The Riordan Programs at UCLA Anderson School of Management, a pioneering initiative established in 1987 by Richard Riordan and William Ouchi, have consistently empowered young individuals through education and mentorship. Fuelled by the unwavering commitment of Richard and Elizabeth Riordan and the Riordan Foundation, these programs have expanded significantly over the decades. Notably, the 2017 Riordan College To Career Program emerged as a vital track, specifically designed to support first-generation college students in securing internships and launching successful careers in management.
This program, alongside the Riordan Scholars for high school students and the Riordan MBA Fellows for recent graduates, embodies the Riordan Foundation’s deep-seated belief in strategic philanthropy. Mary Odell, chairman of the Foundation, emphasizes Richard Riordan’s conviction in using his wealth for the greater public good, a principle evident in the robust support for the Riordan Programs. The 2017 Riordan College to Career Program exemplifies this commitment by providing crucial resources and guidance to students navigating the complexities of higher education and the professional world.
Dean Tony Bernardo of UCLA Anderson highlights the programs’ alignment with the university’s core values of education, research, and public service. The 2017 Riordan College to Career Program, and its sister initiatives, are integral to UCLA Anderson’s dedication to community engagement and fostering opportunities for diverse student populations. The location of the Riordan Programs at a top management school is deliberate, reflecting Richard Riordan’s philosophy of equipping individuals with the tools to thrive in a competitive society. This approach, characterized by data-driven strategies and a willingness to innovate, underpins the effectiveness of the 2017 Riordan College to Career Program and the broader Riordan program suite.
The impact of the Riordan Programs, including the 2017 Riordan College to Career Program, is substantial. Over 4,000 students have benefited from these initiatives, with an exceptional 100% college acceptance rate for Riordan Scholars. Elizabeth Riordan, a UCLA alumna, underscores the foundation’s focus on sustainable, impactful philanthropy. The 2017 Riordan College to Career Program is a testament to this vision, aiming to leverage resources effectively and create lasting opportunities for students from first-generation backgrounds as they embark on their management careers. Richard Riordan’s legacy, from his early focus on youth literacy to his impactful tenure as Mayor of Los Angeles, and William Ouchi’s academic contributions, provide a strong foundation for the continued success and evolution of the Riordan Programs, including the crucial 2017 Riordan College to Career Program.
