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FREMONT, Calif. — January 21, 2026 — At San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of academic excellence and innovation. Today, we are thrilled to share that our Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Brad Fuster, has been appointed to the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) Chief Academic Officers Task Force. Driving Innovation at SFBUSince joining our team in June 2024, Dr. Fuster has been a driving force in advancing our academic vision. He has been instrumental in expanding our program offerings and deepening faculty engagement. His leadership continues to be critical as we develop our innovative curriculum—one that seamlessly integrates career mobility, life literacy, wellness, and cutting-edge, AI-driven education. A Leading Voice in EducationBeyond his work here on campus, Dr. Fuster is also amplifying important voices in our field as the host of The EdUp Innovation Podcast. As part of the EdUp Experience network, he explores the bold ideas and courageous leadership necessary to navigate the complexities of higher education—from AI and digital transformation to workforce alignment. We are proud to see our leadership represented within the CIC, the leading national association for over 700 small and mid-sized independent colleges and universities. About San Francisco Bay UniversityWe are a WASC/WSCUC-accredited, private nonprofit university located in the heart of Silicon Valley. At SFBU, our mission is to provide accessible, career-focused education through undergraduate and graduate programs in business, computer science, engineering, and psychology. We believe in empowering our students through cutting-edge technology and personalized support to ensure they thrive in a rapidly changing world. Contact: pr@sfbu.edu
Faculty Learning & Teaching Thought Leadership
January 21, 2026
Fremont, Calif. — Jan, 21 2026 — San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) today announced the launch of ChatGPT Edu, a secure, education-focused AI platform designed to support student learning, research, and creativity across the university. The initiative represents a significant step in SFBU’s commitment to innovation, digital fluency, and preparing students to thrive in an AI-enabled world. ChatGPT Edu provides SFBU students with access to advanced AI capabilities—including the latest OpenAI models, data analysis, search, multimodal tools, and AI-powered image generation—within a university-managed environment aligned with academic standards and data privacy requirements. “As AI becomes increasingly central to how knowledge is created and applied, universities have a responsibility to integrate these tools thoughtfully and responsibly,” said Brad Fuster, Provost and Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs at SFBU. The launch of ChatGPT Edu reflects SFBU’s belief that access to emerging technologies must be paired with clear academic guidance and responsible use. The platform enables students to enhance coursework, deepen research, and explore new modes of creativity while remaining grounded in institutional expectations for academic integrity. “ChatGPT Edu empowers our students to enhance their learning, deepen their research, and explore new ways of thinking—while remaining grounded in academic integrity and institutional guidelines,” Fuster added. Through ChatGPT Edu, students can:Support coursework and research through AI-assisted analysis, writing, coding, and problem-solving Brainstorm ideas and collaborate using Canvas and Custom GPTs tailored to specific academic needs Create AI-generated visuals for presentations and academic projects Engage with multimodal tools using text, voice, and images Use of ChatGPT Edu is governed by SFBU’s AI policy, as outlined in the University Catalog. Students are encouraged to use the university-provided platform for all academic work rather than personal AI accounts, ensuring stronger privacy protections and alignment with academic standards. To support adoption and effective use, SFBU is providing onboarding resources, sample prompts, recorded webinars, and technical assistance through the university’s AskIT services. “The goal is not simply access to technology,” said Fuster. “It’s helping students build the skills, judgment, and confidence to use AI as a tool for learning, creativity, and lifelong success.” The launch of ChatGPT Edu aligns with SFBU’s broader mission to expand access to innovative, future-ready learning experiences that prepare students for a rapidly evolving global workforce. For more information about SFBU’s approach to AI in education, visit . Contact: pr@sfbu.edu
Learning & Teaching Programs Students Thought Leadership
January 16, 2026
Fremont, Calif. — January 7, 2026 — San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) has announced a new strategic global partnership with Nexford University (NXU), designed to expand affordable academic access, strengthen faculty innovation, and accelerate cross-border learning through digital-first education models. This partnership advances SFBU’s mission to provide inclusive, innovative, and globally connected higher education opportunities. The multi-year agreement connects two mission-aligned institutions committed to broadening access to high-quality higher education and preparing learners for success in an increasingly interconnected world. Together, SFBU and Nexford will develop co-learning opportunities, research collaborations, and flexible international pathways that empower students with industry-relevant skills and global perspectives. “This partnership reimagines what accessible, globally connected education can look like,” said Dr. Nicholas Ladany, President of San Francisco Bay University. “By combining SFBU’s commitment to inclusive excellence with Nexford’s digital innovation, we are creating pathways that prepare learners—not just for today’s workforce, but for tomorrow’s world.” “Together, we’re expanding what is possible for learners around the world,” said Dr. Ann Larson, Chief Academic Officer at Nexford University. “Our institutions share a belief that high-quality education should be flexible, affordable, and globally relevant. This collaboration brings that mission to life and opens new avenues for innovation in teaching, learning, and global engagement.” Key Areas of Collaboration
Global Academic Access: Develop joint online modules, pathways, and exchange programs that enhance mobility and career readiness.
Faculty Innovation: Build shared communities of practice focused on pedagogy, research collaboration, and mentorship.
Digital Learning Innovation: Host webinars, seminars, and applied research showcasing technology-driven education models.
Student Development: Offer programs that foster leadership, intercultural competence, communication skills, and global awareness—directly supporting SFBU’s five core student identities. The partnership advances SFBU’s institutional goals across inclusive education, teaching excellence, access and affordability, whole-student development, and innovation in technology-enhanced learning. Reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable, mission-driven growth, SFBU and Nexford will collaborate under a renewable five-year agreement focused on building scalable, globally relevant educational opportunities. The SFBU × Nexford partnership marks a major step toward a more connected, agile, and globally accessible model of higher education. Media Contact SFBU: Irene Valdes | Chief of Staff and Vice President of Presidential Initiatives and Community Impact | San Francisco Bay University | pr@sfbu.edu Nexford University: Ragen Dodson | Head of Marketing | pr@nexford.edu About San Francisco Bay University San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) is a WASC/WSCUC-accredited, private nonprofit university located in the San Francisco Bay Area/Silicon Valley. Dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality, and career-focused education, SFBU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, computer science, and engineering. Founded on the belief that higher education should empower students to achieve personal and professional success, SFBU integrates cutting-edge technology, real-world learning experiences, and personalized support to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at . About Nexford University Nexford University (NXU) is an accredited online university built to make higher education more affordable, flexible, and career-relevant for working adults worldwide. NXU offers competency-based programs designed in collaboration with industry to help learners build practical skills and advance professionally—without putting life on pause. Learn more at .
Entrepreneurship Learning & Teaching Students Thought Leadership
December 19, 2025
San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) is proud to be featured on The EdUp Experience, now in its 7th year. In this episode, SFBU President Dr. Nick Ladany joins host Dr. Joe Sallustio and co‑host Brent Ramdin, CEO of EducationDynamics to explore how universities can redesign themselves for the Modern Learner. Dr. Ladany shares how SFBU has shifted resources away from traditional education structures toward new, innovative strategies that directly improve learning, completion, and access—operating more like a mission-driven startup than a traditional bureaucracy. Topics discussed include: A faculty model requiring pedagogical training before instructors enter the classroom Clear performance expectations and year-round student engagement Redesigned cost structures prioritizing student learning and completion New approaches to credits, graduation timelines, and traditional metrics The episode also highlights SFBU's commitment to radical affordability, keeping tuition in the low five figures while maintaining small class sizes, robust academic support, and unlimited mental health care for students. Dr. Ladany's message to higher education leaders is clear: institutions that want to thrive in the next era must focus on what truly delivers value for students. Source: The EdUp Experience, President Series #434, powered by Ellucian and sponsored by the 2026 InsightsEDU Conference in Fort Lauderdale (Feb 17–19)
Entrepreneurship Learning & Teaching Thought Leadership
December 19, 2025
Dr. Nick Ladany, president of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), has been named to the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s 2025 “Silicon Valley Newsmaker 100,” recognizing him among the region’s most influential leaders across 15 industries, including higher education. This honor places Ladany alongside presidents from Stanford University, San Jose State University, and Santa Clara University, highlighting SFBU’s emerging role in Silicon Valley’s innovation and talent ecosystem. The Newsmaker 100 spans key sectors like artificial intelligence, commercial real estate, cybersecurity, and higher education, reflecting the interconnected regional economy. Ladany’s inclusion underscores SFBU’s commitment to preparing career-ready graduates for high-demand roles in technology and business. Looking ahead, SFBU’s strategic priorities under Ladany’s leadership include: Expanding career-focused programs aligned with Silicon Valley’s technology and business needs. Deepening employer partnerships for internships, applied learning, and job pipelines. Enhancing access and success for diverse and first-generation students entering the innovation economy. Honorees will be celebrated at a private reception on February 12, 2026, with full profiles in a special edition of the Silicon Valley Business Journal. View the complete list: Silicon Valley’s Top 100 Newsmakers of 2025.
Entrepreneurship Learning & Teaching Thought Leadership
December 16, 2025
The new Program expands Innovate Bay’s on-campus offerings as SFBU strengthens its role as Fremont’s hub for emerging technology and startup growth. FREMONT, Calif. — Innovate Bay, the on-campus business incubator sponsored and housed at San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), today announced the launch of applications for its 12-Week Scale Sprint, a new program designed to accelerate early-stage companies developing Applied Frontier Technologies. The Scale Sprint is the next major initiative in Innovate Bay’s mission to support student founders, technologists, and first-time entrepreneurs with structured programming, mentorship, and real-world pathways to growth—all made possible through SFBU’s investment in fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem on its Fremont campus. Designed for Pre-Seed startups, the program focuses on companies building solutions in IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain Applications, Cybersecurity, Sustainable Logistics, and Digital Inclusion Technologies. Participating founders will receive targeted support to secure commercial validation, strengthen operations, and prepare for seed-stage fundraising.
As part of its commitment to advancing innovation across the region, SFBU will host the Scale Sprint’s culminating Demo Day, which has been designated the official closing event of Fremont Tech Week, the city’s annual celebration of technology, entrepreneurship, and civic collaboration. "San Francisco Bay University is proud to sponsor Innovate Bay and to support founders who are building technologies that will shape our shared future,” said Dr. Nicholas Ladany, President of SFBU. “This program reflects our mission to expand access to opportunity, strengthen the local workforce, and provide environments where innovation can thrive." Founders selected for the Scale Sprint will receive:$20,000 in capital investment Coworking access at Innovate Bay on SFBU’s campus Mentorship from industry leaders and experienced founders An operational sprint to secure verifiable B2B or B2G pilot agreements “Our goal is simple: help founders achieve real traction,” said Rohan Brown, Executive Director of Innovate Bay. “By the time they reach Demo Day at SFBU—at the center of Fremont Tech Week—they will be presenting validated roadmaps and real customer commitments, not just pitch decks.” Founders can apply online. The deadline to complete your application is December 27, 2025 at 12:00 AM PST.
Innovate Bay is a premier startup incubator in the San Francisco Bay Area dedicated to empowering Applied Frontier Tech startups. Through capital, mentorship, and a focus on securing pilot agreements, Innovate Bay prepares early-stage founders for successful seed rounds and sustainable growth. About San Francisco Bay UniversitySan Francisco Bay University (SFBU) is a WASC/WSCUC-accredited, private nonprofit university located in the San Francisco Bay Area/Silicon Valley. Dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality, and career-focused education, SFBU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, computer science, and engineering. Founded on the belief that higher education should empower students to achieve personal and professional success, SFBU integrates cutting-edge technology, real-world learning experiences, and personalized support to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at
Entrepreneurship Learning & Teaching Thought Leadership
Member for 1 year 5 months Submitted by daniel on Mon, 10/06/2025 - 21:36
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When: Thursday, November 13th 2025, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm PST Location: SFBU Main Building, Room 210, 161 Mission Falls Lane, Fremont, California 94539, United States ONLY RSVP IF YOU WILL BE ON SITE FOR LUNCH!Juniors and Seniors — your next flight path starts here.It’s time to think beyond graduation. SFBU’s graduate programs are designed to help you soar higher, strengthen your skills, and stand out to employers.Join us for this special event:
https://sfbu.joinhandshake.com/events/1825376/share_preview
Member for 1 year 5 months Submitted by daniel on Mon, 10/06/2025 - 21:36
1758908675
When: Monday, October 27th 2025, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PDT Location: SFBU Main Building, Room 210, 161 Mission Falls Lane, Fremont, California 94539, United States Are you an international undergraduate or graduate student interested in gaining work experience through Curricular Practical Training (CPT)? Join us to learn who qualifies, when to apply, and how the process works. This session will cover key steps, timelines, and tips to help you navigate CPT successfully — with time for your questions, too!
https://sfbu.joinhandshake.com/events/1832382/share_preview
Member for 1 year 5 months Submitted by daniel on Mon, 10/06/2025 - 21:36
1758912093
When: Tuesday, October 21st 2025, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PDT Location: SFBU Main Building, Room 210, 161 Mission Falls Lane, Fremont, California 94539, United States Join us for How I Got My Internship: Student Success Stories! Hear from peers as they share how they found, applied, and succeeded in landing internships — plus tips to help you on your own journey.”
https://sfbu.joinhandshake.com/events/1832488/share_preview
Member for 1 year 5 months Submitted by daniel on Mon, 10/06/2025 - 21:36
1758911532
When: Tuesday, October 14th 2025, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PDT Location: SFBU Main Building, Room 210, 161 Mission Falls Lane, Fremont, California 94539, United States Want to turn conversations into career opportunities? Join us for Networking That Works and learn practical strategies to build connections that lead to internships and jobs. Whether you're just getting started or looking to sharpen your approach, this session will help you network with purpose and confidence.
https://sfbu.joinhandshake.com/events/1832465/share_preview (责任编辑：) |
