The California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM) proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Jack Paduntin as its new President. A forward-thinking higher education leader known for driving innovation, inclusion, and measurable impact, Dr. Paduntin steps into the role with a bold vision to expand CIAM’s reach and elevate its position as a leader in values-driven management education. At its annual meeting on November 13, the CIAM Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Dr. Jack Paduntin as the fourth President of the California Institute of Advanced Management, a moment that marks a defining milestone in the university’s continued growth and transformation. Board Chairman Len Kwiatkowski announced the decision with resounding support, emphasizing the Board’s confidence in Dr. Paduntin’s vision and leadership. The faculty and staff expressed their deep appreciation to the Board and offered their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Paduntin, celebrating the appointment as a pivotal step in advancing CIAM’s mission and impact.

Dr. Paduntin has championed initiatives that reflect the Institute’s commitment to combining academic excellence with real-world relevance. As Interim President and Provost, he oversaw the launch of new graduate programs in Organizational Leadership and Data Analytics, enhanced the Institute’s flagship MBA program, strengthened partnerships with major community organizations such as the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, and improved institutional systems to ensure long-term sustainability and student success.

“I’m honored to continue serving CIAM and advancing a model of management education that unites values with vision,” said Dr. Paduntin. “Together, we will amplify the Institute’s impact and prepare leaders who understand that success in business means success for society.”

At the core of Dr. Paduntin’s leadership philosophy is the belief that management is a humancentered practice. His approach aligns deeply with CIAM’s founding principles inspired by Peter F. Drucker, emphasizing innovation with integrity and results with responsibility. As President, Dr. Paduntin will focus on advancing CIAM’s academic reputation, expanding its global partnerships, and ensuring that students graduate not only with strong business acumen but also with the empathy, creativity, and courage to lead change in an evolving world. 

Before joining CIAM, Dr. Paduntin served as President of Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, where he led the institution to record enrollment growth, secured over $5 million in federal grants, and achieved a strong financial surplus while expanding programs that broadened access and diversity. He has also held senior leadership roles with TCS Education System, John F. Kennedy University, National University, and California State University, San Bernardino, where he advanced major initiatives in accreditation, data analytics, and global education— consistently driving innovation and quality across higher learning. With this extensive experience and visionary outlook, Dr. Paduntin is poised to guide CIAM into a new era of academic distinction, innovation, and global impact. 

About the California Institute of Advanced Management (CIAM) Founded in 2011, the California Institute of Advanced Management is a nonprofit, WSCUC accredited graduate institution dedicated to teaching the practice of management as both a science and an art. Guided by the principles of Peter F. Drucker, CIAM’s experiential learning model equips students to become effective, ethical, and socially conscious leaders in a rapidly changing global economy. Learn more at www.ciam.edu.

Media Contact: Dr. Maria C. Akopian Marketing & Communications Office California Institute of Advanced Management Email: headlines@ciam.edu Phone: (626) 350-1500