Advancing Society: Inaugural PhD in Executive Management Cohort

The Drucker School of Management is proud to introduce the inaugural cohort of its reimagined Executive PhD in Management (EPhD) program. Designed for visionary leaders poised to transform business and society, the EPhD builds on our 40-year legacy of executive doctoral education. This groundbreaking program offers accomplished professionals the chance to tackle critical issues at the intersection of management, leadership, and societal impact. Rooted in Peter Drucker's belief that effective management is vital to a thriving society, this hybrid program allows executives to merge theory with practice, contributing real-world solutions while engaging in rigorous academic research. The exceptional individuals in this cohort have shown they are committed to advancing the field of management and shaping the future of leadership.

If you are interested in learning more about the Executive PhD in Management, contact Michael Mirabella, Director of Admissions, at [email protected] or call 909-607-9049.

Will Beeson

BS in Corporate Finance, University of Southern California

Research Interests: The impact of mindfulness practices on workplace profitability, connecting leadership with organizational performance

Will Beeson is a Managing Director at Cronkite & Kissell, with over 38 years of experience in valuation and consulting across various industries. His work includes financial reporting, tax compliance, fairness opinions, and expert testimony. Will has held senior roles at Moss Adams, BDO Seidman, LLP, and Marshall & Stevens. He earned a BS in Corporate Finance from the Marshall School of Business, USC, and holds credentials as a CFA and CAIA, as well as the Accredited in Business Valuation credential from the AICPA.

Airika Corley

BS in Biology, California State University, Los Angeles
BBA, Pepperdine University
MBA in Business Analytics, Pepperdine University

Research Interests: Improving diverse talent sourcing by developing algorithms that minimize bias, informed by extensive research on algorithmic fairness.

Airika Corley, a California native from Compton, is an accomplished HR professional with deep expertise in strategic planning, data analytics, and recruitment. Her work, particularly in diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism (DEIAA) initiatives, has significantly enhanced employee retention and optimized HR processes. Airika has held senior roles at Cielo Talent, Amgen Biopharmaceuticals, and Kelly Services. She earned her MBA in Business Analytics from Pepperdine University and a cum laude Bachelor of Science in Business from Pepperdine University, with an additional BS in Biology from California State University, Los Angeles. Committed to her community, Airika uses her skills to foster growth in Compton.

Celeste Day-Drake

AA in Interior Design, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising
BA in Psychology, University of Southern California
MBA in Marketing, University of Pittsburgh

Research Interests: Consumer behavior regarding retirement planning and decision-making processes.

Celeste Day-Drake is the Special Projects Manager in the Business Affairs division at Scripps College. Since November 2019, she has worked on projects related to construction, facilities, risk management, and medical support. She played a key role in the development of the West Plaza of the Joint Science Building and led a medical support initiative during the pandemic. Celeste previously worked at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising as an Instructor, Project Coordinator, and Career Advisor. She holds a BA in Psychology from USC, an MBA in Marketing from the University of Pittsburgh, and an AA in Interior Design from FIDM. Celeste is also a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and serves on the Board of Directors for the P.E.A.R.L.S. of Excellence.

Antonio Gaskin

BS in Management, Pepperdine University
Executive MBA, Pepperdine University

Research Interests: The role of gay Black men in leadership positions and their impact on organizational dynamics.

Antonio Gaskin, Director of Field Operations at Frontier Communications, oversees operations, community engagement, and market growth in Southern California. With 24 years at Frontier, Antonio leads the delivery of broadband, video, and voice services. He is involved in several boards, including the United Cambodian Community and the Long Beach Branch NAACP. Antonio earned a BS in Management from Pepperdine University and an MBA from Pepperdine's Executive MBA program.

Chard Gonzalez

BFA in Dance Performance, Purchase College, SUNY
MA in Dance Studies, Trinity Laban
MA in Organizational Leadership, Wilmington University

Research Interests: AI ethics in entertainment, particularly regarding the work of artists, and developing best practices for entertainment companies.

Chard Gonzalez, with a BFA in Dance Performance, an MA in Dance Studies, and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, blends creative and strategic skills. Pursuing a PhD in Executive Management, Chard is currently an Entertainment Costuming Lead at Disneyland Resort. He is known for managing complex logistics and integrating costuming with production, driving both creativity and strategic business solutions. Chard is committed to using the arts to enhance community vitality and business success.

Amit Mekel

Bachelor's degree in diplomacy and Strategy, Reichman University (Specialization in the Middle East)
MA in Security and Diplomacy, Tel Aviv University

Research Interests: Macro management strategies in diplomacy, focusing on strategic approaches relevant to international relations and policy.

Amit Mekel is the Israeli Ambassador to Prague, previously serving as Deputy Chief of Mission at the Consulate General of Israel to the Pacific Southwest. In this role, Amit was the second-highest representative of the State of Israel in the region. With a career in diplomacy, he has held various significant positions, contributing to Israel's foreign affairs and international relations. Amit's work has focused on strengthening Israel's diplomatic presence and fostering partnerships across the Pacific Southwest. His extensive experience in international relations shapes his approach to diplomacy and strategy.

Benjamin M. Ogbodo

BSc, Emugu State University
Msc in Construction Project Management, Edinburg Napier University

Research Interests: The effect of foreign investment on competitive strategies in real estate development in Nigeria.

Benjamin M. Ogbodo is the CEO of Ben Shelter Consult, with a background in construction project management and architecture. He holds an MSc from Edinburgh Napier University and a BSc from Enugu State University of Science & Technology. Benjamin has managed significant projects and is pursuing a PhD in Executive Management, focusing on strategic leadership, sustainable development, and innovative design. He is certified by PMI and NIA and engages in community development projects.

Romarilyn Ralston

BA in Gender & Feminist Studies, Pitzer College
MA in Liberal Arts, Washington University in St. Louis

Research Interests: Leadership development for marginalized individuals, focusing on how they navigate higher education and break the cycle of poverty through skill-building.

Romarilyn Ralston is the Senior Director of the Justice Education Center for Claremont Colleges and former Executive Director of Project Rebound at California State Fullerton. After 23 years in prison, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Gender & Feminist Studies from Pitzer College and a Master's degree in Liberal Arts from Washington University in St. Louis. Romarilyn has earned the CORO Fellowship in Public Affairs, as well as the Galaxy Gives Fellowship. Her work has been recognized with awards from the California Legislature, the National Council of 100 Black Women-Orange County Chapter, and Pitzer College's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2021. She received a Gubernatorial Pardon from Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022 and is currently pursuing a PhD in Executive Management at Claremont Graduate University's Drucker School of Business.

Ronnie Robinson

BA in Liberal Arts, California State University San Bernardino

Research Interests: Value-based leadership training and the experience at Black leaders in executive roles.

Ronnie Robinson, born and raised in the Inland Empire, is a dedicated faith leader and community enthusiast. Her leadership roles include serving as President of the San Bernardino County Women's Network and working as a life coach and consultant. Ronnie is passionate about empowering people and building community-based organizations. She currently serves at First 5 San Bernardino and is pursuing a PhD in Executive Management at Claremont Graduate University.

Thomas Schardt

BS in Electrical Engineering, University of Applied Sciences & Arts Northwestern Switzerland EMBE, Kaladios University of Applied Sciences Switzerland
Master of Advanced European Studies University of Basel

Research Interests: Innovation management on a global scale, with a focus on change management and how organization handle innovation across different time zones and national borders.

Thomas Schardt joined Nidec Motor Corporation in 2016, where he leads IoT strategy and infrastructure development for the FORECYTE™ platform. Since 2020, he has been the Corporate Functional Leader for Technology (CTIO) for MOEN, Nidec's Motion & Energy Division. Thomas focuses on innovation in electrification, industrial automation, and renewable energy. With over 30 years in industrial automation and IoT, he has held leadership roles in the USA, Europe, and Asia. Thomas holds a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering from Northwestern University of Applied Science and Arts, an Executive Master in Business Engineering from Kalaidos University, and a Master of Advanced European Studies from the Institute for European Global Studies, University of Basel.

Tina Shah Paikeday

BS in Commerce, University of Virginia
MBA in Leadership and Entrepreneurship, Stanford University

Research Interests: Empowering diverse teams to innovate and exploring how AI can enhance decision making for leaders.

Tina Shah Paikeday is an Expert Advisor at Findem, focusing on data-driven talent acquisition and management. Formerly a partner at Russell Reynolds Associates and CEO of zBox Company, Tina has extensive experience in innovation, DEI, and executive leadership. She has advised on board and CEO succession, led DEI audits, and contributed to corporate strategy. Tina holds a B.S. from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Kin Tat Natalis Ng

BA in Hospitality Management, Hong Kong Polytechnic University
MBA, UC Irvine

Research Interests: Focused on how quality standard and MBA curriculum contribute to organizational success and broader societal impact.

Kin Tat Natalis Ng (also known as Kin or Natalis) earned his MBA from UC Irvine and a BA in Hospitality from Hong Kong Polytechnic University. With over 20 years of experience across for-profit, non-profit, and government sectors, he has contributed significantly to performance excellence initiatives. He served as an Examiner for the California Awards for Performance Excellence and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award Program, as well as a Judge for the California Team Excellence Award. Currently, he is a Surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and was named Judge of the Year for CTEA in 2010.

Tohru Watanabe

BS in Business Administration, University of Phoenix
MS in Finance, Georgetown University

Research Interests: Enhancing efficiency and risk management through improved information flow for decision-making, particularly in financial contexts, with an emphasis on strategy.

Tohru Watanabe is a Director and Deputy CISO at Lazard, where he leads the strategy and execution of the information security program. With over 20 years in information technology and security, Tohru focuses on transformational efforts to enhance technology impact and risk management. He holds an MS in Finance from Georgetown University and a BS in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Tohru is active in the information security community, serving as a teaching assistant for SANS courses, volunteering as an exam developer for ISC2, and participating in ISC2, ISACA, and OWASP. His certifications include CISM, CISSP, and CRISC.

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