The Cal State Fullerton College of Business and Economics continues to invest in immersive, real-world experiences that benefit both students and the region’s business community. This fall, the college launches a bold new initiative: The Titan Business Executive Fellow Program, a program designed to build a stronger, more meaningful partnership between senior executives and the college.

This new program is a natural evolution of the college’s longstanding emphasis on professional mentorship. It expands that mission by creating a platform where executives play a central role in shaping business education, mentoring high-potential students and driving applied research that supports regional innovation.

“The Titan Business Executive Fellow Program is a direct extension of our mission to provide a student-focused education grounded in academic excellence and personal development,” says Dean Sri Sundaram. “This initiative brings industry and academia together in a truly collaborative way, giving our students the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished executives while also contributing to regional innovation. I’m especially grateful to Paul Short for his leadership and vision in helping shape and launch this transformative program.”

Fellows will serve as mentors to high-potential students, work alongside faculty on applied research and graduate capstone projects, and participate in structured experiences such as guest lectures, curriculum development and executive workshops. Lunch and Learn sessions will also foster peer learning and high-level discussion on emerging business challenges.

“This program was built with the idea that meaningful partnerships between business leaders and the university can drive long-term impact,” says Paul Short, former chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board and the inaugural president of the Titan Business Executive Fellows. “By tapping into the experience and energy of local executives, we’re not just mentoring students; we’re helping to shape the next generation of talent and strengthen the connection between Cal State Fullerton and the business community.”

Key Program Highlights:

• Mentorship: Personalized engagement with high-potential students through the Executive in Residence program.
• Curriculum Collaboration: Input into course content and capstone case studies to reflect real-world business challenges.
• Research and Innovation: Opportunities to initiate or contribute to applied research aligned with organizational goals.
• Thought Leadership: Participate in executive workshops and Lunch and Learns focused on emerging trends.

Participation is structured yet flexible, with activities designed to accommodate varying levels of involvement. Fellows will have tailored opportunities for mentoring, speaking and project-based collaboration based on their interests and availability.

Executives who join this program will gain early access to emerging talent, contribute directly to the evolution of business education and collaborate with faculty and peers on high-impact initiatives. The program also strengthens company visibility, enhances recruiting pipelines and creates new avenues for strategic partnerships.

By design, the Titan Business Executive Fellow Program goes far beyond traditional board involvement. It is a two-way partnership rooted in shared purpose—preparing students for success, supporting industry needs, and creating a more connected, innovation-driven community.

For more information on this program, contact Erin Schuster at eschuster@fullerton.edu.