Shuttles will run regularly to all designated shuttle stops during shuttle hours. In addition, guests may call for a shuttle from all designated shuttle stops during shuttle hours for faster service. Call-a-cart details are listed at the designated shuttle stops.
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Dear Tigers,
Welcome to Alumni Reunion Weekend 2026! Reunion is one of the most cherished parts of the alumni experience—a time to return to campus, reconnect with old friends, and create new memories while reminiscing about your time here. We’ve planned an exciting lineup of events that will take you down memory lane, showcase the best of Oxy, and feature plenty of opportunities to reconnect and celebrate with your classmates.
The fun begins on Friday morning, where you can enjoy one of our thoughtfully curated programs or explore campus with one of our fascinating tours and open houses. As the sun sets, start the opening night festivities with your classmates at the Reunion Kick-Off Celebration with food, drink, music, and activities. Then, enjoy some extra time with your classmates at the individual class gatherings
Start off Saturday taking a trip through time on the Then, Now, and Tomorrow tour, or grab a bite and connect at the Tiger Networking Lunch. Hear College updates directly from President Stritikus at the Presidential Address and engage with members of the Board of Trustees after lunch. Later, celebrate the impact and achievements of alumni and faculty at the Volunteer Leadership Reception and Alumni Seal Awards Ceremony. Meet Tigers with shared affinities and interests at the Affinity Groups Celebration. The highlight of the weekend is undoubtedly your Saturday Reunion Night
The evening begins with class photos and the Tiger Happy Hour. Cap off the evening with a memorable reunion dinner with your class before dancing the night away at one of Oswald’s Afterparties around campus.
On Sunday, enjoy one last hug at the Goodbye Brunch, or a final engaging Reunion program. And, of course, Sunday is Fifty Year Club Day. At the Fifty Year Club Annual Meeting in Thorne Hall, the Class of 1976 will be formally inducted. Following the group photo, guests will enjoy the traditional champagne luncheon.
Whether this is your first or tenth time attending your Alumni Reunion Weekend, I’m confident you’ll enjoy being back on campus and reconnecting with old friends. The jacarandas are in bloom, your classmates (and Oswald) are here, and we’ve got a wonderful weekend planned for you. Welcome home.
Io Triumphe!
Kelsey
Kelsey (Boesche) Belli Associate Director, Alumni and Parent Engagement
“Reunion is one of the most joyful aspects of the alumni experience–being back on campus, reconnecting with friends, and making new memories as you relive old ones.”
Check-In Canopy Hours
Academic Quad
Friday: 9 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thorne Hall Patio
Sunday:
8:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Marketplace Hours
Friday, June 5
Breakfast: 7 - 9:30 a.m.
Lunch: 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Dinner: 5 - 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 6
Breakfast: 7 - 9:30 a.m.
Lunch: 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 7
Breakfast: 8 - 9:30 a.m.
See page 16 for prices and more information.
10 - 10:50 a.m.
Biology Imaging and Computation Center Tour
Biology Imaging and Computation Center, Anderson Center for Environmental Sciences
Explore our newest center that brings together high-performance imaging computers and state-of-the-art microscopes, creating a powerful hub for discovery. This center supports hands-on learning focused on student research and biology lab classes, adding numerous dimensions to the investigation of organismal structure and dynamics.
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Makerspace Open House
Critical Making Studio, Academic Commons
Explore the creative possibilities of the Critical Making Studio, featuring tools like 3D printing, design software, and audio, video, and crafting equipment. Stop by for live demos, ask questions, and see what you can create— everyone is welcome!
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Special Collections and College Archives Open House
Braun Room, Academic Commons
Drop by the beautiful Braun Room to engage with items from Oxy’s history, rare books, and fascinating artifacts (take a selfie with a real Olympic torch!), curated and hosted by Alanna Quan, Archivist, and Helena de Lemos, Special Collections Librarian.
11 – 11:50 a.m.
Moore Lab of Zoology Bird Collection Tour
Moore Lab of Zoology, Anderson Center for Environmental Sciences
Get an insider’s look at the Moore Laboratory of Zoology, home to a world-renowned collection of 65,000 bird and mammal specimens! This behind-the-scenes tour showcases the Lab’s vital role as a research and teaching resource, giving you a rare chance to explore its remarkable collections and see the exciting work happening.
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Athletics Facilities Tour
Tour departs from the front of Alumni Gymnasium
Take a guided tour of our Athletics Facilities and explore the training, competition, and wellness spaces available to Oxy students.
12 – 1 p.m.
Tiger Trivia
Gresham Dining Hall, Johnson Student Center
Put your knowledge to the test with your fellow Tigers in an exciting trivia challenge hosted by Dick Anderson, editor of Occidental magazine. Bring a team or join one when you arrive—and don’t forget to grab lunch at the Marketplace before the fun begins.
12 – 12:50 p.m.
The Photograph as Object
Weingart Digital Lab, Weingart Center
Explore the history of the photographic object with Professor Janna Ireland in Oxy’s brand new photography digital lab and darkroom.
1 – 1:50 p.m.
Alumni Seal Conversation:
Two Marine Biologists Look at the Ocean
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Join Oxy professors and Alumni Seal Award recipients Gary Martin P’07 P’09 P’11 and Dan Pondella ’87 M’92 in conversation about their groundbreaking work in marine biology at Occidental College. Through innovative research and decades of mentorship, both have elevated the field while shaping generations of Oxy students.
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Then, Now, and Tomorrow Tour (Session 1)
Tour departs from the Academic Quad
Take a walking tour through campus and across time, exploring the changes that have shaped Occidental over the years. Along the way, you’ll see historic and contemporary photos, and discover how the College’s buildings, programs, and student experience have evolved—showcasing the impact of innovation, ideas, and alumni support on Oxy’s vibrant community.
Walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended.
2 – 2:50 p.m.
Inside the Obama Scholars Program: Inspiring Impact Through Leadership and Change
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Engage in a dynamic panel discussion featuring members of the Barack Obama Scholars community. Hear firsthand how the program supports leadership growth, fosters community impact, and empowers students to create meaningful change—both on campus and beyond.
2:30 – 4 p.m.
Emeriti Coffee & Connections
Academic Quad
Reconnect with some of Oxy’s most beloved faculty emeriti over coffee or tea. Take a trip down memory lane as you chat with mentors and reminisce about shared Oxy memories.
3 – 3:50 p.m.
Research That Lasts: How the Undergraduate Research Center Shapes Oxy Lives
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Join current student researchers and Igor Logvinenko, faculty director of the Undergraduate Research Center and Professor of Diplomacy & World Affairs, for a discussion about how faculty-mentored research across disciplines, summer fellowships, and community-based projects shape their academic paths and prepares students for their future plans.
4 – 4:50 p.m.
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Professor Jeff Cannon ’07 will discuss how chemists approach the identification and synthesis of small molecule drugs, highlighting their critical role in our everyday lives and pharmaceutical discovery. This session explores the unique challenges of advancing a drug from initial idea to blockbuster, focusing on the differing chemical, biological, and environmental considerations for discovery versus production.
4 – 4:50 p.m.
Salsbury-Young Room, Johnson Student Center
Join us for a mimosa and an informative discussion on how thoughtful charitable planning can help you increase your income, protect your assets, and care for your loved ones. Learn how planned giving is a meaningful way for you to create a lasting legacy by incorporating charitable donations into your long-term financial and estate planning goals.
5 – 7 p.m.
Reunion Kick-Off Celebration
Academic Quad
Celebrate the start of Reunion with drinks, casino games, hearty appetizers, music, and more while reconnecting with classmates and fellow alumni marking milestone years. $25 per person.
7 – 9:30 p.m.
Academic Quad
Some class reunion committees have informal, off-campus class gatherings after the Reunion Kick-Off Celebration closes. The Classes of 1966, 1971 and 1976 will hold gatherings on-campus.
Scan the QR code for details about these gatherings ››
Enjoy this unique self-guided tour of campus highlighting President Barack Obama ’83’s time at Oxy. Tour brochures are available at the Check-In Canopy.
Friday & Saturday: 12 – 6 p.m.
Renew and Reuse: Touchdown Thrift
Concession Stand, Kemp Stadium
This student-run shop promotes sustainability by giving new life to pre-loved goods, including the Postal Center’s original mailbox doors—now available for $25 each and small enough to fit in your carry-on. All proceeds support the Ecoessential Club, so stop by and shop for a great cause!
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
8 – 9:30 a.m.
Tennis With Tom McKinnon Family Tennis Center and Robinson Family Terrace
Test your tennis skills against President Tom Stritikus and fellow alumni in a high-energy “live ball” session, complete with friendly competition and courtside refreshments. Bring your A-game to the court or simply join us for coffee and conversation on the sidelines.
Tennis equipment is not provided. Please bring your own.
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Then, Now, and Tomorrow Tour (Session 2)
Tour departs from the Academic Quad
Join a walking tour through campus and across time, exploring the changes that have shaped Occidental over the years. Along the way, you’ll see historic and contemporary photos, and discover how the College’s buildings, programs, and student experience have evolved—showcasing the impact of innovation, ideas, and alumni support on Oxy’s vibrant community.
Walking shoes and a water bottle are recommended.
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Presidential Address: A Shared Legacy, A Shared Future
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Join President Tom Stritikus for this special Reunion address, celebrating the experiences that connect generations of Oxy alumni, highlighting how the College has grown and changed, and outlining priorities for the future.
12 – 1:30 p.m.
Gresham Dining Hall, Johnson Student Center
Grab lunch in the Marketplace and join a fun, career-focused networking lunch. Connect with Tigers across industries, swap career insights, and explore opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and growth. Lunch can be purchased at the Marketplace.
12:30 – 1:20 p.m.
The Multicultural Summer Institute (MSI) Through the Years
Mosher 1, Norris Hall of Chemistry
Join us for a panel with alumni of the Multicultural Summer Institute. Hear about their experience, how it impacted their time at Oxy, and how the program continues to grow and thrive today. Reconnect with fellow MSI alumni at this community building gathering.
1:30 – 2:20 p.m.
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
Join Board Chair Art Peck ’77 P’10 P’14 and Trustees Leo Olebe ’97 and Talia Robinson ’97 for a candid conversation about the current state of Occidental and the strategic vision for its future. This interactive session, moderated by Board of Governors President-elect Kwame Do ’16, invites you to share your questions and perspectives directly with the Board to discuss how alumni engagement can continue to keep Oxy strong.
More about our Trustee panelists:
2 – 2:50 p.m.
Mosher 1, Norris Hall of Chemistry
Professor Stephen Hudson explores how Metallica’s ballads, like Fade to Black, reshape standard rock song form to create a tragic yet cathartic experience. Using unconventional song structure to mirror emotional structure, Metallica allows fans to process their own feelings through the music and creates powerful, shared emotional experiences.
2 – 3:30 p.m.
Sycamore Glen
Join the Alumni Board of Governors in celebrating the dedication and impact of Occidental volunteers, along with the extraordinary achievements of the 2026 Alumni Seal Award recipients.
Please note that the recognition ceremony will begin at 2:30 p.m.
Read more about this year's Alumni Seal Award recipients on page 10.
3 – 3:45 p.m.
Encore: A Reunion in Song Herrick Memorial Chapel and Interfaith Center
Encore, the Oxy Glee Club Alumni Choir, presents a dynamic performance celebrating the ensemble’s second season. Featuring highlights from their fall and spring concerts, this program showcases the energy, camaraderie, and tradition of Oxy alums singing together.
3 – 3:50 p.m. Legislative Representation in 21st Century America
Choi Auditorium, Johnson Hall
The way we elect representatives is evolving, but what does that mean for fair and effective governance? In this session Professor Isaac Hale ’11 will explore legislative representation in 21st Century America – the impact of recent legal changes, the rise of gerrymandering, and how different electoral systems used around the world could reshape American democracy.
3 – 4:30 p.m. Affinity Groups Celebration
Academic Quad
Connect with alumni across all class years and interests to share stories, make new memories, and celebrate the diverse communities that make Oxy so special. The following alumni organizations and groups will be gathering:
• Alumni of Occidental in Education (ALOED)
• API Alumni and Allies for Oxy (A4Oxy)
• Black Alumni Organization (BAO)
• Encore! Alumni Choir
• Greek Life
• Occidental College Latino Alumni Association (OCLAA)
• Out@Oxy
• Regional Chapters
4:30 – 6 p.m.
Tiger Happy Hour and Class Photos
Academic Quad
Reunion classes will begin their celebration with a cocktail and time to mingle. Individual class photos will be taken.
This is a ticketed event and is included in your Reunion Night.
Class Photo Schedule below:
6 – 9 p.m.
Catch up with classmates and enjoy great food and special programs that highlight your class stories and achievements, all planned by your class reunion committees.
This is a ticketed event and is included in your Reunion Night.
Reunion Dinner Locations
Fifty Year Club | Hameetman Science Center Patio
1966 | Hameetman Science Center Lobby
1976 | Cannon Plaza
1981 | Branca Patio, Johnson Student Center
1986 | Gresham Dining Hall, Johnson Student Center
1991 | Rose Hills Plaza, Johnson Student Center
1996 | Hameetman Career Center Patio
2001 | Salsbury-Young Room, Johnson Student Center
2006 | Samuelson Pavilion, Main Room
2011 | Samuelson Pavilion, Pub Room
GOLD (2016 - 2026) | Global Forum, Johnson Student Center
9 – 11 p.m.
Keep the good times rolling at various era-themed spots around campus with music, dancing, fun photo opportunities, and more. Beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks will be served. Party zones will be at the Samuelson Pavillion and Gresham Dining Hall.
This is a ticketed event and is included in your Reunion Night.
Your Reunion Night - $120 per person. Pre-registration required. Walk-in tickets subject to availability.
SUNDAY, JUNE 7
9 – 10 a.m.
Oxy in Remembrance
Herrick Memorial Chapel and Interfaith Center
Reflect on and celebrate the lives of fellow members of the Oxy community through an interfaith memorial service led by Rev. Dr. Susan Young, director of religious and spiritual life.
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Branca Patio, Johnson Student Center
Get in one last farewell before heading off campus! Enjoy a tasty continental brunch while catching up one last time with your classmates and making those Reunion Weekend memories last.
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Fifty Year Club Meeting and Class of 1976 Induction
Thorne Hall
Join us for the Fifty Year Club annual induction to honor the Class of 1976 and celebrate our distinguished award recipients, followed by a commemorative group photo on the steps of Thorne Hall. This year, we honor Joel and Jil Sheldon ’66 P’00 P’02 P’95 with the Auld Lang Syne Award and thank Steve Rountree ’71 for his service to Oxy with the Io Triumphe Award.
11:30 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
Backstage Pass: Exploring Media Arts & Culture at Oxy
Weingart Center
Discover the incredible facilities available to MAC students—including a cutting-edge production classroom, professional-grade sound booth, editing lab and more. Director of Digital Media and Production Diana Keeler will guide you through these hands-on spaces, sharing how they bring video and media projects to life at Oxy.
11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Fifty Year Club Lunch
Gresham Dining Hall, Johnson Student Center
Celebrate the newest members of the Fifty Year Club—Class of 1976—and returning Fifty Year Club members at this champagne lunch. $40 per person.
1 – 2 p.m.
Tour departs from the Second Floor Lobby, Hameetman Science Center
This tour highlights the dynamic evolution of the Geology Department, including brand-new laboratory facilities, renovated classrooms, and new faculty members. Meet current students who are engaged in cuttingedge faculty-mentored research projects across the globe.
For 71 years, the Occidental College Fifty Year Club has provided opportunities for members to engage with the College and with each other through a variety of gatherings year-round. These activities culminate at Fifty Year Club Day during Alumni Reunion Weekend, when we induct the newest Fifty Year Club class and honor dedicated faculty and outstanding fellow alumni by presenting the Io Triumphe and Auld Lang Syne awards.
The Io Triumphe Award is bestowed annually by the Fifty Year Club in recognition of faculty, administrators, or staff who have demonstrated extraordinary loyalty to the College and the principles for which Oxy stands.
Steve Rountree served on the Occidental Board of Trustees for 20 years. As chair of the board from 20192022, he was a leader in the national search for the College’s 16th president and the public phase of the Oxy Campaign For Good, which raised more than $252 million. With new President Harry Elam, he led the board and campus through the uncharted waters of the COVID crisis.
Rountree retired in 2018 as managing director/CEO of the nonprofit Center Theatre Group. Previously, he served as president and CEO of the Music Center of Los Angeles County while simultaneously working as CEO of the Los Angeles Opera. His involvement was critical to the building of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
After graduating from Oxy with an English degree in 1971, he went into the field of labor relations, returning to the College in 1974 as director of personnel. In 1977, Rountree married Carol Stassinos, who worked at Oxy for a decade as associate dean of students. They live in Pasadena and have two daughters and five grandchildren, including Matt Arredondo ’25.
In addition to his service to Occidental, Los Angeles native Rountree is a trustee of the Ahmanson Foundation, Waverly School and the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles Foundation. He previously served as a trustee of Oberlin College and Claremont Graduate University.
The Auld Lang Syne Award was established by the Alumni Association and the Fifty Year Club in 1954. It is given annually to a member of the Fifty Year Club in recognition of their unswerving loyalty to the College.
Joel and Jil Sheldon are lifelong partners in service, education, and community engagement in Pasadena. They met during their senior year on the campus quad and have remained deeply connected to the College and one another ever since.
Joel is the owner of Vroman’s Bookstore, a landmark independent bookstore founded in 1894. A thirdgeneration family leader, Joel has helped sustain its role as a cornerstone in the community. At Occidental, he studied psychology, played rugby and football, and was a member of Alpha Tau Omega. He has since been inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame and received an Alumni Seal Award. Joel has served in leadership roles across more than 30 community organizations and previously served on Occidental’s Board of Trustees and President’s Advisory Council.
Jil earned her bachelor’s degree in 1966 and later completed her teaching credential, building a career in early childhood education. At Oxy, she was active in choir, Gamma Kappa Theta, and was a Song Girl. Jil has served on a variety of non-profit boards, including Head Start, Mothers’ Club, the Pasadena Health Foundation, and the Pasadena City College Foundation. A lifelong learner and avid reader, Jil leads three mystery book clubs. She and Joel share a lifelong commitment to family and the community.
The Alumni Seal Awards were established in 1965 to pay tribute to alumni who, through commitment to their profession, community and the College, have distinguished themselves and thereby brought honor to Occidental College. This year’s honorees will be recognized at the Volunteer Leadership Reception and Alumni Seal Award Ceremony on Saturday.
Carri Patterson Grindon ’82 is rector of Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church in Altadena, where she has served for 16 years. Following the devastating loss of the church’s historic campus in the Eaton Fire, Carri has tirelessly guided her congregation’s recovery and rebuilding efforts. She was instrumental in securing emergency grants for displaced parishioners, creating vital communication lifelines, and supporting school families impacted by the blaze. Beyond immediate relief, Carri successfully negotiated a long-term temporary home for the congregation at St. Barnabas in Eagle Rock while securing the seed money necessary for a future rebuild. A native Southern Californian, Carri grew up attending and acting in Occidental Summer Theater productions. She earned her B.A. in theater arts from Occidental and her M.Div. from Yale Divinity School. She shares two adult daughters with her loving husband, Al.
Professor of Biology Dan Pondella ’87 M’92 has devoted more than three decades to Occidental’s Vantuna Research Group, the College’s signature marine field program. A trained ichthyologist, he uses fish as models for the assessment and development of projects to increase ecosystem health and performance. His research program, simply defined as “creating more fish,” uses a metric that is tractable across all socioeconomic levels of society as he works to increase opportunities from subsistence fishing for underrepresented communities to commercial interests. Dan’s major research is the rocky reefs and kelp beds in the Southern California Bight. He recently oversaw the $9.5 million design and implementation of the state’s first in situ rocky reef restoration project, the Palos Verdes Reef. Committed to involving undergraduates in this research, Dan is spearheading the efforts to establish the John S. Stephens Jr. Vantuna Research Group Endowed Fund to preserve these opportunities in perpetuity.
An economics major, Erika Nuño ’00 has demonstrated sustained and transformative service to the College. As president of the Occidental College Latino Alumni Association (OCLAA) from 2018 to 2020, she revitalized the organization, expanded alumni engagement, and relaunched the mentorship program between alumni and current students. She currently serves as board chair of the José F. Silva ’84 Endowed Memorial Scholarship, leading an endowment campaign to ensure long-term financial support for Oxy students committed to the Latine community. As a ViSTA volunteer, Erika supports student recruitment efforts. Erika has spent her career designing partnerships and launching marketing initiatives across the private and nonprofit sectors, driven by a commitment to culture, access, and opportunity. She founded Champion City, a strategic consulting firm serving purpose-led organizations, and now leads Chavez Community Capital, building a lending program to expand access to capital in historically disinvested communities. A proud product of Southeast Los Angeles, Erika previously served as planning commissioner for the City of Huntington Park and currently serves on the board of L.A. Works.
Stephen has been a dedicated alumnus and advocate of Occidental for more than 50 years. Most recently, he was co-chair of the Class of 1975 50th Reunion Committee, spearheading the fundraising efforts for the Class of 1975 scholarship and the highest attending reunion class in 2025. As a volunteer leader, Stephen was a founding member of Occidental Business Associates (OBA), which organized many popular educational and networking events for alumni for more than 15 years. He chaired the Careers and Awards committees of the Alumni Board of Governors and served on the Young Alumni Board. A member of the 1971 championship football team, Stephen earned his B.A. in political science from Occidental, attended the University of California for an MBA, Berkeley's Haas School of Business, and his J.D. from the University of California, San Francisco’s College of the Law.
Anne Egerton ’76 is an associate justice on the Court of Appeal in Los Angeles. Before her 2017 appointment by Gov. Jerry Brown, Anne served for 16 years as a trial judge, trying 260 criminal jury trials to verdict. Anne was previously the West Coast general counsel for NBC. There she argued cases in the California and Colorado Supreme Courts, resulting in California’s high court recognizing the right of the public and the press to attend civil trials. Before joining NBC, Anne was a partner at a Los Angeles law firm where she represented tenants living in Skid Row on a pro bono basis. Anne majored in political science at Oxy and earned her J.D. from the UC Berkeley School of Law. Anne was a member of the President’s Circle and the Alumni Board of Governors. Anne and her husband, John Wiley, will celebrate 45 years of marriage this summer. They have two grown children.
Ian L. Mariani ’14
For nearly a decade, Ian Mariani ’14 has served on the front lines of the major legislative and political battles spanning three presidential administrations. His experience includes helping to defend the Affordable Care Act, confronting two record-length government shutdowns and two presidential impeachments, the January 6 insurrection, and the most legislatively productive progressive Congress in decades. Ian currently serves as communications director for U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, and previously worked for Representative Salud Carbajal, the House Appropriations Committee, and lawmakers representing “split ticket” districts in Iowa and New Jersey. A dedicated alumnus, Ian serves as a ViSTA admission interviewer and mentor to recent graduates. He earned his B.A. in diplomacy and world affairs from Occidental and credits the faculty, his tenure as editor of The Occidental, and role as student orientation coordinator for honing his analytical and written skills.
Ron Buckmire
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics Ron Buckmire served on the faculty of Occidental for more than 30 years and is now dean of the School of Computer Science and Mathematics at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. At Oxy, he served as department chair, associate dean for curricular affairs, and director of the Core Program. He taught classes such as Calculus, History of Mathematics, Differential Equations, Numerical Analysis, and Mathematical Modeling.
He earned his Ph.D. in mathematics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and twice served as a program officer in the Division of Undergraduate Education at the National Science Foundation. In 2023, he was named a fellow of the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, the first person from a small liberal arts college, the fourth Black person, and the first openly LGBTQ+ person to receive this prestigious honor.
During his 41-year tenure in the Occidental Biology Department, Gary Martin P’07 P’09 P’11 was honored with both the Donald R. Loftsgordon Memorial Award for Outstanding Teaching and the Linda and Tod White Teaching Prize. His research addressed how cells and tissues in marine invertebrates fought infections and disease. His lab produced nearly 70 publications involving electron microscopy and including many student co-authors. Gary received his B.A. and M.A. from Sonoma State College, his Ph.D. from UC-Berkeley, and a postdoc from UC-Riverside. He credits his height (6’6”) as key to his recruitment to Oxy, to best serve the faculty men’s basketball team. Gary retired in 2021 and now spends much of his time chasing his four grandkids, and traveling with his wife of 52 years, Noni.
Alumni Reunion is just the beginning—there are so many ways to stay connected with Occidental long after this unforgettable weekend. The Oxy community thrives because alumni like you choose to lead, serve, and stay involved. Whether you’re planning events in your region, participating as a GOLD alumni mentor or mentee, building community with Tigers who share your interests in one of the Oxy Affinity Groups, or helping the next generation of Tigers get to Eagle Rock as a member of ViSTA (Volunteers in Service of Oxy Admission), your involvement keeps the Oxy spirit vibrant and our community growing year-round.
Spend time with your Oxy community close to home! Regional events like happy hours, lectures, museum outings, and ballgames (to name a few!) are a great way to connect with fellow Tigers in your area. If you’d like to help plan the fun, consider joining one of our 15 Regional Committees.
Oxy's alumni affinity groups offer a community built around a particular interest or affiliation. Affinity groups host mixers and seminars, provide mentoring opportunities and leadership positions, and give members an opportunity to stay connected to the College and each other.
ViSTA alumni are vital partners in recruiting the next generation of Tigers. By representing Oxy to prospective students, you help the Office of Admission identify and enroll exceptional students who will keep our community diverse and academically strong.
The Alumni Board of Governors (BOG) oversees the work of the Alumni Association to serve Oxy graduates. The board includes up to 32 members serving four-year terms. Through the Career and Mentorship Committee, the GOLD Mentorship Program connects alumni mentors with GOLD mentees to offer real-world guidance as they navigate their post-college careers.
Each year, hundreds of alumni are inducted into the Fifty Year Club, celebrating 50 years since graduation. The Club hosts events to stay engaged with the Occidental College community.
These are just a few of the many ways to get involved and stay connected with Oxy. For more information, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement at alumni@oxy.edu or visit alumni.oxy.edu. No matter how you choose to participate, your time, energy, and generosity help sustain the traditions, connections, and opportunities that define the Occidental experience. Thank you for getting involved!
Visit alumni.oxy.edu to learn more about engagement and volunteer opportunities.
The 2025-26 academic year was filled with community, academic achievements from our students and faculty, athletic highlights and generosity from our donors.
For the 21st consecutive year, Occidental was recognized as a top Fulbright producer. In addition, Oxy was cited among Billboard magazine’s Top Music Business Schools for a sixth straight year. The College welcomed a number of notable speakers to campus this year including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor; best-selling author Roxane Gay; David Greene, host of KCRW’s Left, Right & Center; former L.A. Mayor and U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti H’19; and this year’s Commencement speaker, New York Times best-selling author and acclaimed scholar Anna Malaika Tubbs.
Following a comprehensive national search, Angie Bos has been named as Oxy’s next vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College. Currently dean and professor in the School of Public Service at Boise State University, Bos has led collaborative efforts to strengthen academic programs, student success, and institutional effectiveness. She arrives at Oxy July 1.
The student residential and academic experiences are benefiting from a number of campus improvements. Last summer, Oxy reimagined Stewie Beach into a real-life beach volleyball court. This spring marked the ground-breaking of the John Branca Institute of Music, which will bring state-of-the art upgrades to Booth Hall. In April, the Board of Trustees approved the use of $16 million in reserved funds to launch the Norris Hall of Chemistry renovations.
The Athletics Department is the Division III recipient of the 2026 NCAA and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association Award for Opportunities and Impact. This award recognizes intercollegiate athletics departments that implement initiatives to elevate student-athlete voices, foster student belonging and promote cross-campus collaboration. The College also celebrated a $9.1 million estate gift from Larry Layne ’71, half of which will go to support athletics overall and Oxy rugby in particular. The inaugural Larry Layne ’71 Athletic Achievement Award will be presented at the 2026 Homecoming & Family Weekend’s Hall of Fame ceremony.
This summer we will pilot the first year of the Hollywood Bowl-Occidental College internship program, where 10 students will complete fully funded internships with the LA Phil, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.
Throughout the year our dedicated alumni community’s support uplifted the student experience through your time volunteering, and in the generosity of your investments in keeping Oxy strong for today and tomorrow. Collectively, more than 3,500 alumni participated in the Io Triumphe Challenge last December and in the seventh annual Day For Oxy in April, raising more than $3 million for the Oxy Fund, financial aid and scholarships, and investments throughout campus.
Dave Alpert ’71
President
Marilyn (Nottingham) Robertson ’70 P’00
Former president
Bob Niemack ’71
President-elect
Sydney (Fox) Nichols ’72
Secretary
Val (Truesdell) Reece ’73 P’95 GP’22
Member-at-large
CLASS OF 1966
60th Reunion Committee
Linda Larson Ashley
John Doolittle
Greg Gazda
Daniel StJohn
Joe Wharton
CLASS OF 1971
55th Reunion Committee
Dave Alpert
Brenda Barham Hill P’03
Bob Niemack
Prof. Russell "Rusty" Reece P’95 GP’22
Andrew E. Rubin
CLASS OF 1976
50th Reunion Committee
Jill (Smiley) Asbjornsen
Emily Carlson
Sharon Coleman
Ken Farris
Zena Greenspan
Ann McCleary
Eric McKinlay P’12
Karie Meyers
Patrick O'Bannon
Chris (Mooneyham) Rhodes
John Tootle
Robin Whitmore
Ellen Yeany
CLASS OF 1981
45th Reunion Committee
Paul Andres
John Castner
Devon Dougherty
Jodi Goetz
Cyrus Irani
Mike Jorgensen
Janice “TJ” (Fonteno) Kolondinski P’10
Lisa (Kanes) Mandel P’14
Victor Mason
CLASS OF 1981 CONT.
Rich Miller
Anne (Hayflich) Osterhout
Douglas Raff
Cheryl (Acton) Sampson
CLASS OF 1986
40th Reunion Committee
Carol Baker P’19
Christine Chang
Patricia (Cook) Graesser
Dean Kilgour P’18
Deanna (Smith) Kilgour P’18
Rod Lazo
Julie Nichols
Mary Jane (Liard) Parks
Laura Roberts
Suzanne (Segelbaum) Schlundt
Melissa Schwartz
William S. Yee
CLASS OF 1991
35th Reunion Committee
Dani Crosby
CLASS OF 1996
30th Reunion Committee
Mel Bocianowski
Delmy Lopez
Janet Nami McIntyre
Amy Forest Montgomery
Michelle Perez
Tony Wong ’97
CLASS OF 2001
25th Reunion Committee
Paige Brogan
Lisa Pringle
Silva Zeneian
CLASS OF 2006
20th Reunion Committee
Ceci Barretto
Lauren (Tapp) Greeno
Jessica Jew
Ashley (Luth) Phelps
CLASS OF 2011
15th Reunion Committee
Tiffanie (Johnson) Bell
Charles Bennett
Rachel Brown
Alicia Facada
Mike Kutan
Malia Latin
CLASS OF 2016
10th Reunion Committee
Emilie Arnau
Mika Cribbs
Antoniqua Roberson-Dancy
CLASS OF 2021
5th Reunion Committee
Maya Angulo
Will Canavan
Brenden Ocasio
Jake Stevens ’08
President
Kwame Do ’16
President-Elect
Ross Pumfrey ’67
VP, Engagement and Programs Committee
Deanna (Smith) Kilgour ’86 P’18
VP, Enrollment Committee
Jacob E. Valk ’13
VP, Careers & Mentorship Committee
John Collinson ’89
VP, Philanthropy Committee
Anne (Mikolajcik) de Ridder ’98 Member-at- Large
Maya Angulo ’21
Carol Baker ’86 P’19
Samuel Bergen ’04
Jordan Brown ’13
Reena Carroll ’02
Regina Clemente ’03
Pat (Kruse) Gillette ’73
Isaac Glanzrock ’17
Alex Graves ’09
Lauren Greeno ’06
Cynthia Haynes ’13
Ryan Henderson ’18
David Harold Jackson ’75
Mina Lopez ’88
Clarissa Martinez De Castro ’89
Robin (McWilliams) Mathews ’72
Andrew Pappas ’04
Angela Patriarca ’03
Richard Reyes ’12
Siddharth Saravat ’15
Michelin (Rowars) Sharp ’96
Esther Teodoro ’95
Veronica Toledo ’10
Brian Wee ’99
Lisa Yang ’97
Occidental has inspired bright, curious, and talented students through an innovative liberal arts education rooted in Los Angeles. By making your reunion class gift today to the Oxy Fund, or any area of the College that is meaningful to you, your support strengthens this legacy, expands opportunity for today’s students, and keeps Oxy’s promise to future generations.
Make a reunion gift now:
Established by the Board of Trustees in 1994, the Occidental College Legacy Society recognizes and celebrates the generous and future-focused individuals who have created an Oxy legacy intention through estate gifts.
Consider the ways in which you can leave an Oxy legacy to support the future of Occidental’s mission and impact generations of students to come. All gifts, large or small, for programs, professorships, scholarships, or scoreboards, support our students.
Are you interested in joining the Occidental College Legacy Society? Scan the QR Code below for more information.
Visit the check-in tent or read the Reunion FAQs at alumni.oxy.edu/connect/reunion/faq
FRIDAY 6/5 SATURDAY 6/6 SUNDAY 6/7
The Marketplace at Johnson Student Center offers “all-you-care-to-eat” dining for the summer. Guests are charged one price for a meal and may select from a variety of menu choices. The purchase price includes all-you-care-to-eat within the dining room. Food may not leave the facility. The Tiger Cooler (Samuelson Pavilion) will also have “Tiger Express” service lunch available on Friday, June 5.
FRIDAY 6/5
Breakfast ............................... 7 – 9:30 a.m. Lunch ............................
All guests will receive a 10% discount off OxyWear and Oxy Gifts during Alumni Reunion Weekend using the code: PRIDE26
Alumni will need to bring towels and/or athletic equipment as these amenities are not provided by the Athletics Center.
Athletic facilities require key card access and are open during posted hours. Reunion guests may request a key card at the Check-In Tent on the quad and must return it at the end of the weekend. This courtesy is exclusive to Alumni Reunion Weekend. For year-round access, an annual Alumni Pass is available for purchase through or via the Card Office during office hours..
* Hours are subject to change. Visit oxyathletics.com for the most up-to-date information.
The College’s alcohol license requires that Campus Dining be the sole provider and server of all alcohol at events on campus. Alcohol may not be served or consumed in common spaces except as part of a registered College event.
To provide a safe and healthy environment for all of our alumni, students, staff, and faculty, College policy prohibits the smoking or vaping of tobacco or any substance, including e-cigarettes, in all enclosed buildings, facilities, and designated outdoor event spaces or within 30 feet of any of the foregoing. The College expects all visitors on campus to comply with local, state and federal laws. Although marijuana is legal under California law, it remains illegal under federal law. Therefore, marijuana use on campus is prohibited.
Occidental College’s campus is an “open campus,” and the College endeavors to make its facilities accessible to people with disabilities. However, the campus is located on a hillside and contains historic architecture which may not be fully accessible for all persons. For information about campus accessibility, see the College Maps & Directions at oxy.edu/contact-us/mapsdirections and apply the “ADA accessibility” filter. With advance notice of at least 21 days from guests with disabilities, the College will make a reasonable attempt to accommodate their needs. Guests are responsible for providing their own auxiliary aids, such as wheelchairs, if needed. Service animals specifically trained to perform work or a task are welcome on campus. Shuttle rides are provided between campus building entrances during Reunion Weekend. Please refer to the inside cover of this program for shuttle stop locations and hours.
PLEASE NOTE: Campus Safety will not provide rides on or off campus during Alumni Reunion Weekend. For on-campus needs, please call a shuttle during operating hours.
The College understands that alumni may wish to visit places that are memorable to them while on campus, including their former residences. The residence halls and the rooms within them, however, are occupied during the summer, often by people under the age of 18. For this and other reasons, alumni are not permitted to enter any residence halls other than Newcomb Hall.
1. Call Campus Safety at (323) 259-2599. A Campus Safety officer will respond and assist as needed.
2. If you believe you or someone else is experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 immediately (9-911 from a campus phone). If you call 911 from a cell phone, you may need to give the dispatcher your location (Occidental College, 1600 Campus Road, L.A. 90041). Then immediately call Campus Safety (323) 259-2599 and report the incident, or have someone else assisting with the situation call Campus Safety while you remain on the line with 911.
3. When calling 911 or Campus Safety, be prepared to provide for the dispatcher to ask for the following information: (a) whether the subject is breathing, conscious or bleeding; (b) the subject’s gender and age; (c) your name and phone number.
4. Stay on the phone with the dispatcher and answer as many questions as possible regarding the subject’s condition.
Oxy is a community dedicated to nurturing excellence and personal character in an open and diverse environment, grounded in values of trust, honesty and respect. Occidental College encourages and expects everyone on its campus and at Oxy events to participate in thoughtful decision-making, upholding these values that make Oxy an open and safe place for everyone, and respecting themselves and others. See our Code of Conduct and other policies for more information.
SATURDAY 6/6
SUNDAY 6/7
Occidental College is committed to providing a nondiscriminatory and harassment-free learning, living and working environment for all members of the Occidental community, including students, faculty, administrators, staff and visitors. The College prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of an individual’s protected characteristics (such as age, race, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, etc.) The College also strictly prohibits all forms of sexual or gender-based harrasssment, discrimination, and misconduct, including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. Misconduct of this nature is contrary to Occidental’s institutional values and is prohibited by state and federal law. Occidental College’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy and Sexual and Interpersonal Misconduct Policy are available at oxy.edu/civil-rights-title-ix Inquiries or complaints concerning the application of either policy may be referred to the College’s Civil Rights & Title IX Coordinator, Alexandra Fulcher, at afulcher@oxy.edu or (323) 259-1338.
For your safety and the safety of others, please refrain from driving under the influence. Enter the promo code OXYARW26 in the Lyft app for $20 off a ride. The code can be redeemed once per user and is valid through reunion weekend until Sunday, June 7 at 5 p.m. Limited number of rides available.