Martha Diaz Aszkenazy ('81) has been named as the speaker for the upcoming Distinguished Entrepreneur Lecture to be held on November 11, 2009.

Aszkenazy is the president of a general contracting firm and the co-publisher of the San Fernando Valley Sun newspaper.

She believes that one of the key characteristics of a successful business leader is to be grounded in ethical behavior.

“Sometimes the high road is a little tougher, but in the end it is the most secure and enduring,” said Aszkenazy. “A person who is looking to cut corners and make a quick buck will not last long establish solid ethical practices on a strong foundation or you will break down after the first obstacle you hit.”

An alumna of LMU, Aszkenazy was one of three recipients given the LA Leaders Distinguished Alumni Award in 2009.  The award is presented by Loyola Marymount University’s Alumni Association to alumni who are living out LMU’s mission in unique ways. 

The Distinguished Entrepreneur Lecture, given by Aszkenazy, will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009 at 6 p.m. in Hilton 100. For details contact Fred Kiesner at 310-338-4569 or fkiesner@lmu.edu.