He’s a distinguished alumnus of the Graduate School of Management (2004) and he’s taught there, developing a course in social entrepreneurship that resulted in numerous successful student startups.

Justis

Now Cleveland Justis, an accomplished organizational leader with more than two decades of experience, has returned to the GSM as the new executive director of the Child Family Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

“His deep experience building both successful private companies and nonprofits provides a strong foundation for his leadership as the institute enters an exciting new phase,” said Professor Andrew Hargadon, the institute’s founder and faculty director.

The institute brings science, engineering and business students and faculty together with entrepreneurs, investors and corporate leaders in an environment that blends effective theory, hands-on participation and need-driven innovation.

In leading and managing the institute, Justis has responsibility for strategic direction, program development, fundraising and relations with relevant academic programs at UC Davis as well as the institute’s growing network of partners.  

“Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand the power of entrepreneurship to create jobs, spur innovation and make the world a better place,” Justis said in a news release.

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