ANTHONY LEE
CEO
WESTCLIFF UNIVERSITY
WHY: Took over Westcliff University from his father who founded the school, growing its student base from 20 to thousands by combining technology-based learning with traditional campus classes. Expanded the school’s academic offerings, awarded more than $12M in scholarships and provided online and on-campus courses within a flexible system. In 2021, acquired Western State, OC’s oldest law school that has provided about 15% of the county’s public defenders and district attorneys.
IN THE NEWS: Westcliff University launched its College of Nursing in April. Students would start in fall 2025 and offer two pre-license programs: Bachelor of Science in nursing and entry-level master’s in nursing. The program was launched to address a need for nurses. Westcliff cited U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that showed registered nurse employment could grow by 6% between 2023 and 2033, with as many as 200K new job openings available annually.
NOTABLE: Named a Business Journal Entrepreneur of the Year in March. The for-profit institute of higher learning also developed AI to incorporate into Westcliff University’s online learning interface. Says the software allows students to interact with course materials and instructors during all online sessions. Sees the university’s initiatives, like Tech Coast Angels’ pitching sessions and the growth of artificial intelligence at Westcliff, as extensions of how his father taught business.
QUOTABLE: “He was a big, successful entrepreneur in Vietnam. He gave up everything after the war, came here, started with nothing and had to build everything back up again. We serve so many demographics. We’re giving students an opportunity they can’t find elsewhere.” — Lee on his father and the influence he had on Westcliff
