Alumni Spotlights

Andre is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, communications expert and founder of AK Lively, a creative communications agency based in Los Angeles. His career journey began at UC Santa Barbara, where he studied Communications and developed a passion for digital media, social media and public relations. Andre's professional path took him from early marketing and PR internships to working at major companies like Zoom during the pandemic, where he gained hands-on experience in brand development and community engagement. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Public Relations and Advertising from USC, which fueled his ambition to launch his own agency. Through AK Lively, Andre helps clients across industries such as music, tech and mental health with brand storytelling, social media and campaign strategy. Andre continues to stay connected to UCSB, leveraging his career experiences to inspire the next generation of communicators.

Al is a highly accomplished technologist and founder of multiple startups, including Alvesta Co, Kilowatt LLC and Solar Co-Up LLC, where he has driven innovation in internet technologies. He formerly served as a Program Manager at HP, building his expertise in tech management and development. Now focused on mentoring the next generation, Al serves on the board of UC Santa Barbara, Brainy Monkey and StartUC, supporting university students with ambitions in technology. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from UC Santa Barbara, along with BSEE and EECS degrees from UC Berkeley.

Virginia Benson Wigle wears many hats. She’s a devout fan of the Dave Matthews Band, a proud Gaucho, and a proud mother to her daughter, Ella. She’s also the founder of The Starfish Connection, a local nonprofit foundation dedicated to building thriving communities through crisis funding and community storytelling.

Julian Marc’s '21 journey to becoming the founder and CEO of Axon Interfaces, a biotechnology research company, was far from linear. After transferring to UCSB, Marc jumped headfirst into studying neuroscience. With guidance from professors and a growing passion, the vision for Axon Interfaces soon became clear to the entrepreneur.

James Garcia '17 is the creator of You Should Be Dancing, California’s only Bee Gees tribute band. From marketing to event planning, Garcia handles business both on and off the stage.

Ari Phillips ‘06 began his academic journey at UC Santa Barbara with a plan to study physics, but soon discovered his true passion lay elsewhere. Today, he channels his passion for writing and environmental issues as an environmentally-focused editor and novelist.