August 20, 2006

Rady School of Management Holds Inaugural Graduation Ceremony

By Kim Kennedy

The Rady School of Management at UCSD held its first-ever graduation ceremony on Sunday, August 20 to confer Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) degrees upon the school’s inaugural class. This group of 58 men and women joined the Rady School’s FlexMBA program for working professionals in September 2004.

Speakers at the graduation included Rady School Dean Robert S. Sullivan, UC San Diego Chancellor Marye Anne Fox and Ernest Rady, founder of American Assets Inc, and benefactor to the Rady School of Management and the Rady Children’s Hospital and Health Center.

“I've had the opportunity to meet with the FlexMBA class of 2006 on several occasions – this is an outstanding, enterprising inaugural class,” said UC San Diego Chancellor Marye Anne Fox. “Rady graduates are leaving this campus ready to serve as leaders for innovation-driven organizations – in San Diego and beyond.”

“I have presided over many MBA commencement ceremonies over the years, but awarding degrees to this inaugural class was particularly meaningful for me,” said Rady School Dean Robert S. Sullivan. “Our students have worked with us to build the Rady School and I know they will remain a part of our community throughout their professional careers.”

“As someone who was involved with the school from its initial planning stages, I am amazed with the progress that has been made and the impact the school is having on the community,” said Ernest Rady, the school’s founding donor. “Students started companies before even graduating and it's an honor to be a part of it.”

Rady FlexMBA graduates are making exciting career moves as a result of their MBA education – some earning promotions within their current companies, while others have transitioned into other organizations and industries using their newly acquired business and leadership skills.

Media Contacts:
Kim Kennedy, (858) 534-1208
Keri (Minehart) Peckham, (858) 534-0855