Year: 2025

Anaheim University proudly celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of Ty Johnston-Chavis, a graduate of the university’s MFA in Digital Filmmaking program, who has gone on to become a highly respected producer, industry educator, and entertainment entrepreneur. Johnston-Chavis, a trailblazer in the independent film and television world, is the founder and CEO of T.Y. Entertainment and the visionary force behind the Atlanta Pitch Summit, a nationally recognized platform where emerging content creators connect directly with top television and streaming networks such as BET, FOX, Nickelodeon, Harpo Films, and MGM. Johnston-Chavis has produced and directed several acclaimed projects, including “The Match,” a suspense thriller released on AMC Networks/ALLBLK, “A Taste of Betrayal.” and “Style Me for Christmas” on BET. In addition to her work in film and television, Johnston-Chavis is a bestselling author of To Pitch or Not to Pitch and Give Me the Greenlight, both of which have guided countless aspiring producers through the art and business of pitching. She is also a member of the Producers Guild of America and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. As an educator, Johnston-Chavis has taught at the American Intercontinental University and The Art Institutes, and is now launching The Producers Academy, an initiative aimed at training and mentoring the next generation of producers from underrepresented communities. Her greeting to students considering the Anaheim University Akira Kurosawa School of Film’s MFA in Digital Filmmaking program can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0LemJ9eMGw

As a current student in the Doctor of Business Administration in International Business program at the Akio Morita School of Business, I have gained not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that are helping me grow both personally and professionally. These skills directly apply to my current role and have significantly enhanced my performance. I have spent my career in leadership roles across various industries. Currently, I serve as Chief Operating Officer of Kintone, where I manage operations and help drive the company’s growth. My previous roles included vice president of the Western Region for Nikkei America Newspaper, the English edition of the world’s largest financial newspaper, managing director of Green Innovation Connect, and director of the president’s office for Cybozu. I was proud to contribute to the community as a member of the Board of Governors for the Japan America Society of Southern California and through my significant involvement in Nikkei Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, which have made a tangible difference in many lives. Before joining Anaheim University, I earned two MBA degrees: one from Nagoya University in Japan and another from École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées in France. While these degrees were valuable, my experience in the DBA program at Anaheim University, with its focus on international business, has allowed me to expand my understanding and apply advanced theories directly to my work, sparking my excitement and intrigue. The program’s curriculum is not just challenging but also highly practical. With their expertise, the faculty provides personal attention that makes a significant difference. Professors are always available to support students, not only academically but also in their professional goals. The student services team is also beneficial, ensuring that all students, regardless of location, have the necessary resources to succeed. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is the chance to learn with students from around the world. This diversity brings unique perspectives and has deepened my understanding of international business practices. The program also features guest speakers who are experts in their fields, providing valuable insights that bridge theory and real-world application. Anaheim University has provided me with an exceptional learning experience, and I am confident that it will continue to impact students and the global community positively.

The Value of International Business Understanding in Career Growth Danny Schayes enjoyed a distinguished 18-year career in the NBA, playing for iconic teams including the Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic. Following his retirement from professional basketball, he earned an International MBA from Anaheim University, which paved the way for his successful transition into the corporate world. Schayes went on to serve as Industry Director (Insurance) at Ricoh USA and now holds the position of Senior Industry Specialist for Sports and Entertainment at Endava. “My name is Danny Schayes, and I am a graduate of Anaheim University with a Masters of Entrepreneurship degree. I have a varied business history mostly in the world of professional sports. I started my journey as an NBA player for 18 years. During that time, I became involved in the business side of the game as well. When I retired as an active player at 40 years old, I was unemployable in the traditional sense as I had never worked in a corporate setting. I started my business career as an entrepreneur in real estate. I furthered my education by attending weekend seminar courses in many areas of investing over the next 3 years. I started flipping houses and developed a real estate business. Eventually I transitioned into the corporate world in sports as specific opportunities crossed my path. As I developed my skills in business development, I soon found that I was undereducated in corporate business. At the time, the National Basketball Retired Players Association had a sponsorship agreement with Anaheim University. It was designed to offer former NBA players the opportunity to advance their education and support their life/business transition. The program was flexible, perfect with my busy schedule. I found the folks at AU easy to work with and the coursework was very professionally presented. I took advantage of the program to both build additional skills and qualify for higher level corporate opportunities. The results were immediate. At the time, I was part of a start-up company that was in the insurance space. One of my clients was Ricoh who was developing a new technology platform that my solution fit into. Soon after, the head of their US insurance section retired. As I was already in the mix and was well known to the key folks at Ricoh, it was natural for me to be considered. One of the requirements for the position was a master’s degree. Fortunately for me I now had one! I was hired for the position and soon ran digital strategy for the 50 largest accounts in Ricoh’s North American portfolio. Since then, I was hired by a global technology company to oversee data strategy for professional and college sports teams in the US. I owe this all to Anaheim University. Not only do I have the degree, but the advanced learning I received has been critical to my success. One area that has been specifically valuable has been in understanding international business. While the specific responsibilities for my last two jobs have been in North America, both companies are large global companies with headquarters in Tokyo and London, respectively. I am working with production teams all over the world and what I learned at Anaheim University has been a key element for me. I am obviously very pleased with my experience and hope to pursue a doctoral level degree there in the future.” Retired NBA Player & Anaheim University MBA Graduate Danny Schayes

Transforming Careers Through Innovative Online TESOL Education After earning her MA in TESOL degree at Anaheim University in 2006, Dr. Julie Choi earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from the the University of Technology, Sydney in the area of Multilingual Studies and is currently an Associate Professor in Education (Additional Languages) at the University of Melbourne. Dr. Choi shared her experience studying at Anaheim University: “I enrolled in Anaheim University’s online MA TESOL program during the early days of online education, when digital communication was primarily text-based rather than audio-visual. Despite these limitations, the program had a well-structured approach with clear protocols for both asynchronous and synchronous weekly interactions. The learning design was so effective that students could work productively, whether independently or in collaborative groups.  This experience opened my eyes to the unique potential of online learning, which differs significantly from traditional classroom education. It’s far more sophisticated than simply conducting classes over Zoom. While this format isn’t suitable for everyone, it offers invaluable opportunities for busy professionals worldwide to access expert knowledge and connect with a global community of peers. The impact of my MA TESOL degree at Anaheim University has been profound. It led me to pursue a Doctorate in Education at the University of Technology, Sydney, and I now serve as an Associate Professor in Education at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Education. I still keep the binders from our residential sessions, filled with notes and assignments, on my bookshelf. They serve as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the diverse learning opportunities available today. I remain deeply grateful for this educational experience and how it shaped my career path.” University of Melbourne Associate Professor in Education (Additional Languages) and Anaheim University MA in TESOL graduate Dr. Julie Choi

Empowering Leaders in Sustainability Through Exceptional Education Dr. Craig Reiter earned his MBA in Global Sustainable Management from Anaheim University in 2010 and his DBA in Global Sustainable Management in 2024. Following his MBA, Dr. Reiter advanced his career significantly, being promoted within Southern California Edison (SCE) to the role of Principal Advisor, Strategy and Sustainability. He later held leadership positions including Vice President and Corporate EHS&S Officer at DHS Consulting, Executive Vice President and Chief EHS&S Officer at Hal Hays Construction, and Senior Director of Sustainability, Environment, and Energy at Los Angeles Metro. Dr. Reiter now serves as the General Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer at Maada’oozh, further demonstrating his exceptional expertise and dedication to sustainability leadership. He also teaches Urban Sustainability and its importance in Public Policy at the University of Southern California (USC). He shared his experience with Anaheim University: “I graduated from Anaheim University’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Sustainability Management in 2013 and the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with a concentration in Sustainability Management in 2023.  I attended the University of California at Davis for my undergraduate studies, and I can attest that the education I received from Anaheim University far exceeded my experience in the UC system.  At Anaheim, I received a world-class education with comprehensive and challenging curriculums taught by professors that effectively connected the course outlines with real-world experience. Over the past 12 years since I first graduated from Anaheim University, I have built a reputable career as a leader in the sustainability industry, including executive positions as a Chief Sustainability Officer and as an Adjunct Professor of Sustainability at the University of Southern California.  Anaheim University’s programs in sustainability provided me with the foundational education I needed to thrive in my career.” Maada’oozh General Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer & DBA in Global Sustainable Management Graduate Dr. Craig Reiter

Transformative Education: Empowering Leaders in TESOL Dr. Okon Effiong graduated from Anaheim University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA in TESOL) degree program in 2008. He went on to earn his Ph.D. at the University of Southampton and is currently a lecturer at the University of Qatar, the founder of the Africa English Language Teachers Association (Africa ELTA), and is the 2025 President-Elect of the TESOL International Association. Dr. Effiong shared his experience with Anaheim University: “I greet you with gratitude and a deep sense of appreciation as I share my journey as a proud graduate of the online Master of Arts in TESOL program at Anaheim University. My time at this institution has been nothing short of life-changing, paving the way for remarkable professional growth and empowering me to contribute meaningfully to the field of English language education, both in Africa and beyond. At Anaheim University, I found not just a school but a family of dedicated educators, mentors, and peers who are shaping the future of language teaching worldwide. Learning under the guidance of renowned professors like Dr. David Nunan, Dr. Rod Ellis, and Dr. Kathleen Bailey was an honor. These respected leaders in TESOL brought rigor, wisdom, and a personal commitment to every lesson. Their teachings were not only rooted in theory but also rich in practical application, preparing me to tackle the real challenges that teachers and learners face daily. The MA TESOL program was more than just a degree for me; it became a tool of transformation. It sharpened my research and teaching skills, gave me a global perspective, and bolstered my confidence to lead. I can boldly say that this qualification was instrumental in helping me achieve key leadership roles, including my recent appointment as President-Elect of TESOL International Association—one of the most prestigious positions in our field. In this capacity, I aim to advocate for English teachers and learners across diverse contexts, building on the values instilled in me by Anaheim University. I must mention Dr. Andy Curtis, who did not teach me in the MA program, but was instrumental for my rise through the professional leadership pipeline. Dr. Curtis has been priming me over the years and it is indeed fulfilling, thanks to his mentoring efforts, to be mandated to lead TESOL International Association. The global nature of the program stood out as one of its greatest strengths. Engaging with classmates from various countries and backgrounds gave me insights that transcend borders, and the residential sessions allowed me to meet these brilliant individuals in person, cementing connections that continue to enrich my career. These experiences reinforced my belief that education is a bridge that unites us, regardless of where we come from. Anaheim University’s emphasis on a “Students First, Always” philosophy was evident in every interaction. From the accessibility of professors to the responsiveness of staff, I always felt supported. This environment gave me the confidence to not only excel academically but also to dream big and act on those dreams. One of the proudest moments of my career was founding the Africa English Language Teachers Association (Africa ELTA) in 2016. Today, Africa ELTA connects over 25 affiliate countries across the continent and includes 5,000+ members from 94 countries. Despite operating without corporate funding, Africa ELTA thrives as a hub for professional development, supporting teachers through collaboration and a shared vision. Much of the resilience and teamwork that led to this success can be traced back to the lessons I learned during my time at Anaheim University.   I am deeply passionate about empowering African teachers and giving them platforms to grow and share their expertise. Anaheim University played a critical role in equipping me with the knowledge, leadership skills, and confidence to contribute to this cause. From organizing international conferences to mentoring young educators, I see the fingerprints of Anaheim’s values in everything I do. Anaheim University has touched lives not just in Africa but across the globe. Its commitment to excellence, innovative teaching methods, and the creation of a global learning community make it an institution worthy of recognition and support. I firmly stand in support of its reaccreditation, and I hope my story demonstrates the far- reaching impact of its programs.”

Broadening Perspectives Through Cross-Cultural Learning at Anaheim University Alastair Lamond, originally from Scotland, graduated from the Anaheim University Online Global MBA program in 2009 and is currently the Director and CFO of Potential Plus, Kabushikigaisha in Japan. He shared his experience in the MBA program: “I joined the MBA program in Anaheim University’s Akio Morita School of business with one main aim, whch was to check that I knew what I was supposed to know at that stage in my career, identify what I did not know and be educated to plug the gaps. I could not have made a better choice than Anaheim University to do this. Anaheim University has been a pioneer in online education, which I respected and was motivated by. Studying on the Moodle platform was very easy and it helped deliver an accessible and innovative learning experience for students all over the world. To this day I use that Moodle experience when negotiating with instituitions to confidently sell my company’s digital products to the Moodle-loving community.  The administrative staff consistently provided outstanding support, always responding promptly and effectively to queries. The university’s professors are world-class educators who not only possess deep expertise in their fields but also foster meaningful engagement with students, significantly enhancing our understanding across a wide range of subjects. One of the most enriching aspects of the Anaheim experience was learning alongside students from diverse countries and varied business backgrounds. This cross-cultural interaction broadened each other’s perspectives and added depth to our educational journey. The occasional student gatherings fostered a sense of community and often led to lasting friendships beyond graduation. Furthermore, Anaheim University’s tuition fees are very reasonable compared to other programs, making it possible for students of varied backgrounds to earn advanced degrees, such as Master’s or Doctorates, without incurring overwhelming debt. My confidence and new-found knowledge has served me well since my graduation and helped me be able to work and negotiate effectively with the C-Suite. At a conference recently in Frankfurt I had a 30-minute conversation with the global CEO of the KLETT Group. Not only did I impress him with my market knowledge, I did so in a way that he followed up with an email requesting an online meeting to discuss KLETT’s potential entry into Japan. I was not able to do that before my MBA at Anaheim University.” Potential Plus Director/CFO & AU MBA Graduate Alastair Lamond