Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series
The Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series welcomes respected thought leaders to speak on issues of key importance to developing intellectual and spiritual growth.
Established in 2014 through an endowment given by alumni and friends to honor dean emeritus, Margaret J. Weber, Ph.D., the lectures support GSEP’s mission to foster academic excellence, social purpose, meaningful service, and personal fulfillment.
2024-2024 Event Schedule
Cultivating Belonging: Inclusive Leadership in Action
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
In partnership with the Work-Life Integration Project, GSEP was pleased to curate
a space for leadership and belonging conversations, practices, and take-away tools.
Anchored by keynote speaker Minette Norman, author of The Boldly Inclusive Leader and co-author of The Psychology Safety Playbook, Minette expounded on the neuroscience of belonging, highlighted methods to interrupt
personal defensive reactions and structure inclusive meetings. Focusing discussions
of creating an inclusive culture in our personal and professional lives was amplified
from the shared space of our leadership panel, which included Pepperdine alumni Dr.
April Harris Akinloye, Dr. Elena Einstein, Dr. Veronica Ufoegbune, and Dr. Amanda
Wickramasinghe. The Q&A element provided in-person and online attendees with remarkable
reflection opportunities and a brave space to connect with the Pepperdine community
on a deeper level.
To conclude the event, a dedicated media lounge was open for attendees to connect
with speakers, participate in the purchasing and signing of Minette Norman’s books,
and have opportunities to engage with GSEP service departments. As guests made their
way to the media lounge, they visited various partnerships that attended the seminar,
exchanged meaningful interactions, captured photographs, and engaged in mentorship.
This space facilitated intimate connections among leaders in the community, guest
speakers, and students, fostering networking and a sense of belonging.
Faith and Spirituality: The Upward Spiral of Mental Health and Education
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
Pepperdine GSEP welcomed Dr. Lisa Miller, Ph.D., professor of psychology and education
at Columbia University, Teachers College, and founder of the Mind Body Institute,
the first Ivy League graduate program and research institute in spirituality and psychology,
who was joined by Pepperdine GSEP's own Dr. Edward Shafranske who together discussed
the impact of spirituality on mental and physical health as well as applying the science
of spirituality to K-12 education.
Following their presentations, Pepperdine faculty and attendees discussed integrating religion and spirituality in their professional practices as educators and clinicians.
Generation Anxiety: How to Stay Afloat in an Uncertain World
Tuesday, December 5, 2023
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
GSEP alumna of the psychology doctoral program, Dr. Lauren Cook, returned to the West
Los Angeles campus to present “Generation Anxiety “as part of the GSEP Margaret J
Weber Distinguished lecture series.
Focusing on empowered acceptance, Dr. Cook led attendees through exercises to assist in accepting our anxiety and the realities of this world. “Working through anxiety is like riding a wave. Over time, we see just how capable we are,“ shared Dr. Cook. Knowing that acceptance is not enough, Dr. Cook challenged the attendees to realize power lies in our perspective. While we can’t control our thoughts, we can control our response — seeing rejection as a gift and a time saver and seeing failure as a sign that we are showing up for ourselves, and learning valuable information.
Dr. Cook ended the session with a stat from Melanie Greenberg‘s The Stress-Proof Brain, “85% of the things that people worry about never actually happen.” Keeping this quote in mind, Dr. Cook encouraged listeners to have self-compassion while challenging themselves to face their fears.
2022-2023 Event Schedule
Beyond Inclusion: Removing Barriers to Create Belonging
The 2022-23 season of the Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series will host a dynamic slate of burgeoning leaders to explore its guiding theme, "Beyond Inclusion: Removing Barriers to Create Belonging." Believing there is an urgency in creating belonging and that the responsibility for removing inclusion barriers lies with those in positions to do so – GSEP is committed to engaging in continual learning and personal reflection to affect change and pave paths that provide for a more equitable future.
The Role of Women in a Changing Society
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
In celebration of Women's History Month, the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education
and Psychology welcomed a lifelong activist in community development and an accomplished
educator, Dr. Carmen Estrada Schaye. Recently appointed by the President of the United
States, Joe Biden, to the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, Dr. Estrada
Schaye is also the national first vice president of diversity for the National Women’s
Political Caucus.
Dr. Estrada Schaye took attendees on a brief but deep dive into the history of women’s
progress and setbacks in society. In doing so she highlighted female change agents
and trailblazers from 1854 to today.
This event is presented in collaboration with the Center for Global Partnerships and Learning.
A recording of this event is viewable here.
Prioritizing the Humanity of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Efforts
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
The word humanity is from the Latin humanitas, which means "human nature, kindness.” Humanity includes all humans, but it can also refer to the kind feelings humans often have for each other.
The Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series’ February event will focus on the humanity of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts from a spiritual, organizational, and law perspective.
Our panel of leaders will discuss the intentionality required for DEI efforts from a human-worth viewpoint to flourish. We’ll examine what the absence of, or resistance to diversity might look like; growing as an individual; supporting your organization’s health; and practical tools you can implement in your space to feel and promote the greatness of humankind through humane treatment and DEI efforts.
Presented in partnership with the GSEP Diversity Council.
A recording of this event is viewable here.
Iran: Woman, Life, Freedom
Monday, November 21, 2022
Pepperdine University, West Los Angeles Campus | Room 203, and via Zoom
Through a conversation with our panelists, the Fall Distinguished Lecture Series discussed
the impetus for the calls for change in Iran, how members of our GSEP community and
the Iranian community at large are processing and responding to the crisis, as well
as ways we can all educate ourselves more on the situation. Original artwork created
by Iranian artists in response to the wave of protests was also on display.
A recording of this event is viewable here
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2021-2022 - Event Schedule
Christ In Action - Leaders Living Out Their Faith In A Secular World
The spring Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series hosted industry leaders to explore the Lecture theme for 2022, "Christ in Action." The weekly webinar speakers provided insight from their professional and personal experiences on how God has redefined success in their lives and continues to make their work more effective, reliable, and lasting.
Thursday, March 3, 2022
"Be Not Afraid, Christ Is with You"
Josefina Castillo Baltodano, J.D., Founder and Executive Director of the Executive
Leadership Academy, UC Berkeley
Learn more and register for the Zoom
Wednesday, February 23, 2022
"And There Are Many Obstacles"
Julianne Malveaux, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies, Cal State Los Angeles
In 1 Corinthians 16:9, the apostle Paul writes, "because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many obstacles." With 1 Corinthians as her guiding verse, Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at California State University, Los Angeles, discussed the inevitable challenges that come when one is called to do effective work.
A recording of this event is viewable here.
Tuesday, February 15, 2022
"Fearless Leadership"
Sandy Heydt, Founder and CEO, Heydt Marketing & Development
Advisor, Space Perspective
How did a woman with degrees in social work and psychology end up as a business start-up
authority, an organizational turnaround guru, and the Chief Marketing Officer for
a commercial spaceflight company?
Sandy Heydt, Founder and CEO of Heydt Marketing & Development, as well as Advisor at Space Perspective, shared her non-traditional professional journey. She discussed the challenges and achievements of her career, including what she has learned about transferrable skills, and the benefits of embracing fearlessness.
Inspired by the fearless leadership of Jesus Christ, The Buddha, Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Desmond Tutu, and Mother Teresa, Sandy believes that leading with humanity is the only option for a person who seeks lasting and meaningful results in business, and that leading with humanity demands fearlessness.
A recording of this event is viewable here.
2020-2021 Event Schedule
Thursday, March 11, 2021
Virtual event
Women in Leadership: Navigating Through Power Structures, Personal Challenges, and a Pandemic
The Margaret J. Weber Distinguished Lecture Series welcomed a dynamic panel of female leaders to share lived experiences and perspectives to inspire all genders. More than just another "women's history month event," these pioneers offered advice for obtaining "stretch-opportunities" for professional growth, expanding networks, and accessing resources.
Moderated by respected family law practitioner, Stacy D. Phillips, the panel discussed navigating the contours of power related to gender, race, and the political structure in an organization, and the role male advocates and managers play in addressing workplace challenges faced by under-represented employees, particularly women. They also shared how the pandemic has amplified obstacles and created opportunities that did not previously exist.
Panelists include:
Christine Deschaine, Senior Vice President and Kennedy Wilson, a global real estate investment company
Kara Katz, CEO and Founder, Riff App
Chickie Leventhal, Founder and Owner, Chickie's Bail Bonds
Christal Morris (EdD ' 17), SVP, Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Peloton
Denise Pines, Immediate Past President, Medical Board of California
A recording of this event is viewable here.
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Virtual event
Deconstructing Us: Self-Interrogation at the Intersection of Christian Worldview & Social Justice
Dr. Anita Phillips - trauma therapist, life coach, and host of the podcast "In The Light with Dr. Anita Phillips"
In joint sponsorship with the Caruso School of Law (CSOL) Dean's Speaker Series, the Weber Distinguished Lecture Series at the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology welcomes Dr. Anita Phillips to examine how cultural contexts misshape the image of God and riddle our Christian worldview with blind spots that breed and maintain schisms in the community of Christ, including racial division.
Dr. Phillips holds degrees from the University of Maryland and Regent University and completed an NIH-funded postdoctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She serves on the Advisory Board for the Boris L. Henson Foundation and the Faith Communities Task Force for the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention. Dr. Phillips also hosts a weekly podcast titled, "In The Light with Dr. Anita Phillips" where she brings a new dimension to the faith and mental health conversation.
A recording of this event is viewable here.
2019-2020 - Event Schedule
Tuesday, January 23, 2020
The Ritz Carlton Marina Del Rey
GSEP Urban Initiative 2.0 Community Dinner
The Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) held an Urban Initiative 2.0 Community Dinner to recognize trailblazer alumni honorees who have worked tirelessly within their communities since the founding of GSEP in the mid-1970s. Renowned professor, author, philosopher, and activist Dr. Cornel West delivered an inspiring keynote address to the attendees from the various partner organizations and supporters of the GSEP Urban Initiative in attendance.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, who has a family history association with Pepperdine, presented former Dean Helen Easterling Williams and GSEP with a commendation of congratulations for the celebratory event from the County of Los Angeles. The evening closed with the reciting of the GSEP Urban Initiative Pledge by all in attendance. View the Urban Initiative pledge here.
The Urban Initiative of the Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) seeks to link community partners committed to understanding and addressing the mental health and educational issues of the underserved in Los Angeles and around the world. The aim of the Urban Initiative is to develop transformative solutions to social problems that have both a humanitarian value and are grounded in problem-oriented perspectives.
Alumna Merelean Wilson, Chancellor Sara Jackson, Alumna Dessie Burns Kelly,
Supervisor Janice Hahn, alumna Dr. Avery Ruth-Shaw, and alumnus Dr. Anthony Francisco
2018 -2019 - Event Schedule
Living and Learning with Civility
The 2018-19 series is centered on the quote from Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." Each event will host a speaker or panel who will explore thought-provoking ideas, anchored in civility to produce positive change.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
West LA Campus | 7-9 PM | Room 203
The Triple-Bottom Line of Social Entrepreneurship in Sports and Entertainment
Christine Simmons - Chief Operating Officer of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and former President and Chief Operations Officer of the WNBA Los Angeles Sparks
The Weber Distinguished Lecture Series at the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education
and Psychology welcomed Christine Simmons to speak on the importance and multiple
benefits of social entrepreneurship in business and culture, specifically sports and
entertainment. As chief operating officer of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and
Sciences, Simmons oversees the day-to-day management and elevation of the Academy's
internal organization, including the Academy Foundation and educational programs.
Her life philosophy has always been "do more - do good - do well." In her view, as
a leader, she is responsible for more than managing a business or franchise, but to
also inspire and champion girls and women to be leaders who make a cultural impact.
Simmons served as president and chief operations officer of the WNBA's most successful franchise business operation, the Los Angeles Sparks. Prior to taking the helm of the three-time league championship team, Simmons served as executive vice president of Magic Johnson Enterprises, as well as holding senior positions at both Disney and NBCUniversal. She currently serves on the advisory councils for Women in Sports and Events and Next Play Capital. In October 2018, Ebony magazine included her in its "Power 100" list of inspiring African Americans.
Taking place in West Los Angeles, this event is free to the Pepperdine community and
to the public.
Registration is required. Join in the discussion of elevating social purpose alongside
corporate profitability.
A recording of the event is viewable via YouTube.
Thursday, November 29, 2018
West LA Campus | 7-9 PM
HATE: Why We Should Resist It With Free Speech, Not Censorship
Nadine Strossen - Former President of the American Civil Liberties Union
Nadine Strossen expertly dissects constitutional law to share current challenges to our civil liberties today, stimulating thoughtful consideration of democratic ideals. With her expert knowledge of the Constitution, Strossen is a unique and valuable resource for understanding the context behind policies and legislation that curtail civil liberties, such as freedom of speech. In her new book, HATE: Why We Should Resist It With Free Speech, Not Censorship, she explores how speech is protected under the constitution and how free speech can be used to counter hate speech.
Twice named one of "The 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America" by The National Law Journal, Strossen draws from her two decades as president of the American Civil Liberties Union and current post as professor at New York University Law School to highlight the dangers that follow efforts to serve justice by limiting civil rights. She also offers useful and applicable strategies for achieving positive outcomes without violating Constitutional rights. From government surveillance and the decriminalization of drugs to sexual harassment and more, Strossen makes even complex issues accessible through the use of illuminating statistics and true-life stories.
A recording of this event is viewable via YouTube
Thursday, November 8, 2018
West LA Campus | 6-8 PM
Don't Forget About Me! The Importance of Character Development for All Generations
Dr. Ilene Bezjian, Executive Director / Western Region for the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation
Established in 1861, The Medal of Honor is the highest accolade for bravery that can be awarded to members of America's armed forces for exceptional acts of valor. Recipients of the Medal of Honor founded the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation to educate and inspire Americans about the values embodied in the Medal of Honor: courage and sacrifice, commitment and integrity, citizenship and patriotism.
The Executive Director of the Western Region for the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, Dr. Ilene Bezjian, discussed the importance of character development to support individuals, families, communities, and nations that thrive. With 30 years of higher education experience, Dr. Bezjian has developed unique programs and opportunities for faculty and students alike, including a global program taking students around the world in one year while earning an MBA. Additional programs include a Masters in Public Accounting, an online MBA and Master of Arts in Management both online and face-to-face. She served as Dean of the School of Business and Management at Azusa Pacific University for 14 years and a professor of marketing for 20 years. With more than 1300 students, 6 undergraduate programs and eight graduate programs, she led the 25 faculty through the steps of AACSB accreditation process.
Dr. Bezjian sits on the board of Life Pacific College, The Smith Christian Foundation, Devoe School of Business and assists with the boards of A Million Thanks, and Working to Give. Additionally, she has served in support positions for the military throughout her husband's 37 years of military service.
A recording of this event is viewable via YouTube
Thursday, October 18, 2018
West LA Campus | 7-9 PM
Race and the Internet: The Digital Shadow
Theo E. J. Wilson - YouTube activist, Speaker, Slam Poet
YouTube activist Theo E.J. Wilson was spurred by the racist comments individuals posted on his videos to assume an "alt-right" persona and pretend to be a member of the white nationalist movement. The ensuing conversations informed his presentation, "Race and the Internet: The Digital Shadow," a discussion about civil conversations, especially when people disagree.
Theo E.J. Wilson is the executive director of Shop Talk Live, Inc. The organization uses the barbershop as a staging ground for community dialogue and healing. In 2013, Wilson began speaking with "Rachel's Challenge," an organization dedicated to ending school violence through compassion. After viral video success beginning in 2015, he published his first book in 2017, The Law of Action. The book addresses some of the misconceptions about the law of attraction and the role direct action plays into manifestation.
With a passion for social justice, Wilson began his speaking career in the N.A.A.C.P
at the age of 15. He attended Florida A&M University, where he obtained his B.A. in
theater performance. Upon graduating, he interned as a full-time actor at the St.
Louis Black repertory company. Wilson is a founding member of the Denver Slam Nuba
team, who won the National Poetry Slam in 2011.
2017 -2018 - Event Schedule
Civility: The Intersection of Faith, Intellect, and Culture
GSEP aims to be a think tank for higher education. With the Distinguished Lecture Series, we focus on important topics with civility. Collectively, we can have civil disagreements and civil discourse, all leading us to take action in a direction that will bring about a better self, society, and world. The 2017-18 lecture series will continue to explore the themes of faith, intellect, and culture and host individuals to inspire and challenge.
Thursday, February 22, 2018
West LA Campus | 7-9 PM
The Intersection of Clinical and Commerce
Dr. Karen Khaleghi - co-founder of Creative Care Mental Health Treatment Centers
Dr. Karen Khaleghi and her husband Dr. Morteza Khaleghi founded Creative Care Mental Health Treatment Centers, one of the first recovery centers in Malibu, CA. Creative Care was the first to treat individuals with co-occurring disorders. Their inpatient, dual-diagnosis treatment programs and dedicated, in-patient psychiatric facility has been guiding patients to the path of recovery since 1989.
Dr. Khaleghi shared her personal and professional experience in effectively working as a clinician in the field. As a practitioner and business owner, Dr. Khaleghi guided those in attendance to couple their education and training with business savvy to achieve success.
Friday, March 9, 2018
Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles | 7-9 PM
Prophetic Fire
Dr. Cornel West - Philosopher, Author, Activist, and Endowed Visiting Professor at Pepperdine GSEP
GSEP welcomes back Dr. Cornel West, professor, philosopher, author, and activist, who is now a visiting professor at Pepperdine GSEP for the Spring semester in the Doctor of Philosophy in Global Leadership and Change, and Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership programs. Dr. West was invited to speak at the Weber Distinguished Lecture Series for his ability to offer ideas, spark discussion, and move our community to reflect on humanity and act with civility. His lecture Prophetic Fire is open to the public and will encourage attendees to live and inspire through more than ordinary means. His melodic words often soothe, yet his content drills down to the most salient point of the issues of our day. Bookmark this link to watch a portion of the 2018 lecture live.
"These are the times that test women and men's souls. Thomas Paine was right." - Dr. Cornel West
Watch a portion of Dr. West's 2017 Lecture
For questions or for additional information contact:
Vanessa Jahn
vanessa.jahn@pepperdine.edu
310.568-2344
2017 Events
Getting Past the Surface: How Cognitive Diversity Elevates Leadership
Thursday, November 16, 2017
West LA Campus | 7-9 PM
Getting Past the Surface: How Cognitive Diversity Elevates Leadership
Jonathan Silk - Founder of Quicksmarts Leadership & Talent Development, Decorated Veteran
Mr. Jonathan Silk explored the concept of cognitive diversity, which refers to the differences in perceived thinking styles, knowledge, skills, values, and beliefs among teams and organizational members. Cognitive Diversity has implications for how we lead, communicate, negotiate, innovate, and make decisions in our personal and professional lives. If we interact and engage with our fellow team members through the lens of cognitive diversity, we will get to know people at a much deeper level and achieve greater success, and innovation.
Mr. Silk is an experienced leader and executive coach with a passion for developing others to improve as leaders. As a decorated veteran, Mr. Silk brings lessons from leading U.S. Army Infantry, Cavalry, and Armor units in a wide range of assignments, including leading soldiers in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Korea.
The Women's Table - Wholeness from a Female Perspective
Tuesday, March 7, 2017, 7 pm
The Women's Table - Wholeness from a Female Perspective.
Panelist:
Ms. Edina Lekovic, Director of Policy and Programming, Muslim Public Affairs Council;
Dr. Deepa Biswas Willingham, Founder and CEO, Pace Universal;
Rabbi Lisa Bock, Community Rabbi;
Dr. Hughie Barnes, advisor in organizational leadership and mediation, serving as the moderator
Sponsored by Dogeared jewelry, a certified B-Corporation, dedicated to redefining the success of business as a force for good. The first 100 attendees received a handcrafted Dogeared necklace or bracelet.
Justice Matters
Friday, February 24, 2017, 7 pm
Justice Matters.
Dr. Cornel West, professor, philosopher, author, and social activist.
Dr. Cornel West is arguably one of the nation's most well-regarded experts on a variety of social issues. Dr. West delivered a keynote speech focused on social justice followed by a conversation with Pepperdine Provost, Rick R. Marrs, with questions prompted by the audience.
2016 Events
Forget Happiness Master Resilience Instead
Wellness expert, author, and psychologist Zelana Montminy presented "Forget Happiness Master Resilience Instead" as part of the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) Distinguished Lecture Series at the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus on Tuesday, November 29, at 7 PM.
One of Maria Shriver's Architects of Change, Montminy translates complicated research from positive psychology—as well as the fields of nutrition and neurology—to create a uniquely holistic approach to health. She is the internationally acclaimed author of the book 21 Days to Resilience, which will be available for purchase and signing during the session.
Montminy holds masters and doctorate degrees in clinical psychology with a specialization in health, as well as a certificate in plant-based nutrition from Cornell University. This multi-faceted background makes her uniquely qualified to explore the psychological aspects of health and wellness. In all her endeavors, Montminy seeks to explore the relationship between resilience, happiness, and healthful lifestyle choices.
She is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), an active regional board member of the Young President's Organization (YPO), a consultant for the Institute for Applied Positive Research, and on the Program Advisory Board of the Respect Institute.
Entrepreneurship and the Los Angeles Startup Community
On Thursday, November 2, 2016, the Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology welcomed Scott Dudelson, internet entrepreneur as the featured guest. Mr. Dudelson is co-founder of Prodege, LLC, creator of the web's premier online rewards destination, Swagbucks.com. Prodege and Swagbucks.com have garnered numerous corporate awards including three consecutive placements on the Inc Fast 500 and Los Angeles Business Journal Fastest Growing Company List.
In 2013 Prodege was named by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of the best places to work in the city, and its 10,000% five-year growth landed the company a top 25 placement on Deloitte's national Fastest 500 Growing Company List.
Additionally, Dudelson serves as Managing Director of the Los Angeles Dodgers Accelerator with R/GA. This sports and entertainment accelerator is aimed at industry startups.
Dudelson also founded Music for Charity Productions, a non-profit consulting firm specializing in the marriage of entertainment brands and charitable causes. In 2005 Music for Charity Productions became one of the first firms to introduce SMS (text message) fundraising in the United States with the launch of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund's text for charity campaign featuring Pearl Jam, OK GO and other artists. Under Dudelson's leadership, the firm produced and promoted over a dozen benefit events featuring a wide variety of artists including Sheryl Crow, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, Sara Bareilles, Garbage, Crowded House, and George Clinton.
Dudelson's talent as a photographer has been honored by CBS LA, who named him one of the top 5 best concert photographers in the city. His work has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, KROQ.com, AOL's Spinner.com, and Classic Rock Magazine.
Dudelson is a graduate of UCLA and resides in Malibu, California.
Identity: Knowing the Past to Build Your Future
"Know from whence you came. If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go."
-James Baldwin, African American novelist, essayist, playwright, poet, and social critic.
In collaboration with the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology Diversity Council, and in celebration of Black History Month, the February Distinguished Lecture Series event will focus on The Freedmen's Bureau Project and the work happening locally at Pepperdine, as well as globally, to help African Americans reconnect with their Civil War-era ancestors.
The Freedmen's Bureau was formed by an Act of Congress on March 3, 1865, to assist newly freed slaves and poor whites who had been left in need by the Civil War. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture; the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society; and the California African American Museum, together with Family Search, the genealogical arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, digitized 1.5 million handwritten records containing 4 million names from the Freedman's Bureau. These records are now being indexed to allow anyone to research their past.
The panel of experts will discuss why these records are important to all people, not just African Americans, what these records mean to those who are finding clues about family they never knew before, and what are the psychological, relational, and contextual aspects of self-identity.
Panelist will include Matthew Ball, director of public affairs, North America West, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; Thom Reed, senior marketing manager, Family Search International, the largest genealogy organization in the world; and Dr. Carolyn Keatinge, senior lecturer, psychology division, Graduate School of Education and Psychology.
2015 Events
Teaching From the Heart
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Sharon M. Draper, Author and Educator
"Teaching From the Heart"
Sharon M. Draper, award-winning author and educator, is actively involved in encouraging and motivating all teachers and their students as well. She has worked all over the world spreading the word about the power of accomplished teaching and excellence in education.
Visualize a glowing candle. The tiny points of light at its edges pierce the darkness while the center glows with golden intensity. That light is the children. Sharon will share with attendees how to keep the candles lit and how to help the dreams of the children come true. She will remind us of the joy of teaching and will offer encouragement and hope to novice and longtime teachers alike.
Sharon has been honored as the National Teacher of the Year, is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Award, and is a New York Times bestselling author. In 2011, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions to the field of adolescent literature from The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents of the National Council of Teachers of English. In 2015 she was honored by the American Library Association as the recipient of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime literary achievement.
She has been honored at the White House six times, and was chosen as one of only four authors in the country to speak at the National Book Festival Gala in Washington, D.C, and to represent the United States in Moscow at their Book Festival.
Bullying Awareness, Response and Prevention
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
"Bullying Awareness, Response and Prevention"
West Los Angeles Graduate Campus
To commemorate October as National Bullying Prevention Month, the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) community will unite to educate and raise awareness of bullying and its prevention.
No longer viewed as a harmless part of childhood, bullying, whether face to face or online, has devastating effects on people such as anxiety, depression, school or work avoidance and even suicide.
A panel of experts will discuss the signs and psychological effects of bullying, as well as responsibilities, appropriate responses, and current legislation.
Panelists include:
Dr. John "Jack" McManus, GSEP education professor, a school safety expert witness, participated in the civil case subsequent to the passing of CA Assembly Bill 9: Seth's Law. California Assembly Bill 9: Seth's Law. is named after a 13-year-old California student who committed suicide after being bullied at school, AB 9 requires California public schools to adopt policies to protect students who are targets of unlawful discrimination and harassment.
Dr. Keegan Tangeman, director of mental health services at STAR of CA where he oversees the school-based mental health programs. Dr. Tangeman is also a GSEP PsyD program alumnus and adjunct faculty member.
Mr. Jon Pease, clinical and executive director of the non-profit Not-The-Target, which helps anyone involved in the cycle of bullying. Mr. Pease also received his M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from GSEP.
Moderated by:
Dr. Yolanda Aguerrebere, a member of the GSEP Board of Visitors and a 35-year education leader who has served as a teacher, instructional advisor, elementary and secondary principal, mentor, consultant, researcher, and international speaker. She spent 24 years with the Los Angeles Unified School District and 11 years with the El Rancho Unified School District.
Ridiculous Risk. Epic Reward.
"Ridiculous Risk. Epic Reward."
West Los Angeles Graduate Campus
Shelene Bryan's career as a successful Hollywood producer took a dramatic shift when a houseguest saw pictures on the refrigerator door of the two African children Shelene's family sponsors. The guest asked, "How do you know those kids are real?" Shelene could not shake the question, and so despite her attachment to safety and comfort, and lack of desire to leave the U.S., she was soon on a plane to Africa.
Shelene met those two children, and before leaving she made a promise to them that she would do all she could to help them. Out of that experience, and her relentless passion to care for children and families in need, Shelene launched Skip1.org, a charity that brings food and clean water to impoverished children and families around the world.
The idea behind Skip1.org is simple; by skipping one small luxury, and donating that money instead, undernourished people can be given food and water. 100% of all public donations go to the acquisition and distribution of food and water projects worldwide.
Shelene is also the author of Love, Skip, Jump: Start Living the Adventure of Yes, in which she encourages readers to say yes to uncomfortable journeys and rich adventures. Becoming uncomfortable can be a start to new innovations, she believes, and each of us are just one yes away from changing everything. Copies of Shelene's book will be available for purchase and signing at the event.
The Placebo Effect in Social Change: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Dr. Nina Vasan is a physician at Stanford completing her Residency in Psychiatry, and is the author of the #1 Amazon Best Seller Do Good Well: Your Guide to Leadership, Action, and Social Innovation, which was praised by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus as "the primer for social innovation."
Dr. Vasan spent nearly a decade working on the comprehensive, 500+ page book that guides readers to maximize their impact in solving social problems. The impetus for writing Do Good Well came from Dr. Vasan's experience as a young social entrepreneur and activist working with the American Cancer Society; she launched a nationwide network of teenage ACS volunteers that had a few years of celebrated success, but ultimately scaled too quickly and was not sustainable. Recognizing that too often good intentions and good ideas do not translate into lasting results, Dr. Vasan and co-author Jennifer Przybylo used their background as scientists to create a method for social innovation built around three core principles: Do What Works, Work Together, and Make It Last.
Since its publication in spring, Do Good Well has been adopted by college and graduate classes from Harvard to Hong Kong. The book is being used by one of the world's largest asset management companies to improve their corporate social responsibility and philanthropy initiatives.
Dr. Vasan and the Do Good Well team are now building upon the book to create an organization that has offered mentorship, funding, and space to share best practices to young leaders; they have lectured at schools and led trainings on the Do Good Well method for foundations committed to developing startup entrepreneurs, public servants, and nonprofit leaders, furthering the Do Good Well mission to help turn idealism into impact.
The Barefoot Spirit, Guiding Principles For Success
Michael Houlihan and Bonnie Harvey co-authored the New York Times Bestselling Business Paperback, The Barefoot Spirit: How Hardship, Hustle, and Heart Built America's #1 Wine Brand. They started in their laundry room in 1986 and created a nationwide bestselling wine label. With virtually no money and no wine industry experience, they employed innovative ideas to overcome obstacles and create new markets.
They pioneered "Worthy Cause Marketing" and performance-based compensation. Their comprehensive view of customer service resulted in the National Hot Brand Award for outstanding sales growth in 2003 and 2004. In 2005 they successfully sold the brand to E&J Gallo. Since then, they have consulted Fortune 500's and start-ups alike. One of their clients just made the 2013 Inc 500 list of fastest growing companies.
They were recipients of the 2014 Distinguished Entrepreneur Speaker Award from the Turner School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Bradley University. They were the keynote speakers for for the 2014 World Conference on Entrepreneurship (ICSB) in Dublin, Ireland and were also the 2014 SOCAP Symposium (Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals in Business).
Past Lectures
2015 Ridiculous Risk. Epic Reward.
Fueled by his desire to redeem the values of the media while educating audiences on how to use discernment in selecting their entertainment, MOVIEGUIDE® Founder and Publisher Ted Baehr spoke as the keynote at the 4th installment of the Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series event on Thursday, May 10, 2012.
Baehr digs deeply into the moral content, theology and worldviews of the movies, videos and television programs reviewed by MOVIEGUIDE. He is an engaging resource on how to teach children and adult students to be media wise, including emerging media such as Facebook and Twitter.
Dr. Baehr has used his 40 years of research on the media and culture to create a non-profit that is the only active liaison between studio executives and the general public for issues of family entertainment and faith.
Dr. Ted Baehr is Founder and Publisher of MOVIEGUIDE®: The Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment and Chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission® ministry, as well as a noted critic, educator, lecturer, and media pundit. Dr. Baehr was president of the organization that produced The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe for CBS-TV in 1980, boasting 37 million viewers and winning an Emmy Award. He has also has produced hundreds of programs for PBS television.
Dr. Baehr is Chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission® ministry (CFTVC), a non-profit organization dedicated to redeeming the values of the mass media of entertainment by influencing the entertainment industry and by informing and equipping the general public of the impact that the mass media has on its audiences. The CFTVC is the only active liaison between studio executives and the general public for issues of family entertainment and faith.
The tradition of this event is one which focuses on inviting leading agents of change to speak to GSEP student and community members.
2014 Impacting the World Through Leadership: What's Your Story?
Thursday, September 11, 2014 - 7pm-9pm
Pamela Hawley, Founder and CEO, UniversalGiving
"Impacting the World Through Leadership: What's Your Story?"
West Los Angeles Graduate Campus - 2nd Floor, Room 203
Using her own experience, Ms. Hawley discussed ways in which anyone can seek a calling in life, face the challenges along the way, and "choose the right ladder to climb" towards their own unique success.
As a child, Pamela Hawley was powerfully impacted by the sight of poverty. At the age of 12, Ms. Hawley began her commitment to serve her community. Today, Ms. Hawley has volunteered all over the world. Her journey of life with service at the forefront led her to create UniversalGiving™ (www.UniversalGiving.org), an award-winning nonprofit helping people to donate and volunteer with top performing organizations all over the world. Her proprietary Quality Model™ vets each organization before it becomes a part of the online UniversalGiving opportunities. UniversalGiving reflects Ms. Howley's own calling to make giving as easy as possible, for as many people as possible.
Ms. Hawley is a winner of the Jefferson Award (the Nobel Prize in Community Service), and has been invited to three Social Innovation events at the White House. UniversalGiving has been featured on the homepage of BusinessWeek,Oprah.com, CBS, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. She was a finalist for Ernst and Young's Entrepreneur of the Year Award and is an Expert Blogger for Fast Company and CSRWire. She also writes Living and Giving, a daily blog with the mission of "Inspiring Leaders to Live with Excellence and Love."
2014 Sexual Assault and Trafficking's Effect on Mental Health and Education
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Rev. Danielle Williams
“Sexual Assault and Trafficking's Effect on Mental Health and Education”
In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness month, the Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series featured Minister Danielle Williams, author of From Porn To The Pulpit. 
Rev. Williams is the leader of “A New You Ministries,” which exists to restore, regroup and refocus the youth and women in society to overcome the destruction of the streets, human sex trafficking, and domestic abuse. In her lecture, Rev. Williams discussed the impact sexual assault and human sex trafficking had on her mental health and education.
7-9 pm,
West Los Angeles Graduate Campus
2nd Floor, Room 203
2014 The Role of Philanthropy in Revitalizing L.A.’s Public Schools.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Melanie Lundquist & Joan Sullivan
The Role of Philanthropy in Revitalizing L.A.’s Public Schools
Melanie Lundquist
Lundquist is a founding member of the Board of the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, past chair of the Advisory Board for Teach for America, and is co-chair of a $165 million capital campaign for the California Science Center. She also lends her support to the Fulfillment Fund's endowment fund for college scholarships, and has taken active roles in Inner City Arts, United Friends of the Children, and Alliance for Children's Rights, among others.
Joan Sullivan
Sullivan oversees all aspects of the organization to ensure students receive a quality education. Prior to her post as CEO, Sullivan served as the Deputy Mayor of Education for Los Angeles. In that role, she oversaw Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s education policy agenda, working closely with the superintendent and board president to transform the nation’s second largest school district. She also oversaw the Partnership to accelerate student achievement at scale within the district’s lowest performing schools.
2013 Learning in Landscapes of Practice: Recent Developments in Social Learning Theory
The October 5 installment of the Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series welcomed two pioneers of communities of practice, Etienne and Beverly Wenger-Trayner. Any field of human knowledge can be seen as a landscape of different communities of practice, each one contributing a specific perspective. Learning is then a journey through that landscape with people developing their identity in respect to different practices they encounter, join, visit, ignore, or leave. This perspective is the topic of recent developments in social learning theory. In this keynote the Wenger-Trayner's presented these developments and discussed with the audience their applicability to their work.
Etienne Wenger-Trayner is a globally recognized thought leader in the field of social learning and communities of practice. He has authored and co-authored seminal articles and books on the topic, including Situated Learning, where the term "community of practice" was coined. Beverly Wenger-Trayner is a learning consultant specializing in communities of practice and social learning systems. Her expertise encompasses both the design of learning architectures and the facilitation of processes, activities, and use of new technologies. She has published chapters and articles about learning in internationally distributed communities and co-authored a popular toolkit on social reporting. She has also been the creative director of an Open Source platform for networked communities.
2013 Doing Culturally Responsive Education: What Does it Take?
In our increasingly diverse society, all practitioners need to know how to teach and reach young people of all backgrounds. What attitudes, values, dispositions, actions, and practices can help practitioners become culturally responsive?
The Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series invited Dr. Sonia Nieto, a leading authority in the field of multiculturalism and Professor Emerita of Language, Literacy and Culture in the School of Education, University of Massachusetts, Amherst to the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus on May 1, 2013 to address "what it takes" to be culturally responsive by highlighting her latest research with educators from around the nation .
Dr. Nieto has taught students from elementary school through doctoral studies and her research focuses on multicultural education, teacher education, and the education of Latinos, immigrants, and other students of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. She has written many journal articles and book chapters and several books on these topics including most recently Affirming Diversity: The Sociopolitical Context of Multicultural Education (6th ed, 2012, with Patty Bode), The Light in Their Eyes: Creating Multicultural Learning Communities (2nd edition, 2010), and Language, Culture, and Teaching: Critical Perspectives (2nd ed, 2010).
2012 Beyond Diversity: Challenging Racism in an Age of Backlash
Tim Wise is among the most prominent anti-racist writers and educators in the United States. Wise, who was named one of "25 Visionaries Who are Changing Your World," by Utne Reader in 2010, has spoken in all 50 states of the U.S., on more than 800 college and high school campuses, and to community groups across the nation. He has also lectured internationally in Canada and Bermuda on issues of comparative racism, race and education, racism and religion, and racism in the labor market.
Wise is the author of six books, including Dear White America: Letter to a New Minority and White Like Me (updated and re-released), both of which will be available for purchase and signing.
This lecture and Q&A on Thursday, October 25, focused on the harmful effects of racism and privilege. Wise will delineated the difference between individual prejudice and institutional bias and how stereotypes impact daily decision making.
2012 Modern-Day Slave Hunters
The Story of Modern-Day Slave Hunters:
Human Trafficking, Task Force Mentoring, Psychological Well-Being
At a time when more people than ever before are enslaved somewhere on the planet, Aaron Cohen is a slave hunter – working to find and free human beings from various forms of bondage. Cohen and his Abolish Slavery Coalition co-founder and executive director, Richard Leger, are unique assets to government agencies, think tanks, and anti-slavery organizations.
Cohen navigates the oppressive territory of pimps and drug lords. Posing as a sex tourist, he slips into brothels, urged by madams to select from a lineup of women and girls as young as six. Sometimes he can save them from their captors, but more often than not he must leave them behind, taking only the evidence he hopes will eventually lead to their rescue.
Leger is a trained weapon's specialist who utilizes this knowledge to manage and consult with governmental and non-governmental security before, during and after covert field investigations to safely rescue enslaved trafficking victims around the world.
Aaron Cohen with a slave's baby redeemed for $50.00.
On Thursday, September 6, 2012 students, faculty, alumni, and guests were afforded a personal look into the plight of human trafficking.
2012 Dr. Ted Baehr
Fueled by his desire to redeem the values of the media while educating audiences on how to use discernment in selecting their entertainment, MOVIEGUIDE® Founder and Publisher Ted Baehr spoke as the keynote at the 4th installment of the Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series event on Thursday, May 10, 2012.
Baehr digs deeply into the moral content, theology and worldviews of the movies, videos and television programs reviewed by MOVIEGUIDE. He is an engaging resource on how to teach children and adult students to be media wise, including emerging media such as Facebook and Twitter.
Dr. Baehr has used his 40 years of research on the media and culture to create a non-profit that is the only active liaison between studio executives and the general public for issues of family entertainment and faith.
Dr. Ted Baehr is Founder and Publisher of MOVIEGUIDE®: The Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment and Chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission® ministry, as well as a noted critic, educator, lecturer, and media pundit. Dr. Baehr was president of the organization that produced The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe for CBS-TV in 1980, boasting 37 million viewers and winning an Emmy Award. He has also has produced hundreds of programs for PBS television.
Dr. Baehr is Chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission® ministry (CFTVC), a non-profit organization dedicated to redeeming the values of the mass media of entertainment by influencing the entertainment industry and by informing and equipping the general public of the impact that the mass media has on its audiences. The CFTVC is the only active liaison between studio executives and the general public for issues of family entertainment and faith.
The tradition of this event is one which focuses on inviting leading agents of change to speak to GSEP student and community members.
2012 Children of the Night
Dr. Lois Lee, a pioneer in saving children who are victims of human sex trafficking addressed a crowd of graduate students, faculty, and members of the community at the February 21, 2012 installment of the Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series hosted by the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Lee is the founder and president of Children of the Night, the only comprehensive program in North America devoted to children who have been forced into prostitution to survive.
(Right to Left, Dr. Anat Cohen, Dr. Lois Lee, Dean Margaret Weber, Dr. Robert deMayo.)
Lee has devoted her life to rescuing America's children from the horrors of prostitution, abandoning a promising career as a scholar and social policy expert to protect and advocate for these voiceless children. In 1979, she created Children of the Night hotline. Today, that 24-hour hotline receives 10,000 calls a year and is the only nationwide hotline staffed by skilled workers who have been taught how to communicate with law enforcement, rescue children from pimps and prepare them to testify in court.
In 1981 she opened the first walk-in crisis center for children in Hollywood, which became a model for similar programs aiding street children all over the country. In 1992, Lee opened the Children of the Night home. It accommodates up to 24 residents at a time and provides shelter, an on-site school, individual case management, wholesome recreational outings, and a chance to experience the childhood they never had in a nurturing environment.
In the last two decades, she has raised over $40 million to provide these crucial services, as well as case management and college placement for many of the program's graduates. And her track record is impressive - Children of the Night graduates have gone on to become lawyers, executives and educators, among other professions.
Lee's trail-blazing humanitarian efforts have led the fight for the rights of one of the world's most unfortunate and discriminated-against populations. She continues to lead the field in the treatment of child prostitutes. Social service providers come from all over the world to observe Lee's ground-breaking work and visit the Children of the Night home - which is a model for similar programs in the U.S. and abroad. She has been sponsored by other countries -Japan, Romania, Mexico, Canada - to assist in developing such programs.
The tradition of this event is one which focuses on inviting leading agents of change to speak to GSEP student and community members.
2011 Doing Well by Doing Good
How to Improve Your Bottom Line through Social Responsibility
The second installment of the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology's (GSEP) Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series event hosted a panel discussion on social responsibility in the corporate environment.
Included in the panel were Rick Crandall, Director of Sustainability for the Southern California Division Albertsons; Zafar J. Brooks, Director of Governmental Affairs, Corporate Social Responsibility and Diversity and Inclusion for Hyundai Motor America; and Jay Bell, Senior Vice President for TELACU Construction Management who sat in for Dr. David C. Lizárraga, President and CEO of TELACU/Millennium and Founder and Chair of TELACU Education Foundation.
Leading the discussion was moderator Dr. Steve Kirnon, Adjunct Professor in GSEP's Social Entrepreneurship and Change Master's program, who has more than 25 years of operational experience in biomedical organizations.
The evening of networking and lively discussion was kicked off with a mixer hosted by GSEP in partnership with the Culver City and Santa Monica Chambers of Commerce.
Each panelist brought their real-world examples of initiatives that not only impact their business, but the community as well.
2010 Inaugural Event Welcomed Social Entrepreneur Leader Jerr Boschee
The Global Rise of Social Enterprise
The inaugural Dean’s Distinguished Lecture Series event welcomed Mr. Jerr Boschee, executive director of The Institute for Social Entrepreneurs. He served as CEO of the Social Enterprise Alliance, the largest membership organization for social entrepreneurs in North America. He and five others co-founded the Alliance in 1997 as The National Gathering for Social Entrepreneurs.
Boschee address more than 100 attendees at the Rave Motion Pictures Theater, with his presentation, titled The Global Rise of Social Enterprise. He focused on the characteristics separating social innovation from social enterprise; a panoramic view of how the social enterprise industry evolved, including its origins in the private sector and its emergence in the nonprofit sector 30 years later; the five distinct sectors in the social enterprise industry today; the single greatest danger confronting any organization seeking to launch a social enterprise; 14 critical success factors identified by the pioneers in the field; and examples of failed and successful social enterprises from a dozen countries.
Boschee has long been recognized as one of the founders of the social enterprise movement worldwide. The NonProfit Times named him to its nonprofit sector "Power & Influence Top 50" list in 2004, 2005, and 2006.
“Social enterprises go beyond the traditional concept of corporate social responsibility,” says Boschee, “by directly confronting the major unmet needs of society through businesses themselves rather than grappling with them indirectly through socially responsible practices, such as corporate philanthropy, equitable wages and the use of environmentally friendly raw materials.”
GSEP also hosted a day-time student face to face meeting with Bochee, including students from the newly established master of arts in social entrepreneurship and change program, following the speaker event.