Jody Brightman, director of career services at the Pepperdine School of Public Policy for the past eight years, passed away peacefully Friday, June 21, according to a Pepperdine University press release.
In an announcement by the School of Public Policy, Brightman was remembered for the guidance she gave to both students and alumni. She was a strong tie between the school and its over 500 alumni, impacting their career paths and personal lives and helping them fulfill their goals and passions by serving and influencing others through their work.
“I can think of no other person who has had a greater influence than Jody on transforming the lives of literally hundreds of students and alumni of the School of Public Policy. She was a valued counselor with an unwavering, deep dedication and compassion for our students, following their careers and family developments as alumni as well,” said James R. Wilburn, dean of the School of Public Policy, according to the press release. “Jody’s innovative ideas, energy, and strength will forever leave an indelible mark on the school.”
Prior to working at the School of Public Policy, Brightman served as an adjunct professor of marketing at Pepperdine’s Graziadio School of Business and Management. She was also a marketing executive, strategist, and consultant for twenty years. Brightman was a PhD candidate at the Pacifica Graduate Institute, where she also received a master’s degree, and she received an MBA from the University of Southern California and a BA in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
University Chaplain, David Lemley, released an additional statement: “We grieve today with family, friends, colleagues and students mourning the passing of Jody Brightman. We give God thanks for Jody’s years of care and service to this community, and pray peace and comfort for Jody’s family and loved ones.”
Brightman is survived by her husband, Bill Stump, and information concerning her memorial service will be posted on the website for the School of Public Policy.
