Sitting down with Arman Davtyan, Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management from Pepperdine University Graziadio Business School, one quickly realizes that the sheer beauty of the Malibu campus—a stunning counterpoint to the vibrant, job-rich metropolis of Los Angeles—only hints at the unique nature of Pepperdine University, ranked highly by US News (#84 National University). What truly sets this institution apart is not just its location, but a deeply held philosophy that elevates purpose above profit, demanding that its graduates become leaders who serve their communities. As Arman stated, we are looking for students “who really want to do good, not just do well.”

This commitment to ethical leadership is rooted in its Christian mission, yet the university embraces a profoundly inclusive environment. This creates an atmosphere that is intentionally welcoming, a place of dialogue and collaboration. The philosophy is best described as an “open table concept,” ensuring that “everyone belongs here,” regardless of background. This welcoming stance is a core value, recognizing that diversity fuels intellectual and spiritual growth. The institution’s desire is to “expand our reach, our visibility, to students from all over the world,” because, as the dialogue noted, “we need international students to learn from, to teach, to really kind of add flavor and variety to the experiences of our own domestic students.” This belief in the rich contribution of global talent is fundamental to the Pepperdine experience.

In translating these high ideals into concrete professional readiness, Pepperdine has built a curriculum focused intensely on the future workforce. The approach is defined by its deep industry engagement: “The practical application has been huge for us. We’ve always prioritized bringing in faculty who’ve been in the industry, who’ve been in the C-suite, who’ve done consulting.” This dedication to real-world experience culminates in the transformative E2B (Education to Business) project, where “students will be applying what they’re learning to do a consulting engagement with a client.” This model ensures skills are tested and proven before graduation.

Looking ahead, the university is not shying away from disruptive forces like artificial intelligence. While not a engineering school, the business faculty is positioned on “the leading edge of incorporating AI into business education.” The focus is not merely on technical proficiency, but on leadership: “What we do emphasize is how as business leaders, what’s your strategic approach to incorporating AI?” This ensures graduates enter the workforce ready not only to utilize emerging technology but to lead its responsible implementation.

Ultimately, choosing Pepperdine means embracing an identity centered on meaningful impact. It is a place that prepares you for success not just in the highly competitive job market of Los Angeles, but in the global professional arena, providing a world-class education where “you understand that there’s a greater purpose than just your own personal ROI.”

Thank you, Arman, for offering such a clear and inspiring vision of the Graziadio Business School. It leaves me wondering: As the global business landscape pivots so rapidly with AI and skills-based learning, how can universities best measure the “good” their graduates do, ensuring that success is truly defined by societal impact over mere personal gain?