Rick Ifland

Rick Ifland is an Associate Professor and Department Chair of the Department of Economics and Business at Westmont. He serves as Director of the Eaton Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. A successful entrepreneur, private equity investor, and inventor, he holds over 40 domestic and international patents. His roles include President of Barna Global LLC and CEO of Omega Ophthalmics LLC. He leads NGOs supporting the Middle East and Africa and annually mentors students in Haiti.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree from Westmont College
• MBA from the University of Kentucky
• Master of Studies in International Law from Oxford University

Research focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and executive leadership, with emphasis on technology commercialization and humanitarian ventures. Recent publications emphasize biomedical innovations, particularly prosthetic ophthalmic devices. His 2023 works explore advanced implantable systems and biocompatible materials.

Scientific awards include a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) for humanitarian contributions. Advising involves experiential learning in global entrepreneurship projects. Active in venture capital through Oxford Holdings LLC, overseeing over 30 portfolio companies.

Labs/Teams: Directs the Eaton Center's entrepreneurship programs and collaborates with Omega Ophthalmics on medical technology development.