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Professional MMA fighters compete in one of the world’s most dangerous combat sports. MMA stands for mixed martial arts, although the sport is also known as extreme combat and no-holds-barred fighting.

It’s a sport that has achieved increased popularity in recent years thanks to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) franchise and reality TV show The Ultimate Fighter. Competitors come from a variety of disciplines; for example, Rhadi Ferguson competed at the 2004 Olympics in judo, and Sam Hoger started a Brazilian jiu-jitsu club at his university.

But despite the fact that they compete in a dangerous sport where knockouts are common, there are MMA fighters who have done more than just study martial arts. Some famous names have completed undergraduate, postgraduate and even PhD degrees in subjects that may astound you. Read on for 10 surprisingly well-educated MMA fighters.

10. Shane Carwin

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You might not expect many MMA fighters to have a degree, but the man they call “The Engineer” has two. Shane Carwin (on the left in the image above) earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines and a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Technology at Western State College. Not a bad record for a man with an equally impressive sporting résumé.

While he was at college, Carwin was twice the heavyweight NCAA Division II Wrestling National Runner-Up. And in 1999, he became the NCAA II National Wrestling Champion. Playing for Western State, Carwin’s football skills were also noted, and he was picked for the Senior Bowl. But it was in MMA that he made the biggest impression.

Carwin won his first eight fights by first-round stoppages and fought his way up to become Ring of Fire heavyweight champion prior to joining the UFC. Amazingly, while progressing in the UFC, Carwin has continued to work as an engineer.

9. Takeya Mizugaki

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Takeya Mizugaki is a bantamweight mixed martial artist from Japan. Since he began his MMA career in the US in 2009, he’s had a mixed bag of wins and losses but has received praise for his ability as a fighter – particularly as the first opponent to push former bantamweight champion Miguel Torres to five rounds.

In 2005, Mizugaki began his fighting journey in his native country. MMA started becoming popular while he was still in school, and he wanted to give it a go. He started appearing in Shooto and Cage Force fights before graduating from college. And when Mizugaki completed his master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at Kanto Gakuin University, he continued with his MMA career.

Added to his current record of 16 wins from 25 fights, Mizugaki has won the Cage Force bantamweight championship once and received World Extreme Cagefighting Fight of the Night honors twice.

8. Jeff Monson

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Jeff Monson stands out from the crowd. He’s nicknamed “The Snowman” because opponents have said he’s white, compact, and seems to get stronger and larger the more he competes – much like a rolling snowball. Monson has won a number of heavyweight championships since his 1997 MMA debut.

But if he’d not found such success in MMA, his life could have been very different. He has both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Psychology and previously worked as a mental health professional in crisis evaluation and child and family counseling. Eventually, however, he devoted himself fully to mixed martial arts.

Despite his considerable career, Monson has also gained notoriety out of the ring. A self-proclaimed anarchist, he pleaded guilty to malicious mischief in 2009, after being arrested for painting the pillars of the Washington State Capitol building with anarchist and anti-war graffiti.

7. Rich Franklin

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Former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin began his MMA career at the age of 25. Nicknamed “Ace” due to his likeness to Jim Carrey (as Ace Ventura), Franklin has alternated between the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions, achieving notable success in both. Franklin successfully defended his middleweight title twice and has also been given one Knockout of the Night and two Fight of the Night awards. In addition, he is a former International Fighting Championship (IFC) champion.

Still, had Franklin not seen a flyer for a local fight some years ago, things might have been a little different. Before embarking on his MMA career, he attended the University of Cincinnati, achieving a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and then a master’s degree in Education. After graduating, he taught math at Oak Hills High School in Cincinnati. And in 2006, the mayor of Cincinnati made February 21 “Rich Franklin Day” in his honor.

6. Terry Martin

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Terry Martin started his MMA career in 2002, and since then he has amassed a number of notable wins against big-name fighters like Chael Sonnen, Ivan Salaverry and Jorge Rivera. His great success is, moreover, particularly impressive when considering how different his life could have been.

Hailing from the west side of Chicago, Illinois, Martin found himself embroiled in gang culture from a young age. In 1996, when he was 15 years old, the future MMA fighter was almost killed after he was shot in his back, legs and chest in a drive-by shooting. His survival prompted him to focus on education rather than gang culture.

Martin went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s in Clinical Psychology. What’s more, he is at present studying for a doctorate at the Adler School of Psychology. Having turned his life around, Martin now uses his MMA fame as a way to talk to kids in inner-city areas and urge them to stay in school – just as he did.
 

5. Sam Hoger

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Known as the “Alaskan Assassin,” Sam Hoger rose to prominence as a contestant in the first series of The Ultimate Fighter, the successful FX Network/UFC-backed reality show that has aired since 2005. His tactics on the show, sometimes described as “Machiavellian,” won him few friends in the ring. But despite his lack of popularity, his performance was good enough for him to sign with the UFC.

Before competing on the show, Hoger graduated from Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s in Political Science. And while studying at LSU, he founded the university’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu club. Hoger went on to St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa to study for a master’s in Business Administration. And in 2009, he launched an MMA training center in Houston, Texas.

4. Nick Denis

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Nicknamed “The Ninja of Love,” Nick Denis is a retired Canadian fighter and an ex-King of the Cage Canada bantamweight champion. He was also a semi-finalist in the Sengoku featherweight tournament and notched up a Knockout of the Night win in his debut UFC fight. Denis’ recent (November 2012) retirement at the age of 29 surprised many, but it had a lot to do with his academic background: he received a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of Ottawa.

After his first defeat in MMA, a knockout loss to Marlon Sandro in May 2009, Denis started researching the effects of concussion. He said at the time, “As a graduate student at the University of Ottawa, I had access to all peer reviewed scientific journals. No surprise to find that concussions equal bad.”

It was the effects of sub-concussive trauma that concerned him most. Denis found that years of continual head trauma from sparring and fighting could have a devastating cumulative effect on a fighter’s brain. What’s more, he decided to retire when he noticed the warning signs in himself.

3. Rosi Sexton

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British mixed martial artist Rosi Sexton has enjoyed more than 10 successful years as an MMA fighter, and she currently holds a record of 13 wins from 15 fights. At present, she’s ranked as the third best 125-pound female fighter in the Unified Women’s MMA Rankings.

Yet while she’s dedicated to martial arts, Sexton’s academic record is formidable as well. She attended the prestigious Trinity College in Cambridge, where she completed a degree in Mathematics in 1998. And in 2003 she received a PhD in Theoretical Computer Science from the University of Manchester.

Sexton continued to mix MMA training and learning, and in 2010 she earned a degree in Osteopathy from Oxford Brookes University. Currently, she’s a practicing osteopath in Manchester, England.

2. Rhadi Ferguson

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Rhadi Ferguson got into MMA late and made his pro debut in 2010 at the age of 35. Even so, he has notched up three wins (including two knockouts) so far. Ferguson’s sporting prowess prior to MMA was never in doubt. He has been US national judo champion four times and competed as a heavyweight at the 2004 Athens Olympics. And Ferguson isn’t the only MMA fighter in his family, either; his cousin is UFC legend and infamous street brawler Kevin “Kimbo Slice” Ferguson.

In addition to his achievements in judo, Ferguson has a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a sport he took up because he “just wanted to continue to learn.”

And furthermore, prior to his MMA career, Ferguson balanced his judo expertise with a strong academic record. He went to Howard University in Washington, DC on a football scholarship, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. In 2002, he earned a master’s degree in Teaching from the same institution. And in 2009, he was awarded a PhD in Education from Capella University.

1. Seth Kleinbeck

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With a nickname like “Mass Destruction,” you might think there’s not much else to be said about fighter Seth Kleinbeck. Yet in fact, he’s one of the most educated fighters in MMA – a fact backed up by his other nickname: “Doctor.” Hailing from Arkansas, Kleinbeck didn’t pay much attention to education in his youth, opting to join the Marines rather than go to college. But after his medical discharge for flat feet, he began to reconsider higher education.

Kleinbeck worked in construction to pay his way through Delta State University and swapped to pre-med at the suggestion of a teacher who noticed his excellent results. Next, he gained a place at the University of Arkansas’ College of Medicine. And in his final year there, he took up Brazilian jiu-jitsu at his local gym and found that he excelled at the martial art.

So why does the qualified doctor continue his MMA career? Well, it’s clear that Kleinbeck has room for both passions in his life. And while he enjoys growing his medical practice, he has said of MMA, “I enjoy the competition, the preparation. It gives me something to train for.” At least he’ll be able to attend to his own cuts and bruises!

The field of accounting is one that seems to divide people into warring factions. On one side, those who need to get their taxes done think that the profession is a great asset. Businesspeople who dread their quarterly results, however, think a bit differently. At the same time, some people find accounting’s involvement in math and numbers to be fascinating. Others, with a slightly less rosy view of math, would prefer to run in the opposite direction.

One thing that everyone can agree on is that the profession is lucrative, growing, and highly skilled. A Master’s degree in accounting is one of the most popular programs at schools nationwide, and it’s the key to enjoying a longer, more successful accounting career no matter where that career takes off. At these five schools, the program is at its best for students of all aspirations and ability levels.

1. Loyola University in Chicago

Loyola University’s campus in Chicago has always been particularly strong in business and accounting programs, so it should be no surprise that their Master’s of Science in Accounting is one of the best nationwide. Loyola’s program is focused primarily on advancing the undergraduate knowledge of those enrolled in the program, virtually all of whom have some level of academic or real-world experience in the field.

Beyond that, extensive preparation for the CPA exam is a key part of the program and that’s what makes it a real asset to students. The CPA exam is notably one of the toughest pre-professional examinations in the country, and the seasoned professors at Loyola help their students pass at a rate that is higher than many competing colleges and universities.

2. Washington University in St. Louis

Home to two presidential debates during some of the most trying economic times in recent memory, Washington University in St. Louis is a business education leader. The Olin Business School is one of the leading providers of professional business education in the Midwest, and especially in Missouri. Accounting students engage in rigorous courses that serve chiefly to prepare them for an ethical career in the field.

Extensive CPA examination preparation is included with the program, and students are exposed to a number of strategies and techniques for success on the exam that will determine their fate in the profession. All told, it’s a well-rounded program perfect for those local to the St. Louis institution.

3. Temple University

It likely comes as no surprise that the Fox School of Business offers a top-ranked accounting program for graduate students. Temple is notable for having particularly small class sizes among its Master’s of Science in Accounting student body. Most classes are less than 20 students in size, a notable accomplishment for this public university that has more than 35,000 students total.

With an extensive CPA preparation component in virtually every course offered to students, Temple has one of the best pass rates for the exam of any business school nationwide. That’s a big accomplishment, and one the university isn’t afraid of touting to each prospect.

4. University of South Carolina

The Marshall School of Business is a key institution in the Southeast, and it’s a valuable resource for local accounting professionals. The University of South Carolina is easily one of the best public schools in this part of the country, and the accounting program is a demonstration of how that reputation has been earned.

Courses at the university focus centrally on ethics within the profession, as well as professional strategies and even management techniques. A CPA preparation component is built into many of these courses, just as it is at other leading schools nationwide.

5. Vanderbilt University

In Tennessee, not too long of a distance from the University of South Carolina, students at Vanderbilt are treated to an excellent program in accounting. The Owen School of Management offers a Masters in Accountancy, or MAcc, that is a little different from other programs nationwide. In addition to traditional accounting, ethics, and CPA courses, students are encouraged to conduct extensive graduate-level research into ethical dilemmas, changes in the profession, and technological advancements.

At the end of the two-year program, graduates are primed for excellent job prospects and some of the most rewarding careers in the industry. It’s a reputation that has made Vanderbilt one of the accounting education leaders at the undergraduate, graduate, and even professional levels.

Great Programs for a Great Field
Despite its controversies, accounting is one of the largest and most resilient fields in the United States. On the strength of these programs, it looks to continue being that way for quite some time.

While management and administration skills are most commonly identified with the business community, there is a strong need for this skill set in the political and government worlds as well. These skills are especially useful when creating new civil policies or enforcing laws and regulations that have been recently passed by local, state, and federal governments. Because working in government requires a different kind of management and administration style than most businesses require, the public administration field was born.

Public administration is a rapidly growing field at many American universities, generally because the scope of government employment has been steadily increasing over the course of at least the last three decades. Those who pursue a degree in this field, especially from the universities mentioned below, stand a great chance at employment, fulfillment, and occupational success.

1. Harvard University

It’s hard to argue with the prestige of a Harvard degree, especially when it comes from the top-ranked Kennedy School of Government. Students who attend Harvard in pursuit of their Master’s in Public Administration will receive one of the most well rounded educations available in the field, including leadership in public, non-profit, and private organizations.

They’ll learn everything from implementing policies to proposing new ones, interacting with the public and judging public opinion to guide their activities. The Public Administration program at Harvard is virtually designed to set students into a career of public service, and that’s a really refreshing attribute.

2. Northeastern University

Leadership and management in the non-profit sector, as well as in the government, is the stated mission of the Master’s in Public Service program offered at Northeastern University. The school’s degree is offered through its Department of Political Science, which is itself one of the most well regarded political education programs in the country.

Like many of the best programs in this field, Northeastern’s degree is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration. That gives it added weight when applying for jobs, and indicates that the school meets the organization’s highest standards for education, involvement, and occupational preparation.

3. University of Southern California

The Price School of Public Policy at USC offers an interesting approach to public administration. As part of the program, students are taught not only how to manage public sector activity and non-profits, but also how to manage small projects and work with the community. This is a unique skill set, and it’s one that lays the foundation for a rewarding career outside of the private sector.

Because the program is unique in nature, and offered at one of the country’s most prestigious universities, prospective students should seriously consider USC for their next educational pursuit.

4. University of North Carolina

The oldest public university in the country has had a great deal of time to fully develop all of its programs, and that shows quite a bit when looking at its Master’s in Public Administration program. The UNC School of Government is probably the best school of its kind in the Southeast, and that translates to industry-leading research and hands-on experience for those who enroll in the program.

Professors are experienced in both the public and non-profit sectors, and their professional experience is generally matched only by their academic curiosity. That gives students deeper insight into the field, a critical asset during both the job search and career development.

5. City University of New York: Baruch College

The City University of New York comprises several community colleges and traditional universities, and Baruch is easily one of the most prestigious within the system. The institution is home to a particularly strong School of Public Policy, where students will spend all of their time after enrollment. Like all of the other programs listed here, Baruch College is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration.

Students who attend Baruch College will have access to the large New York City government, as well as local nonprofits. Professors are generally the best in the New York area, with local and national experience at the highest levels of government and community development. That bodes well for students who are looking to get the best perspective on the field, their place in it, and how they can change things for the better throughout their career.

Some Great Programs for a New Generation of Leaders
With the backing of major universities like Harvard, Northeastern, and others, the public administration field is a growing one that will become an asset for recent graduates. With the right blend of government knowledge, managerial capability, and educational background, there really is no limit to the marketability of this great degree.

In an era when much of the supply chain for today’s businesses comes from countries overseas, excellent supply management is more in demand than ever. Today, professionals must make sure that the supply chain is efficient, well regulated, in line with local and international labor standards, and able to propel a business to ultimate success. If they can do that, they can likely do anything the business world demands. As an example of this, just look at Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook. Once a leader in supply chain management and innovation, he recently took over as the company’s leader and has sent its stock price to new heights.

With that kind of career trajectory, it’s easy to see why these programs are increasingly popular among those already determined to receive their MBA from a leading institution. A few programs are particularly outstanding, with some of the best instruction anywhere in the country.

1. New York University

Though it isn’t technically an ivy league university, the results produced by New York University’s Stern School of Business rival anything that comes out of the major ivy league institutions in the northeast. Its program is second to none in terms of qualified instructors, and students are encouraged to get hands-on experience while working with the large New York business community.

With one of the biggest names in academics, and one of the biggest cities in business, at their fingertips, those who choose New York University will find themselves being considered for some of the country’s leading positions in supply chain management.

2. Rutgers University

As part of the supply chain management program at Rutgers University, students will participate in what the university calls “The Center.” That institution is dedicated to research within the business community and it’s a fundamental way that Rutgers grads are equipped to handle the challenges of this field. The Center shows innovative new ways of doing business even before they’ve been discussed by leading publications, giving graduates an edge over their competitors.

In addition to hands-on work and research experience, Rutgers puts students through a tough series of operations and analysis courses that will prepare them for virtually every scenario within the supply chain. At the end of the program, they’ll be perfectly suited for domestic and international management of major supply chain schemes.

3. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego has one of California’s best business schools, especially for those looking into a supply chain management career. The university offers an MBA in the field and, unlike its competitors, actually operates the Supply Chain Management Institute. The institute is dedicated to researching the best methods of management and operations, and those findings are passed directly on to students as part of the school’s curriculum.

Because it researches the field, sets the trends, and teaches students about them directly, USD is a cutting edge school with a program that should not be overlooked.

4. Arizona State University

Arizona State University has always performed well in the business field, and its MBA programs are no exception. The school utilizes the proximity of Phoenix to bolster the credentials of its graduates, giving them the opportunity to work with some of the Southwest’s leading companies and executives during their time in the program.

ASU’s professors are almost universally experienced in business, management, and supply chain economics, and they bring valuable experience to each class that will help to equip students for their eventual career in the field.

5. Temple University

Temple University’s MBA program can rival anything the ivy league University of Pennsylvania, which is just next-door, offers to its own students in the Wharton School. Temple’s Fox School of Business and Management is consistently rated one of the top 10 degrees in terms of reach and value, and its offering of both online and offline instruction makes the MBA in Supply Chain Management accessible even to the busiest professionals.

With a reputation for professional education that is well known around the world, Temple’s wealth of experienced professors, hands-on experience, and business connections, makes it a must-see for professionals in the northeast corridor.

An Increasingly Important Field with Increasingly Prestigious Programs
The increasing importance of supply chain management in domestic and international markets has forced business schools to increase the rigor and sophistication of their corresponding MBA programs. To that end, the five schools mentioned here have created programs that focus on real world experience, international relations, analysis and operations, and a wide range of other topics. Each program will be an asset to graduates as they look for a job in this competitive field.

The internet has allowed the business community to escape from the boundaries of its legendary top-floor offices, and it has sent a large portion of the work force home to telecommute into work. Still others have decided to put these advantages to use away from corporate employers, starting their own enterprises and becoming their own boss. For the best chance at succeeding in these ventures, though, business professionals should consider pursuing an MBA in entrepreneurship. These degrees focus on the combination of skills needed to succeed in terms of financial management, employee management, and supply chain concerns.

Of all the business programs nationwide, there are five that are particularly remarkable. That’s not to speak ill of the other programs, many of which are still among the best in the world. These five, though, give graduates the best experience and the best chance at success in their own business venture going forward.

1. University of Pennsylvania

There are few names that command as much respect in the business community as the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School does. Penn, which is one of the ivy league institutions of the northeast, has steadfastly worked to develop the leading business school in the mid-Atlantic. To that end, Penn’s MBA in Entrepreneurship is one of the most comprehensive and highly ranked programs in the world.

Wharton boasts alumni that range from Donald Trump to the CEOs of major corporations like Comcast, U.S. Airways, General Electric, Royal Caribbean, and UPS. It also serves as a hotbed of entrepreneurship and small business activity, which is flourishing quite a bit in the wider Philadelphia community, as well.

2. Pepperdine University

California is home to many prestigious universities and business schools, but one of the best can be found at Pepperdine University. The university refers to its business school simply as “B School” and it offers one of the most well-rounded entrepreneurship programs at the graduate level. Students are taught by some of the biggest names in California business, ranging from Los Angeles executives to Silicon Valley innovators.

With a focus on comprehensive business management and financial analysis, graduates leave Pepperdine with the mentality needed for success in a self-owned business venture. They also have the credentials required for venture capital firms, which look for experience and education when allocating funding to such businesses.

3. California State University at Fullerton

Pepperdine’s tuition can be a bit steep for California residents and those outside the state, and many opt for a Cal State education instead. When public tuition’s affordability wins the debate, the university’s Fullerton campus is equipped with a robust program that will produce roughly the same outcome. Located just south of Los Angeles, the university has connections in both that city and San Diego, offering its students access to a large number of experts in the field of self-started businesses and experimental projects.

Fullerton’s MBA in Entrepreneurship is consistently highly ranked, both by academic journals and by business publications. That will give graduates a bit of pull when seeking funding, and a great education when managing employees and finances throughout a longer career.

4. Temple University

Philadelphia is a blossoming academic and business community that consistently produces some of the most well respected professionals in the field. Temple University is just a few miles from the University of Pennsylvania, and many students might consider the ivy league competitor to be the winner in every matchup. When it comes to entrepreneurship, though, it is Temple’s MBA in this field that is actually ranked higher by Forbes and several other publications.

With public school tuition rates, a location very close to center city offices, and classes that can be taken both online and at one of the school’s Philadelphia-area campuses, the number-five entrepreneurship program in the country should be near the top of the list for aspiring small business owners.

5. Clemson University

Clemson isn’t just a major college football power. The university is also a center of southern business education that primes graduates for careers in neighboring Charlotte, cities like Atlanta, and the countries at large. With a program that is focused particularly on operations analysis and budgeting, the entrepreneurship MBA program at Clemson will make sure that students can manage every aspect of a small business without oversights or critical errors.

Get Started and Go Into Business!
With the programs listed here, graduates will find all of the resources they need to free themselves from the corporate office and start an enterprise of their own. This increasingly popular field is supplemented by major names, like Wharton and Pepperdine, as well as rising stars like Temple and Clemson, with the goal of making the American dream a bit more accessible for the masses.

From packaging products to ensuring that everything is in place on time, logistics managers have a lot on their plates. It’s no surprise, then, that most businesses require their logistics managers and supply chain executives to have at least an MBA in the field before they’ll even be considered for a promotion or to be hired for an open position. That’s a pretty tall order, but it’s one that business professionals should embrace. There are some really great logistics programs at universities across the country.

For those pursuing logistics education at the graduate level, five universities nationwide stand out among the rest as the best options for good networking, excellent instruction, and innovative approaches to this very old field.

1. University of Kansas

Located virtually at the center of the United States, it’s no surprise that the University of Kansas has become a hub of serious business education. The university was one of the first to develop an MBA in logistics management, and its template is one that is still used by most universities nationwide today. Students will pursue analysis, management, and employee relations courses as part of the program.

In addition to excellent courses, students will receive instruction from experts in the field, including leading business researchers who are helping to shape the future of logistics management both at the University of Kansas and in businesses around the country. It’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed by those local to the university’s campus.

2. Colorado Technical University

Ranked in the top ten online MBA programs by the International Graduate Forums, Colorado Technical University’s logistics program is one of the best MBA degrees in the United States. That might come as a surprise, especially because the program is entirely online and leaves hands-on experience out of the equation. Even so, CTU’s online collaboration tools are well developed and are easily the best among today’s distance learning institutions.

With classes that actually require interaction with professors and other students, those who choose CTU’s MBA program won’t miss out on essential interactions that are critical to development of management skills. And, with courses in analysis and management that rank near the top of list, students will acquire the skills needed to work within even the largest corporate operations.

3. University of Tennessee at Knoxville

The University of Tennessee notably offers either an MBA in Logistics or a degree in Supply Chain Management at each of its major campuses in the state. The university’s Knoxville campus offers both programs, and that allows for a type of dual-track educational experience that greatly benefits graduates. With a degree from UTK, students will have the resources and skills they need to succeed at managing logistics operations, supply chains, and even regular business communications.

That broad appeal is the best bet for students that are hoping to get a job after graduation. In an economy like the present one, a diversified set of skills is more of an asset than ever before.

4. Ohio State University

The Fisher College of Business is well known as a leading research institution and educational heavyweight both inside and outside of Ohio. It’s one of the few schools that actually encourages its students to participate in research work as part of their MBA program. That allows them to identify new industry trends and logistics management approaches before they’ve even hit the mainstream.

This kind of hands-on research and industry experience sets students up for real success after graduation, giving them the tools they need to land a job at some of the largest companies nationwide.

5. Portland State University

For those on the west coast, there are few entrepreneurship programs like the one at Portland State University. The university is actually located in a city that has been identified with growing importance in supply chain and logistics management, thanks largely to its location on the Pacific Ocean and its relative proximity to Asian markets. That gives graduates a unique perspective that they won’t find at many other schools.

That unique perspective is boosted by institutional research and teaching assistantships that boost the responsibilities enjoyed by MBA candidates at Portland State. After graduation, that adds up to better jobs, better skills, and a better career trajectory than competing job candidates.

Great Logistics Programs Around the Country
With the increasing sophistication of international trade and domestic logistics operations, MBA programs are an essential way to ensure that things go smoothly and businesses run efficiently. Students at these five schools will receive the best combination of education, insight, research opportunities, and networking opportunities, to put them ahead in the search for a job after graduation.

Though it was once perceived to be one of the least desirable positions with any business, project management has quickly transformed into one of the hottest careers in the business and management field. That’s largely due to changing economic times, which now demand professionals who can oversee projects that range from R&D to corporate downsizing. As commission levels increase and demand rises accordingly, a number of universities have committed to offering very strong MBA programs with an emphasis in project management.

Of the many universities with this innovative program nationwide, a few stand out as the best o the best. Several online programs are at the top of their class, while many traditional universities offer competitive MBA programs that will draw students from around the country. The five programs below should be in the “must apply” list for any serious student in search of a quality Project Management degree.

1. Capella University

Capella University is one of the most established all-online institutions in the United States, with an explicit focus on things like management, information systems, and technology degrees. That reputation really boosts their MBA in Project Management, which is one of the best online degrees available. The university encourages collaboration between students with innovative online software applications, and employs some of the most experienced professors at any university.

With the right combination of experienced professors, collaboration with fellow students, and accelerated progress, Capella University is a strong option for anyone in the market for an MBA in Project Management.

2. University of Colorado: Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado stands out as one of the best public universities in the western part of the country, and the Colorado Springs campus is one that is both quite popular and quite innovative. The MBA program at UCCS contains a concentration in project management that is open to all students within the MBA degree path, and it combines a few great elements.

Those who find themselves in this program after a stringent application process will have access to industry-leading internships and professors, almost all of whom are experienced in project management and in the industry at large. With a level of academic prestige that is admirable in Colorado, graduates will also have the right networking connections to land a great job after completion.

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Though it’s definitely less well known than the likes of UCCS, Southern New Hampshire University has a strong Project Management program within its business school. Interestingly, the program does not require the GMAT or GRE in order for students to gain admission. It has received a number of awards, including the “Best of Business” award from accreditation organizations in business.

Southern New Hampshire University is also a registered education provider, or R.E.P., with the Project Management Institute. That gives its degree a pretty high level of clout that is hard to find both online and off. And, speaking of online, this MBA in Project Management program can be completed entirely online without any in-person instruction required.

4. University of Texas at Dallas

Students at the University of Texas have the option of pursuing Project Management either as a Master’s of Business Administration or as a Master’s of Science. Generally, academic advisors and industry sources recommend that students waive the M.S. and opt instead for the MBA, which carries a bit more weight among businesses in general. As part of the program, UT students will engage with experienced professors and pursue internships in the field.

At the end of the two-year program, graduates will have job experience, a leading MBA degree, and connections with seasoned professionals and professors who can help them start their career in the field. That’s a pretty good way to finish at any school.

5. Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology is one of the few colleges that allows its students to accelerate their degree program and earn their MBA in less than two years. Even with the extensive Project Management concentration at the school, students can find themselves out in the real world, competing for jobs, in as little as 18 months after they initially enrolled in the program.

FIT’s program in Project Management is relatively standard, with excellent management courses and real world experience that combine to deliver a well-rounded education. The school has been recognized by sources like Princeton Review and others for having one of the best MBA products online or offline, making it a great value and a no-brainer for many students.

Excellent Programs for a Wide Spectrum of Students
With everything from traditional campuses to distance learning programs, the universities mentioned above are easily the strongest option for students who are looking for a highly marketable degree. With management curriculum and hands-on experience, as well as some of the leading faculty nationwide, graduates will find themselves armed with everything they need to beat the economy and land a great job.

With the nursing field growing at a pretty rapid pace, especially in light of economic woes in other industries, it’s no surprise that nursing management programs are exploding in popularity. Increasingly large nursing staffs must be managed by professionals who can combine organizational management skills with those required of a nurse in the midst of the action. With a number of great online and offline degree programs in this field, those looking to advance upward in the nursing profession have some great options.

There are certainly more than just five great programs in nursing management, but the five mentioned here represent the best combination of academics, marketability, and accessibility. Major universities across the country are competing for nursing students, and these five options represent the best ones to consider during the application process.

1. Aspen University

Founded in 1987, Aspen University’s focus has always been on online degree programs with a specific emphasis on technology and management. It should come as no surprise, then, that the institution’s Nursing Management program is one of the best among online competitors. The program combines traditional nursing and research education with management techniques and information systems, giving graduates the tools they need to succeed in a world that is moving into increasingly digital operation.

With accelerated degree options and always-on accessibility, the Aspen University degree is perfect for professionals who are looking to get their degree in a short amount of time, and with minimal impact on their daily schedules.

2. La Salle University

The program at La Salle University stands out as one of the most unique in the nation. Termed the MSN in Nursing Administration, the program actually allows students to earn both their MSN and MBA degrees at the same time. This combined degree program gives graduates the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside of the medical world, and represents one of the best multi-degree programs in the country.

La Salle backs up its combined MSN/MBA program with a strong academic reputation and the kind of networking opportunities that are unique to campuses in the northeast corridor region of the United States. For the best combination of medical focus and management expertise, look no further than this Philadelphia-area university.

3. Western Governors University

One of the great things about Western Governors University is that it provides online degree programs with the backing of some of the biggest names in politics. The university was founded as a cooperative effort between the governors of several Western states in the U.S., and represents one of the most well regarded online institutions nationwide.

The Nursing Management program at WGU is a concentration with the Master’s of Science in Nursing degree program itself. The concentration, labeled “Leadership and Management,” focuses on nursing fundamentals, research techniques, and institutional leadership for burgeoning nursing programs and other medical institutions.

4. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt’s reputation is one of academic prestige in virtually every field, and the university does not shy away from touting the honors given to its nursing and health systems management degrees. Concentration in management is available as part of the institution’s MSN degree program, or students can opt for the separate Health Systems Management degree that is a bit separated from nursing itself.

Both programs represent top-ranked academic pursuits for those in the nursing profession, and it’s likely that these degrees will both provide a solid path to a long, exciting career in the management field. With the backing of one of the country’s best business schools, this traditional, offline series of programs is highly recommended for those in the southern part of the country.

5. Kent State University

One of Ohio’s leading institutions, Kent State’s programs in Nursing Management are some of the best in the country. Though the program is not offered online, it does combine a great deal of business education with the fundamentals of nursing research and healthcare management. In fact, the concentration is uniquely called “Nursing Healthcare Management,” an acknowledgement that graduates will be able to taking on management rules for nursing staffs and larger medical institutions.

For those local to the Kent State University campus, there is no better degree program than the one offered by this quintessential Ohio institution.

Great Programs for a Rewarding Future in Nursing
The healthcare industry itself is growing by leaps and bounds, and that means there is always demand for nursing professionals of every kind. With one of these great programs in Nursing Management, those looking to move up the chain of command will find themselves with the resources, skills, and networking opportunities, to do just that.

When it comes to sacrifices, men and women of the Armed Forces are well-acquainted. From long deployments to pay issues to family separations, the hardships that those individuals endure each day are countless in number. Even educational opportunities can be limited for individuals in the military due to the fact that they are constantly moving and training. Fortunately, many American organizations recognize the price that those individuals pay as protectors and enforcers of the “American Dream.” Some of the best of those organizations are colleges and universities, which often offer service members reduced tuition rates and accredited, master’s-level degree programs that are convenient and self-paced. The list below entails twenty of the best online and campus-based schools that offer flexible master’s degree programs to military graduate students.

The Top 20 Colleges for Military Graduate Students
1. Concord University of West Virginia-
Accreditation: Concord University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: This university offers military students a Master of Education Degree program, a Master of Arts in Health Promotion Degree program, and a Master of Arts in Teaching Degree program.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $238 per credit hour for residents of West Virginia. The tuition cost for non-residents is $529 per credit hour.

Attributes: Concord University is ranked as the number-one school for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university accepts the Yellow Ribbon Program, ACE credits, and Veterans Upward Bound. It also entails its own Office of Veteran Affairs.

2. Eastern Kentucky University-
Accreditation: Eastern Kentucky University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Eastern Kentucky University includes 30 online and campus-based master’s degree programs in fields such as education and counseling.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for online master’s degree programs is $450 per credit hour, and the tuition cost for campus-based master’s degree programs is $450 per credit hour.

Attributes: Eastern Kentucky University is ranked as the second-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university’s military students qualify to receive the same tuition rates that residents of Kentucky receive.

3. The State University of New Jersey-Rutgers-
Accreditation: The State University of New Jersey-Rutgers possesses regional accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: The State University of New Jersey-Rutgers entails three campuses that offer a total of 180 different master’s-level degree programs.

Tuition Cost: The cost of each master’s degree program varies between $7,512 and $10,500 per semester.

Attributes: The State University of New Jersey-Rutgers is ranked as the third-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university accepts the Yellow Ribbon Program, ACE credits, and Veterans Upward Bound.

4. California University of Pennsylvania-
Accreditation: California University of Pennsylvania is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: California University of Pennsylvania offers both web-based and campus-style master’s degree programs in the fields of education, science, social work, nursing, teaching, and the arts.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $429 per credit hour.

Attributes: California University of Pennsylvania is ranked as the fourth-best school for veterans by Military Times Edge. This university entails its own Office for Veterans, and it accepts ACE credits.

5. University of South Florida-
Accreditation: The University of South Florida is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Approximately 139 different degree programs are offered for master’s-level education.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program ranges between $417 and $430 per credit hour.

Attributes: The University of South Florida is ranked as the fifth-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university is also one of the country’s best private institutions for research.

6. Arizona State University-
Accreditation: Arizona State University is regionally accredited through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Arizona State University offers students over 13 different fields of study for their master’s degree programs, which include law, computing and mathematics, construction and design, health and wellness, and business.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is about $463 per credit hour.

Attributes: Arizona State University is ranked as the sixth-best school for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This educational facility accepts both the Yellow Ribbon Program and Veterans Upward Bound.

7. University of Kentucky-
Accreditation: The University of Kentucky entails accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: The University of Kentucky offers over 120 specialty areas for its master’s degree programs.

Tuition Cost: Each master’s degree program costs $5,229 per semester.

Attributes: The University of Kentucky is ranked as one of the best schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university is Kentucky’s only land-grant institution for research, and it accepts both the Yellow Ribbon Program and ACE credits.

8. University of Nebraska at Omaha-
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska at Omaha is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers 45 different master’s degree programs. In addition, five dual degree programs for master’s education are offered.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program varies between $196 and $394 per credit hour.

Attributes: The University of Nebraska is ranked as the ninth-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. The Yellow Ribbon Program and ACE credits are accepted.

9. D’Youville College-
Accreditation: D’Youville College possesses accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: D’Youville College offers 8 different master’s degree programs in areas such as nursing and education.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $810 per credit hour. Military students are eligible to receive a tuition discount of up to 50 percent.

Attributes: D’Youville College is ranked as one of the top schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This college accepts both ACE credits and the Yellow Ribbon Program.

10. Ohio State University-
Accreditation: Ohio State University entails accreditation through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Ohio State University offers over 100 master’s degree programs in fields that range from dance to physics.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $12,200 per year.

Attributes: Ohio State University is ranked as the eleventh-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. The Yellow Ribbon Program and ACE credits are accepted.

11. Texas A&M University-
Accreditation: Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Texas A&M University entails over 130 online and campus-based master’s degree programs.

Tuition Cost: Each master’s degree program costs $6,348 per year.

Attributes: Texas A&M University is ranked as one of the best schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This public university accepts ACE credits and the Yellow Ribbon Program.

12. University of Pittsburgh-
Accreditation: The University of Pittsburgh is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: Roughly 200 master’s degree programs are offered by 14 different schools within this university.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program varies between $19,281 and $43,212 per year.

Attributes: The University of Pittsburgh is ranked as the fifteenth-best school for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university possesses a Veterans Office that helps military students apply for benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program.

13. Evergreen State College of Washington-
Accreditation: Evergreen State College of Washington is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Degree Offerings: This college offers master’s degrees in environmental studies, education, public administration, and teaching.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $2,643 per semester.

Attributes: Evergreen State College of Washington is ranked as one of the top schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This college’s tuition rates are below the GI Bill cap.

14. George Washington University-
Accreditation: George Washington University is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: Over 200 master’s degree programs are included in this university’s academic profile.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is approximately $1,340 per credit hour.

Attributes: George Washington University is ranked as the sixteenth-best college for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university entails a special office for military students, and it accepts the Yellow Ribbon Program.

15. Valdosta State University-
Accreditation: Valdosta State University entails accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Valdosta State University offers over 40 master’s degree programs in areas that include: education, music, social work, accounting, and public administration.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is about $223 per credit hour.

Attributes: Valdosta State University is ranked as one of the top colleges for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university entails tuition rates that fall below the GI Bill cap, and it accepts ACE credits.

16. Chadron State College-
Accreditation: Chadron State College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Degree Offerings: Chadron State College offers approximately 24 master’s degree programs, and eight of those degree programs can be completed partially online.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for all of the master’s degree programs is about $250 per credit hour.

Attributes: Chadron State College is listed among the best schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This college accepts both the Yellow Ribbon Program and ACE credits.

17. University of Missouri at Columbia-
Accreditation: The University of Missouri at Columbia is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: The University of Missouri at Columbia offers its students 95 graduate-level degree programs.

Tuition Cost: Most of this university’s graduate programs cost $336.50 per credit hour.

Attributes: The University of Missouri at Columbia is ranked as one of the top 50 schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university possesses a Veterans Office, and its tuition rates are lower than the GI Bill cap.

18. Bowling Green State University-
Accreditation: Bowling Green State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: This university offers master’s degree programs in 52 different fields, which include chemistry, teaching, history, geology, and construction management.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program is $200 per credit hour for full-time students.

Attributes: Bowling Green State University possesses the distinction of being one of the best universities for veterans according to Military Times EDGE. This university possesses some of the lowest tuition rates available for master’s education, and it accepts ACE credits.

19. Colorado State University-
Accreditation: Colorado State University entails regional accreditation through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Degree Offerings: Colorado State University offers its students over 50 areas of study for its online and campus-based master’s degree programs.

Tuition Cost: Each graduate degree program costs $555.42 per credit hour.

Attributes: Colorado State University is ranked as one of the top 50 schools for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university accepts ACE credits and the Yellow Ribbon Program.

20. Fordham University-
Accreditation: Fordham University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Degree Offerings: Fordham University entails exceptional programs for its master’s degrees, which are provided in the fields of business administration, religion, education, arts, sciences, law, and social service.

Tuition Cost: The tuition cost for each master’s degree program varies between $760 and $1,367 per credit hour.

Attributes: Fordham University is ranked as one of the best universities for veterans by Military Times EDGE. This university entails one of the highest graduation rates. Approximately 79 percent of Fordham University’s students complete their degree programs on-time and successfully.

Making your own way in the world can be a daunting thought. But it is not impossible. Achieving what seems like an impossible goal can make a world of difference to someone’s confidence and the way they take on life. Take a look at this list of people who not only achieved the goal of getting a Master’s degree, but also helped change the world after overcoming this challenge. Here you will see that a variety of people were able to overcome their situations and make a difference for the better in not only their life, but the lives of others around them.

1. Prasad Thammineni
Prasad Thammineni is an entrepreneur from Cambridge, Massachusetts. After graduating at BITS in Pilani, India with degrees in both Mathematics and Computer Science, he came to America to study at Princeton. He then dropped out and started his own business ventures, one of them being a technology service called jPeople. Thammineni received his MBA in 2007 at the Wharton School of Business. His current company, called OfficeDrop, is his most recent business venture since completing his classes and receiving an MBA. OfficeDrop is a new company that helps small businesses with an affordable document management system. This company was founded in 2007 with its headquarters located in Cambridge along with its founder. Officedrop uses a Cloud technology system so that customers can amplify productivity by sharing, uploading, and saving documents almost instantly. He not only developed programs for the computer that allow users to instantly ‘drop’ the files to the ‘cabinet’, but also apps for devices like the iPhone and Android.
In Thammineni’s spare time he blogs about funding and growing startups. He is a frequent presenter at business conferences as well as business schools such as Harvard and Wharton. He also likes to ride his bike and walk his dog when he is not working at his computer. He currently resides in Boston along with his wife.

2. Seth Goldman
Seth Goldman, originally from Massachusetts, was an entrepreneur from the start. As a young boy, he started with the usual lemonade stands in the summer and paper routes. As he got older, however, he went on to create a non-profit urban service program. In 1987 he graduated Harvard, following that up with an MBA from the Yale School of Management in 1995. Using the tools he gained with his degrees, he co-founded a company called Honest Tea in 1998.
Honest Tea is a company based in Bethesda, Maryland. Goldman and his friend Barry Nalebuff were the founders of this bottled organic tea company. This brand offers sweetened as well as unsweetened versions of their flavors of bottled teas. In 2008 the Coca-Cola Company purchased a 40% stake of the company for $43 million dollars. By 2011 Coca-Cola had purchased the rest of the company. Goldman now serves on boards such as Pennsylvania Certified Organic and Bethesda Green. He works with and contributes to The Mission-Driven Business blog on Inc.com in his free time. Goldman currently resides in Maryland with his wife and three boys.

3. Chuck Slaughter
Chuck Slaughter first started with his company called TravelSmith. This business took off and grew to over 2 million customers. In 2004 Slaughter sold TravelSmith and then turned his attention to building more philanthropic enterprises in both private and social areas. Slaughter traveled to Kenya and while there, he established his idea for Living Goods. Living Goods would be the next endeavor that Slaughter would venture into. Living Goods is a sort of Avon-esque business where networks of female entrepreneurs can earn money by selling life-saving products door-to-door. The products that are sold are affordable for the poor, so that the poor may have access to these things that they would not be able to acquire otherwise. During his work with Living Goods, Slaughter also is a speaker at many venues such as the Global Philanthropy Forum, World Affairs Council, Yale, and Harvard. He has received the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, as well as receiving the honor of being a Draper Richards Fellow.
Slaughter earned his B.A. and his Master’s in Public and Private Management from Yale. He is currently settled in California with his wife and three sons.

4. Trish Karter
Trish Karter, the daughter of Peter Karter, who was a pioneer in the modern materials recycling industry, earned her MBA at the Yale School of Management after attending Wheaton College. Karter is a very interesting figure in the baking and entrepreneurial worlds and was the founder and CEO of the Dancing Deer Baking Company. The Dancing Deer Baking Company is a Boston-based producer of high-end, natural baked goods which eventually scaled up to nationwide distribution. In the mid 90’s, Karter became an angel investor for Dancing Deer, eventually taking the helm as its CEO in 1998. A stalwart of social responsibility, she relocated the offices of Dancing Deer to the Roxbury area of Boston, an area then known for its gang violence. While this and other decisions by her were seen as risky, they eventually paid off. By 2004 the company had grown to a business of approximately 6 million in sales. Dancing Deer has come to be known for its natural, preservative-free products, its commitment to employing individuals from deprived backgrounds and giving them equity in the company, and the trademark whimsical designs on their packaging. Karter stepped down from managing the company in 2010 to pursue personal interests. She lives in Milton, Massachusetts with her two children and enjoys artistry in her spare time.

5. Edward Miner “Ned” Lamont, Jr.
Edward Miner “Ned” Lamont, Jr. was born on January 3, 1954 in Washington, D.C. Lamont was born into old money thanks to his great-grandfather Thomas W. Lamont, a partner of the banking firm J. P. Morgan & Co., and grew up in New York. He received his Master’s in Public and Private Management from the Yale School of Management in 1980 after earning his A.B. from Harvard in 1976. In 1984, Lamont founded Lamont Digital Systems. This company was a builder and operator of telecommunications networks, mainly for college campuses and gated communities. It plans and builds advanced applications and maintenance services as well.In 2006 Lamont began his political career as an anti-war candidate, contrasting his political opponent at the time, Joe Lieberman. Unfortunately for Lamont, he lost that election to Mr. Lieberman. In 2010, Lamont started another political campaign. This time it was a campaign to become Governor of Connecticut. Once more, Lamont was defeated, only this time it was by the Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy.
Lamont and his wife Ann have three children, and they reside in Washington, D.C. Lamont spends his days as a faculty member of Central Connecticut State University.

6. Linda Mason
Linda Mason is someone whom most would say has a heart of gold. After spending the late-seventies in France studying the language and literature at the Sorbonne, as well as classical piano at the Rachmaninoff Conservatory, she returned to America and attained her B.A. from Cornell University and her MBA from the Yale School of Management.
A large part of Mason’s career has gone into creating and evolving the Bright Horizons Family Solutions company. In 1986, she and Roger Brown co-founded this company together, operating it as a public company until the spring of 2008 when it was moved to private. Bright Horizons Family Solutions is a company that provides worksite child care and early education. They operate more than 650 high quality centers around the globe. Mason has had the honor of holding high leadership positions on the boards of several important non-profit organizations, her most important one perhaps being a Chair of her company, Bright Horizons Family Solutions. Mason is married to Roger Brown and they have three children. All of her children are graduates of the early education centers that her company has helped build and support through the years.

7. Anne Margaret Glover
Anne Margaret Glover was born on February 6, 1954. She holds a dual citizenship with America and the UK, and speaks three languages; English, French, and German. She is the CEO and co-founder of Amadeus Capital Partners, which was founded originally in 1997. This company is a venture capital firm that invests in companies in Europe that specialize in high-technology and sciences. Throughout her career, she has had many great accomplishments. Early on in her career, she held a good number of management positions for many companies. An example of some of her great accomplishments includes receiving a CBE in 2006 at the Queen’s Birthday Honors list for “services to business”. She also holds a seat in the Technology Strategy Board of the UK’s Department of Trade and Industry. In 2008 she was elected an honorary member of the Royal Academy of Engineering. Glover attended the Yale School of Management and attained her Master’s degree. She also attended the Clare College of Cambridge and received a Master’s in metallurgy and materials science.

8. Ellis B. Jones
Ellis B. Jones was born in 1954. He attended the Yale School of Management and attained his MBA in 1979. He attained his B.S. from the University of California at Berkeley.Jones has invested more than twenty years in private equity and investment banking. He is also responsible for overseeing not only industry groups at major investment banking companies, but product groups as well. During the years of 1988 to 1994, Jones was the Head of the Hotel and Gaming Group at Salomon Brothers. Before that run, he was a Managing Director of the high end banking company, Los Angles Investment Banking. Jones has held many seats with boards such as Odwalla Inc., Phoenix House, True Advantage, and All Clad Holdings, Inc. He is currently serving on the boards of directors at Harry & David, Encompass Digital Median, and Access Scientific.

9. Eric Higgs
Eric Higgs is the CEO and president of the company known as LumaStream. He brings 20 years of experience with high-technology, a B.S. in Computer Science, and an MBA from Stanford University to the table of his innovative new company.
Higgs jump started his career at KPMG Peat Marwick as a consultant on information technology. He then moved on to become the Chief Operating Officer at Cerego, LLC, a company that produced a fundamentally new technology paradigm for adaptive learning.For almost a decade, Higgs pursued a fine art career. If you pay close attention you can find his work in museums and private collections around the globe.

10. Danae Ringelmann
Danae Ringelmann attended the Haas School of Business at Berkeley and attained her MBA. She also graduated with a B.A. in Humanaties from UNC-Chapel Hill. Before she helped found IndieGoGo, Ringelmann was a securities analyst at Cowen & Co. where she worked with companies such as Pixar and Lionsgate. She also worked with J. P. Morgan’s Investment Bank and focused on cable networks, the NFL, and newspapers.
In 2008, she co-founded the company called IndieGoGo, along with Eric Schell. This company is a crowd-funding platform that allows someone to raise money to kick-start their idea, whether it be a game or a book, or a charity or a business start-up. This amazing company allows a person to not only get their idea off the ground, but also lets the keep their idea without the fear of the company using it for their own personal gain.
IndieGoGo has helped thousands of projects and their founders raise money across the globe in 114 countries.

These stories are inspiring and show just how much you can accomplish if you keep focused on your goals. These wonderful people worked hard and kept innovating themselves. All it takes to change the world for the better is one amazing idea and the strength to push it forward and to make it happen. What will you do to change the world when you have the strength to push hard enough?