2024-2025 Faculty Team
Dr. Alex Sherm
Doctor of Business Administration
Dr. Donna Henson
Ed.D. in Education and Organizational Leadership
Dr. Jinan Ziade
Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership
Dr. Junqiao Xiao
Doctor of Business Administration – Information and Data Science
Dr. Omar Haddad
Doctor of Business Administration - Information Systems
Dr. Rupali Vora
Doctorate in Education Leadership
Dr. Sonja Ann Jones
Doctorate in Business Administration
Dave Sered
Master of Education
Eddie Loussararian
MBA & BS - Hospitality Management
Gary Hawthorne
EdD Organizational Leadership
Judith Balian
Master in Psychology and Counseling
Robert Morales
MS in Engineering Management - Systems Engineering/Program Management
Rodney Robinson
Master of Business Administration in Finance
Doctor of Business Administration
Dr. Alex Sherm
Ed.D. in Education and Organizational Leadership
Dr. Donna Henson
With a dedication that spans over a decade, I have served as a distinguished professor at two prominent universities. Where I am committed to higher education, imparting knowledge, and fostering growth in diverse student populations. My Ed. D. in Education and Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, coupled with my specialization in business management theories and strategies, has allowed me to focus on leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic planning.
I began my teaching career at Springfield College, where I taught for several years. I delivered courses on foundational research, management principles, strategic decision-making, and leadership during my time there. The teaching methods included case studies and real-world projects, which helped students connect theory with practice effectively.
I joined California Miramar University in 2017, where I continue to inspire and mentor students from diverse backgrounds. My practical approach to teaching business management continues to prepare students for successful careers in the global marketplace.
Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership
Dr. Jinan Ziade
With over two decades of experience across various sectors, I have significantly contributed to employee training development and implementation, as well as improving student learning skills and critical thinking. My leadership roles span both for-profit and non-profit organizations, complemented by extensive teaching experience in business and management. I have served as the Dissertation Chair for DBA students and conducted numerous workshops. Additionally, I have overseen annual research conferences, participated in curriculum development, and engaged in scholarly activities as a reviewer and moderator. My teaching methodology emphasizes real-world scenarios, enabling students to apply complex concepts effectively and make informed decisions.
• Highly collaborative and globally competent professional and academic with 20+ years of leadership experience in business organizational behavior, leadership, and management.
• Over two decades of experience in various sectors, including for-profit and non-profit organizations (St. Jude Medical Hospital).
• Extensive teaching experience in business organizational behavior, leadership, and management, assuming the role of Dissertation Chair for DBA students.
• Significant contributions to improving student learning skills and critical thinking.
• Engaged in projects for USMA that have left a significant impression due
the substantial scale and importance of the overall collective contributions.
• Conducted workshops and oversaw annual research conferences as a presenter, reviewer, and moderator.
• Leadership roles in employee training development and implementation.
• Participated in curriculum development and led the annual WU Research conferences (SyBER /SOAR).
• Served as President of a non-profit organization's Volunteer Board.
Courses Taught at CALMU:
BUS 7050 - Modern Business_Driven Technologies and E-commerce
BUS 7090 - Organizational Change Management and Process
MKT 6120- Marketing Management;
ORG 6011 - Organizational Development and Change
MKT 6004 - Pricing Strategy
ENT 6431 - Entrepreneurship
HCM 6005 - Operations in Healthcare Management
LED 6920 - Organizational Innovation and Change
BUS 6590 - Business Ethics
BUS 6190 - Strategic Management - Capstone
MGT 6170 - Operations Management
MGT 4851 - Operations Management
BUS 4751 - Business Ethics
Certifications:
Executive Leadership Certificate in Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Management (2018) • Georgetown University
CITI - IPS
CITI - Social & Behavior Responsible Conduct of Research
CITI - Human Subjects Research
CITI - Social Behavior - Educational Researchers
Doctor of Business Administration – Information and Data Science
Dr. Junqiao Xiao
I received Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Management in August 2014, Juris Doctor in May 2019, and Doctor of Business Administration in December 2021. Additionally, I have been a licensed California lawyer since December 2021, so my daytime job is a staff counsel at Midland Credit Management, Encore Capital Group. I spend my evening hours on educating students because I really enjoy teaching students beside my daytime legal job. I occasionally playing Hulusi, which is a Chinese minority musical instrument, for some culture events.
Courses Taught at:
Managerial Accounting
Operations Management
Principles of Business Law
American Government
Information Systems Security
Information Systems Planning
Doctor of Business Administration - Information Systems
Dr. Omar Haddad
Dr. Haddad holds a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration with an Information Systems focus, bachelor’s and master’s Degrees in Software Engineering, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with an International and Automotive Marketing focus. Dr. Haddad is also a certified Enterprise Architect.
Dr. Haddad has conducted postgraduate research to create a model that qualifies graduate students to work on IT projects. The study focused on the top skills needed in a candidate student from the perspectives of professors and IT professionals. Dr. Haddad's research paper was published in the International Journal of Business Marketing and Management (IJBMM) in February 2019.
Dr. Haddad has served as a mentor in the SMART program to help students gain practical experience through real-life projects. Areas of focus include marketing research, market analysis, promotional strategies, and analytics. SMART is a program where real-life experience matters.
Dr. Haddad has also established new programs in the College of Technology and Engineering in Computer Science, Engineering Management, IT, Data Analytics, and Data Science.
Dr. Haddad has been selected to be part of professional societies and leadership development programs, including but not limited to the US Air Force Civilian Leadership Development Program, Boeing Leadership Program, Delta Mu Delta Honor Society, and the Golden Key National Honor Society.
Dr. Haddad has held many positions and roles in the Aerospace industry, including Computer Science, Engineering, Business Analysis, IT and technical Project
Management, Systems and Enterprise Architecture, Systems Integration, Software Testing, leading the Flight Software team, and Solution Architect roles. Dr. Haddad has been leading projects and programs ranging from $1 million to $2.4 Billion in budget. Dr. Haddad has been leading projects & programs in modeling and simulations for the Space Force and the Navy.
Dr. Haddad has served as a dissertation chair and methodologist and is an assistant professor teaching master’s and doctorate level classes in the College of Business and College of Technology and Engineering with a focus on Business Intelligence, Information Systems, Information Technology, IT Project Management, digital media, e-business, Informatics for Managers, and health informatics. Dr. Haddad has also served as the Program Chair for the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT). Dr. Haddad is one of the leading and key stakeholders developing STEM programs, from university technology capabilities to program content and accreditation. In addition to the many degrees, Dr. Haddad has completed his education by obtaining a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and is a Project Management Institute (PMI) member.
Doctorate in Education Leadership
Dr. Rupali Vora
I am currently the Associate Dean, a leader in AI transformation, and a resource manager at California Miramar University. With certificates in Gen AI, a Doctorate in Education Leadership from Capella University, a Master’s from San Jose State University, and a Bachelor of Pharmacy from LM College of Pharmacy, I bring a rich and diverse background to our team. Over my years in education, I have served in various roles, including educator, curriculum developer, mentor, organizational change manager and librarian, at institutions like San Jose State University and California Management and Science University. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and reading to stay balanced and inspired.
Doctorate in Business Administration
Dr. Sonja Ann Jones
Dr. Sonja Ann Jones draws upon extensive hours of facilitating, training, and coaching business leaders and teams in many established companies and colleges. She has a deep background in curriculum development and training programs. She focuses on teaching students and professionals to reach the next level of business leadership. She brings her real-world experiences to the classroom and motivates her students to apply classroom learnings/assignments to use in their real-world careers and entrepreneurial dreams. Dr. Sonja Ann Jones has taught for 7 years at California Miramar University.
She draws on over 30 years of work experience in business, technology, and entertainment. She has worked with Fortune 500 and 1000 companies and has extensive experience in advancing small entrepreneurial companies to the next level. Dr. Jones has also had the opportunity to work in all vertical markets such as retail, healthcare, entertainment, marketing, and finance to name a few. Dr. Jones is a highly creative Global Sales and Business Development Executive who leads teams that maximize sales effectiveness forges lasting relationships and takes revenues to new levels in diverse settings – from startups to large multinational corporations. She is the driving force behind transformational change through fast growth, mergers, and acquisitions; leveraging a unique blend of innovative/technical/business skills.
A big-picture thinker with a talent for building programs from scratch, cultivating lucrative business partnerships, and devising process improvements to consistently exceed the expectations of discerning customers. A motivational leader who produces winning teams articulates direction and easily adapts to diverse audiences - drawing upon extensive experience gained as a professional actress. Dr. Sonja Ann Jones has extensive business and technology experience. Here technology focus has been business intelligence, analytics, information management, and cybersecurity in the software industry.
Courses Taught at CALMU:
Business, Ethics, Management, International Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Information Technology, Mathematics, Algebra, Economics, and many more.
Certifications:
Recipient of Paul Cartwright Award for Most Well-Rounded Student in College (Awarded to only one student out of 1,000+)
ITIL Certification
Nominated for the US Woman in Technology Award
Some Key Professional Accomplishments:
Co-Founder and Member: Alpha Sigma Kappa Women in Technical Studies Sorority - First technical sorority in America
Mentor Activities: Everwise, the University of Minnesota and the University of St. Thomas
Published in Following Books: Women Who Lead Technology (#1 in Technology on Amazon – Kindle Version) ▪How to Break a Glass Ceiling Without a Hammer ▪ How to Survive When Your Ship is Sinking ▪ Successful Women in Business ▪ Corporate Queens, What Business Schools Won’t Teach You ▪ Uncuffed: Surge of Power ▪ Just Do Your Dream ▪ Information Systems Success
She has also been published in many publications such as magazines, newspapers, and on television.
Master of Education
Dave Sered
I have been with CMU since 2020 and I have taught at DeVry University for 25 years. I worked in the corporate world for over 20 years in a variety of regulatory and legal positions in the communications industry. Eight years ago, I had a career transition, and I am a full-time Educator. I have a wonderful wife and 4 beautiful children, including triplets. Recently, I became a first-time grandpa.
Courses Taught at CALMU:
US History (HIST1010)
US Government (PS 1010)
Humanities (HUM1010)
Business Law (BUSN 3210)
International Business Law (IBA 7540)
English Composition I (ENG1010)
English Composition II (ENG 2010) American Literature (LIT3010)
Certifications:
Case Method Institute for Education and Democracy Certificate
MBA & BS - Hospitality Management
Eddie Loussararian
Eddie Loussararian is the author of two inspirational/personal development books: 64 Life Hacks For Success and When Bosses Go Wild. He has spent his career improving operational workflows and understanding how leaders can overcome tough obstacles by building team unity and establishing a happy work environment.
Eddie earned his bachelor’s degree, in hospitality management, from Cal Poly Pomona, and his MBA from the University of Redlands.
Over his 30-year career, Eddie has held such rewarding roles as Professor, Director of Learning & Development, Director of Finance & Administration, Internal Audit Manager, and District Manager.
Eddie is a recognized expert at developing and implementing highly effective training programs, including his former employer’s University program, which was ranked #50 in the world for three consecutive years by Training magazine. Additionally, Eddie helped his employer earn two consecutive Best Places To Work awards by improving culture and engagement at all levels of the organization.
Courses Taught at CMU:
Introduction To Hospitality
The Lodging and Food Service Industry
EdD Organizational Leadership
Gary Hawthorne
I live in La Verne, California with my wife, Darlene (Dee). I began my career in engineering many years ago. I was in the first engineering class at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). I am a Vietnam veteran. I was born in Southern California and have lived there most of my life. However, due to professional opportunities, I have lived in other states long enough to appreciate Southern California's warm and sunny weather. I lived in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for five years and in Wilmington, Delaware, for nine years before moving back to California.
Professionally, I have been blessed with many years of experience serving as CEO, CFO, COO, president, and all levels of management, professional consulting, and serving on boards of directors in various industries. I specialized in developing new and growing businesses from sole proprietorships to starting a federally insured bank. In addition, I have a lifetime State of California college teaching credential in business management and accounting.
Courses Taught at CALMU:
Principles of Accounting I and II International Business Management
Managerial Accounting Managerial Finance
Operations Management Strategic Management Capstone
Principles of Business
Principles of Marketing
International Marketing
Business Ethics
Certifications:
Lifetime State of California college teaching credential in business management and accounting.
Master in Psychology and Counseling
Judith Balian
Judith Balian spent 20 years in corporate sales and marketing before starting her own business, Excoveries, in 2007. She has worked and consulted for businesses of all types and sizes from Fortune 500 companies to start-ups, private consultants, and individual practitioners. She has a broad range of experience in all aspects of sales and marketing management, training and product development and is a patent-holding inventor. She is a warm and talented facilitator and speaker.
Judith holds a masters degree in psychology/counseling from Hofstra University and did postgraduate work in expressive arts therapy at Saybook University where she studied for two years with Dr. Natalie Rogers, a pioneer in the expressive arts movement. She is a contributor to Dr. Rogers’ book, The Creative Connection for Groups: Person-Centered Expressive Arts for Healing and Social Change and is an associate faculty member of the Person-Centered Expressive Arts Therapy Program established by Dr. Rogers.
Judith is the creator of the powerful yet playful Secret Selves® process designed to help people accept and embrace all sides of themselves. In addition to her consulting work Judith offers workshops, classes, and private coaching sessions designed to help people grow personally and develop creatively.
MS in Engineering Management - Systems Engineering/Program Management
Robert Morales
Professor Robert C. Morales is a retired Naval Officer. He has had various duties throughout his naval career including as as ship’s Communications Office (Commo) and a Carrier Battle Group’s Information Systems Officer (ISO). His shore tours included assignment as Current Operations Officer at the US Naval Forces Europe (NAVEUR) headquarters in London, UK and as an Instructor at the Fleet Training Center in San Diego, CA. He has been teaching at California Miramar University since 2017.
Professor Morales currently works at the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command in San Diego, CA in the Office of the Chief Engineer and has been there since 2009. He is designated a System-of Systems Engineer.
Courses Taught at CMU | • CIS 5710 (Network Planning and Administration) • MGT 4126 (Project Management) • TEC 6951 (Strategic Management of Technology and Innovation) • CIS 5710 (Network Planning and Administration) • CIS 5062 (Information Systems Security) • MGT 3826 (Managerial Decision-Making) • MIS 6961 (IT Project Management) • MGT 4126 (Project Management) • MIS 6110 (Management Information System) • ENT 6431 (Entrepreneurship) |
Certifications | • Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Engineering & Technical Management Practitioner (February 1, 2022) • Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level 3 Certified Engineering (December 31, 2015) • Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level 3 Certified Information Technology (September 25, 2012) |
Master of Business Administration in Finance
Rodney Robinson
I am native New Yorker. I moved to San Diego, CA in 1991 where I met my wife. Most recently, I published my first book entitled Articles of Faith: For Such A Time As This. This an inspirational book designed to encourage people during these tumultuous times. My book is currently available on Amazon and Barnes & Nobles. My wife and I have three children and one granddaughter. We enjoy walks at Seaport Village, spending time with family, and watching movies.
I have over 20 years of corporate experience in sales, customer service, and leadership. I started my career as an accounts payable clerk for Wells Fargo Bank in their Mortgage Lending Division. I have held both a life and health insurance license and a property & casualty insurance license during my career. I was service delivery manager for a telecom expense management firm based out of Parsippany, NJ where I managed the wireless services, devices, and spend associated with multiple Fortune 500 companies. I have worked for Cox Communications, Time Warner Cable, and a contractor for Verizon.
Courses Taught at CALMU:
Principles of Accounting I & II
Financial Management
Certifications:
Certified Business Professional (International Business Training Association)
Education Specialist Intern Credential (State of California)