Operational Cabinet

Tim, Assistant Dean of Executive Education at the Marshall School of Business, transitioned from a 28-year corporate career to academia. As a leadership development specialist, he works with executives globally across various sectors, aiming to unlock their potential for maximum organizational success

Sara McLachlan is the senior associate director for the specialized masters programs and manages seven of Marshall’s graduate certificate programs. She is a founding member of the DEI fellows program, serves on the Marshall Staff Council (including one term as chair), and serves on the operational cabinet.

Grace manages the Marshall Technology Support team which is made up of classroom and computer technicians. Grace joined Marshall in August 2000 and started her tenure working in the MOR department and moved over to the IT group in 2006. Besides her job responsibilities, she is a member of the Marshall Operational Cabinet and Staff Council.

Steve A. Adcook serves as the Assistant Dean and Director of Finance at the USC Marshall School of Business. With over three decades of experience at the University of Southern California, Steve leads the finance and payroll teams, overseeing all financial operations for the school. Previously, Steve was the Director of Human Resources at USC Marshall, where he guided workforce planning and payroll operations. His extensive experience includes leadership roles at the USC Annenberg Center for Communication and the USC Alumni Association, where he managed both financial and administrative operations. Steve holds an MBA in Finance and a BS in Business Administration from the USC Marshall School of Business.

Tonisha Jester is a dynamic leader and catalyst for change, dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in every program and initiative she touches. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, program planning and implementation, and project and budget management, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a results-driven approach to her work.

Tonisha’s educational background is rooted in Sociology with an emphasis on the sociology of education, communities, and urban development. Her expertise also extends to organizational leadership, project management, and enrollment management and policy, giving her a comprehensive perspective on building and sustaining impactful programs.

Guided by her personal mantra, “Lift as I Climb,” Tonisha believes in the power of collaboration, resource-sharing, and empowering others to reach their full potential. Her commitment to fostering growth and supporting those around her makes her an inspiring and influential force in every endeavor she undertakes.