Steve Markowitz, BA Class of 1992, MBA Class of 1996
Steve Markowitz, BA ’92, MBA ‘96, credits The Daily Californian with laying the foundation for his career success—outside of journalism. Steve says the research acumen, writing skills, critical thinking and teamwork that are fundamental in journalism have proven advantageous in business.
In his four years at the Daily Cal, Steve climbed through the ranks, ultimately serving as Editor in Chief (‘91-’92); his DC journey included reporter, staff writer, University Editor and Managing Editor, After earning his BA in East Asian Languages (Japanese, high honors), Steve worked as a Tokyo-based correspondent for AP-Dow Jones, today’s Dow Jones Newswires. He covered stocks and the electronics and pharmaceutical industries.
Notably, Steve was the first non-Japanese journalist admitted to the exclusive Tokyo Stock Exchange press club (“Kabuto Club”). He returned to Cal in 1994, earning his MBA in 1996, Steve went on to co-found pioneering loyalty marketing company MyPoints.com, which he led as chairman and CEO. Steve spearheaded MyPoints’ successful initial public offering (IPO) and secondary offering on Nasdaq.
He is an impact investor based in Honolulu, where he lives with his wife and daughter. Steve is an active DC board member, with a keen interest in its digital and social offerings.