Managing Director: Andrew J. Murtaugh
Andrew J. Murtaugh serves as the Managing Director of Save It Forward, bringing a hands-on approach to financial literacy education that’s grounded in real-world experience. As an undergraduate student majoring in entrepreneurship at LMU’s College of Business Administration, Andrew is passionate about making financial concepts accessible and relatable to young people. Having run his own business, he understands the importance of practical financial skills and strives to pass on those insights to students in a way that feels relevant and achievable.
Andrew’s favorite moments in his role come when students experience that “aha” moment—when financial concepts suddenly click. Drawing on his background in entrepreneurship and business management, he creates an encouraging learning environment where students feel supported and empowered to take control of their financial futures. Through Save It Forward, Andrew is committed to fostering financial literacy that students can carry forward and share with others in their communities.
Communication Director: Arely Cano
Arely Cano is the Communication Director for Save It Forward, bringing a deep passion for connecting with students from diverse backgrounds and making financial literacy accessible. As a double major in Finance and Entrepreneurship, Arely combines her financial expertise with a creative approach to communication, ensuring that the program’s message reaches and resonates with all students. Her dedication to inclusivity and engagement drives her commitment to creating a supportive learning environment where every participant feels empowered to take control of their financial future.
Finance Director: Conner Bartels
Conner Bartels is the Finance Director of Save It Forward, where he plays a key role in both curriculum development and managing the program’s financial resources. As a major in Information Systems and Business Analytics (ISBA), Conner brings a strategic approach to budgeting, donor relations, and financial planning. His analytical skills and commitment to educational impact ensure that Save It Forward operates efficiently and can expand its reach to benefit more students. Conner’s work behind the scenes supports the program’s mission, providing the financial foundation that allows it to thrive and grow.
Student Advisor: Kaden Bishop
Kaden Bishop is a senior entrepreneurship major and has been a part of SIFI for over 2 years. In high school, Kaden ran a nonprofit that taught kids all over the globe about financial literacy with an emphasis on stock trading. He took a group portfolio from $800k to $2.4M in 2.5 years. Kaden also runs a startup in the music technology industry and enjoys music festivals and concerts.
Faculty Advisor: Jason D’Mello, Ph.D.
Jason Francis D’Mello, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Professor D’Mello researches funding gaps for minority entrepreneurs, underdog entrepreneurs and motivations, universal basic income, new venture teams, and small business succession. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses including LMU's Business Incubator, Social Entrepreneurship, Technology Management and Decision Making (Executive MBA), New Venture Creation, Introduction to Entrepreneurship, New Product Design and Development, and was a national finalist for the USASBE "Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Award" for creating LMU's course: "Entrepreneurial Acquisitions. Professor D’Mello received his PhD from the University of Louisville an MBA from LMU and a BBA from Western Michigan University and now resides in Los Angeles, CA.