Professional Clothing Closet Study Abroad in Czechia
Learn more about our Professional Clothing Closet, how to utlize resources, and donate!
Highlights from the School of Business hosted, faculty-led study abroad trip to the Czech Republic
The School of Business partnered with the IIA (Nisqually Chapter) and the ISACA (Mt Rainer Chapter) to host this workshop
Farewell to Prof Troy Kirby and congratulations to Dr Lisa Power on a book publication
Learn more about our accounting program and our partnership with the IIA through students, Brian Karst and Bryza Samayoa
Recent School of Business graduate, Arjun Gill, came back this spring as a guest speaker in Dr. Joshi’s finance class.
Commencement
AMessagefromtheDean
As we reflect on the Spring 2025 semester, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the energy, innovation, and collaboration that continue to define the School of Business. This semester has been a vibrant expression of Conversatio our shared journey of learning, dialogue, and transformation—as our community came together to support student success, professional development, and global engagement
We launched the semester with impactful initiatives that equipped students with essential skills and connected them to career-shaping opportunities through meaningful conversations with professionals. Our Business Advisory Board gathered to exchange insights that continue to shape our programs and align them with real-world demands. I am especially proud to celebrate the Business Club for earning Academic Club of the Year honors. Their leadership and service reflect the best of what it means to grow and give back within a learning community. The success of our Dress for Success event, made possible by generous donors and volunteers, also underscored the strength of our shared commitment to student development.
Academic milestones like Honors Convocation, Scholar’s Day, and Commencement brought us together in celebration of student achievements and the transformative power of education. Most notably, our short-term study abroad program to Silesian University in the Czech Republic exemplified Conversatio at a global scale—fostering cross-cultural understanding, deepening institutional partnerships, and laying the foundation for continued academic collaboration.
Spring 2025 has been a season of remarkable growth, shared discovery, and connection. I am incredibly proud of our collective accomplishments and excited for the journey ahead as we continue this ongoing dialogue—Conversatio—that defines our learning community.
Dr. Chung-Shing Lee Dean, School of Business
PERSONAL WORKSHOP FINANCE
Attendees, including both students and staff, walked through a presentation, case study, and even had the opportunity to volunteer for a trial session.
On January 28 , 2025 the School of Business partnered with local business professional and author, Veronica Deraleau, to host a personal finance workshop for the Saint Martin’s community.
Attendees also received a free signed copy of her book “Making Money is Simple.”
WORKSHOPLEADER: VERONICADERALEAU
MONEY SIMPLE Presentation
Spring Job & Internship Fair
Dean Dr. Lee, Dr. Gina Armer, Dr Prashant Joshi, Professor Suzanne Chaille, and Executive Assistant Olivia Rackham participated in the Center for Career & Calling’s Spring Job & Internship Fair on February 20 , 2025 to advertise the School of Business’ graduate programs. th
The SMU Professional Clothing Closet was also featured at the fair--offering free professional clothing to students--for the first time ever. We look forward to future partnership opportunities with the Center for Career & Calling.
Saint Martin’s University’s Professional Clothing Closet
AIinAuditingWorkshop
We are excited to share the success of the AI in Auditing Workshop, held on March 7th, 2025 in partnership with the Institute of Internal Auditors (Nisqually Chapter), ISACA (Mount Rainier Chapter), and the School of Business at Saint Martin’s University. The event brought together industry experts from Microsoft and WaTech, academia, and auditing professionals for engaging discussions on the transformative role of AI in auditing and accounting. In addition to its business and educational impact, the workshop raised funds to support student participation in internal audit conferences and case competitions, further strengthening our commitment to learning and professional development We are grateful to our partners, speakers, and attendees for making this event a success and look forward to future collaborations to support the next generation of audit and accounting professionals.
Dress Success
The School of Business and Business Club hosted their annual Dress for Success event on March 24 , 2025 offering students free professional clothing, shoes, and accessories, along with refreshments and a chance to win a giveaway basket. th
Special thanks to the Center for Career & Calling for offering free professional headshots to event attendees.
On ol of Business hosted delegates from the K-Startup Cen cy (KOSME), for a special visit During their time on cam to students in the BA325 Entrepreneurship class, sha p ecosystems, and opportunities for international collaboration. In addition, the discussions focused on expanding the partnership between Saint Martin’s University and KOSME. This partnership aims to create new opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader business community to engage with industry leaders, explore emerging business trends, and foster international connections
“This spring, students in BA325: Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship course had the unique opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals thanks to a series of guest lectures by Brian Frost and Daniel Choi of KSC Seattle As students worked in teams to develop and pitch original business concepts, Brian and Daniel brought real-world perspective to the classroom, guiding students through market research, business modeling, and strategy development. Their hands-on mentorship not only deepened students’ understanding of entrepreneurial principles, but also elevated the quality and feasibility of their final business plans.
KSC Seattle is a consulting and investment firm that partners with emerging ventures and early-stage startups to refine business models and accelerate growth. With years of experience in venture strategy and operations, Brian and Daniel offered insights that helped bridge the gap between theory and practice for our students. We are deeply grateful for their time, expertise, and generous commitment to student learning. Their contributions made a lasting impact and exemplify the value of community partnerships in higher education Thank you, Brian and Daniel!” - Prof Andrew Garcia
The School of Business had a successful Spring semester Business Advisory Board Meeting on March 31st, 2025 We were honored to have President Dr Brownsberger and CFO Dr Madeley join us to welcome our board members and provide updates on university operations. This meeting was significant as we welcomed new board members and expressed our deepest gratitude to Dr. Wendy Fraser for her nine years of outstanding leadership as Board Chair. As she retires from the board, we thank her for her dedicated service and impactful contributions to our School of Business Our board members and faculty also had the opportunity to engage with student leaders through three key committees We appreciate our board members’ continued support and commitment in shaping the future of our students and education programs.
NewAdvisory NewAdvisory BoardMembers BoardMembers
Chief People Officer at WellHaven Pet Health
ShaunCarson Senior Vice President and Director of Marketing at Heritage Bank
AndreaKwan Internal Audit & Compliance Manager at the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
Data & AI Specialist at Microsoft
JinMiWilliams Founder of Olympia School of Advanced Skincare
HaydenMilligan
MichaelCruz
The Institute of Internal Auditor‘s Global Student Conference
Orlando, Florida
Accounting students, Bryza Samayoa and Brian Karst attended the Institute of Internal Auditor’s Global Student Conference in Orlando, Florida in April 2025 The funding for this student conference came directly from workshop attendance fees gathered by the IIA Nisqually Chapter and the ISACA Mount Rainer Chapter through the AI in Auditing Workshop hosted at Saint Martin’s University on March 7th, 2025.
Student Spotlight
“I had an unforgettable experience at the IIA Global Student Conference in Orlando, Florida April 13–15! The conference was held at the beautiful Disney Yacht Club Resort, which made the entire experience even more special.
The conference covered a variety of impactful topics shaping the future of internal auditing one of the most exciting being the influence of AI on our profession. It sparked engaging conversations and eye-opening insights into how technology is transforming the field Hearing from professionals who are leading the way was truly inspiring, and it reinforced how we, as future auditors, can adapt and thrive in this rapidly changing environment.
One of the highlights of the conference was participating in the student case study competition. Shoutout to my amazing team it was truly an incredible experience working together, applying what we’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, collaborating under pressure, and showcasing our skills in front of industry leaders.
I was proud to represent Saint Martin's University alongside my classmate Brian Karst and even more honored that we did so as student members of the IIA Nisqually Chapter Grateful for the chance to grow professionally, connect with amazing peers and mentors, and walk away even more motivated for what’s next.”
- Bryza Samayoa, Class of 2
2025VITAProgram
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program started in 2018 under the leadership of Professor Diane Bingaman. At its inception, 8 volunteers completed 33 tax returns. In 2025 there were:
Total refunds secured for taxpayers since the program’s inception: $2,119,401.
Other facts:
54% of those served were over 60 years of age
10% of those served had small businesses.
BusinessClub BusinessClub
ASSMU’s
Academic CluboftheYear
Congratulations to the Business Club who won the 2024-2025 Academic Club of the Year from the Associated Students of Saint Martin’s University (ASSMU)’s annual Student Appreciation Awards night on April 16 , 2025. This award is in recognition of the outstanding leadership of the club’s executive board: President Isabel Pacheco, Vice President Ryan Fish, Secretary Mina Del Pilar, Treasurer Elizandrea Tuato’o, and Senator of Business Brandon Tuato’o Special congratulations are in order for Elizandrea who also won the Treasurer of the Year award and to Brandon who won Student Worker of the Year.
School of Business student Mina Del Pilar presented her research at Saint Martin’s University’s 2025 Scholars Day on April 29. Her presentation, titled “The 12 Key Leadership Characteristics and Their Presence at Saint Martin’s University,” is based on research conducted in Dr. Lisa Power’s BA470 Leadership class during the Fall 2024 semester. Dr. Power served as the faculty sponsor for the project
Honors Convocation
ExcellenceinBusinessAward: PeytonGriffin
Outstanding Business Administration Student Award: AmyMontenegro-Amaya
On May 9 , 2025, the School of Business hosted their annual Grad Picnic for graduating Business and Accounting students. The picnic was held at Lacey Community Center with lunch catered by Panda Express. The event was well attended by graduating students and their families, as well as Delta Mu Delta honor society inductees. th
& DELTA MU DELTA INDUCTION CEREMONY
When the School of Business received accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), we were afforded the opportunity for our students to be inducted into the international business honor society, Delta Mu Delta. To qualify, graduate students need to achieve a GPA of 3.90 or higher and undergraduate students need a GPA of 3.72 or higher. The following are our 2025 inductees:
Undergraduate Students:
Claire Campbell
Matthew Davidson
Peyton Griffin
Abigail Halstead
Brian Karst
Charlize Pasco
Kyle Schabot
Ty Sugimoto
Kendra Sydnor
Graduate Students:
Anicia Adam
Dantae Coleman
Natalie Johnson
Dakota Wright
COMMENCEMENT
G R A D U A T E S
Master of Accountancy
Shyann Roberto
Dakota Wright
Master of Business Administration
Anicia Adam
Jie cheng
Dantae Coleman
Rebecca Dobler-Chale
Roqia Ebrahimi
Catherine Finch
Sunny Gurung
Bobby Hanna
Rachel Kimura
Isabell Llinas
Inara Lopes De Andrade
Tinoi Ma’afala
Jackie Madhava
Oriah Moses
Kabulamaria Mpanduji
Amber Mullereile
Jera Roller
Jocelyn Saribay
Sean Selanikio
Marcel Stevens
Elizandrea Tuato’o
Leslie Vazquez Tamayo
Dion Williams
Bachelor of Arts
Matthew Davidson***
Brian Karst**
Isaiah Liberato
Gabriella Rivera
Kevia Ruiz Rodriguez
Bryza Samayoa*
Jazz Schmidt
An Thai
Brandon Tuato’o*
Anthony Arrecchi*
Noah Boyd
Maliki Dunlap**
Jamari Foster
Gavin Gilstrap
Peyton Griffin***
Abigail Halstead
Adina Howard
Alia Khoyi
Hayden Kosmider**
Pou McCall
Amy Montenegro-Amaya***
Aaron Nease
Trinity Oden-Herbst
Isabel Pacheco***
Charlize Pasco**
Dragen Reale**
Victoriano Reyes Jr.*
Myles Samuels
Abdwaan Scott
Naiya Shakoor**
Hunter Smith
Jennifer Soha***
Ty Sugimoto*
Enrique Trujeque
Sheila Vazquez-Silva
Benjamin Vongdara***
*Cum Laude
**Magna Cum Laude
***Summa Cum Laude
Special congratulations to Olivia Rackham, School of Business Executive Assistant, and Jera Roller, Graduate Assistant for the MBA program
We proudly celebrate the remarkable academic achievements of two valued members of our School of Business team Olivia Rackham, Executive Assistant, and Jera Roller, Graduate Assistant for the MBA program on their graduation from Saint Martin's University in May 2025.
Olivia has earned her Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) with a perfect 4.0 GPA culminating in her induction into the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi international honor society in recognition of her outstanding academic performance and exemplary character.
Jera has completed her Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a perfect 4 0 GPA Her exceptional academic excellence and demonstrated leadership qualities have earned her the coveted 2025 Distinguished MBA Award and induction into the Delta Mu Delta international honor society in business.
Their impressive accomplishments exemplify the dedication, perseverance, and passion for excellence that define our School of Business community. Please join us in congratulating Olivia and Jera on this significant milestone in their educational journeys.
Welcome to Czechia
May 15 - 25 , 2025, the School of Business hosted a 10-day faculty-led study abroad trip to the Czech Republic. After 20 hours of traveling, the Business in Czechia study abroad crew finally made it to Prague, Czech Republic. Following a brief meet up for a late dinner and some language lessons, the group is ready for a full day of tourist activities tomorrow. Our generous hosts, Veronika and Dana, from Silesian University met us at the airport with lovely signs and provided the group with a late dinner and a few language lessons back at the hotel to finish off the night.
Whilst in Prague, the Business in Czechia group had an excursion to the Museum of Alchemy. This 30-minute museum tour took the group down to the Prague catacombs and told an interestingly detailed history of alchemy in the region.
Exploring
On May 17 , 2025, the Business in Czechia enjoyed 3hour guided walking tour of Prague, exploring Old Town, New Town, the Jewish Quarter, the Charles Bridge, and the Lennon Wall. th
National Museum
River Cruise
On May 18 , 2025, the Business in Czechia group toured the National Museum of Prague. Sightseeing in the museum included historical elements, a geology room, natural history, and more! The museum also had an amazing view of the city from the top floor. In the afternoon, the group enjoyed some free time, visiting shops, sightseeing, and grabbing a bite to eat. In the evening, they enjoyed a river cruise with amazing views of the Charles Bridge and a typical Czech dinner afterwards at a local pub.
Prague Castle
Czech Folklore Show
On May 19 , 2025, the group visited the infamous Prague Castle where they toured the Old Royal Palace, the Presidential Residence, the Basilica of St. George, Golden Lane, and the St Vitus Cathedral, viewing beautiful stained glass and gothic architecture and learning more about the buildings’ history. In the evening, the group enjoyed a traditional Czech folklore show: a countryside atmosphere experience in the heart of Prague that included a 4-course Czech dinner and a 2.5 hour interactive folklore show with singing and dancing.
Workshops at Silesian University
On May 21 , 2025, the group attended a faculty workshop on global economies in the U.S., Czechia, andtheEUatSilesianUniversitySchoolofBusinessAdministration.Duringtheworkshop,thegroup participatedinquizgamesanddiscussedseveraldifferenteconomicdebatetopics.
In the morning of May 23 , 2025, the Business in Czechia group attended a workshop on marketing and creativity at Silesian University School of Business Administration. The workshop was a multifaceted discussion on the principles of creativity. It was more than just a lecture, involving drawing, the sharing of persoectives, and complex puzzle activities both individuallyandwithinteams
Exploring Karvina
In the afternoon of May 21 , 2025, the group was divided into teamsoftwoandgivenamapandascavengerhuntlisttodoas a fun way of exploring Karviná. The end of the hunt lead all the groups to Lodičky Dokořán where the group separated into two row boats to tour around the lake. At the end of the night, the groupenjoyedmusicanddrinksatthelakewithsomelocals
Dolní oblast Vitkovice
On May 22 , 2025, the Business in Czechia group visited Dolní oblast Vitkovice in Ostrava Dolní oblast Vitkovice is a national and cultural monument of refurbished industrial architecture formerly used for coal mining, smelting, and steel production. The site is now being used for tours and as a multi purpose eventspace
A Trip To Poland
In the afternoon, the group traveled to the one of Karviná’s neighboring towns in Poland. The town of Cieszyn isuniqueinthatitisdividedbetweentheCzechRepublicandPoland withthreebridgesconnectingthe“twin towns.” In the pictures on one of the bridges, the group is standing with one foot in each country! Whilst in Poland, the group ate a delicious lunch of pierogi and pork schnitzel, learned the history of the town, did some shopping,andindulgedinsomeyummydessert.
Marlenka Factory
On May 23rd, 2025, the group traveled to a nearby town to visit the infamous Marlenka factory a Czech/Armenian sweets factory known best for its honey cakes. The group toured the factory, sampledavarietyofdesserts,andofcoursevisitedthegiftshop!
Farewell Czechia
Before leaving Czechia, the group gifted our lovely hosts and guides, Dana and Veronika, a special Saint Martin’s University School of Business pin and said our goodbyes We are grateful for their planningandexecutionofthiswonderfultrip!
Marty Media
Student-led advertising and marketing agency, providing free services to the Saint Martin’s community. Marty Media is headed by Marketing professor, Dr Lisa Power
FarewelltoProf.TroyKirby
We sincerely thank Professor Troy Kirby for his outstanding dedication and service to the School of Business since joining us in Fall 2023 Over the past two years, Prof. Kirby has made a profound and lasting impact through his exceptional teaching, innovative leadership, and strong community engagement.
Known for his dynamic teaching style and consistently excellent course evaluations, Prof. Kirby has created engaging and intellectually stimulating learning experiences His visionary leadership in launching the Sports Management minor has opened exciting new opportunities for students, including coordinating valuable out-of-state experiential learning and internships. His commitment to excellence was recognized when he was nominated for the university’s Excellence in Teaching Award in Spring 2025.
Beyond the classroom, Prof Kirby has been a passionate advocate for our programs. He successfully organized three major outreach conferences, led recruitment efforts with remarkable enthusiasm, and significantly enhanced our marketing and outreach initiatives. His work brought distinguished guest speakers to campus, fostered important industry partnerships, and secured substantial external funding for the School’s events
Prof. Kirby’s recent book and ongoing scholarly work further demonstrate his dedication to practice-based, student-centered education. We are deeply grateful for his leadership, creativity, and energy, and we wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.
You’ll Learn About:
Publications Dr.LisaPower
Unlock global success with International Business Essentials You Always Wanted to Know. This foundational guide is ideal for entrepreneurs, students, and professionals who want to navigate the financial and strategic complexities of today’s global marketplace. Covering key topics from trade and currency dynamics to cultural intelligence, this book informs business planning by simplifying the forces that shape modern international business.
Global market entry strategies necessary for expanding into new markets
Cultural intelligence models that demystify cultural differences, helping you build adaptable skills for successful global interactions
Risk mitigation strategies to address currency fluctuations, tariffs, and other dynamic conditions
Financial tools and strategies that help companies thrive in competitive, interconnected world markets
Frameworks for navigating political and economic risks and opportunities
Prepare to succeed in any international business environment with this essential resource your key to building expertise in global commerce.
AlumniFeature-ArjunGill
Investment banker and School of Business alum Mr. Arjun Gill returned to campus to speak with Prof. Dr. Prashant Joshi's BA 300 Finance class. Arjun discussed various finance sectors, including investment banking, private equity, and consulting, emphasizing networking strategies through LinkedIn and cold outreach. He stressed that success requires both soft skills (communication, adaptability) and technical abilities (financial modeling, Excel). Drawing from real-world experience, Arjun demonstrated how these skills translate into daily investment banking tasks and broader finance roles. The session concluded with students asking questions about finance careers.
International Relations SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
On May 8 , 2025, School of Business faculty Dr. Prashant Joshi and Dean Dr. Lee met with exchange students from our partner institution, Woxsen University in Hyderabad, India, to celebrate their learning and achievements during the 2024–2025 academic year at Saint Martin’s University. th
On May 17 , 2025, School of Business Faculty Dr. Matondo Wawa and Dean Dr. Lee met with Dr. Roman Sperka, Dean of Silesian University School of Business Administration and Dr. Jana Simakova, Vice-Dean for International Relations, during a 10-day short-term study abroad trip to Prague, Czech Republic. The dinner explored opportunities for strengthening the partnership through innovation and collaboration.
Dean Dr. Lee visited the College of Management at Yuan Ze University (元智⼤學) in Taiwan in early January. He met with Dean Dr. Ariya Huang to discuss ways to strengthen the ongoing collaborative relationship between their institutions. The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to cultivating a global academic network and enhancing educational experiences through shared resources and expertise.
International Relations SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Students from Chung Shan Medical University in Taichung, Taiwan had dinner with Dean Dr. Lee and Dr. Linjun Wu at a local restaurant on May 2 , 2025 to celebrate the end of a successful semester before heading back home nd
Dean Dr. Lee is pictured with our lovely hosts during our 10-day study abroad trip to the Czech Republic at the National Museum of Prague. Veronika Maťková (center) is the International Coordinator at Silesian University School of Business Administration in Opava, Czechia Dana Chlupová (left) is a Master’s student in marketing at Silesian Univeristy. The pair served as group hosts for the Saint Martin’s University “Business in Czechia” short term study abroad trip May 16-26, 2025.
Lena Grunhagen, Coordinator of International Programs at the University of Duisburg-Essen Mercator School of Management visited with Jie Cheng, Saint Martin’s University Director of International Development, and Dean Dr. Lee at the School of Business graduation picnic on May 9 , 2025. th
