When William Bryan signed with the Titans football team in 1985, he quickly became known for his athletic abilities and strong leadership skills, earning such honors as team captain, Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Defensive Back.
After a prolific career on the field, Bryan accepted a position in the mailroom of one of the top investment management companies in the world. With encouragement from his spouse, Cynthia, Bryan returned to Cal State Fullerton in 2002 to complete his degree.
“I figured that if I could physically succeed on the football field, I should be able to transition to a professional career and spark positive change,” said Bryan ’02 (B.A. business administration-finance).
His studies in business administration-finance ignited his passion for helping people manage their finances, propelling him into a more than 30-year career in wealth management with companies like Capital Group, Edward Jones and LPL Financial.
With each role he’s taken on, Bryan remains committed to helping others. In 2019, he partnered with the Orange County Community Foundation to launch its Black Scholarship Program. Inspired by the impact that Cal State Fullerton had on his life, he also supports the university with his time, mentorship and financial investments.
Bryan serves on the Alumni Association board of directors, where he represents a network that is more than 340,000 Titans strong. He said his favorite part about serving on the board is attending the events and seeing the Titan connections that exist in Southern California and beyond.
“William is an exceptional leader on the board, truly embodying the spirit of giving back,” said Bill Cole, assistant vice president for alumni engagement. “His dedication to fostering meaningful connections and advocating for financial literacy among students showcases his passion for empowering future generations. As a former standout student-athlete, William brings a contagious and boundless level of enthusiasm and Titan pride to his giving and service.”
In addition to his service on the board, Bryan gives to the Alumni Association’s scholarship endowment fund, which awards $2,500 scholarships to 10 students annually. As a former endowment and foundation specialist, he knows firsthand that endowments are key tools for student success.
“They’re built for the long term,” explained Bryan. “When you give to an endowment, that fund will continue to grow in perpetuity. That means that even when we’re gone, your support will continue to make a difference for students. It’s like planting trees for future generations to enjoy.”
Bringing his career experience and expertise back to campus, Bryan hosts presentations and workshops on financial planning and provides tips to help students launch their careers.
He credits the College of Business and Economics for providing top-tier financial planning training that supported his career success, and he’s passionate about helping students find similar success in the financial industry.
“I was so impressed by the level of training that students receive at Cal State Fullerton. I want to pass along my knowledge in hopes that it adds to what they’re learning in the classroom.”
Bryan added that his commitment to mentoring others was inspired by his own mentor, Charles McLucas, a fellow Titan alum who earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1967 before launching a successful career as a CPA.
“This year, I’m mentoring a business student who is interested in financial planning, and I introduced him to Charles. During that introduction, I realized the generational impact that mentorship can have,” said Bryan. “Guidance and leadership play an instrumental role in academic success, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives.”