Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology announced on May 5 that Yakov Smirnoff and Margaret Moodian have been selected as this year’s Distinguished Alumnus honorees. Smirnoff will represent the Education Division, while Moodian will be honored by the Psychology Division.
The recognition highlights their notable achievements in their respective fields, as well as their commitment to service and leadership. The announcement said both alumni “embody Pepperdine’s mission through lives marked by purpose, service, and leadership.”
Farzin Madjidi, dean of GSEP, said, “The GSEP community is delighted to welcome back these distinguished and accomplished alumni. Yakov and Margaret are deeply respected in their fields and embody the character, purpose, and leadership that reflect Pepperdine’s mission and inspire our students to reach beyond what they thought possible. For more than four decades, Yakov has brought joy to millions through his brilliant comedy while using his platform to uplift and inspire others. In the same spirit, Margaret is a model of transformative leadership, devoted to mentoring young minds and advocating for our most vulnerable communities.”
Smirnoff is known for his career as a comedian and stage performer. He owns the Yakov Theatre in Branson, Missouri where he has performed for over three decades. His career includes performances for four US presidents as well as appearances on major television shows such as The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and Jimmy Fallon.
Reflecting on his recognition by Pepperdine University Smirnoff said: “It’s a tremendous honor to be acknowledged by the University,” adding that it would make his late mother proud.
Margaret Moodian was recognized for her work supporting adult learners in higher education settings. She serves on several boards including Journey School in Aliso Viejo, Chapman University’s Town & Gown board, Makapo Aquatics Project board—an adaptive paddling program—and was appointed to the Orange County Historical Commission in 2024.
Moodian said: “I am grateful to receive this honor. It means so much to me because it’s a reminder of how far I have come since graduating from Pepperdine 15 years ago… Many thanks to the Pepperdine community.” She credits her education at Pepperdine with shaping her path toward serving others.
For more news or information about upcoming events at GSEP readers can visit the school’s website.
