CarterBaldwin Executive Search is proud to partner again with Vanguard University in the appointment of Dr. Thomas Arnold as founding Dean of the Patty Arvielo School of Business and Management.

Arnold is recognized as a top global professional with roles as Assistant Dean of the Argyros College of Business and Economics at Chapman University, senior advisor at McKinsey & Company and global head of real estate at Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Building upon Vanguard’s business program’s 50-year legacy, Arnold will lead the next chapter in the University’s history as the Patty Arvielo School of Business and Management launches in Fall 2024 to house the accounting, business administration, communication, management, marketing, organizational psychology, and people operations programs.

“Dr. Tom Arnold brings forth a breathtaking history in his profession, education, and leadership experience,” said Patty Arvielo, CEO of New American Funding and the namesake of the new school. “That statement merely speaks to the logistical expertise he possesses. He is truly a brilliant and insightful expert who is well prepared to share his virtuosity with the upstanding faculty and students at Vanguard, strengthening the pathways for young professionals who aspire to a future in business.”

With experience in private equity on Wall Street, sovereign wealth funds in the Middle East, and the halls of academia, Arnold brings extensive academic achievement, an impressive business background that has made him a sought-after real estate consultant and a demonstrated ability to strengthen and grow university programs.

Arnold earned his DBA, JD, and BSBA in economics from the University of Florida, an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, an LLM (Taxation) from New York University, and an MEd from Georgetown University.

About Vanguard University

Founded in 1920, Vanguard University is a private, Christian, comprehensive university of liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies that encompasses more than 2,200 students from every region in the country, over 33,000 alumni worldwide, 100 full-time faculty, over 30 undergraduate programs and seven graduate degree programs.

Orange County, California’s first four-year college, Vanguard University is rooted in a strong academic tradition and commitment to student success. Vanguard is recognized by the U.S. News & World Report 2025 ranking as a first-tier regional university in the West, a Top Performer on Social Mobility, a Best College for Veterans, a Best Value School, and a Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program.