Graziadio Board Member Larry J. Kosmont Receives CALED’s Golden Bear Award

Larry J. Kosmont, Chairman and CEO of Kosmont Companies and a board member at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, has been honored with the Golden Bear Award—the highest recognition from the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED).

The award celebrates Kosmont’s decades of leadership in economic development, his service on the CALED Board, and his dedication to community revitalization and public-private partnerships across California.

“Larry epitomizes the essence of a Bear: relentless in finding solutions, deeply engaged with peers, and focused on state-level impact,” said Gurbax Sahota, CALED President & CEO.

The award was presented as a surprise, made even more memorable by the presence of Kosmont’s daughter, Morgan.

“I’m deeply honored, truly grateful, and humbled to receive the Golden Bear Award. My sincere thanks to Gurbax Sahota and the CALED Board for this incredible recognition. Being part of the economic development profession is a true privilege—it's inspiring, meaningful work that makes a real difference in our communities.”

Kosmont’s influence continues to shape economic strategy through his firm, Kosmont Companies, a leader in real estate advisory, public finance, and sustainable growth.

“Larry is the ultimate Golden Bear,” said Steve Wahlstrom of Wahlstrom & Associates. “He’s built a remarkable career and made a lasting impact on California’s economy.”

Kosmont’s award reflects his legacy of leadership and his continued contributions to both economic development and business education.

Read the press release here.