Alumni Magazine - Summer 2024

Alumni Magazine Summer 2024

 

Derek Powell, MBA '98
Breaking Barriers and Building Inclusive Workplaces

In a world where diversity often takes a backseat, Derek Powell stands out as a beacon of change. Born during the Vietnam War, Derek’s early life was a series of moves—from the outskirts of Saigon to Southern California, where he grew up amidst diverse cultures and perspectives. These experiences planted the seeds for what would become a lifelong commitment to fostering inclusive environments. READ >>

Five Ways You Can Foster Inclusive Excellence on Your Team

  • Build Social Connections: Help others feel they belong. Share your goals and purpose with colleagues and embrace differences.

  • Mentorship and Sponsorship: Implement active mentorship and sponsorship programs to ensure diversity is integrated into the daily operations of your organization. Encourage your team to view diversity as an asset.

  • Review Business Processes: Take the initiative to rework your team’s business processes. Ensure diversity considerations are embedded in recruiting, mentorship, and career advancement.

  • Promote Diversity Training: Advocate for and invest in diversity training and education for your team. Hold your team accountable for their role in promoting inclusivity.

  • Celebrate Diversity: Create and support initiatives that celebrate diversity and promote inclusion such as holidays, heritage months, and observances and spotlight your team's achievements.

Pamina Barkow Honored with Lauds and Laurels Distinguished Alumni Award

"Derek Powell, MBA '98, exemplifies the power of inclusive excellence in the business world. His journey from the disciplined halls of the U.S. Air Force Academy to the innovative realm of business was propelled by his transformative education at the Merage School."
— Ian O. Williamson, Dean, Paul Merage School of Business

Alumni Ambassador Award Winner Chris Song Sets New Standard for Excellence

Class of 2014 and 2004 Reunions

reunion 2014-2024

 

The Merage School hosted 10-year and 20-year reunion events for the Class of 2014 and 2004. VIEW PHOTOS >>

Essential Career Advice for Professional Success

Set Clear Goals

Set Clear Goals

Continuously Learn and Adapt

Continuously
Learn and Adapt

Build a Strong Network

Build a Strong
Network

Develop Soft Skills

Develop Soft Skills

Prepare for Transitions

Prepare for
Transitions

Stay Positive and Resilient

Stay Positive and
Resilient

Dean Williamson Steps into Global Leadership Role as AACSB Secretary-Treasurer

Incoming Students Experience the First-Ever Virtual 3D Tour

alumni commencement

Commencement 2024
Welcoming Our Newest Alumni

The Merage School will celebrate its commencement class on June 17 with inspiring speeches from Stella Zhang, Reza Jahangiri, and student speaker Steven Cosgrove '24. This year, we proudly graduate 430 undergraduates (up 23% from last year), 212 MBAs, 400 SMPs, and 10 PhDs. Join us in welcoming 1,052 new alumni!

graduate real estate challenge

Merage School Wins 2024 NAIOP SoCal OC Real Estate Challenge

The Merage School’s graduate student team of the Center for Real Estate won the third annual NAOIP SoCal Orange County Real Estate Challenge. READ >>

Hire Merage Students

Our students are a valuable resource, ready to bring their world-class business education to your team. Discover the profiles of talented individuals eager to explore opportunities with you.
VIEW OUR STUDENT TALENT»