William Cockrum, an adjunct professor at UCLA's Anderson School of Management and member of the school's Board of Visitors, has given $5 million to support the school and the Harold and Pauline Price School for Entrepreneurial Studies. The money will be used to fund fellowships for entrepreneurial and finance students pursuing their M.B.A. degrees.
Cockrum has taught at UCLA Anderson for 30 years, providing instruction to more than 7,000 students. He currently teaches courses in entrepreneurial finance, investment management, leadership and business ethics. Prior to his time at UCLA, Cockrum spent 25 years in the financial services industry, rising to become a CFO and CAO before becoming a financial consultant. Cockrum is also a member of the school's alumni board and the Price center's advisory board. He also served on the UCLA Foundation's investment committee for 15 years and is currently on the foundation's board of governors.
UCLA Anderson Dean Judy Olian said of Cockrum, "He has taught generations of students who remain grateful to him for his keen industry insights and dedication as an educator. This most generous gift continues Bill's commitment to Anderson's future and to our students and alumni."
The Anderson School of Management is renowned for excellence in teaching and research that progresses management thinking. Cockrum said of the gift, "It gives me great satisfaction to know that I am playing a vital role in supporting UCLA Anderson."
