Developing business talent

For alumni Bob and Sandy Lorber, UC Davis is both a powerhouse global research institution and a deeply integrated part of their family’s community.

“UC Davis has been a springboard for all that has happened for us,” said Bob Lorber ’69, M.S. ‘71, who met Sandy ‘73 in the dorms and befriended his future business partner while at UC Davis. “For both Sandy and I, we had great years here at UC Davis, and in so many ways it has changed our lives.”

Since graduating, Bob went on to complete a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and then launched an international consulting firm, has travelled the world, published five management books and continues to work with top companies, CEOs and their teams. “It all started right here at Davis,” said Bob.

The couple moved back to Davis from Orange County, Calif., in 1988 to raise their children. Two of their three daughters, Tracie ’04 and Kaylie ’13, are also Aggie alumni. “The town has been a great place for us to come back to,” Sandy said.

To support their community and the next generation of international leaders, Bob and Sandy have given their time and resources to the Graduate School of Management. Bob has taught as a lecturer for more than 25 years and for 18 years served on the Dean’s Advisory Council, which he also chaired. Bob also serves on the UC Davis Foundation Board and the National Board of Advisors for the UC Davis School of Medicine.

Most recently, the couple made a gift to name the Lorber Faculty Office in Gallagher Hall, home of the Graduate School of Management.

“The Graduate School of Management is making a big difference in our region,” said Bob. “The school’s programs are important in creating great employees that local and international leaders can recruit into their companies.”