Category: News

Anaheim University Students & Graduates Invited to Career Success Webinar with Sony Pictures Entertainment Global Talent Acquisition Manager Eddie Arakel Anaheim University is pleased to invite Anaheim University’s current students and graduates—regardless of major—to a special Collaborative Learning Center presentation featuring Eddie Arakel, Manager, Global Talent Acquisition – Emerging Talent Programs, People & Organization at Sony Pictures Entertainment. Friday, October 236:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (PST) In this online session, Eddie Arakel will share practical strategies to help participants stand out in today’s competitive job market. Topics will include crafting an effective résumé, preparing for interviews, building a successful career, and understanding what recruiters from a leading global entertainment company look for in candidates. With 15 years of experience in leading global full-cycle recruiting, Edmond Arakel is a Talent Acquisition Leader who has helped organizations transform how they attract, engage, and hire the best talent. He is passionate about the Emerging Talent space and has led high-performing, cross-regional teams in architecting scalable programs for early-career, technical, and business talent.  When he’s not working, he is most likely spending time with his partner and their 4-year-old English Bulldog, Dezzy. Whether you are preparing for your first internship, exploring a career change, or seeking to advance professionally, this session will provide valuable insights applicable across all industries. This event is open to all Anaheim University students, alumni, and faculty at no charge. Register today and take the next step toward career success. Click here to register

Anaheim University is pleased to announce that Ty Johnston-Chavis, MFA, an Anaheim University MFA in Digital Filmmaking graduate, will speak in the Anaheim University Collaborative Learning Center on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM PST. Her presentation, “To Pitch or Not to Pitch,” will provide students with practical insights into developing compelling pitches, presenting creative ideas with confidence, and understanding the art and business of pitching for film, television, and creative industries. Ty Johnston-Chavis is a film and television producer, industry educator, entertainment entrepreneur, founder and CEO of T.Y. Entertainment, and the visionary behind the Atlanta Pitch Summit. She is also the bestselling author of To Pitch or Not to Pitch and Give Me the Greenlight. Her credits include projects released through AMC Networks/ALLBLK and BET, and she is a member of the Producers Guild of America and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The session will include a live Zoom presentation with Q&A and is open to all Anaheim University students, graduates and faculty Click here to RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQZp8Xvg7fG3BUpVMJB24jyXpkhnyE8m1oDG55C1dxHq1j9A/viewform?usp=header

Anaheim University is proud to announce a significant milestone in its history: students from 101 countries have studied at the university, underscoring its position as a leading accredited online university serving learners around the world. Since its founding, Anaheim University has welcomed students from every inhabited continent, creating a diverse and dynamic international learning community. The university’s student body has included learners from countries as varied as Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, France, India, Japan, Nigeria, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe. This achievement reflects Anaheim University’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality online education that transcends geographic boundaries and brings together professionals, educators, entrepreneurs,and leaders from across the globe. A Global Learning Community With students representing 101 countries across six continents, Anaheim University has built a learning environment that develops international collaboration, intercultural understanding, and global networking. Through online degree programs and certificate programs, students engage with faculty and classmates from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds while pursuing their educational goals. Accredited Online Degree Programs Anaheim University offers a variety of online undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs in areas including: TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) Business Administration International Business Entrepreneurship Sustainable Management Digital Filmmaking Entertainment The university’s faculty includes internationally recognized scholars and industry leaders who bring real-world expertise to the virtual classroom. Meeting the Needs of Global Professionals As demand for flexible online education continues to grow, Anaheim University has attracted working professionals seeking career advancement, educators pursuing specialized training, and entrepreneurs looking to develop leadership and business skills. Students benefit from: Flexible online learning International networking opportunities Small class sizes Personalized academic support Access to distinguished faculty A multicultural learning environment One University, One World The milestone of students from 101 countries highlights Anaheim University’s evolution into a truly international institution. By connecting learners from around the world through innovative online education, the university continues to fulfill its mission of preparing students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected global economy. From Argentina to Zimbabwe, students from 101 countries have chosen Anaheim University as a partner in their educational and professional journeys—a remarkable achievement that reflects the university’s dedication to global learning, academic excellence, and international collaboration. About Anaheim University Anaheim University is an accredited online university headquartered in Anaheim, California. The university offers online bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs designed for working professionals and students seeking flexible, high-quality education. Anaheim University serves a diverse international student body and is committed to providing innovative online learning opportunities that prepare graduates for success in a global society.

Dr. Robert Robertson, Dean of the Anaheim University Akio Morita School of Business, has been named a judge for the prestigious QS Reimagine Education Awards 2026, one of the world’s leading international initiatives recognizing innovation in higher education and educational technology. Organized by QS Reimagine Education, the annual global conference and awards program brings together universities, educators, edtech leaders, and innovators from around the world to highlight transformative approaches to teaching, learning, employability, and student success. As a judge, Dr. Robertson will evaluate submissions from institutions and organizations worldwide that are developing innovative educational models, technologies, and initiatives designed to improve learning outcomes and expand access to education. Dr. Robertson brings more than 25 years of experience in higher education leadership, curriculum development, and international education to the role. At Anaheim University, he has played a key role in advancing global online education initiatives and strengthening the University’s focus on innovation, intercultural communication, and applied business education. The QS Reimagine Education Awards are widely regarded as among the most influential global honors in educational innovation, attracting submissions from universities, startups, and educational organizations across multiple continents. Winners are recognized for pioneering approaches that reimagine the future of education in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital learning, sustainability, employability, and inclusive education.  The 2026 awards will provide participating innovators the opportunity to compete for up to $25,000 in funding while presenting their projects to an international audience of higher education leaders and industry experts. 

Anaheim University is pleased to announce that the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) voted on April 29, 2026, to affirm and continue the University’s accredited status. The Commission’s action was formally published in the DEAC Accrediting Commission Report released on May 5, 2026. This important milestone reflects the collective efforts and dedication of Anaheim University’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, administrators, students, and alumni, all of whom worked diligently throughout the review process to demonstrate the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, institutional effectiveness, and continuous improvement. “This outcome represents the resilience, strength, and shared commitment of the entire Anaheim University community,” said President Andrew Honeycutt. “We are grateful to everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and unwavering support throughout this process. Anaheim University remains fully accredited and deeply committed to delivering high-quality, globally accessible education while continuing to strengthen our institution for the future.” Founded on the principles of innovation, accessibility, and international education, Anaheim University continues to serve students around the world through its online academic programs and distinguished faculty. University leadership noted that the reaffirmation of accreditation marks not only a successful outcome to the review process, but also an opportunity to continue advancing strategic initiatives focused on academic quality, student support services, institutional sustainability, governance, and operational effectiveness. Anaheim University extends its sincere appreciation to its faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters whose dedication and belief in the institution helped make this achievement possible. For additional information regarding Anaheim University and its programs, please visit Anaheim University. About Anaheim University Anaheim University is a private online institution committed to providing globally accessible higher education through innovative and student-centered programs. The University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, sustainability, entrepreneurship, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), film and entertainment,  serving a diverse international student population

Anaheim University Graduate Appointed 2026 TESOL International Association President Anaheim University proudly announces that Dr. Okon Effiong, a graduate of Anaheim University’s Master of Arts in TESOL program, has been named the 2026 President of the TESOL International Association. Dr. Okon Effiong’s election as the 2026 President of the TESOL International Association reflects his outstanding contributions to the TESOL profession. With decades of experience in English language teaching, teacher training, and program development, Dr. Effiong has been a tireless advocate for advancing English language education globally. His leadership and expertise will guide TESOL International Association’s mission to support educators and promote excellence in English language teaching. In addition to his professional accomplishments, including his current role as a lecturer at the University of Qatar, Dr. Effiong is the founder of the Africa English Language Teachers Association (Africa ELTA), established in 2016. Today, Africa ELTA connects over 25 affiliate countries across the continent and includes more than 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. Dr. Effiong’s pioneering work with Africa ELTA underscores his commitment to empowering educators and fostering a global community of English language teachers. As an alumnus of Anaheim University’s MA TESOL program, Dr. Effiong attributes his success to the rigorous training and innovative methodologies he gained during his time at the University. Okon stated, “I can boldly say that this qualification was instrumental in helping me achieve key leadership roles, including my recent appointment, one of the most prestigious positions in our field.” About TESOL International Association The TESOL International Association is a global professional organization for English language educators. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to support educators and advance the field of English language teaching. The Association’s leadership roles are instrumental in shaping its mission and initiatives.

On October 10, 2025, two days before the 18th anniversary of his passing, Anaheim University proudly commemorated the enduring legacy of Dr. Kisho Kurokawa, the renowned Japanese architect and sustainability pioneer for whom the Anaheim University Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute is named, during the Japan–United States Leadership Summit held in October 2025. The tribute and summit were held at the United Nations University in Tokyo.  The summit brought together California and Japanese civic leaders, including mayors, city council members, county administrators, planners, and architects to advance collaborative strategies for a more sustainable future. A central theme of the event was environmental stewardship and cross-border leadership — ideals closely aligned with Dr. Kurokawa’s lifelong work and philosophy. Dr. Kurokawa (1934–2007) was one of Japan’s most influential architects and a founder of the Metabolist Movement, a visionary approach to design that emphasized flexibility, ecology, and the symbiosis between built environments and living systems. His internationally acclaimed works — including the Nakagin Capsule Tower, The National Art Center (Tokyo), and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport — reflect a commitment to sustainable, adaptive architecture. Beyond his architectural achievements, Dr. Kurokawa was a staunch advocate for environmental responsibility. In the final chapter of his life, he championed sustainability and ecological design. In 2008, the Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute was established at Anaheim University. Today, the Institute carries forward his vision by offering online degrees, diplomas, and certificates in Sustainable Management, empowering global leaders to integrate environmental and social considerations into business strategy. The tribute at the summit highlighted Dr. Kurokawa’s enduring influence on sustainability and international collaboration, recognizing not only his architectural legacy but also his profound belief in shaping a more balanced and resilient future through education and leadership. Dr. Yuri Konno, CEO of Dial Service who served as Vice-Chair of the Anaheim University Executive Advisory Board during Dr. Kurokawa’s tenure as Chair, offered reflections on his visionary leadership. Mr. Mikio Kurokawa, son of Dr. Kisho Kurokawa, also paid tribute, underscoring the lasting global impact of his father’s work and ideals. The two-day event also featured Paul Tange of the University of Tokyo, son of Kisho Kurokawa’s mentor, the late Kenzo Tange, who designed the United Nations University building in Tokyo, as well as Pritzker Prize laureate Shigeru Ban. As global leaders convened to address today’s environmental challenges, Anaheim University reaffirms its commitment to Dr. Kurokawa’s ideals by advancing accessible education that promotes responsible, sustainable management practices throughout the world. United Nations University in Tokyo Dial Service CEO and former AU Executive Advisory Board Vice-Chair Dr. Yuri Konno Mikio Kurokawa Architect Paul Tange Architect Shigeru Ban Japan-U.S. Leadership Summit delegation with architect Paul Tange Dr. Kisho Kurokawa and Dr. Yuri Konno, Chair and Vice-Chair of the AU Executive Advisory Board in 2003

It is with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude that Anaheim University’s Akira Kurosawa School of Film pays tribute to the legendary actor Tatsuya Nakadai, who passed away on November 8, 2025. Nakadai-san’s extraordinary artistry left an enduring legacy in Japanese and world cinema. His collaborations with Director Akira Kurosawa produced some of the most powerful performances in film history — including Yojimbo(1961), Sanjuro (1962), High and Low (1963), Kagemusha (1980), and Ran (1985). We at the Akira Kurosawa School of Film are profoundly grateful for his contribution to our Master of Fine Arts in Digital Filmmaking program. Nakadai-san shared his insights through a special video interview that continues to inspire Anaheim University students, offering firsthand wisdom on performance, discipline, and the soul of storytelling. As he said in his video interview in 2016: “I will give up when my body doesn’t move, but I want to stay an actor until I die.” True to his words, his final stage performance was held in Noto, Ishikawa, in May 2025 — a testament to his lifelong dedication to his craft. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and fans around the world. His legacy will forever live on through the films he made and the artists he continues to inspire. Thank you, Nakadai-san.

Anaheim University’s Akira Kurosawa School of Film is honored to announce the receipt of a historic donation: rare behind-the-scenes footage from the set of Akira Kurosawa’s legendary 1985 film Ran. The footage was generously contributed by Mr. Satoru Iseki, the Production Manager for Ran, through the National Film Archive of Japan, further enriching the school’s unparalleled archive dedicated to preserving the legacy of one of cinema’s greatest filmmakers. This invaluable footage adds to the 70 hours of original Ran set footage previously donated to Anaheim University and will be used for educational, archival, and cultural purposes. It will support the Akira Kurosawa School of Film’s global mission to educate and inspire new generations of filmmakers through direct engagement with the creative process of a master director. The Anaheim University Akira Kurosawa School of Film’s Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Digital Film Program was developed under the leadership of Dean Dr. David Desser—one of the world’s foremost Kurosawa scholars, and the school offers a global platform for students to interact with Hollywood professionals. The newly donated footage will be preserved and restored by the university and shared with students and partner institutions globally, advancing Anaheim University’s commitment to celebrating Kurosawa’s work on an international scale.

Anaheim University held its annual Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) residential session from March 22 to March 25, 2025, welcoming Ed.D. and MA in TESOL students to Irvine, California for four days of intensive academic engagement. The AU TESOL residential session followed the March 18-21 TESOL 2025 International Convention & Expo in nearby Long Beach, California, allowing students to attend both the conference and residential session back to back.  The session featured distinguished applied linguists and Anaheim University Senior Professors Dr. David Nunan, Founding Dean of the Graduate School of Education, and Dr. Rod Ellis, Vice President for Academic Affairs who have taught at AU TESOL residential sessions for over a quarter of a century. Together, they led interactive workshops, research presentations, and collaborative discussions centered on current topics in language education. Key sessions included: Translanguaging and designing research studies (Dr. Rod Ellis) Poster presentations and research plan development (Dr. David Nunan) Debates on task-based vs. task-supported language teaching, the use of L1 in the classroom, and key controversies in language research Student-led presentations of original research and open forums for academic inquiry. The residential program fostered scholarly exchange and mentorship, reinforcing Anaheim University’s commitment to developing the next generation of TESOL professionals through practice-based research and global perspectives.  

Collaborative Learning Center Featured Speaker Using AI in Research Dr. Hayo Reinders Graduate School of EducationChair of ResearchSenior TESOL Professor Friday, March 28, 2025 at 7:15 PM – 8:30 PM PST The Anaheim University Collaborative Learning Center is excited to announce the next Distinguished Speaker who will be addressing students and alumni online via Zoom.  Dr. Hayo Reinders is Chair of Research and Senior TESOL Professor for the Anaheim University Graduate School of Education. Holding a Ph.D. in Language Teaching and Learning from the University of Auckland, Dr. Reinders is also Professor of Education and Head of Department at Unitec in Auckland, New Zealand. His previous positions include Head of Learner Development at Middlesex University in London, Director of the English Language Self Access Centre at the University of Auckland in New Zealand and associate professor at RELC in Singapore. He has worked with teachers from a large number of countries worldwide and has been visiting professor in Japan, Thailand, Mexico and the Netherlands. Dr. Reinders edits the journal ‘Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching’ as well as a book series on ‘New Language Learning and Teaching Environments’ for Palgrave Macmillan. He is Editor of Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, and Convenor of the AILA Research Network for CALL and the Learner. Dr. Reinders’ interests are in technology in education, learner autonomy, and out-of-class learning, and he is a speaker on these subjects for the Royal Society of New Zealand. His most recent books are on teacher autonomy, teaching methodologies, and second language acquisition. Students and graduates of all majors are welcome to join Come prepared with questions RSVP using the button below Click here to RSVP

Dr. Zaman Sajid Attributes New Book to the Skills Learned from AU’s MBA Program Anaheim University is proud to celebrate the recent publication of Method of Process Systems in Energy Systems: Current System Part I (Methods in Chemical Process Safety, Volume Eight) by Volume Editors Dr. Zaman Sajid, Efstratios N. Pistikopoulos and Faisal I. Khan. Dr. Zaman Sajid is a distinguished graduate of the Anaheim University’s Online MBA in Global Sustainable Management program. Dr. Sajid’s latest work contributes to the evolving landscape of process safety, sustainability, and technological advancements in the chemical and process industries. A Career Dedicated to Safety and Sustainability Dr. Sajid’s professional journey is a testament to his dedication to improving safety and sustainability in the chemical and process engineering fields. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Process Engineering from Memorial University, Canada, a Master of Science (MS) in Chemical and Process Engineering from the University of Strathclyde, UK, and an MBA in Sustainable Management from Anaheim University, USA. Currently serving as a senior research engineer at the Mary Kay O’Connor Process Safety Center and a visiting faculty member at Texas A&M University, Dr. Sajid has spent over a decade leveraging data analysis, artificial intelligence (AI), and risk-based approaches to enhance the safety, sustainability, and security of chemical processing plants in the U.S. His research addresses pressing challenges in renewable energy, bio-manufacturing, and bioprocessing technologies, contributing to economic and environmental progress. Contributing to Industry Research and Innovation Dr. Sajid is actively involved in cutting-edge research, frequently publishing in leading peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences. He plays a crucial role in managing the $52 million federally funded Ocean Energy Safety Institute (OESI), which aims to improve safety measures in the U.S. offshore energy sector. His commitment to scientific excellence extends to his participation in peer review for esteemed journals such as Applied Energy, Computers & Chemical Engineering, Energies, International Journal of Sustainable Engineering, and Sustainability. Additionally, he is a member of the U.S. AI Safety Institute Consortium and serves on the editorial boards of Frontiers in Environmental Engineering and ChemEngineering. About the New Book: Method of Process Systems in Energy Systems: Current System Part I Dr. Sajid’s latest book, Method of Process Systems in Energy Systems: Current System Part I, is part of the Methods in Chemical Process Safety series. The publication explores recent advances in process safety, featuring contributions from an international panel of experts. Key highlights of the book include: Insights from leading contributors worldwide Cutting-edge developments in process safety methodologies A valuable resource for professionals and researchers in chemical engineering Reflections on the Anaheim University Experience Dr. Sajid credits his MBA from Anaheim University with enhancing his understanding of business management, complementing his technical expertise. He emphasized how the program helped him develop leadership and people management skills, which have proven invaluable in his career. Reflecting on his time at Anaheim University, Dr. Sajid highlighted the supportive learning environment, particularly in group projects and coursework. He found the “triple bottom line approach” course especially valuable, as it provided insights into sustainability from both a technical and managerial perspective. While balancing professional responsibilities and academic collaboration was challenging, the flexibility of Anaheim’s online program allowed him to successfully integrate learning into his career growth. Looking Ahead Dr. Sajid’s transition from Canada to Texas A&M University marks a significant step in his career, as he continues his impactful work in process safety and energy sustainability. His accomplishments reinforce the value of interdisciplinary education, blending engineering expertise with management acumen to drive innovation in the industry. Anaheim University is honored to celebrate Dr. Sajid’s achievements and looks forward to his continued contributions to process safety and sustainable management. His story serves as an inspiration for current and future students seeking to expand their expertise and make meaningful contributions to their fields. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0EYTFwQHXQ&feature=youtu.be