Pepperdine University has announced the establishment of the Drs. Martha and Faustino Bernadett Endowed Faculty Fellows Program at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. The program is funded by a $1 million endowment from Faustino Bernadett and his wife, Martha, a member of Pepperdine's Board of Regents, honoring the family's legacy of service and ethical leadership in medicine. The gift includes $50,000 in annual support during the pledge period, allowing the fellowship to launch immediately while the permanent endowment is established.
The permanent endowment is expected to generate approximately $50,000 annually, supporting up to four faculty fellows each year. The program aims to advance faculty research that strengthens student learning, supports ethical business practices, and contributes to the school's continued excellence. This investment is significant as it directly funds scholarly work that bridges academic theory with practical, principled business leadership.
The Drs. Martha and Faustino Bernadett Faculty Fellows Program will support the development of business leaders prepared for family enterprises, new ventures, or applying ethical approaches across industries. Faculty research will focus on critical areas including family enterprise and succession planning, innovation and entrepreneurial leadership, and ethical decision-making in business. Insights from this research will be integrated into the classroom, helping students strengthen their ethical reasoning, entrepreneurial mindset, and business acumen to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and communities.
Dean Deborah Crown expressed gratitude for the Bernadetts' partnership, stating their support ensures faculty continue to inspire innovation, integrity, and purpose in future leaders. Beyond research, the faculty fellows will engage with business leaders, alumni, and community partners, helping to expand Graziadio's network in entrepreneurship and family business. The program reflects Dr. Faustino "Tino" Bernadett's vision and Pepperdine's mission to prepare leaders of purpose, service, and integrity who leave a positive societal impact.
The establishment of this endowed program underscores a growing emphasis on integrating ethics and entrepreneurship in business education. It provides sustained resources for faculty to explore how businesses can achieve success while maintaining a commitment to positive global impact. The school affirms that true success extends beyond financial achievement to making a positive impact, emphasizing the interconnection between responsibility, ethics, and entrepreneurial opportunity. More information about the program can be found at https://bschool.pepperdine.edu/newsroom/articles/martha-and-faustino-bernadett-endowed-faculty-fellows-program.htm. Details on Bernadett family philanthropy are available at www.drfaustinobernadett.com.
