, celebrating the time-honored tradition and remarkable achievements of our graduating students at our picturesque Malibu campus.
Summer 2023
August 12, 2023
Student Speaker
Antonio Gaskin (BSM ’21, MBA ’23)
Distinguished Alumni Speaker
Brandi Harleaux (MBA ’12)
Spring 2024
April 13, 2024
Student Speaker
Amanda Auciello (MBA ’24)
Distinguished Alumni Speaker
Denise Roberson (MBA ’14, PKE 131)
Keynote Events
Most Fundable Companies
SEPTEMBER 28, 2023
Our sixth annual Most Fundable Companies Showcase announced the winners of the startup competition. Seventeen startups were selected out of more than 3,000 companies that participated from all 50 states. Graziadio alumnus Jason Nazar (MBA ’05, JD ’07) delivered an engaging and informative keynote address to the audience of founders, investors, industry professionals, and students. Competition winners were later featured in Entrepreneur magazine. Pepperdine Most Fundable Companies list winners from 2018 to 2023 have collectively raised more than $280M in capital since publication.
SEER Symposium
MARCH 15, 2024
The 10th Annual SEER Symposium highlighted the integration of business strategy with social impact, featuring insights from Tom Vozzo of Homeboy Industries, Linden Mallory of Patagonia, Chuck Garrett from Cherokee Nation Businesses, and branding expert Denise Roberson. The event engaged Los Angeles’ social enterprise community, concluding with networking and an expo that underscored the commitment to socially responsible business practices.
The Future of Healthcare Symposium
FEBRUARY 29, 2024
Our annual Future of Healthcare Symposium brought together influential thinkers and experienced practitioners on our beautiful Malibu campus.
This year’s theme, “Elevating Healthcare: Exploring Solutions for the Future,” showcased a panel discussion and a keynote from governor Christopher T. Sununu as our distinguished guest speaker.
16th Annual George Awards
MARCH 29, 2024
Representing our founder and leader, George L. Graziadio, Jr., the annual George Awards ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of our Graziadio faculty, students, and alumni. Recognized for their acts of integrity, pioneering spirit, and purpose-driven leadership, George Award recipients exemplify the Graziadio mission in every step along their professional journey—making positive waves of impact on the world around them.
Marquee Events
Graziadio Annual
Reception SEPTEMBER 12, 2023
INDUSTRY COLLABORATIVE LEARNING
Education to Business (Pepperdine E2BTM)
The Pepperdine E2B Program serves as an unrivaled cornerstone of experiential learning connecting MBA students with executives to address complex business issues facing global powerhouses, regional brands, and startups. As an integral part of the Graziadio experience, E2B provides students with real-world applications to challenge and inspire their professional development. We completed more than 730 client-based projects since inception, providing hands-on experience to over 14,000 students.
Some notable clients Pepperdine E2B has partnered with in AY 23/24 include
• Amgen
• Herbalife
• Ossur
• Porto’s Bakery
• Zebra Technologies
Socially, Environmentally, and Ethically Responsible (SEER) Program Revitalization
The SEER program has undergone its first major update since its inception in 2009 to enhance its curriculum and maintain its competitive edge. Key changes include minimizing the number of electives to avoid under-enrolled classes, aligning courses with recent concentration changes, and recognizing the obsolescence of certain courses. The SEER certificate is now rationalized across four programs: Full-Time MBA, Part-Time MBA, Online MBA, and Master of Science in Management and Leadership, ensuring efficiency and flexibility while addressing evolving market demands. Specific improvements involve revising program learning outcomes based on peer research, updating course offerings, and introducing new SEER-aligned courses. These enhancements are expected to improve student learning outcomes, maintain the program’s alignment with the school’s mission, and offer added benefits for AACSB Impact assessment and PRME alignment, all while remaining cost neutral. Changes were approved at all levels and are due to go into effect for the upcoming academic year.
SEER Highlights
Guest Speaker: Nadine Tapia (MBA ’20), B-Corp BeautyDecember 1, 2023
The Net Impact Chapter hosted Nadine Tapia, president of Tapia Beauty Group and former CEO of Ole Henricksen, to speak with our students. Tapia shared her expertise in the beauty industry, insights from achieving B-Corp certification, and advice for young professionals aspiring to succeed.
Company Visit - MaCher Venice - February 1, 2024
Pepperdine Graziadio students visited Certified B Corporation MaCher in Venice. Executives Patrick Marsden and Jamila Jackson discussed the company’s business and sustainability challenges and self-management culture. The students eagerly brainstormed potential business opportunities, offering fresh perspectives.
Giving Back with Impact - Discussion with Keith Eshelman and Karl Valincourt - February 22, 2024
Professor Robert Bikel, director and lead faculty for the SEER program, hosted a discussion with esteemed alumni Keith Eshelman (MBA ’08), cofounder and CEO of Parks Project, and Karl Vaillancourt (MBA ’06), principal of Precision Construction Services, facilitated by the Career and Professional Development department. They explored the intersection of social impact and career success, highlighting how purpose-driven leadership can drive meaningful change in communities.
10th Annual SEER Symposium - Putting Purpose to WorkMarch 15, 2024
The 10th annual SEER Symposium featured insights from Tom Vozzo of Homeboy Industries, Linden Mallory of Patagonia, Chuck Garrett from Cherokee Nation Businesses, and branding expert Denise Roberson. The event drew Los Angeles’ social enterprise community and concluded with networking and an expo featuring organizations like MaCher and Conscious Capitalism Los Angeles.
Global Business Intensives
Recent Global Business Intensives with SEER Relevance:
• Dublin, Ireland (Lead: -John Mooney) - Cybersecurity and digital privacy
• Geneva and Vevey, Switzerland (Lead: Cristel Russell)Food (in)security and climate impacts
• Singapore (Lead: Abraham Park) - Urban redevelopment
• São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Lead: Kimber Maderazzo) - Corporate sustainability, circular economy, upcycling
• San Juan, Puerto Rico (Lead: Jim Salas) - Sustainable development and community resilience
DBA Doctoral Dissertations
Select recent and ongoing SEER-related DBA research includes:
• Aliyu Ahmed: “The Relationships Among Financial Literacy, Financial Behaviors, Financial Attitudes, and Holding a Mortgage within Low-Moderate-Income Households in Los Angeles County”
• Melanie Venture: “Cross-Sector Partnerships and the Strategies that Lead to Social Impact”
• Claudio Ludovisi: “The Power of Organizational Purpose in Customer Engagement”
• Ruth Prato: “The Latina Leadership Journey: Experiences of Latina Partners in Accounting Firms”
• Tim Webb: “The End of Financial Exclusion? The Promise of Fintech and ESG Performance”
• Prince Abubakari: “Governance and Human Factors Affecting Risk Management of Critical Cybersecurity Infrastructure”
• Elizabeth Adams: “Leadership of Responsible AI: Employee Stakeholder Participation in the Creation of Shaping Artifacts”
• DeJuan Price: “Black Women Founders, Social Capital, and Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy”
• Mariela Salas: “Increasing Latinx Representation in the Venture Capital Ecosystem”
• Cezhan Ambrose: “Measuring the Impact of Corporate Governance on Environmental Sustainability Outcomes”
NOTABLE ALUMNI
Committed to excellence, innovation, and leadership, our alumni not only excel in their careers but set a benchmark for others to follow. We proudly celebrate these notable alumni for their substantial contributions to their fields and for inspiring future generations.
As senior vice president of global sourcing and procurement at NBCUniversal, Daphne Harvey oversees strategy development, negotiations, and contracting, with annual team spending of over $12 billion. She has built global sourcing and procurement organizations for two entertainment industry giants and institutionalized best practices and procedures that have resulted in process efficiency, cost savings, and tighter financial controls across the business. A major takeaway from the Pepperdine Graziadio experience was an appreciation of elevated results through effective teamwork. Daphne has implemented a “cross-functional team-based sourcing strategy” that includes attacking projects with a team of business experts from relevant disciplines and leading those teams through systematic processes to reveal value improvement opportunities.
The inclusive approach earned Daphne and her team the trust of their business partners, which was a key factor in generating over $100 million in annual cost savings. Daphne championed the Edge Accelerator Program at NBCUniversal, which teaches diverse suppliers to develop skills to compete with larger businesses for lucrative contracts. In addition, NBCUniversal maintains $4 billion in annual spending with diverse businesses.
Daphne is proud to be part of three generations of higher education in her family—all from Pepperdine. Her aunt Edna Wilson earned her PhD in education, Daphne Harvey completed the EMBA program and her daughter graduated cum laude from the Pepperdine MBA program in May of 2019.
Daphne Harvey Executive MBA ’98
NBC Universal
As EVP and chief information officer at Hertz, Tim is honored to lead the technology team that is enabling a 100+-year-old company on a new path to becoming an essential component of the modern mobility ecosystem. Through technology, Tim’s team is building new digital experiences for customers and enabling efficient fleet management for one of the largest worldwide vehicle rental companies.
Under Tim’s leadership, the Hitachi Vantara technology team received for the first time ever, the “2020 Enabling Function of the Year” award, recognizing the significant business value delivered through close business/technology engagement. Tim also led the global customer service and technical support organization at Western Union, delivering a technology and operational transformation focused on supporting customers and 500,000 retail agent locations in 200+ countries and territories.
Tim recalls one of his first assignments at Pepperdine Graziadio was to write “A Day in the Life” where he described how he expected to spend a “perfect” day 10 years after completing his Executive MBA. Much of what he described is how he spends his days now. Doing this taught him the value of thinking about what he wants to achieve, writing it down, and then checking in on the vision on a regular basis.
Tim lives in Southwest Florida with his family. As a former resident of Colorado and a lifelong snowboarder for over 20 years, he enjoys spending time in the mountains where he can disconnect from the pressures of work and enjoy being in the moment.
Tim Langley-Hawthorne
Executive MBA ’03
EVP
and Chief Information Officer
Hertz
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI
From purpose-driven students to esteemed business leaders, our alumni exemplify personal and professional success. They are chosen to speak at commencement ceremonies and annual events and serve as mentors within our community.
Denise Roberson has been a trusted C-suite executive for more than 25 years. As a purpose-driven leader and change agent, she is leading some of the biggest brands in the world to actuate their business case for purpose as it pertains to building an engine for growth and innovation, driving 21st-century value creation, and using business as a force for good.
As Omnicom and the TBWA agencies’ firstever chief purpose officer, Roberson served Fortune 500 companies including: Apple, Google, Sephora, Disney, and PepsiCo, and has been instrumental in helping businesses connect their brands with purpose and sustainability to create global impact across the stakeholder ecosystem. She is a respected speaker, author, and advisor whose expertise has been sought out by Adweek, Forbes, Cannes Lions, HBR, and the United Nations, among others. Roberson previously led global communications firm Jadi Communications as its chief executive officer for nearly two decades, offering advertising, marketing, and strategic services to a number of high-profile clients such as National Geographic, Procter & Gamble, Sony, and Mazda Motorcars.
Her work explores how to bridge generational gaps and support women in the workplace was recently featured in Harvard Business Review’s book Overcoming Ageism as part of the “Women at Work” series. She is currently a doctoral candidate at Switzerland’s Business School Lausanne, where she is researching the links between a corporation’s commitments to sustainability and purpose to the creation of brand value.
In 2018 Roberson joined the faculty of her alma mater, serving as a professor in the Graziadio Business School’s Presidents and Key Executives MBA program. She also offers her unique guidance to the Pepperdine community as a Graziadio and Center for Women in Leadership board member. Additionally, she serves as a member of the board for Oxford Leadership, HealRWorld, and Marvel Innovations.
Roberson received her bachelor’s degree in business and communications from Chapman University. In 2014 she completed her Master of Business Administration at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School’s Presidents and Key Executives MBA program.
Denise Roberson, MBA ’14, PKE 131 Chief Purpose Officer, Omnicom\TBWA\Chiat\Day
Brandi Harleaux is the chief executive officer of South Post Oak Recycling Center in Houston, Texas, where she oversees the responsible, sustainable handling of scrap metal from private, industrial, and governmental clients. She is a sought-after speaker and entrepreneurial expert who openly turns to her personal faith as a guide in her life’s work and service.
Previously Harleaux worked at various Fortune 500 companies including Northrop Grumman, Target Corporation, Southern California Edison, and the Walt Disney Company, where she served in leadership roles using her expertise in organizational development and talent management. In 2013 she took the reins at South Post Oak Recycling Center, becoming the second generation to lead the business founded by her parents nearly 30 years ago.
Harleaux has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the International Rising Star Award from the Houston International Trade Development Council in 2021. This year she received both the Texas Small Business Person of the Year Award and the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Harleaux serves on the board at the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries and chairs the advisory board for Houston’s Office of Business Opportunity. In 2022 she joined the Graziadio Board and has been a dedicated leader of the Houston chapter of Pepperdine’s Alumni Association since 2016.
Harleaux received her bachelor of science in psychology and business administration from the University of Houston. She earned a master of science in industrial organizational psychology from California State University, San Bernardino, and in 2012 she completed her MBA at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School.
Brandi Harleaux, MBA ’12 Chief Executive Officer of South Post Oak Recycling Center
BOARD MEMBERS
Established by George L. Graziadio, Jr., in 1969, the Graziadio Business School Board plays a vital role in shaping strategies and initiatives that advance the school’s collective vision. Board members are chosen for their exceptional professional accomplishments, dedication to community enrichment, and proven ability to support Pepperdine’s mission of preparing students for lives of purpose, service, and leadership.
Meet the Graziadio Business School Board
Cindy U. Ayloush, BSM ’80, MBA ’13
Phillip M. Bardack—Thatcher Foundation
Ron Berryman, ’62, MBA ’67
Steve R. Calvillo
Morgan R. Christen, MBA ’06
Frank W. Cornell III, MBA ’78, EdD ’04
Keith D. Dorsey, MBA ’13
Paul Dutmer
John G. Figueroa, MBA ’97
Raymond A. Hall, MBA ’19
Paul S. Hamilton, MBA ’15
Brandi M. Harleaux, MBA ’12
Sinan Kanatsiz
Ike Kavas
Lisa Kerscher
Patrick Khoury, MBA ’96
Larry J. Kosmont
Darren W. Lee
Kimber L. Maderazzo, MBA ’10
Thomas R. Magnuson, MBA ’89
Mark J. Miller, MBA ’04
Vincent J. Monteparte, MBA ’01
Dick Newman
Morgan H. Rector
John M. Renfro
Darrell Riley
Denise A. Roberson, MBA ’14
Larraine D. Segil, MBA ’85
Don K. Skinner, MBA ’89
Bala Sriraghavan, MBA ’16
Joshua Taub, MBA ’99
Paul S. Wagstaff, MIB ’95
Doug Warner
Carmi Zlotnik
Board Member Spotlight: John Figueroa
“I have been in the healthcare industry for over 30 years. I began that journey because I was passionate about improving patient health despite the cumbersome business of healthcare. Through principled and honorable business practices, today we are making a difference. The Graziadio Business School has been focused on the development of value-centered leaders and on teaching ethical and responsible business practices for decades. As part of the Graziadio Board, I have been most honored to assist with this ongoing mission.”
The John Figueroa Endowed Chair and Scholarship
John and Becky Figueroa’s generous donation established the first endowed chair at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. The John Figueroa Endowed Chair in the Business of Healthcare will be instrumental in advancing Graziadio’s mission by promoting academic excellence and integrating faith and learning. This endowed position will prepare students to lead with integrity and compassion in a diverse and evolving world, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle contemporary challenges in healthcare organizations.
Additionally, John Figueroa serves on the Future of Healthcare Symposium Committee and was pivotal in establishing the Graziadio Board Business of Healthcare Endowed Scholarship.
John
Figueroa
Founder and Executive Chairman CarepathRx
SOCIAL MEDIA
Our Social Channels (As of 6/24/24)
@PepperdineGraziadioBusinessSchool
45,239 Followers
@GraziadioSchool
4,519 Followers
@Pepperdine.Graziadio
16,491 Followers
@GraziadioSchool
5,198 Followers
I am excited to share that Pepperdine Graziadio has moved into the top ranks in Fortune’s 2024 Best Part-Time MBA Programs at the #14 position, a significant jump of 35 spots from last year.
We are proud to share that Graziadio Dean Deborah Crown has been named in the Los Angeles Business Journal’s LA500 list as one of LA’s Most Influential Leaders!
Congrats to @GraziadioAlumni Ana Fonesca, who heads the largest credit union in Los Angeles County, Logix Federal Credit Union, and was recently honored as one of @LABJNews’ LA500!
“As I wrap up my first year as an MBA student at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, I had the unforgettable experience of going abroad for the Global Business Intensive in Switzerland.”
Congratulations to the newest alumni of Pepperdine Graziadio Business School!
We can’t wait to see the waves that our #Classof2024 will make in the world.
A look at our Global Business Intensive in Switzerland. Pepperdine students spent a week in Switzerland learning all about the details of managing international food and beverage brands.
TODAY, NOT TOMORROW.
George L. Graziadio, Jr.
