UCI Merage School of Business Alumna Offers Pledge for Growing Campus
The Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine (UCI Merage School of Business) recently announced a $1.5 million dollar pledge from Kristen S. Monson, an alumna of the college.
Monson’s gift will go toward naming the Grand Terrace in the Merage School’s new building.
Dean Eric Spangenberg said, “Kristen’s significant investment is exciting for all of us in the Merage School… Her gift represents the single largest philanthropic commitment to date toward our new building; it is particularly noteworthy to come from a member of the strong alumni network established by the School. It is our collective pleasure to name the Grand Terrace in honor of Kristen, and I am personally encouraged by her friendship, advice, and generous support.”
Monson served as an executive vice president for PIMCO, where she created the PIMCO Institute, an educational investment program for the company’s clients. She earned her MBA at the Merage School in 1986, and her undergraduate degree at UCI in 1982. She serves on the Dean’s Advisory Board, and is also a Charter Member of the Dean’s Leadership Circle.
“My experiences at UCI laid the foundation for my success at PIMCO,” Monson said. “I am grateful for a wonderful… career at such a world class firm and feel privileged to be able to give back to UCI and to contribute to the brilliant future of the Paul Merage School of Business.”
Monson delivered the business school’s commencement address in 2005 and in 2006 she received the UCI Distinguished Alumni Award.
About the Author
Maggie Boccella
Maggie Boccella, a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, is a freelance writer, artist and photographer. She has consulted on various film and multimedia projects, and she also serves as a juror for the city's annual LGBTQIA Film Festival.
