Education
D.B.A.; University of Liverpool; Liverpool, England
M.A. in Information Technology; Webster University; Louisville, Kentucky
M.B.A.; Carleton University; Ottawa, Canada
B.Sc. in Civil Engineering; Kerman Bahonar University; Kerman, Iran

Biography
Although I have built an extensive career in business management and teaching, my journey didn’t begin in these fields. I started as a civil engineer, deeply immersed in the technicalities of construction and project management. I was the one troubleshooting design problems, overseeing large-scale projects, and ensuring everything was completed on time and within budget. My world was grounded in precision and logic, where outcomes could be measured, and every task followed a clear, structured process.

As time went on, my interests began to shift. While I thrived in the engineering realm, I found myself increasingly drawn to helping businesses grow and succeed. This led me to pursue advanced degrees in business and information technology, ultimately earning a Doctor of Business Administration. With more than 20 years of experience, I have authored several books, such as 1000 Tips and Tools for Small Business Success and The Golden Rules of Practical Marketing, providing practical advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Recently, I published my latest book, Mastering Life's Choices: The Pearl Model, which delves into the art of decision-making. The book provides practical tools and insights to help individuals navigate the complexities of daily decisions, drawing from both my academic background and real-world experience.

Teaching became a natural extension of my consulting work. Today, I teach business management and information technology courses. My passion lies in sharing the knowledge I’ve gained and guiding others toward success in their own ventures.

In addition to teaching and consulting, I am constantly exploring new opportunities, from developing real estate projects to public speaking engagements. Whether it’s through my books, lectures, or one-on-one coaching, my goal is to equip others with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

Education
DBA in International Business; Westcliff University; Irvine, CA
MBA in Marketing; Wayne State University; Detroit, MI
BA in Marketing; Wayne State University; Detroit, MI

Biography
Dr. Assaf is an experienced national and international professional with a solid understanding of sales, franchise development, and market expansion. Dr. Assaf has extensive experience in training franchisees and implementing strategies to develop new markets for products and services. Dr. Assaf possesses in-depth knowledge of distribution systems, particularly in relation to imported products and fuel systems. His background includes a wholesale and retail background both nationally and internationally.

With executive experience managing organizations with annual revenues exceeding $10 million, Dr. Assaf has a proven track record of overseeing large-scale operations and achieving financial success. Dr. Assaf has a keen ability to analyze problem-based issues and develop effective strategies to enhance productivity, quality, and efficiency within organizations.

Dr. Assaf is known for his exceptional leadership skills. He possesses the ability to plan, organize, direct, inspire, and lead teams to achieve common goals. His leadership style fosters an empowering, supportive, visionary, creative, and collaborative environment.

Dr. Assaf demonstrates excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective interactions with individuals at all levels. He is adept at building and maintaining relationships, both within and outside the organization. Dr. Assaf's strong communication skills facilitate conveying complex concepts clearly and engagingly, making him an effective instructor and trainer.

Dr. Assaf has a well-rounded educational and personal background that enriches his teaching approach. His diverse experiences contribute to an inquiring, independent, and analytical approach to learning. He brings real-life examples to the classroom, bridging theory with practical applications. This approach helps students grasp and apply concepts effectively.

Dr. Assaf is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in sales, franchise development, and market expansion. His executive background, combined with a strong understanding of distribution systems, adds depth to his expertise. Dr. Assaf possesses exceptional leadership skills, a strategic mindset, and a focus on improving productivity and efficiency. Dr. Assaf's interpersonal and communication skills, coupled with his well-rounded educational and personal background, make him an engaging and effective educator.

Education
Ph.D. in Global Leadership; Pepperdine University; Malibu, CA
M.A. in International Relations; University of San Diego; San Diego, CA
B.A. in International Relations; Brigham Young University; Provo, UT

Biography
My journey as a scholar and educator began with a childhood fascination for the complex web of global relations. This early passion set me on a path to a Ph.D. in Global Leadership, where I dedicated my research to the intricate dynamics of diplomacy, focusing primarily on foreign policy and international relations.

During my doctoral studies, the opportunity to include a positionality statement in my dissertation proved pivotal. It allowed me to articulate my core beliefs: that individuals have the power to effect significant change, that all people deserve a sovereign homeland, and that the lessons of history are vital to our understanding of the present and future.

At the heart of my work lies a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education and diplomacy. Fostering understanding across cultures can lead to more peaceful and prosperous global relations. My research and teaching are fueled by a desire to empower the next generation of leaders with the tools to navigate our complex international landscape.

As the landscape of global relations rapidly evolves, I am deeply committed to pioneering innovative approaches in diplomacy. My work increasingly explores how emerging technologies, social media, and digital platforms can reshape diplomatic practices and international negotiations. This passion for innovation extends to my research methodology, where I champion an interdisciplinary approach. I believe that the complex challenges of our interconnected world demand solutions that draw from diverse fields of knowledge. By integrating insights from psychology, economics, data science, and even neurobiology into the study of international relations, I aim to develop more comprehensive frameworks for understanding global dynamics.

Looking ahead, I aspire further to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world policy-making. My goal is to develop innovative frameworks that can be applied practically in diplomatic settings, potentially influencing foreign policy decisions for the better. I dream of establishing a think tank that brings experts from various disciplines to tackle pressing international challenges, fostering collaboration that transcends traditional academic and diplomatic boundaries.

My story is of passion, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of education, innovation, and individual agency. It is a journey that continues to evolve, driven by a desire to contribute to a more informed, just, and interconnected global society. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to see the world as it is and as it could be—a place where dialogue trumps conflict and diverse nations find common ground in our shared humanity.

Education
Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology; Alliant International University; Los Angeles, CA
M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology; Alliant International University; Los Angeles, CA
M.A. in Psychology; Pepperdine University; Los Angeles, CA
B.A. in Psychology; California Polytechnic University; Pomona, CA
B.S. in Chemical Engineering; University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA

Biography
George Benard Shaw famously proclaimed that “Those who can, do. Those who can’t teach.” With all due respect to Mr. Shaw, I believe that those who “do” are in a unique position and have a moral obligation to teach.

My work as an adjunct professor came late in my professional career after holding positions with both for-profit and non-profit organizations, within government agencies, and with private companies. My studies in chemical engineering at USC led to employment with California’s Air Resources Board where I spent the next 25 years in positions of increasing responsibility. My efforts to improve air quality afforded me the opportunity to travel across the country and the world to confer with domestic and foreign governments and citizens eager to learn from the challenges and successes experienced in California. Although I found the work fulfilling, I felt disconnected from my goal of improving the lives of Californians.

One day, while reading the Charles Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol”, I was deeply moved by the words of Jacob Marley. Appearing as a heavily ladened and despondent apparition to his business partner, Scrooge offered an intended compliment that Marley was always a “good man of business.” The spirit woefully replied, “Business?! Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, benevolence, were all my business.” To this end, and perhaps to escape Marley’s fate, I accepted a position with the Los County Department of Mental Health where I believed my master’s degree in psychology from Pepperdine University would be of most use. My desire to find a way to combine my passion for psychology with my years of management experience was the driving force behind pursuing an advanced degree and ultimately earning a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. Having “done”, as Shaw would say, it was now time for me to teach.

My approach to teaching is simple; the more interesting and relatable the subject matter, the more easily it is understood. It is my goal to ignite curiosity and a passion for learning within my students and encourage conversations on the topics at hand as opposed to delivering lectures just to test student’s ability to recall what’s been said.

At one point in all our lives we pushed our elders to the brink of hysteria by constantly asking “Why?” and if we considered the response to be incomplete or unsatisfactory, asking “Why?” again and again. I believe that too many of us have been conditioned to simply accept information presented to us as truth without understanding because questioning authority has been discouraged. Conversely, I strive to create an environment where it is alright to ask “Why?” again and have found that both students and their instructor tend to learn something in the process.

Education
M.A. in Psychology; Antioch University; Los Angeles, CA
M.Div.; St. John’s Seminary; Camarillo, CA
B.A. in Psychology; Adlai E. Stevenson College; University of California, Santa Cruz

Biography
Jim is a Southern California native. He studied for the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, obtaining a Master’s of Divinity from St. John’s Seminary. After spending several years in church ministry, he switched career paths and has been working in higher education administration. He continues to lead retreats, present workshops, and provide liturgical & spiritual direction for the San Fernando Valley chapter of DignityUSA. He is the Research Administrator for the Travis Research Institute (TRI) at the School of Psychology of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena.

Deacon Jim is an avid movie-watcher and Star Wars fan and collector. Some of his favorite inspirational people are Greg Louganis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Walt Disney, William Blake, Saint Francis of Assisi and Blessed Padre Miguel Pro. Because of his interdisciplinary background encompassing both humanities and social science, he has taught courses in philosophy, art history, psychology, the history/philosophy of science & technology, world religions, The Bible, and Christianity.

Check out Professor Cummings's published article in Christian Academia Magazine!

Education
M.A. in English Literature; California State University, Northridge; Los Angeles, CA
B.A. in English; University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA

Biography
Robert Danielak was born in New York City and graduated from UCLA with a B.A. in English (2007) and a Master of Arts in English Literature with Distinction from California State University, Northridge (2011). His M.A. Thesis explored language and identity in contemporary ethnic American writers and essayists. Currently teaching ESL, English Composition, and Writing classes, Mr. Danielak has also taught Business English, Shakespeare, and English Literature at the college level. In addition, his passion for writing has taken him back to New York after graduation where he worked at several book publishers, one of them Hippocrene Books, Inc., on major memoir and non-fiction projects. In addition, while earning his M.A., Mr. Danielak worked with prolific Argentine-Armenian poet Alicia Ghiragossian and her non-profit human rights organization where he published his first book: Alicia G: The Poet Philosopher of the New Millennium (2009) which explored Alicia’s unique brand of poetry and the awareness her literature spreads about human rights issues around the world. The link between writing and promoting positive social change is one of the cornerstones of Mr. Danielak’s teaching philosophy. In the classroom, Mr. Danielak strives to instill his students with confidence in writing and the Language Arts as well as with an appreciation for the flourishing uses of writing and literature in our individual lives and in our society today. Outside the classroom, Mr. Danielak is constantly pursuing his passion as a working writer which he finds makes for great life lessons for his students who may also wish to work in creative fields.

Education
Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering; University of Newcastle, Australia; Callaghan NSW, Australia
M.B.A.; University of California, Los Angeles – Anderson School of Management; Los Angeles, CA
Bachelor of Engineering in Chemistry; University of Newcastle, Australia; Callaghan NSW, Australia

Biography
Dr. Petra Deeter is an award-winning film director and a social impact builder. As a filmmaker, she founded Sprrkle Media Production (http://sprrkle.com) where she makes films in many genres, focusing on using the visual story medium to tell the stories that matter. Her film “Reborn”, about domestic violence, premiered at the legendary Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, won over 2-dozen international awards, and screened at festivals and theatres around the world. Her upcoming film is a feature-length documentary “At All Costs” that examines a 5-year custody battle and the system failure that led to the murder of a 10yo boy by his manipulative father. As a survivor of child abuse and domestic violence, she is passionate about creating social impact to advocate for victims. She is the founder of Victim To Hero Institute (http://victimtohero.com) where she provides resources and support for victims of dysfunctional family dynamics, raises public awareness, and champions system and social changes. In her 2nd Ph.D. in Psychology at the College of Health and Medicine at the University of Tasmania in Australia, she focuses her research on healing pathways for adult survivors.

Dr. Deeter is a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record of success. She also helped many technology startups raise money from Venture Capitalists and Angel investors and was featured in the book "Real Influence" by Mark Goulston and John Ullmen. In her 1st Ph.D. in Engineering, she developed a technology for minerals processing called the Reflux Classifier, which is now being used around the world. The Australian Coal Society estimated that her technology saves the Australian coal industry hundreds of millions of dollars each year through optimizing extracts and waste reduction. As a result, she was presented with the Australian Technology Innovation Award by the Australian Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Resources and the Bill McKay Medal from the Australian Coal Society.

Education
Ph.D. in English & Speech Communication; Southern Illinois University; Carbondale, IL
M.A. in Creative Writing, Playwriting & Theatre; University of South Dakota; Vermilion, SD
B.S. in English; University of South Dakota; Vermillion, SD

Biography
Dr. Barbara DeSorbo has taught English Literature and Composition, Speech Communications, Creative Writing and Playwriting, as well as English as a Second Language at both the university and high school levels for more than ten years. Aside from having served administratively as Department Chair of the English Department at a private college prep, she has worked in the areas of curriculum development, English competency placement exam production and evaluation, as well as writer’s workshop growth and expansion. Additionally, Dr. DeSorbo has conducted several writer’s style guide seminars for faculty and students alike.

Education
PhD in Organization and Management, Leadership; Capella University; Minneapolis, MN
MBA.; University of Phoenix; Phoenix, Arizona
BSBA.; University of Phoenix; Phoenix, Arizona

Biography
Chika Ebenezer Duru holds BSBA and MBA degrees with an emphasis in Marketing and Management from the Southern California Campus of the University of Phoenix. He further earned a Ph.D. degree in Organization and Management with a special emphasis in Leadership from Capella University in Minnesota. In an attempt to master the art of teaching, Chika Duru earned an Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) in teaching from Veritas University (The Prestigious Catholic University of Nigeria), Abuja, Nigeria.

Chika Duru who served as a Senior Lecturer at Veritas University was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor by the Prestigious Air Force Institute of Technology, Nigerian Air Force Base in Kaduna, Nigeria after a thorough assessment of his contributory roles in knowledge development and his academic works and performance as evidenced in Google Scholar works. In addition, Chika Duru has attended numerous conferences and seminars. Chika Duru who has authored books in key management courses, including Entrepreneurship Development Textbook, has a great interest in Research and Development. Chika Duru, a well-disciplined and seasoned university lecturer, has physically facilitated many more courses including; Entrepreneurship Development, Introduction to Business, Business Communication, Business Policy, E-Commerce, Strategic Management, Marketing, Management, Principles of Insurance, and Leadership courses in various universities
in the USA and Africa over the past 16 years. As a risk retention specialist and a great strategist, Chika Duru believes in the saying that a bird in the hand is worth thousands in the bush. In other words, as a Retention Specialist, taking good care of what you already have is better than what you don’t.

Chika Duru’s professional experience cannot be limited to his over 28 years of extensive knowledge and experience in the insurance industry as an Insurance Broker in California. For nearly five years, Prof Chika Duru served as the pioneer Head of the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and also served as the Deputy Dean of, the Faculty of Management Sciences at the prestigious Veritas University, (The Prestigious Catholic University of Nigeria), Abuja, Nigeria. Chika Duru’s wealth of knowledge and experience in Universities has exposed him to the mastery of the administrative procedures in the academic world.

Education
Ph.D. in Organization and Management; Capella University; Minneapolis, MN
M.B.A. in Financial Management; National University; San Diego, CA
M.P.A. in Public Administration and Planning; Pepperdine University; Los Angeles, CA
B.A. in General Studies (Political Science/History); Chaminade University of Honolulu; Honolulu, HI
Diploma; Defense Systems Management College; Ft. Belvoir, VA
Diploma; U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College; Quantico, VA
Certificate in Spanish Language and Culture; Universidad de Salamanca; Salamanca, Spain
California Teaching Credential (Lifetime) Community College

Biography
Welcome everyone, I am Dr. Richard Gayer. I have been teaching at various universities over 15 years, including Park University, George Mason University, Webster University, and UCLA. My degrees include MPA, MBA (Financial Management), and a Ph.D. in Organization and Management. I also have a certificate from la Universidad de Salamanca in Spain in international business and culture. Over the years, I have taught at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in accounting, finance, managerial accounting, international business, and strategy. I also taught classes in Japan and Puerto Rico. I have also served on several doctoral committees involving student dissertations.

I have had senior executive experience in government and private business sectors. I had positions with the US Department of Defense, Joint Chiefs of Staff, an international security company, a major aerospace company, and was a managing director for a trading company involved in Latin America and the Pacific Rim. I have also been involved in consulting in the international and domestic strategic management areas with a major consulting firm. My academic interests are business strategy, international business strategy, cross-culture management, international finance, and am currently writing a book on public safety management and strategy, and an article on international Corruption.

Education
D.B.A.; Argosy University; Orange, CA
M.B.A.; Argosy University; Orange, CA
B.S. in Civil Engineering; Middle East Technical University; Ankara, Turkey
Dr. Seyed Ghoraishi has over 25 years of engineering, project management, and project controls experience.

Biography
Dr. Ghoraishi worked as a Project Control Engineer Consultant at Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), Southern California Edison (SCE) & LA Metro in planning and controlling actual vs. plan of any construction performance using Earning Value Technique. He is an expert in using Primavera Oracle P6. He can plan construction projects, detect the variances during the course of construction, forecast final project budget and finish date.

Dr. Ghoraishi served as Civil Engineer Supervisor at Khorasan Petrochemical Company in Iran. He was Project Manager of Bojurd Airport, a medium airport type (BJB), from start to finish. He has strong computer skills with MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Visio, Access, Expedition, Prolog and Adobe Acrobat.

Dr. Ghoraishi has PE and Building Certificates. He is currently operating his own Design/ Build company in Southern California.

Dr. Ghoraishi has a great passion for teaching management and leadership courses in business development. He has joined Westcliff University as an adjunct professor since 2019.

Education
M.B.A. University of Illinois
B.S in Business, San Diego State University
Human Resources Certificate, San Diego State University
SPHR, Senior Professional in Human Resources Designation

Biography
As a Dale Carnegie Trainer, Robin has worked with both corporate and governmental organizations, teaching courses in effective communications, interpersonal relationship skills, leadership, stress, and presentation skills. Robin has trained hundreds of business leaders in entrepreneurial to Fortune 500 companies. Clients she has served include (partial list): US Military, Northrop Grumman, US Border Patrol, Cox Communications, Sony, In n Out Burger, Nokia, UCSD, Scripps Health, and Qualcomm.

She draws on her over 25 years of work experience in marketing, human resources and training and development in two Fortune 100 companies as well as experience with small entrepreneurial companies. As a professor, Robin Heckler incorporates her training background in the classroom blending business theory with practical experience. With over 15+ years’ experience at international business universities, Robin specializes in teaching courses in marketing, management, human resources, organizational development, and communication.

Education
Ph.D. in Finance; Walden University, MN
M.Phil. in Economics, University of Oxford, England
B.A. in Economics; University of Tehran, Iran

Biography
Dr. Hojat has been serving as dissertation chair, dissertation committee member, and University Research Reviewer as well as teaching courses in finance, economics, and quantitative/ qualitative research since 2019. Dr. Hojat has over 25 years of experience teaching courses in finance, economics, and international trade. While keeping his affiliation with academia, Dr. Hojat has been engaged in investment and economic research for the past 20 years. Dr. Hojat has published articles in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Asset Management, International Business Research, the International Journal of Applied Management and Technology, and Westcliff International Journal of Applied Research. Dr. Hojat has participated in international conferences including IMF and UNCTAD.

Education
M.J. in Journalism and New Ventures, Dalhousie University; Nova Scotia, Canada
B.J. in Journalism, University of King’s College; Nova Scotia, Canada
B.A. in History, Queen’s University; Ontario, Canada

Biography
Jennika Ingram is an educator, ESL instructor, journalist, reporter, writing coach, and writer based in Los Angeles. With over 15 years of experience, she has a diverse background in teaching and journalism. Ingram specializes in ESL instruction, having served as the head teacher for international students. Additionally, she has taught early childhood education, including children with emotional challenges, and led a class on web marketing for adults for five years.

Throughout her career, Ms. Ingram has worked as an adult educator in various international schools across the United States and Canada, teaching in English, grammar, and film production. She holds a master's degree (MJ) in journalism, earned jointly with New Ventures Entrepreneurship, from Dalhousie University in Canada.

Ingram has also pursued further education through extension classes at UCLA in writing and at New York University (Tisch) in film production. Her academic background includes studies in early childhood education at the University of British Columbia and Northern Lights University. She is certified by CBEST and holds a TEFL certificate.

Currently, Ms. Ingram contributes as a staff columnist for three California magazines: Venice Living Magazine, the Santa Monica Spotlight, and Living Brentwood. Additionally, she is the author of a nonfiction parenting book.

Education
M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy; Northcentral University; San Diego, CA
B.S. in theology; Multnomah University; Portland, OR
Certificate, International Center for Cooperation and Conflict Resolution, Teachers College, Columbia University; New York, NY

Biography
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Emiko Iwata received her undergraduate degree in theology and possesses over 13 years experience in ministry leadership roles, including youth ministry director, teacher, speaker, music leader, and pastoral search committee team member. After moving to New York, she completed a certificate program in conflict resolution at Teachers College, Columbia University, which focused on increased awareness and prevention of international, organizational, community, and family injustice. During her academic career, she was honored as a chosen apprentice with the New York Peace Institute as a volunteer mediator, and was also a co-consultant and designer of a conflict management system for a non-profit organization of 150 staff. Professor Iwata also holds an M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy in Northcentral University's California Licensure track where she studied psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories and approaches.

In 2016, Emiko moved back west to Los Angeles and was brought on at the Los Angeles LGBT Center--"the world's largest community health center serving the LGBTQ community." Since then, she has joined the mental health clinical staff within the STOP Violence Program where she conducts individual, group, and couples therapy. She also has been working with a team to develop and roll out the center’s first emergency housing grant and serves on the organization’s Communication project management panel.

Education
Ed.D. Educational Leadership; Argosy University; Orange, CA
M.A. Curriculum/Instruction; Argosy University; Orange, CA
M.A. in International Affairs (Political Science); California State University, Sacramento; Sacramento, CA
B.S. in International Business; Babson College; Babson Park, MA

Biography
Dr. Michael Kahler earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Argosy University. He has an M.A. in International Affairs from C.S.U.S. as well as a B.S. in Business from Babson College. He teaches a variety of business courses with a specialty in Marketing and Management. Dr. Kahler has lived in Japan, Italy, and France and enjoys working with students from around the world.

Dr. Kahler has extensive experience in the field of education. He is an educational consultant as well as an adjunct faculty member for several colleges. He is a member of the National Business Educators Association.

Dr. Kahler has a background in political and managerial consulting. His political advising includes local and international political campaigns. His specialty is branding and social media marketing for candidates and parties. Dr. Kahler also advises international companies that are interested in importing goods or setting up corporate offices in the United States.

Education
Ph.D. in Social Sciences and Comparative Education; UCLA; Los Angeles, CA
M.Ed. in Education & Communication; Aquinas College; Grand Rapid, MI
B.A. in English & Psychology; Grand Valley State University; Allendale, MI

Biography
Dr. Amanda Kenderes earned her Ph.D. in Social Sciences and Comparative Education from UCLA in 2012. Owing to her interdisciplinary background, she has taught courses in Psychology, Sociology, Communication, Education, English (composition, creative writing and literature), Political Science, Business, Gender Studies and Media Studies.

With an international upbringing that spans five continents, Dr. Kenderes is interested in issues of communication and culture. She has over ten years of teaching experience in Korea, Michigan, and California. Her professional work experience includes a variety of employers, including the United Nations (UNESCO), UCLA, and Loyola Law School.

Education
J.D.; California Western School of Law, San Diego, CA
B.A. in Psychology; University of California-Riverside, Riverside, CA

Biography
As a Gnostic Christian Iranian diaspora and a tri-linguist, with over two decades of diverse professional experience, Professor Klayton Khishaveh, is a dynamic addition to the academic community, currently serving as an undergraduate psychology professor. His journey is marked by academic excellence and a commitment to advancing knowledge in both law and psychology. His extensive background includes over 20 years of combined experience as a Chief Litigation Counsel, Senior Litigation Paralegal, and licensed California Attorney. Professor Khishaveh has been recognized for his outstanding academic achievements, having graduated with honors in psychology and earning membership in prestigious honor societies such as Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude and Golden Key Honors Society. He is a Member of Inns of Court, Trial Lawyers of America, and a former member of the 9th Circuit Court.

Beyond his legal pursuits, Professor Khishaveh has made notable contributions to psychology through extensive research and study in Jungian Psychology and Psychoanalysis. He has delved into the interpretation of Carl Jung's "Red Book" and published research titled "Effect Learning and Memory in Police Line-ups and Photo-ups."

He is not only an accomplished legal professional but also a dedicated educator committed to shaping the future of psychology. His rich background, encompassing law, psychology, and extensive research contributions, positions him as an asset in the academic arena. Professor Khishaveh's passion for excellence and unique perspective promise to inspire and empower the next generation of psychology professionals.

Education
M.B.A. in Business Administration; International American University; Los Angeles, CA
B.S. in Accounting; University of Arizona; Tucson, AZ

Biography
Patrick Kim is currently a Board of Director Member with International American University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Arizona and a Master of Business Administration degree with International American University. Patrick is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in California. He serves as CEO of CAS Accountancy since 2004. He currently teaches courses in Accounting, Auditing and attestation, and Cost Accounting.

Education
Psy.D. Phillips Graduate Institute; Chatsworth, CA
M.B.A. in Business Administration; University of Redlands; Redlands, CA
B.A. in Sociology; University of California, Los Angeles; Los Angeles, CA

Biography
Jim Lott is an organization and management psychologist who specializes in providing health care organizations with strategic thinking/planning, management development, communications management, change management, organization and stakeholder development expertise.

Dr. Lott was the first Chief Strategy Officer for recently-opened Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital where he was responsible for strategic planning and business development for the 131-bed general acute care hospital serving the Second Supervisorial District and one of the poorest communities in the nation.  He was formerly an executive vice president with the Hospital Association of Southern California, where he was responsible for health care policy development, advocacy, and association communications for hospitals serving Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties.

Dr. Lott also served a five-year stint as the president and chief executive officer of the Hospital Council of San Diego and Imperial Counties, a trade association representing the hospitals and health systems in the southern-most region of California.

Prior to San Diego, Dr. Lott served for nine years as staff director and chief consultant to the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services of the California Legislature.  He also held various administrative, policy development and advocacy positions with the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services over a six-year period.

Dr. Lott earned his undergraduate degree in Sociology at Cal State L.A., his MBA degree at the University of Redlands, and he earned his doctorate in Psychology from Phillips Graduate University.

Dr. Lott is the California State Senate appointee to the Citizens Financial Accountability and Oversight Committee for the state’s stem cell program. Also, he serves on the County of Los Angeles Emergency Medical Services Commission.

Education
E.J.D in Health Law; Concord Law School; Los Angeles, CA
M.B.A.; Nova SouthEastern University; Fort Lauderdale, FL
B.A. in Business Administration; American Intercontinental University; Scottsdale, AZ

Biography
With over two decades of experience in various roles within retail and Compliance banking, Maxine currently serves as the Senior AML Bank consultant for prominent financial institutions in the United States and Asia. Maxine specializes in Financial Crimes and collaborates with FINCEN, a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, focusing on combating money laundering and drug trafficking within the USA. Her regulatory responsibilities primarily fall under the Currency and Financial Transactions Reporting Act of 1970 for Citibank.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Maxine has volunteered with the Law Firm of Michael Raheb (Criminal Attorney) in Florida, where she contributed to filing cases, preparing briefs, and managing discovery evidence. Additionally, she played an active role in teaching and mentoring students under The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) program of 2006 in Immokalee, Florida. This program represents the latest version of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965, which authorizes federal spending on K-12 schooling support programs.

Maxine remains engaged with her alma maters, Nova Southeastern University and Concord Law School, as an active member of their Alumni Associations. She is also a proud participant in the National Association of Professional Women, showcasing her commitment to professional development and networking within her field.

Education
Ed.D. in Organizational Change Management and Leadership; University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA
M.B.A. in Organizational Leadership: University of La Verne; La Verne, CA
B.B.A.; University Of Phoenix; Phoenix, AZ

Biography
Dr. Colleen Meyer has over 30 years in business operations and change management experience. Dr. Meyer has held the following titles: Manager, General Manager, Regional Director of Operations, Campus President, Dean of Business, Professor, Director of Career Services and Title IV, Entrepreneur. Dr. Meyer has received the award for General Manager of the Year in 2001, Highest Performing Schools in 2010 and 2013, and helped franchisees she worked with win 16 performance awards, including Franchisee of the Year.

Dr. Meyer has a doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California (USC), an MBA in Organizational Change from the University of La Verne, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Meyer has sat on the boards of NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners-IE) and SCORE-IE and has taught classes for the IEWBC (the Inland Empire Women’s Business Center) in Colton, Ca. Dr. Meyer has also mentored undergraduate graduates in business for the University of La Verne.

Dr. Meyer has written articles for Convenience Store Decision Magazine and Carwash.com Magazine. Dr. Meyer published a paper called, “Supporting Women Business Owners: The Inland Empire Women’s Business center: An Evaluation Study”.

She is the owner of Meyer and Mintz, an operations and marketing consulting company and owner and host of the podcast, Fearless in Pink.

Education
M.Ed. in Education; National University; Los Angeles, CA
B.A. in Art; San Diego State University; San Diego, CA

Biography
William Nowatnick is a seasoned English teacher and administrator with over 12 years of experience in a variety of accredited institutions. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and his Master’s degree from National University. After completing his student teaching at Mission Bay High School in San Diego, CA, William discovered his passion for teaching English to international students.

Throughout his career, William has guided countless students toward achieving their goals, whether it’s gaining university acceptance, securing employment, or advancing their professional skills. His commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as he regularly participates in professional development seminars and conferences.

Driven by a passion for both teaching and learning, William is dedicated to delivering engaging and thought-provoking lessons that inspire his students. Outside of work, he enjoys watching San Diego Padres baseball, reading novels, and exploring the greater San Diego area on foot.

Education
M.B.A. in Business Administration; University of Phoenix; Phoenix, AZ
B.S. in Business; University of Phoenix; Phoenix, AZ

Biography
Rocio is an executive in Hospitality and a veteran in Human Resources for over 27 years. She started from the ground up at the Hilton Hotels Corporation in the early 90’s. As a result of the many years in the industry, Rocio led and trained large teams of more than 500 employees at iconic hotels and resorts in the Los Angeles area, such as The Biltmore Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles and Loews Hotel and Resort in Santa Monica. She also had the opportunity to work for non-profits, such as Pasadena Humane Society and universities like the University of Southern California.

Her passion for Hospitality and Human Resources has taken her career to higher levels, and she now shares her knowledge and experience with the new generations by mentoring students at Mount Saint Mary’s University, Cal Poly Pomona, and UC Riverside. Rocio’s other aptitude is consulting; she guides and recommends the best practices in Human Resources management to companies in the hospitality industry. She also volunteers her time serving as a Treasurer for the Professional Human Resources Association.

Rocio attributes a God-centered optimistic spirit to her success, which advances her life forward when biblical principles are applied in every day’s triumphs or challenges.

Education
M.B.A.; International American University; Los Angeles, CA

Biography
Sean Park is an adjunct Professor of International American University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, Irvine and a Master of Business Administration degree from International American University. He currently teaches courses in Accounting, Auditing, Finance, Cost Accounting, Econ, Computer Science, Taxation, Business Consulting at the undergraduate and graduate level. Sean Park is a licensed CPA in the state of California and has enjoyed a career as an accountant with various companies.

Education
Management and Marketing: Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA
B.Sc. in Business, Marketing and Finance: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA

Biography
James Powell is an experienced educator with a long history of practicing what he preaches. James graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Pepperdine University with Master of Business Administration Degree. Fresh out of college, James founded and ran Regency Advertising Design, a full service advertising agency, specializing in healthcare marketing. After selling his advertising agency, James used the proceeds to purchase another business, Stu’s A. E. Transmission Exchange, a full service specialty retail automotive parts and service organization. Not quite finished in the world of entrepreneurship, James created another business venture as a consultant to market driven colleges and universities in the areas of, Accreditation, Curriculum Development, Learning Platform Development (eCollege and Canvas), Recruiting, and Retention/Persistence.

James has also been teaching at several universities and colleges in Southern California for the last 40 plus years where he is able teach from both education and professional experience including courses in Business and Management, Entrepreneurship, Business Law, Marketing, Communication, Economics, and Legal, Political and Ethical Dimensions of Business. James has three requirements in all of his courses: 1. Learn 2. Have fun 3. Earn a great grade.

Education
M.A. in English Literature; Azusa Pacific University; Azusa, CA

Biography
Christina Przybilla is a published writer. She worked as a story analyst at prestigious organizations such as the Academy Nicholl Fellowship and the Austin Film Festival before returning to graduate school where she completed her MA in English Literature.

She has been working as a language instructor for over five years helping students acquire language skills in French, English, and German. Her specialty is teaching English as a Second Language which she has taught at all levels including TOEFL test prep.

Her core topics of research whilst studying at APU were Holocaust Literature, William Faulkner, and Tolkien. She was invited to present her work about Tolkien at Mythcon 2020 in San Diego.

Education
D.B.A. in Accounting; Argosy University, Orange, CA
Master of Accounting and Financial Management; Keller Graduate School of Management, Pomona, CA
B.Sc. in Business Administration; Lebanese University, Zahle, Bekkaa
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Biography
Ali Saad is an accomplished professional with a strong educational background and extensive experience in the field of accounting. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree in Accounting & Finance from Argosy University, where his dissertation focused on the International Financial Reporting Standards. Additionally, he has a Master's degree in Accounting & Finance from DeVry University and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science & Administration from Lebanese University.

Ali Saad is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of California. He has taught part-time at various colleges and universities, and currently serves as a visiting instructor of Financial & Managerial Accounting at DeVry University. Alongside his passion for teaching, Ali's career has revolved around accounting, as he holds the position of CEO at Saad & Associates Inc., a CPA company.

With his extensive knowledge and experience in accounting, Ali Saad brings a wealth of expertise to both his teaching role and his leadership position at Saad & Associates Inc.

Education
M.A. in Social Science; California State University; San Bernardino, CA
B.A. in Geography; California State University; San Bernardino, CA
B.A. in Social Science; California State University; San Bernardino, CA

Biography
Lisa Schmidt was born in Würzburg, Germany and graduated from CSUSB with a Master's Degree in Social Science in 2006. Her focus was on Geography along with Political Science and Economics. She has been teaching in the California Community Colleges for over a decade, helping to bridge the gap between the physical world and the cultural world, with an emphasis on sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles. She has taught Physical Geography, Cultural Geography, Environmental Geography, World Regional Geography, Geography of North America, Geography of California, and Physical Science. She is passionate about the use of technology to help students better understand the world and to help in the process of education.

Professor Schmidt has helped countless students find careers in Urban Planning, Water Treatment, and Environmentally related fields. She has taken students on many field trips to study the natural environment and sites of cultural significance. She is passionate about helping her students understand how the natural environment functions, understanding their place in it, and how they can be the change needed for a better, sustainable future.

When she is not teaching, you can find her taking her own field trips into the natural world with a camera, so that she can share her experiences with her students, friends, and family.

Education
D.B.A.; Westcliff University; Irvine, CA
M.S. in Market Economy; The Academy of Public Administration; Tashkent, Uzbekistan
M.S. in Mathematics Education; Samarkand State University; Samarkand, Uzbekistan
A.A.S. in Finance; Samarkand College of Finance and Economics; Samarkand, Uzbekistan
PMI-PBA; Project Management Institute

Biography
Dr. Alex Sherm served as the Director of Finance for Economic Development at the Department of the Treasury for the Government of Uzbekistan. He was responsible for analyzing the feasibility of FDI projects to determine credit worthiness and make final recommendations to the Prime Minister. While he was with the ministry of finance, he played an integral role in the planning, building, and in the implementation of the CIS economy.

Dr. Sherm was responsible for the execution of special projects that guided Uzbek Central Bank monetary policy and provided key decision-making support to the office of the Prime Minister. He was responsible for the authorship of core components of the Uzbek Tax Code and tax guidelines governing the public and private sector economic development and capital investments.

While serving as Director of Finance for International Debt Management (Ministry of Finance of Uzbekistan), he secured international institutional financing for capital and infrastructure projects undertaken by both government bodies and private enterprise. His experience includes working directly with such monetary institutions as the IMF, the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Asian Development Bank, Morgan Stanley, and major global players in industries ranging from oil to agriculture to healthcare.

From his past work in economic development and project finance, he has vast experience in assisting companies to build business partnerships across borders, secure financing and lines of credit, and negotiating international contracts. For over 10 years, he was a lecturer and instructor of finance and economics while working in the government in Uzbekistan and enjoys sharing real life experience with his students.

Dr. Sherm has earned a Master’s Degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Economics from top Universities in Uzbekistan, such as the Academy of Government Administration Under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. After considering his objectives, he made the important decision to pursue a Doctoral degree at Westcliff University, Irvine, CA (Valedictorian Graduate). He brings a unique global perspective to his teaching and is passionate about the power of education to support global communication and relationships.

Education
Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership; Northcentral University; San Diego, CA
M.B.A.; Saint Leo University; Saint Leo, FL
Bachelor of Business Administration; American Intercontinental University; Hoffman Estates, IL
A.A. in Business Administration; American Intercontinental University; Hoffman Hills Estates, IL

Biography
Joseph Siegmund has received his Ph. D. in Organizational Leadership from Northcentral University, Master of Business Administration from Saint Leo University with concentration in Management and Bachelors in Business Administration from American InterContinental University with concentration in Organizational Psychology and Development. In addition to these academic achievements, Dr. Siegmund has 20 years of hands on business experience in operations, management, human resources, new business development and strategic growth planning.

Dr. Siegmund’s professional business experiences include working in Client Services for a tax and Payroll Company, Owning and Managing two startup heating and air conditioning companies in Southern California, National Sales Manager for an international controls company and currently as the Vice President of Operations for same international controls company. Dr. Siegmund enjoys developing and growing new business concepts from inception to market.

Dr. Siegmund has been a volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America since he turned 18 and became an adult according to the BSA rules. As a scout, Dr. Siegmund attained the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the scouting program, and currently participates in the scouting program with his 3 sons. Scouting has provided many opportunities for Dr. Siegmund to participate in the training and development of both scouts and adult scout leaders, and he has assisted in the development of new training protocols. Dr. Siegmund also enjoys golfing, scuba diving, backpacking and skiing as often as he, his wife and children can make the time to play.

Dr. Siegmund looks forward to participating in the education process and desires to facilitate learning through interactions with students, utilizing the insights and thoughts developed in the classroom to form synergy between the students and instructor.

Education
M.B.A. in Entrepreneurship; Bay Atlantic University; Washington, DC
B.A. in Business Administration and International Relations; Istanbul Okan University; Istanbul, Turkey

Biography
Anil Sural graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Istanbul Okan University with a double major in International Relations and Business Administration. He also studied at the Faculty of Economics as an exchange student at the University of Trieste, Italy, focusing on the topic "Is Outsourcing Exploitation or an Opportunity for Developing Countries?" In 2019, he completed his MBA in Entrepreneurship with High Honors from Washington Bay Atlantic University.

His career in the media sector began in 2005 as an assistant at Fenerbahçe Television where he conducted special interviews for Radikal and Milliyet Newspapers at only 15 years old. Between 2018 and 2020, he worked at Forum USA Newspaper, a Turkish-American publication that commenced its journey on June 6, 2003, making it one of the first continuously published print newspapers in the US. Since 2020, he has also been the Washington Correspondent for DHA, reporting on the US agenda to Turkish television.

Sural has participated in numerous conferences in Turkey and has provided career guidance to students in universities and high schools. Since 2016, Sural has served as the US Representative for Once Vatan Newspaper, where he is now the Washington Bureau Chief. Additionally, he works as a contributor at Haber Global Television. He covers news related to The White House, the Pentagon, and Turkish affairs in the United States. Suril’s credentials include the White House, the US Department of State, the Pentagon (US Department of Defense), and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Education
Ph.D. in Engineering Management/Operation Research/Strategic Operation Management, MMU, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
M.S. in Industrial Engineering/SCM& E-Business Technology, Database Management Tehran, Iran
B.A. in Industrial Engineering/Safety Engineering, Kar University, Qazvin, Iran

Biography
Dr. Tehrani graduated from Kuala Lumpur in 2017 with a Ph.D. in Engineering Management/Operation Research/ Strategic Operation Management. She started teaching in higher education at the graduate and undergraduate levels in 2009. She did work as a national research science and project coordinator in 2000. She is involved in many National projects and program management in IRAN. She has worked in the automotive, semiconductor, and service industries in Asia. She worked in NASA, X- SPACE, Lockheed Martin, and Aviation and Aerospace projects. Also, she is a trainer for self-development and self-actualization. Besides, she also has passed training courses in advanced teaching and communication, financial planning, Customer service, Health and Medical Management, Leadership, and marketing.

Expertise Area: IT and security, Networking and communication, MIS, IT Project Management, System engineering, Human factors and safety engineering, Environment management, leadership, and strategic Decision Making, Organization Management, Data Analysis and Data Science, operation Management, quality management, and six sigma, E-commerce & E- Business, Technology and innovation management, Statistics and data management, logic design and Design Management, Supply chain, logistic, CRM, ERP, MRP, Inventory Management, Database Management.

Dr. Tehrani also served on dissertation or thesis committees from 2009 (qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods). She has hands-on business experience as a problem solver and advanced training in operations management and Lean Six Sigma, continuous improvement (Kaizen), cost control, and optimization since 2000.

Education
M.B.A.; University of Phoenix; Gardena, CA
B.S. in Business/Human Resources Management; University of Phoenix; Gardena, CA

Biography
Mr. VaLentine completed his Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources Management and Master's Program in Business Administration at the University of Phoenix. Mr. VaLentine is also slated to complete his Post Master's Certification Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership in May 2025 and his Doctorate of Management in Organizational Leadership program at the University of Phoenix in May 2026.

More Commonly and affectionately referred to as just "VaLentine," he has served as a Volunteer Educational Instructor with "Junior Achievement of Southern California," one of the nation's premier educational programs for youth. He is currently consulting as a Senior Human Resources Executive. With over 18+ years of experience, his areas of expertise include but are not limited to strategic advising on organizational restructuring, employment law, multi-level management training, and workforce development, determining organizational deficiencies and building development plans to fill gaps, contract negotiations, organizational development, strategic management/ planning, and supporting diversity in the workplace.

Mr. VaLentine is also passionate about entertainment and creating unscripted content for television and streaming platforms that inspire positive change. As a result, Mr. VaLentine is also the Founder/ CEO of VaLentine Entertainment Inc. VaLentine Entertainment Inc is a minority-owned unscripted television and music production company whose clients include The TLC Networks, The National Council of Negro Woman, MTV Music Television, Discovery+, and the Long Beach Pride nonprofit organization. He Created and Executive Produced the flagship project, the "C.SQUARED" talk show, and other projects as part of "Crucial Conversations" programming c/o VaLentine Entertainment Inc. "Crucial Conversations" programming focuses on producing media content that inspires positive change by way of Crucial Conversations and Courageous Calls to Action! C.SQUARED is on the REVRY and HULU platforms.

Education
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership; Capella University; Minneapolis, MN
M.L.I.S.; San Jose State University; San Jose, CA

Biography
Dr. Vora is a dedicated educator and scholar committed to fostering academic excellence and cultivating a passion for lifelong learning. With a strong foundation in educational leadership and library science, Dr. Vora has a proven track record of integrating innovative teaching methodologies with cutting-edge information management practices. Their research interests encompass organizational change, time management, information literacy, APA, and leadership exploring the intersection of education, technology, and library sciences.

As a dynamic and approachable instructor, Dr. Vora is dedicated to mentoring students, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering a collaborative spirit within the academic community. Their commitment to bridging theory and practice ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges they will face in their academic and professional journeys.

Education
IAU Experiences: Vahick Yedgarian, Professor of Business
Ph.D. in Global Business, Leadership and Sustainability; Northcentral University; San Diego, CA
MFE; Ohio University, Athens, OH
J.D.; Janus University; Newport, CA
M.S. in Psychology; University of Phoenix; Pasadena, CA
M.B.A.; University of Phoenix; Pasadena, CA
B.B.A.; University of Phoenix; Pasadena, CA

Biography
I am an investment strategist and lecturer with 20+ years of diverse global experience: Europe, Middle-East, and U.S. I manage portfolios in separate accounts for my clients with a focus on U.S. and international exchange traded funds, mutual funds, and U.S. stocks. In addition, I teach corporate finance, personal finance, financial theory, investments, economics, and organizational leadership and management.

Specialties: Turnaround expert and leadership development to support strategy and revenue growth. Inspire people and organizations to achieve extraordinary results. Dynamic higher education executive and lecturer with excellent writing and speaking skills. Experienced investment strategist, and portfolio manager.

Education
Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership with IT Concentration: University of Phoenix
M.B.A. in Business Administration: University of Phoenix

Biography
Dr. Jinan Ziade earned her doctorate in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Information System Technology from the University of Phoenix (UoPx). She holds an MBA and BIST. Also, a Graduate Executive Leadership Transformation Certificate in Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Management from Georgetown University. Additionally, she is a postdoc research fellow and an active research member of the Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Research at UOPX Research at UoPx. She has published several journal articles that have also been presented at national and international conferences (ASEE, ICSB, among others). Dr. Ziade was invited to serve as an abstract reviewer and conference moderator for ASEE.

Dr. Ziade has over ten years of experience teaching in the Business and Management department and has proficiently guided scholars across multiple universities in helping students complete their graduate degree requirements. She has actively engaged in various scholarly pursuits, including leading the yearly research symposium, undertaking responsibilities related to curriculum development and course plans, supervising graduate students in their dissertations, and conducting field workshops for students. Moreover, she has taken part in specialized projects involving higher-level change through engagement in system task forces, evaluating learning outcomes through assessment reports, and compiling documentation to secure global accreditation (ACBSP). She was involved in Affiliate Institutions (AI). Also, Lead Faculty Coordinator (LFC) for guiding & mentoring the newly hired bilingual faculty. She led academic projects and extended short-term programs (STP) in MENA and Africa.