Dr. Baltazar has been at PLNU since 2024. As a clinical social worker for over 26 years
who has worked in multiple settings she brings a broad knowledge to the department as
she teaches courses in social work and sociology. Her professional background has
primarily focused on micro social work with an emphasis on medical social work and
counseling.

Dr. Mathew (Matt) Hudson began his role as an Adjunct Professor in 2023. He is an accomplished academic and business manager with extensive experience in proposal development, project execution, closeout processes, and financial planning and analysis. His diverse background spans aerospace, technology, manufacturing, education, services, and retail industries.

Matt’s specialties include Contract Management, Finance, Cost and Schedule Management, Accounting, Auditing, Marketing, Operations, Client Relations, Global Supply Chain, Proposal Development, and Real Estate.

Associate Professor of Finance, Jason Hightower joined the Fermanian School of Business as an adjunct professor in 2024 and was appointed full-time Associate Professor of Finance in January 2025. He is a seasoned business economist and corporate financial strategist with over two decades of experience in owning, operating, investing in, and advising companies across a wide range of industries.

Austin Helton joined the Fermanian School of Business in 2024, bringing a dynamic and diverse background in B2B marketing, client strategy, and e-commerce distribution. His professional journey includes significant roles in consulting, serving as a Chief Marketing Officer, and acting as Founder and CEO of successful companies that have since been acquired. His broad expertise in strategic leadership and entrepreneurship greatly enriches the academic environment.