Organizational Change and Leadership alumni gathered for the inaugural USC Rossier OCL Alumni Impact Summit

The inaugural OCL Alumni Impact Summit welcomed fellow graduates from the USC Rossier’s Organizational Change and Leadership (OCL) program to connect, reflect and continue the momentum their degree established. With over 60 participants, the summit was held in Los Angeles from March 1 to 3.

“Our mission is not merely a tagline, but a call to action,” said Josue Sandigo EdD ’24, president of the OCL Alumni Council. “We are here to connect scholarship with practice, bridging research and real-world transformation.”

A shared purpose for complex times

Event participants united not only by academic experience, but by a common mission: to lead change in complex systems, advance equity-minded leadership and improve human outcomes across sectors.

That mission feels especially urgent amid today’s rapidly evolving landscape. From the ethical implications of artificial intelligence to shifting socio-economic conditions, organizations are navigating unprecedented complexity.

“Our greatest asset is our alumni,” said USC Rossier Dean Pedro Noguera in his opening address. “You prove our work as a school and demonstrate our impact every day.” Dean Noguera underscored the importance of the alumni community in advancing that mission. He praised the alumni-led nature of the summit and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to equity as its guiding “North Star,” particularly in a period he described as marked by turbulence and uncertainty.

Bridging research and real-world impact

Panels sessions ranged from Implications of AI to Government, Public Policy and Community Relations and Technology, Consumer Products and Aerospace to Higher Ed, Healthcare and Not-for-Profit. The OCL experience emphasizes the connection between scholarship and practice. That connection was echoed in a session led by USC Rossier Professor Kim Hirabayashi, who emphasized the role of intention, awareness and reflection in effective leadership. “The most powerful tool you bring into any room is not your title or your strategy—it is your presence,” she said.

A network that expands impact

For alumni like Victoria Shepp EdD ’22, the summit represents both a return and an expansion of the OCL experience. “It’s important because we went through a process that included diverse thinking, and we learned so much from each other,” Shepp said. “This brings us back together and expands that learning. It’s a ripple effect.”

Shepp emphasized the value of reconnecting across cohorts and industries, noting that the summit reflects the evolution and breadth of the program. “That range shows the growth of OCL and the collective impact we’re having—not just within Rossier, but globally,” she said.

Collaboration across sectors

For Michael Silva EdD ’25, the summit reinforces the power of cross-sector collaboration fostered through the program. “My cohort was one of the most inspiring groups I’ve been around. Diverse not just in background, but in perspective and profession,” Silva said. Now a professor at Solano Community College and vice mayor of Vacaville, Silva noted that those varied perspectives continue to shape his work in both education and public service.

“One of the key questions is how we take those rich discussions from the classroom and translate them into real action,” Silva said. “Staying connected with people across sectors helps us do that and ultimately helps us better serve our communities.”

A community that lifts as it leads

Underlying the summit is a defining ethos of the OCL community: a belief in collective advancement. “There’s a powerful ethos in this community. We rise by lifting others,” Sandigo said.

From its alumni-led sessions to its intentionally designed networking opportunities, the summit reflects a commitment to mutual support and sustained connection. It is not simply a professional development event, but a reaffirmation of the relationships and shared values that extend well beyond the classroom.

The inaugural summit marked the beginning of an enduring platform for OCL alumni to shape the future of leadership together. “We celebrate ‘for OCL alumni, by OCL alumni,’” Sandigo added. “Because your leadership, your insights and your commitment to each other are what make this gathering vibrant and essential.”

For those interested in getting involved with next year’s OCL Alumni Impact Summit, please email Adam Gutierrez.