Business Beyond Borders 2026: Connecting Entrepreneurs and Corporate Leaders at ULV
On March 31, the University of La Verne hosted the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council’s (SCMSDC) Business Beyond Borders conference. The signature event brought together corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to strengthen networks and expand opportunities for minority-owned suppliers. Held on the University of La Verne’s leafy, walkable campus, Business Beyond Borders 2026 offered an uplifting blend of learning, networking, and celebration.
The SCMSDC is one of 23 regional affiliates of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)—the nation’s leading organization dedicated to advancing business opportunities for certified minority business enterprises (MBEs). Founded in 1972, NMSDC’s mission is to create connections that help MBEs grow and achieve long-term economic success. Through councils such as SCMSDC, the organization connects over 15,000 diverse businesses with more than 1,700 corporations committed to supplier diversity and quality.
University of La Verne President Risa Dickson welcomed attendees via video as she traveled on university business, noting the importance of creating platforms where education and enterprise intersect, and emphasizing the University of La Verne’s commitment to the success of the local business community. The keynote address was delivered by Don Cravins, President and CEO of NMSDC, who shared the history of the organization and plans to refocus on the core mission. Cravins was introduced by Provost Ken O’Donnell and College of Business Dean Emmeline de Pillis.
The event had a special homecoming feel: several SCMSDC leaders are University of La Verne alumni, including Virginia Gomez, President and CEO of SCMSDC, and Marlene Nantell, Vice President of External Affairs. Anita Ron, also a distinguished La Verne alumna and member of the College of Business Advisory Board, first proposed hosting the conference on campus. Her idea, supported by Sean Snider of the La Verne Small Business Development Center and Dean de Pillis, became a reality through months of collaborative planning between university and council teams.
The result was an inspiring, energetic day that highlighted both organizations’ shared missions—empowering diverse voices and local communities through business growth and higher education.
See more photos of the event HERE
