Connect to Business with the UP School of Business!
Upcoming Events (2025–’26):
January 2026
Graduate Business Info Session ~ January 21 (4pm). It’s a new year and it’s time to explore a new degree! Join us for a virtual Graduate Business Info Session to learn more about our business programs and the powerful network that UP’s School of Business offers! We offer a convenient, flexible program for working professionals. Get your questions answered about Graduate degrees and/or Certificate programs on Jan. 21 (4pm) PST. Join us!
Portland Business Journal’s Executives of the Year ~ January 28 (11am)
The School of Business is proud to serve as an on-going sponsor of this business event celebrates collaborative leadership across the region’s top-performing organizations. The Executives of the Year Awards recognize outstanding C-Suite and board-level leaders—both for-profit and nonprofit—who have demonstrated exceptional strategic vision, operational excellence, and transformative impact during the 2024–2025 calendar year.
February
School of Business Learning Labs Series: Graphic Design, Visual Communication & Aesthetic Strategy (Canva Workshop) ~ February 4
This Learning Labs session, “Graphic Design and Aesthetics as Strategy using Canva” introduces concepts related to Graphic Design focusing on how Aesthetic Intelligence shape meaning, identity, and emotional connection in brands. Students will examine how design elements (color, logos, type fonts), cultural relevance, and sensory storytelling can differentiate a new Portland MLB expansion team. Using Canva, you will create a cohesive, strategic Brand Identity Mood Board that visually argues for the team’s aesthetic direction and cultural resonance.
Meaningful International Experience Opportunities ~(Trips During Spring Break 2026)
New Zealand (travel during spring break): BUS 591 Climate Change Economics – New Zealand. Examines adaptation and mitigation policies for climate change, analyzing clean energy for decarbonization and the role of uncertainty in climate change decision-making in a global context. Compares U.S. approaches with policies abroad. Includes a one-week field course in Christchurch, NZ, on how businesses and policymakers address climate risks through adaptation, innovation, and economic tools. Prerequisite: Preapproval by Instructor. Recommended: Macro and Micro Economics. Course fee: $700
London and UK – BUS 502 (Sports and Outdoor Product Strategy). Please consider coming along for an immersive, cultural marketing-focused study tour that includes visits with brands and organizations such as Monocle 24, SOAR Running, adidas Brand Insights, Special Agent consultancy, Pentland Brands (Doc Martens), the University of Cambridge Engineering Design Centre, with a stadium tour and soccer match at Queens Park Rangers FC. This program blends classroom learning with on-the-ground experiences across the UK’s creative, design, and brand ecosystems, giving you access to how culture, identity, and community narratives shape global sports products. The program fee is $1,500, which covers hotel lodging, a London metro pass, scheduled activities and site visits, and some meals (airfare not included). To apply, please complete the program application here: https://uportland.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8GuQbz7S7Hyas86?Q_CHL=qr
For general questions, please feel free to contact me at parkman@up.edu and for registration details reach out to Melissa McCarthy at mccarthy@up.edu
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OTM Mentorship – Be A Mentor!
Ongoing ~ Make a positive impact on the next generation of Operations & Technology Management (OTM) professionals. Provide students with real-world insights. Enhance students’ career readiness and professional development. Enhance your mentoring and leadership skills.
Learn more by contacting the OTM Department’s Discipline Leader – arbabian@up.edu
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For More Event Information
To learn more about our upcoming events, how to get involved or for any questions, please email – grundy@up.edu
~Previous Events
December
School of Business “Basketball Day + 503 Game ~ December 14 (2pm)
This means $5 tickets for our fabulous business community, $3 hot dogs, and as always, free parking! University of Portland will be honoring the amazing faculty of the business school and recognizing their recent accolades during the game. We’d love you to join us in this celebration. Go Pilots! 💜Get your tickets here >>
Sports Business Speaker Series ~ December, 2 (5:30pm)
With New York Times business reporter Ken Belson on the business of sport. Ken will share insights from his new book, Every Day is Sunday, (released in October) with students enrolled in the University of Portland’s Sports Media, Culture and Society class, included in the Business School’s new Sports Business program.
November
Pilots Professional Preparation Program (P4): Practice Behavioral Interviews- Tuesday November 18 & Wednesday November 19 between 5:30-8pm. BUS302 Internship Preparation students. Volunteer need: 20-24 Volunteers. Deliver 30 Minute individual Behavioral Interviews with up to 3-4 students. Sign up! HERE >>
October
Building a Trust Funnel: The Importance of LinkedIn Thought Leadership in B2B Marketing (October 30) ~ When it comes to B2B marketing, the biggest challenge isn’t clicks or likes – it’s trust. In this session, Jeff and Eric Sigel of Twinning Edge will break down why traditional marketing funnels don’t work for small businesses and how thought leadership on LinkedIn can change the game. They’ll share real-world examples of how posting expertise builds credibility, opens doors, and turns connections into clients. They’ll also share how they use “AI twins” to scale a leader’s voice and knowledge, helping brands stay visible and consistent without overwhelming a small team. JOIN via ZOOM >> HERE
New Program for Executives! Competing in the Age of AI ~ Info Sessions: (October 30). Join University of Portland faculty and industry experts for an in-depth look at our “Competing in the Age of AI – Strategy, Execution & Ethics”” program. This executive education program is designed to help leaders act now, equipping them with the strategy, tools, and guidance needed to harness AI. In this live session, we’ll cover how the program helps you:
- Develop an actionable, organization-specific AI strategy.
- Become an experienced user of AI and create an AI use policy and training plans for your employees.
- Lead successful AI initiatives, from pilot projects to large-scale transformations.
Pilots Professional Preparation Program (P4): Networking and Resume/LinkedIn Event, In Person or Virtual – Wednesday, October 22nd, 5-8pm
2 hour event, refreshments included. Exact timing will be based on the availability of the majority of students to attend in person. BUS 302 Internship Preparation class (juniors). Event for students to practice their professional introductions/networking, as well as a Speed Resume or LinkedIn Review exercise. Volunteer need: In Person: 12-14 volunteers to facilitate small group elevator pitch practice and resume/LinkedIn reviews. Virtual: 3-4 volunteers willing to meet a few students virtually for a 30 minute conversation with Resume/LinkedIn feedback. Sign up! HERE >>
Northwest AI Summit – In partnership with Women in Big Data (WiBD) Northwest, UP School of Business is proud to present this one-day conference featuring keynote speakers, panels, Q&A, vendors onsite and networking reception on October 15. To be held in the Bauccio Commons Dining Hall. Register >> HERE
Pilots Professional Preparation Program (P4): Curated Career Conversations: In Person or Virtual – Tuesday, October 7th, between 4:00-7:00pm. Two-hour event, refreshments included. Exact timing will be based on the availability of the majority of students. Major and Career Exploration for BUS202 Professional Development students. Facilitated small group conversations with students focused on networking and career exploration. Students will be required to rotate to several tables during event. Volunteer need: In Person: 5-7 volunteers to facilitate small group discussion about career paths, advice, etc. May be paired with Faculty. Virtual: 2-3 volunteers willing to meet with a few students virtually for an informational interview. The virtual activity is for students who are unable to attend in-person. Sign up! HERE >>
SPORTS NETWORKING & JOBS ~ MEET THE PORTLAND PICKLES OWNER! (OCT. 3)– On October 3 (4pm in DB #133), meet Alan Miller, Owner of the Portland Pickles baseball, Portland Bangers soccer, and the Official League lifestyle brand for a conversation about sports entrepreneurship and community building— followed by informal networking opportunities with staff from the Bangers and Pickles. Learn more about current job openings with the Pickles! For more information, contact Sports Business Program Director, Ian Parkman – parkman@up.edu
Ian’s Coffee Shop: Jump into Qualtrics ~ Dr. Ian Parkman, Marketing Professor will lead this Learning Labs session that will jump into Qualtrics and conduct a fun survey design activity on Thursday, October 2 (4:10pm in DB 131) this coming term. Please RSVP >> HERE
September
Learn Blue Ocean Strategy: Examples from Wine, Beer & Spirits ~ September 18. Join us at the University of Portland for an exciting event where you’ll be a part of a hands-on workshop, led by Dr. Sam Holloway, strategic management expert, who will speak about the business approach for creating new, uncontested market spaces where competition is irrelevant. ~Special Guest! University of Portland Alumnus and Wine industry Guru, Kevin O’Brien, Managing Director Capital BMO Markets, will be presenting at this special session. Learn from the expert himself! Please RSVP >> HERE
Pilots Professional Preparation Program (P4): Professional Panel In-Person Only , Tuesday, September 16th. 2 sections of class from 4:00-6:00pm. BUS 202 Professional Development (sophomores). Volunteer Need: 3-4 volunteers per class to speak in class on their college and career journeys. Sign up! HERE >>
Telling Stories With Data: Hands On Tableau Workshop ~ Kicking us off with the “Featured Faculty Edition” Learning Labs series will be Dr. Gudigantala on September 11 (7:10pm). He will lead an interactive, hands-on Tableau workshop. Students, alumni, business professionals and friends of UP are all invited to attend. Please RSVP >> HERE
August
Back to School Graduate Summer Social, August 19 (5:30-7:30pm) – You are invited to join us for our annual “Back to School” Summer Social for our UP School of Business Graduate students and alums. We will be congregating along the beautiful Bluff Patio (alongside Commons) with hosted appetizers and beverages. RSVP >> HERE
US Bank 3rd Virtual Education Fair, August 12 (10:30 am – 12:30 pm PST) – UP’s School of Business is proud to present at US Bank’s third annual virtual education fair. Any US bank employees across the country are encouraged to attend. If you are a current employee and would like to learn more, please email – grundy@up.edu
July
Alumni Lunches/Info Sessions (All month) – Join the UP School of Business for hosted alumni lunches and onsite corporate info sessions all summer long. To learn more, please email – grundy@up.edu
Business Graduate Degree ~ LIVE Virtual Q&A July 30, 4pm PST (online). Learn more about our business programs and about the powerful community that University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business offers! We offer a convenient, flexible program for working professionals. Register >> HERE
June
Want an MBA? Thinking about a Graduate Degree? Graduate Business Info Session – June 17, 4pm PST (online). Learn more about our business programs and about the powerful community that University of Portland’s School of Business offers! We offer a convenient, flexible program for working professionals. Register >> HERE
May
“How to Get a Marketing Job in Today’s Uncertain Economy: Why Analytics Gives You an Edge,” ~ presented by Mac’s List. May 15, 5-8pm featuring Portland Trail Blazers EVP/CMO, Kevin Kinghorn and Dr. Ashley Hass. University of Portland, Bauccio Commons Dining Hall. Register >> HERE
April
Want an MBA? Thinking about a Graduate Degree? Graduate Business Info Session – April 23 and May 19 (online). Learn more about our business programs and about the powerful community that University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business offers! We offer a convenient, flexible program for working professionals. Register >> HERE
March
- P4 “Curated Career Conversations” Event for BUS202,” Tuesday, March 11th – 4-6:30pm
- P4 “Networking and Speed Resume Review event for BUS302” Monday, March 17th – 5-7:30pm
- Oregon FBLA Sports Marketing Day – March 18, 2025 (Portland, OR)
- AI Made Simple: How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Artificial Intelligence (Learning Labs series) – March 21, 9:30am – 11:30am, University of Portland, Bauccio Commons Dining Hall. To Register, visit – bit.ly/LearningLabsAI
February
- Oregon DECA State Development Conference, February 23-25, Holiday Inn Columbia River
Be A Judge!
When you volunteer to judge a DECA event, you are aiding bright and motivated students in having an educational experience of a lifetime. Collectively, DECA Judges help to evaluate the work of student attendees at our State and District Career Development Conferences. As a DECA Judge, you will use your background in business, entrepreneurship, marketing, management and life to evaluate students’ demonstration of marketing and business skills and knowledge. Sign up today! >> https://oregondeca.org/judge/#apply
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2024
December
University of Portland’s Annual Presidents’ Christmas Tree Lighting – Monday, December 2, at 4:15 p.m. on the Academic Quad (UP campus)
Advent Visio Divina – Join us for a contemplative prayer practice using a sacred image from The Saint John’s Bible directly following the noon Mass. December 11, 12:45-1:15pm, Chapel of Christ the Teacher. Info at up.edu/garaventa or 503-943-7702. Co-sponsored by Campus Ministry. ADA compliant event.
Data Science Varsity (in partnership with Women in Big Data) – Presentations starting in December 2025. More information to follow.
November
3rd annual Compass Career Fair and Career Development Bootcamp – November 7, (5pm-7pm -followed by networking reception), presented by Technology Association of Oregon and NW Veterans in Technology, to be held at Portland Community College (awaiting details). To learn more, contact – grundy@up.edu
DECA Washington Western Region Leadership Conference – November 8, Hyatt Regency, Bellevue, WA. If you are attending the NHRMA conference, please stop by and visit the Pamplin School of Business exhibiting booth.
AI Today Tomorrow and Beyond: Preparing for the Future of Work (and Life) – November 14 (6:30-8:30pm), University of Portland, Franz Hall #426 (Murphy Conference Room). Featuring Pamplin professor, Dr. Jon Down, this event will provide thought-provoking insights into the future of AI, real-world use cases, and practical strategies for fostering an AI-positive culture within organizations. Whether you’re new to AI or already working with it, you’ll walk away with actionable knowledge on how to more effectively use AI at the individual and organization level. For more information, visit >> HERE
PSOB Graduate Business Info Session – November 18 (4pm) via Zoom. Get your questions answered by Graduate Programs Director, Melissa McCarthy. You are invited to explore our business graduate programs during this Virtual Info Session. We offer flexible, evening programs that connect you to a powerful business network. Register >> HERE
P4 “Practice Behavioral Interviews (fka Mock Interviews)”, November 19th and 20th, 5:30-8pm, both in-person and virtual. Contact Sheila Mason for more information >> masons@up.edu
Learning Labs series: Part II “Built to Last: Fundamentals of a Capital Campaign” – November 22, University of Portland, Franz Hall (Room #120). Open to everyone and FREE to attend. To register, visit >> HERE
October
P4 Business Career and Major Exploration Event – October 1, Bauccio Commons (4-6pm). Contact Sheila Mason for more information >> masons@up.edu
University of Portland Higher Education & AI – October 18, University of Portland. For more information, visit here >>
P4 “Networking and Speed Resume Review Event” – October 28, Bauccio Commons (5:30-7:30pm). Seeking 5-8 in-person volunteers! Contact Sheila Mason for more information >> masons@up.edu
Financial Planning Association (FPA) and UP’s Financial Investment Association (UPIA) team up to present a “Financial Careers Panel” on October 29 (5:30-7pm in UP’s Bauccio Dining Hall). Hear from Industry panelists and spend some time networking. For more information, contact – grundy@up.edu
September
Pamplin School of Business Learning Labs return! Join us for “Fundamentals of a Successful Grants Program” – September 20 (9am-12pm), University of Portland, Franz Hall (Room #120). Open to everyone and FREE to attend. To register, visit >> https://bit.ly/3Mqz0qU
National Association of Human Resource Management Association (NHRMA) Conference – September, 23-25, Oregon Convention Center
If you are attending the NHRMA conference, please stop by and visit the Pamplin School of Business exhibiting booth.