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Stories of Philanthropy hero

Stories of Philanthropy

We at UC Santa Barbara are continually awed by the generosity exhibited by our alumni, parents and friends. Over the years, generations of supporters have demonstrated their altruism in a variety of ways — by offering financial resources, and by devoting time and attention to this cherished institution.

We have witnessed the cumulative impact made by our donors: a collective, powerful force that sustains UC Santa Barbara’s notoriety and propels us into higher levels of achievement.

Indeed, we believe that every contribution counts. Supporting UC Santa Barbara means that you feel passionately about our institution and believe in its bright future. It means that your impact isn’t just financial; it’s the action that inspires all of us to do our part.

Discover what inspires our community of supporters.

Eva Haller.

A Common Human Language

Eva Haller’s connection to UC Santa Barbara spans over 40 years, marked by her generosity, service, and commitment to social justice. A survivor of the Nazi occupation of Hungary, she moved to New York as a young undocumented immigrant. After establishing a successful communications company, she joined the UC Santa Barbara Foundation Board of Trustees in 1985. Eva and her husband, Yoel, have supported the numerous campus initiatives such as Arts & Lectures and the Art, Design & Architecture Museum. At 94, Eva continues to mentor others, lead virtual discussions, and inspire through her activism. She views giving as a source of joy.
Read More "A Common Human Language"
John Bowers.

Boosting Energy-Efficient Research

Dr. John Bowers, director of UC Santa Barbara’s Institute for Energy Efficiency (IEE), has committed a legacy gift to support graduate students with the aim to expand research in energy efficiency. Since 2008, IEE has pioneered innovations in areas like data transmission, sustainable agriculture, and LED technology to improve energy use worldwide. Bowers highlights research that has significantly boosted data center efficiency and is vital for AI technologies. His support will enable more students to contribute to the institute’s goal of creating a sustainable future.
Read More "Boosting Energy-Efficient Research"
Trustee Laura Cox ’83 and Jay Cohen ’84.

The Highest Ideals

Laura Cox ’83 and Jay Cohen ’84 support the university through philanthropy and leadership in the Division of Social Sciences. Their efforts focus on creating educational opportunities and promoting social equity, particularly through the PROPEL Scholars Program, which aids first-generation students. The couple also supports The 2035 Initiative, which advances clean energy and environmental policy. Their involvement aims to help students thrive and advance public policy.
Read More "The Highest Ideals"
Professor Lorraine McDonnell and Professor Stephen Weatherford.

Practical Idealists

Professors Lorraine McDonnell and her late husband, Stephen Weatherford, supported UC Santa Barbara's UCDC program for over 25 years. UCDC offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in public service through internships and academic instruction in the nation’s capital. Lorraine and Stephen created the first donor-supported funds for UCDC, both current-use and endowed, and often engaged with students and alumni during their visits to Washington. Lorraine has continued their legacy by supporting scholarships that give students critical experience in Washington, helping shape their futures as policymakers and public leaders.
Read More "Practical Idealists"
Dr. Walter and Thelma Mead.

Excellence in Economics

The late Dr. Walter Mead, a pioneering natural resource economist, and his wife, Thelma, left a lasting impact on UC Santa Barbara's Department of Economics. In 2022, the Mead family established the Walter and Thelma Mead Initiative for Innovative Economic Policy, building on their history of philanthropy. Walter, a professor at UCSB for 32 years, shaped the department’s success through his research and mentorship. The Mead Initiative funds three interconnected labs focused on economic and social transformation, supporting early career faculty and students. This flexible program advances research aimed at solving pressing global challenges, cementing the department's role as a leader in economic innovation.
Read More "Excellence in Economics"
Prathibha “Sewwi” Madigapola-Liberty and Taylor Liberty.

A Study in Service

Prathibha “Sewwi” Madigapola-Liberty ’14, ’15 and Taylor Liberty ’14 created an estate plan at 29, designating their passions at UC Santa Barbara — the Teacher Education Program and the Department of History of Art and Architecture — as beneficiaries. Sewwi, inspired by her volunteer work and time in the Teacher Education Program, launched an educational company supporting students with special learning needs. Taylor’s love for architecture shifted his career path from engineering to art history, and he now works in real estate. Through their legacy gift, they hope to support future students and inspire their peers to plan early.
Read More "A Study in Service"
Desi Speh.

First in Their Families

The PROPEL Scholars Program at UC Santa Barbara helps first-generation, low-income students succeed through scholarships, counseling, and academic services. Alumni donor Desi Speh ’99 and his wife, Gaby, support the initiative, inspired by their desire to increase diversity at their alma mater. Desi was motivated by UCSB Give Day and the impact of giving back to programs that shaped his experience. Through their gift, the Spehs contribute to the success of students who find a sense of belonging and academic growth through PROPEL.
Read More "First in Their Families"
Dr. José Cabezón.

Understanding Buddhism

Dr. José Cabezón is UC Santa Barbara’s first XIVth Dalai Lama Professor of Tibetan Buddhism. He has established the José Cabezón Endowed Chair in South Asian Buddhism through a charitable remainder trust to help UC Santa Barbara remain a global leader in Buddhist studies after his retirement. Cabezón’s journey began with six years living among Tibetan refugees in India, where he became fluent in Tibetan and served as a translator for the Dalai Lama. This endowed chair will be the third in Asian religions at UCSB, solidifying the university’s role as a top institution for religious studies.
Read More "Understanding Buddhism"
Helen Hansma.

Protecting Ocean Forests

Helen Hansma ’75, associate adjunct professor emerita, is the granddaughter of a botany professor; plants are in her genes. After a prestigious career as a biophysicist, Helen found herself returning to her lifelong fondness for kelp. Her bequest to support kelp research at UC Santa Barbara will help provide the resources needed to monitor and protect these critical marine forests.
Read More "Protecting Ocean Forests"
Students working through an equation on a blackboard.

Questions of the Universe

The Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP) profoundly shapes the careers of emerging scientists. Many stalwart supporters focus their efforts on early-career scientists through the KITP Graduate Fellowship and KITP Postdoctoral Scholars program, which offers a competitive opportunity for 16 outstanding graduate students to spend six months at KITP. Their talent, combined with access to a world-class scientific community, has produced impressive results.
Read More "Questions of the Universe"
Stephen and Louise Pahl.

The Start of Something Larger

Building on their vision and on their longtime generosity to campus, Stephen ’77 and Louise ’77 Pahl have made a $10.5 million gift to UC Santa Barbara to create the Pahl Center on the Study of Critical Social Issues in the Social Sciences. It includes an irrevocable $10 million gift through their estate and $500,000 in start-up funding for the next five years. Through the Pahl Center, UC Santa Barbara will raise the work of the Pahl Initiative to new heights, establishing a framework to achieve the ambitious goals it set out.
Read More "The Start of Something Larger"
Brad Jones and Julie Black.

Timing Is Everything

A chance encounter inspired Brad Jones and Julie Black to invest in Santa Barbara coastal research and the many projects that intersect at Arroyo Quemada beach. One such project is the Santa Barbara Coastal Long Term Ecological Research (SBC LTER) program. Brad and Julie are proud to support this research that takes place right outside their home and to protect the fragile marine ecosystems.
Read More "Timing Is Everything"
Students in lab coats in the chemistry lab.

Laying the Foundation for the Future

Scholars in UC Santa Barbara’s Department of Chemical Engineering have a long tradition of collaboration through joint appointments and proposals as well as shared students, post-docs and facilities. This cooperative spirit influences the department’s success. With the help of alumni and friends, the Department of Chemical Engineering has launched the Foundation for the Future Graduate Student Initiative with a goal to raise $5 million.
Read More "Laying the Foundation for the Future"
Brad Jones and Julie Black.

Scientists Lead Us

Katherine and Donald Denhart raised their family between a ranch in South San Jose and on their property in Oahu. Their daughter, Sandra Denhart ’73, remembers a childhood of swimming, surfing, snorkeling and caring for the land’s resources. In honor of her parents, Sandra has named UC Santa Barbara as a beneficiary of her estate to support coral reef conservation and Alzheimer’s research on campus.
Read More "Scientists Lead Us"
Flowers family.

The Bonds of the Surfrider Battalion

UC Santa Barbara’s U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program is home of the Surfrider Battalion, where Mark ’89 and Julie ’90 Flower fell in love during their Army ROTC years, and their legacy gift will help provide financial assitance for ROTC students. Mark and Julie share many memories of their time on campus, including meals at Pizza Bob’s in Isla Vista after field training. Later, their daughter Samantha would graduate from UC Santa Barbara in 2017.
Read More "The Bonds of the Surfrider Battalion"
Fred Hock.

An Important Place

When Frederick Charles Hock Jr., father of three Gauchos, passed away in 2022 at age 83, he left an estate gift to the university that shaped his children’s lives. The generosity of the Hock family established the first unrestricted endowment at UC Santa Barbara, one able to sustain any part of the UCSB experience at the discretion of campus leadership.
Read More "An Important Place"
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Universal Stories

A successful venture capitalist with a commitment to fostering cross-cultural ties between the U.S. and Japan, Andrew Ogawa ’95 made a gift to the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies in honor of his experience. Faculty will use funds to enrich teaching materials for Japanese language studies and provide students opportunities to engage with Japanese scholars and professionals in Japanese and in translation work, preparing students for success in a globalized world.
Read More "Universal Stories"
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To Germany and Back Again

Jim Maloney ’84 traveled to Germany this summer with his husband, Andrew, for a special reunion: the 40th anniversary of his study abroad experience. Thirteen of his classmates gathered in Göttingen to celebrate the milestone. Inspired by that junior year abroad, Jim became a strong advocate for the UC Santa Barbara Education Abroad Program. He has named UCSB EAP as a beneficiary in his estate plan to continue helping students have that same transformative experience.
Read More "To Germany and Back Again"
Sun shining through palm leaves.

Honoring Gloria Moy Petersen

In fall 2023, select junior faculty will receive transformative support through The Gloria Moy Petersen Fellowship in the UC Santa Barbara Society of Hellman Fellows. Gloria's sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie Moy and Ajit Sabnis, created this fellowship in memory of Gloria, who passed away in January 2023. Gloria was a respected genetic epidemiologist and pancreatic cancer researcher who saved many lives through early detection and treatment. Thanks to the The Hellman Fellows Fund, Gloria's endowment doubled.
Read More "Honoring Gloria Moy Petersen"
Sun shining through palm leaves.

A Legacy of Understanding

When Joanne Onstine-Dill received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in speech and hearing at UC Santa Barbara in the 1970s, autism was not part of the training. Joanne is proud that UC Santa Barbara is now home to the respected Koegel Autism Center. As the understanding of autism evolved, so did her interest. After 30 years of service to schools, Joanne continues to impact the field through her philanthropic support of the center.
Read More "A Legacy of Understanding"
Gene Lucas surrounded by students.

A Winning Formula

Gene Lucas retired in 2013 as executive vice chancellor after serving campus for 36 years. Colleagues and friends established the Gene and Susan Lucas Undergraduate Research Fund to honor and recognize his contributions as a scholar, teacher and gifted administrator. Gene and his late wife, Susan, were proud to support the fund. The Gene and Susan Lucas Undergraduate Research Fund helps first-generation undergraduate students research in partnership with UC Santa Barbara faculty.
Read More "A Winning Formula"
Wax cylinders.

An Anchor

Dorris Goodrich was a lifelong scholar with research interests in the British education system, psychology, and art. Her husband, Chauncey, was a UC Santa Barbara faculty emeritus in East Asian languages and cultural studies. When the Goodriches passed — Dorris in 2021 and Chauncey in 2013 — they left their legacy to the UCSB Library. Their gift will support the pre-existing Henry H. Tai East Asian Collection and the Art & Architecture Collection of the UCSB Library. The Henry H. Tai East Asian Collection focuses on the history and literature of East Asia.
Read More "An Anchor"
Wax cylinders.

Sonic Postcards

John Levin, a collector of 19th and 20th century wax cylinders, established the UC Santa Barbara Library Early Recordings Initiative to encourage fellow collectors to donate artifacts rather than storing them in attics or selling them piecemeal. In a few generations, wax cylinders in private collections will disintegrate. The Early Recordings Initiative, along with John's endowment and his gift of his gift of 3,200 rare and unique early commercial records, will help prevent this fate by documenting the musical, social, and cultural life of late 19th and early 20th century America.
Read More "Sonic Postcards"
A colorful illustrated map of the USA.

Mapmaking

Through a generous bequest to the STEM fields at UC Santa Barbara and more specifically for the Department of Geography, Kim Whittier '87 hopes her legacy gift will inspire more students — especially women — to pursue the sciences. The legacy gift, named The Delma C. Whittier Scholarship Fund, is dedicated in honor of Kim’s late mother.
Read More "Mapmaking"

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Part of the Family

UC Santa Barbara’s Koegel Autism Center had a special place in the lives of Dennis Morelos and his late wife, Soledad. When designating their charitable beneficiaries, the couple decided to name the center as the recipient of a generous bequest. Soledad’s great-niece benefitted from the interventions and resources available there, and the Moreloses wanted to give back.
Read More "Part of the Family"
Kim and Dean Pananides.

A Rare Gift

Over the last 25 years, Buellton residents Kim and Dean Pananides ‘67,’75 have built a complete collection of first editions of the renowned Trianon Press, a Paris-based publisher of fine art books, which they are donating to the UC Santa Barbara Library Department of Special Research Collections. The Trianon Press was founded in 1947. Though most famous for reproducing William Blake's illuminated books, Trianon printed a variety of image-based texts featuring artists such as Paul Cezanne, Marcel Duchamp, and Ben Shahn.
Read More "A Rare Gift"

UCSB Womens track team competing in hurdles in the Big West Track & Field Championships.

Passing the Baton

A collective of UC Santa Barbara Track & Field alumni have come together to support scholarships for current student-athletes. They may have competed in different eras, but they share a conviction that track and field means being part of a family — and families support each other. Their generosity, alongside this year’s 50th anniversary of Title IX, tells a story of opportunity.
Read More "Passing the Baton"

Trustee David Henke ’78.

In Support of Faculty

UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee David Henke ’78 has established the Alferness-Henke Endowed Chair in Computer Science. David has served on the College of Engineering Dean’s Cabinet since 2013, through which he developed a close partnership with Rod Alferness, former dean of the College of Engineering. With this endowed chair, his vision is to advance the university's Department of Computer Science.
Read More "In Support of Faculty"

Carla Van Hoven Riley and family.

Education as Equalizer

The daughter of Filipino immigrants, Carla Van Hoven Riley ’96 arrived on campus as a transfer student in search of financial security. In honor of the path she found at UC Santa Barbara, Carla and her husband, Christopher, are proud to support scholarships for students in STEM and economics. The family intends to continue that support in perpetuity through a bequest in their estate plans.
Read More "Education as Equalizer"

Cristina Mancilla and Emma Vegain a boat with local oyster fishermen in La Paz, Mexico.

In Pursuit of Environmental Justice

The Michael Mantell Fellowship and Symposium supports emerging leaders who work toward environmental justice, social equity, and climate resilience. The prestigious Bren School of Environmental Science & Management fellowship pairs promising undergraduates with graduate student mentors. As teams, the students intern at a Bren School partner organization or participate in fieldwork. Graduate fellows receive training in leadership and mentorship, and undergraduate fellows participate in a professional development series. The fellowship honors Michael Mantell, the founder and former president of Resources Legacy Fund.
Read More "In Pursuit of Environmental Justice"

Dana and Greg Lee.

Family Philanthropy

Parents Dana and Greg Lee have taken a creative approach to family giving: they have established a generous endowment to the university that has not yet been designated. When their daughter graduates, she will have the opportunity to direct this support to a meaningful area of campus through the Gaucho Family Legacy Program.
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Otieno Okatch.

Black Thinking and Culture

In honor of his late grandmother Otieno Okatch '92 has established the Mable Iola Brown Fuller Endowment to support student scholarships in the Department of Black Studies. Mable, born in 1925, grew up in a small Black town not far from the site of the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. Otieno was inspired by her resolve and the way she shared Black culture with her biracial grandchildren.
Read More "Black Thinking and Culture"

My Fair Lady playbill.

Good Company

Producer and self-taught musical theater historian Richard Norton has donated his expansive collection to UC Santa Barbara, elevating the prestige and research potential of the UCSB Library Performing Arts Collection. His collection includes approximately 35,000 discs, 800 unpublished typescripts, 150,000 programs and playbills, 35,000 pieces of sheet music, and 2,000 reference books, all representing regional, national, and international musical productions.
Read More "Good Company"

Gary and Sue Wilcox.

The Wilcox Legacy

Gary and Sue Wilcox dedicated decades of leadership and experience to UC Santa Barbara, the university where they met and earned six combined degrees. Gary was elected to the UC Santa Barbara Foundation Board of Trustees in 1997, and together, the couple enjoyed engaging with campus in many ways. Gary passed away in May 2021, but the family’s love for UC Santa Barbara will endure through their lasting impact and Sue’s continued service.
Read More "The Wilcox Legacy"

Shirley Tucker and CCBR student.

Life on Earth

UC Santa Barbara’s Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration (CCBER) is dedicated to research, education, and outreach specializing in regional biodiversity and the restoration of campus land. Thanks to Dr. Shirley Tucker’s renewed support of the Tucker Curator of Biodiversity Collections and Botanical Research, the collections are stewarded by a dedicated researcher who conducts original research, mentors students, and makes the collections accessible to researchers and the public.
Read More "Life on Earth"

Pete and Gerd Jordano.

A Gilded Opportunity

One of the most anticipated nights for UC Santa Barbara Athletics is its coveted Golden Eagle Awards, which recognize the highest academic achievements among student-athletes. The annual event was established by the generous support of UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Peter Jordano and his wife, Gerd. Pete and Gerd are longtime philanthropists whose ongoing support of UCSB Athletics inspires student-athletes to be their best selves.
Read More "A Gilded Opportunity"

Robert Raede ’80 and Ellen Cohen Raede ’80.

A Ticket to Understanding

The Ellen and Robert Raede Scholarship has supported students who’ve studied in countries including Israel, Ghana, UK-Scotland, Spain, and Denmark. Ellen Raede '80 is the founding chair of the EAP Ambassadors at UC Santa Barbara, a group of dedicated EAP alumni donors, and she has served on that volunteer committee for 15 years. Ellen and Robert '80 met at UC Santa Barbara and have supported UCSB EAP for over two decades.
Read More "A Ticket to Understanding"

Paul Wack standing in a field

Planning for the Future

In his 34 years of teaching, Paul Wack inspired generations of leaders. Paul estimates that he has taught 20,000 environmental studies students and aspiring planners at UC Santa Barbara, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Sonoma State. He is still deeply involved at UC Santa Barbara and helped lead fundraising during the Environmental Studies Program’s 50th anniversary in 2020. Paul's generous estate gift will be added to the endowed fund he created to support students in environmental studies.
Read More "Planning for the Future"

Professor Jenni Sorkin and Cheri Owen

Sports as Safe Haven

As a UC Santa Barbara professor in the Department of the History of Art & Architecture, Jenni is committed to furthering women in the academy, including sports. Her wife, Cheri, is a former powerlifter and strongwoman competitor who grew up playing basketball. The endowed scholarships they have created in support of UCSB Athletics will help student-athletes compete while balancing rigorous academic work.
Read More "Sports as Safe Haven"

Bob and Marsha Gary standing in front of a body of water.

Student-Athlete to Coach to Supporter

As one of the first competitive swimmers on the UC Santa Barbara team that formed in the 1950s, Bob Gary ’60,’67 has been involved with UC Santa Barbara aquatic sports from the beginning. As an assistant coach, Bob helped lead the UCSB Men’s Swim Team to UC Santa Barbara’s first ever NCAA title in 1967. The Garys’ charitable gift annuity in support of aquatic sports is an act of gratitude for campus, where Bob’s long career in coaching started. Read More "Student-Athlete to Coach to Supporter"

Student writing at a table with several papers spread out.

The Story of Raab Writing Fellows

Former UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Dr. Diana Raab generously founded The Raab Writing Fellows Program in 2016. The program provides opportunities for writing, research, and mentorship to select undergraduates. Read about Dr. Raab’s journey as a writer and meet a student who has grown as a writer and scholar within this intimate cohort of fellows!
Read More "The Story of Raab Writing Fellows"

Four students sitting on a bench on campus.

Finding a Career

The Yardi Systems Computer Science Scholarship continues a tradition of support for UC Santa Barbara that goes back 20 years. Through this scholarship, Yardi Systems will help students pursue a bachelor’s in computer science. The flexible funding will follow students if they choose to switch majors within the College of Engineering.
Read More "Finding a Career"

Roy Hardiman speaking on stage at Commencement

Curiosity and Collaboration

UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Roy Hardiman ’81, ’83 was motivated by his undergraduate pharmacology classes to enter the field of biotechnology. To honor this formative experience and attract top scholars to UC Santa Barbara, the Hardimans have established the Roy and Janet Hardiman Interdisciplinary Chair in Molecular Biology.
Read More "Curiosity and Collaboration"

Phil and Ann White with three family members in front of a river.

Where Are We Needed?

UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Phil White ’84 and his wife, Ann, support a number of initiatives and activities on campus, including the Education Abroad Program, graduate students in the economics department, the Technology Management Program, the San Diego Regional Scholarship, and the Institute for Energy Efficiency. The White chose this philanthropic vision to be responsive to the university's needs as they arise. Read More "Where Are We Needed?"

Studnets studying in the library.

A Portal to Knowledge

During her tenure, from 1990 to 2012, Professor Emerita Shirley Geok-lin Lim used the UCSB Library regularly as she taught English, Asian American studies, creative writing, and feminist studies. By naming the library as a beneficiary of a percentage of her retirement plan, Shirley is establishing her campus legacy through two endowed funds that will support the library’s undergraduate student success programming and the California and Ethnic Multicultural Archive (CEMA) within Special Research Collections.
Read More "A Portal to Knowledge"

Miriam Birch

Magic Slippers

Miriam Birch ’57 is the three-time Emmy-nominated writer and producer of many award-winning National Geographic Society television specials, among other productions. Her films have received many Emmys as well as the Peabody and DuPont Columbia awards. Miriam’s bequest will provide financial aid through scholarships for undergraduates and merit-based fellowships for graduate students studying theater.
Read More "Magic Slippers"

Sears and Marni McGee.

A Historic Legacy

Professor Emeritus Sears McGee and his wife, Marni, support the UC Santa Barbara Department of History in honor of readers and writers. Sears helped launch The UCSB History Associates, created in 1987 with the dual purpose of uniting interested community members with faculty and raising money to support graduate students. The McGees decided to continue their deep involvement in the Department of History by endowing a fellowship in honor of Sears’s late mother, Mary Beth, who inspired his love of reading. " Read More "A Historic Legacy"

Four students sitting on a bench laughing.

First Contact

Paul Boyle '84 led a 32-year career lobbying on behalf of 2,000 diverse U.S. news organizations in Washington, D.C. Now, he and his wife, Joy, support students through a legacy gift and current-use scholarship. Paul mentors students, and together, the Boyles welcome UCDC interns into their home. Read More "First Contact"

Bei-Jing Guo.

Promise, Recognized

Bei-Jing Guo '94,'95 earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical and computer engineering at UC Santa Barbara, then went on to a 20-year career with Microsoft and Amazon. Now, she’s giving back to campus in honor of her late father, Heng-Li Guo. With her support, students in the Technology Management Program learn to be product managers and CEOs. Read More "Promise, Recognized"

Dick Wolf.

Beyond the Silver Screen

Two-time Emmy Award-winner Dick Wolf, one of television’s most respected drama series creators and producers, has reinvested in UC Santa Barbara’s eponymous Carsey-Wolf Center (CWC) with a gift to support interdisciplinary media studies faculty and programming. As a creative force in television for over 25 years, Wolf provides crucial support and industry expertise to CWC, including the Department of Film & Media Studies and its cross-disciplinary partners.
Read More "Beyond the Silver Screen"

Students at a gathering in the Bren courtyard.

OneBren

Recognizing the need for greater diversity, equity and inclusion, the UC Santa Barbara Bren School of Environmental Science & Management is prioritizing a more inclusive academic community and one that advances environmental justice. The OneBren Endowed Graduate Student Fellowship for Diversity was established through support from the Bren School community, who came together to lead a collective crowdfunding movement. Read More "OneBren"

Mayo de la Rocha leading a class lecture in front of a white board.

Activism and Education

The Ismael “Mayo” de la Rocha ’73 Endowed Scholarship within the Department of Chicana/o Studies supports students with financial need who are committed to giving back to the Chicano/a community. The scholarship was established by Mayo’s cousin, Cástulo de la Rocha ’73, and his wife, Zoila Escobar.
Read More "Activism and Education"

Graduating students sitting in Bren Hall Courtyard during the Bren School commencement ceremony.

A Multiplier Effect

The Dehlsen family has been part of the Bren School community nearly since its school’s founding. Through their philanthropy, they have supported some of the Bren School’s highest-priority initiatives. Through the Dehlsen Recruiting Fellowships alone, there are Bren graduates pursuing meaningful careers as environmental leaders in the energy, transportation, information technology, infrastructure, government, and real estate sectors because of their generous support. Read More "A Multiplier Effect"

Jere and Fima Lifshitz.

Bringing Global Art to UC Santa Barbara

Curated pieces from the global art collection of Jere and Fima Lifshitz, longtime UC Santa Barbara supporters, find a home on campus at the UCSB Library and the Art, Design & Architecture Museum.
Read More "Bringing Global Art to UC Santa Barbara"

A professor teaching a classroom full of students.

Excellence in Accounting

Ernst & Young LLC (EY) has a decades-long tradition of giving back to UC Santa Barbara. Keith Lupton ’90 and Mike Turner ’91 are among 28 EY partners who graduated from UCSB, and currently, 245 Gauchos work for the global professional services organization. Keith and Mike represent alumni leadership and generosity to the EY Fund for Excellence in Accounting Education within UC Santa Barbara's Department of Economics.
Read More "Excellence in Accounting"

Dale and Greg Stamos.

Love for the Stage, and Each Other

Married for 40 years, theater lovers Dale ’75 and Greg ’68 Stamos are steadfast supporters of the performing arts at UC Santa Barbara. Together, they support the UC Santa Barbara Department of Theater and Dance and its LAUNCH PAD program for new plays. Dale, a playwright, screenwriter, director, and teacher, draws inspiration from the UCSB campus community.
Read More "Love for the Stage"

Trudi Kerkmeyer.

Taking Root at UC Santa Barbara

Trudi Kerkmeyer '60 is a lifelong teacher and gardener who found her place studying botany on campus. Her legacy gift to the UC Santa Barbara biological sciences will help students persevere.
Read More "Taking Root"

Three hikers crossing a grassy knoll.

Generosity as Compass

Thomas Massa ’68 has made the first bequest commitment to the UC Santa Barbara Department of Geography in its 57-year history, hoping to inspire students to be curious about the world. His legacy gift will provide scholarships to undergraduates for generations.
Read More "Generosity as Compass"

Glen Mitchel and Lars Bildsten.

The Quandaries of Nature

The father and son duo Glen and Clark Mitchel ’78, MFA ’81 have helped build a home for visiting scientists through their support of KITP’s Charles T. Munger Physics Residence. Through Glen’s leadership in the building’s construction, and Clark’s donated artwork in honor of his father, the Mitchels’ generosity is a creative force.
Read More "Quandaries of Nature"

Wes Fields

Unconventional Curricula

Dr. Wes Fields ’76 established a Writer-in-Residence Endowment at the College of Creative Studies (CCS) in memory of his mentor Professor Marvin Mudrick. Wes hopes his gift will help talented CCS student develop their identities as writers with the influence of distinguished visiting mentors.
Read More "Unconventional Curricula"

John and Karen Jostes.

Conversations That Matter

The 1969 oil spill inspired John Jostes '71 to pursue a career in urban planning and coastal management. John went on to become the City of Santa Barbara's first environmental analyst and returned to UCSB to teach at the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management. His legacy gift will continue his life's work preparing students to solve environmental challenges.
Read More "Conversations that Matter"

Charles Burdick.

A Cross-Border Exchange of Ideas

Our world is shaped by globalization, as Charles Burdick ’73 has experienced throughout his career. A new program established through philanthropy, The Charles Burdick Global Scholars will help students rise to the challenges of our multicultural and global society.
Read More "Cross-Border Exchange"

Jules Zimmer.

A Lasting Legacy

An anonymous donor has established the Jules Zimmer Dean's Chair for the Gevirtz School of Graduate Education in tribute to Jules's 34-year career in early childhood development.
Read More "A Lasting Legacy"

Rani and Muthiyaliah Babu.

All One Field

The universal yearning for the unknown unites all fields of scholarly inquiry. Dr. Muthiyaliah Babu has followed the quest for knowledge from his childhood in India through his career as a nephrologist. Now, he satisfies his curiosity at KITP Chalk Talks. Along with his wife, Rani, Dr. Babu supports KITP’s postdoctoral scholars so they can follow their academic instincts.
Read More "All One Field"

Cheryl Barber and Donn Bernstein.

A Never-Give-Up Spirit

Despite the fact that UCSB Football alumni no longer have an active team on campus, they have led a decades-long collective effort to support student-athletes on campus. The newly re-named Barber-Bernstein Fund honors two leaders whose dedication to UCSB Athletics inspires generations.
Read More "Never Give Up"

Promise Scholar Students.

A Collective Pledge

UC Santa Barbara has created the first financial aid package in the nation that guarantees complete, up-front, multi-year support to qualifying undergraduates. UCSB Promise Scholars are high-achieving Californians whose family income falls below federal poverty guidelines. Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in the program’s success.
Read More "Collective Pledge"

The Divine Spark, Carl and Don Zytowski.

The Divine Spark

Inspired by the late Professor Emeritus Carl Zytowski, friends, family and alumni have united to honor the tradition of opera and choral music that this renowned musician led during his 44-year career at UC Santa Barbara. Carl is beloved by generations of students for the chamber choir he founded in 1964, The Schubertians. After Carl retired in 1995, he continued supporting musicians by establishing for graduate students the Carl Zytowski Fellowship in Voice and Collaborative Piano in 2000. Moved by Carl’s passing in 2019, generous supporters have converged in a crescendo of support for the UC Santa Barbara Department of Music.
Read More "Divine Spark"

Jennifer Lechter

Breaking Convention

Thanks to generous support from Jennifer and Ariel Lechter, the newly established Artists’ Futures Fund will train College of Creative Studies (CCS) and College of Letters and Sciences student artists for the practical, competitive world beyond graduation.
Read More "Breaking Convention"

MESA student at graduation..

A Model for Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement (MESA)

It’s the first week of fall quarter, but you’ve already made friends and completed your first three classes. What could have been an overwhelming situation for a first-generation engineering student is instead a confident start thanks to MESA, a UC Santa Barbara program to help underrepresented students achieve success in STEM studies and careers. Thanks to private support from donors including Diego Rey ’04 and UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee David Henke ’78, MESA continues to shape a STEM workforce that reflects the diversity of California.
Read More "Model for MESA"

Glen and Bettina Duval.
I am proud to be a KITP supporter because all who are involved share a pure love of science and the dream of impacting the future. KITP is the place where a better future goes from the theoretical to the practical.
Trustee Glenn Duval ’80
A large group of students standing against a wall.

The Gift of Experience

John Arnhold ’75 spent only two years as a student at UC Santa Barbara — a relatively brief tenure that nonetheless made quite an impression. Together, the alumnus and his wife, Jody, have been impacting the university in return for more than a decade.
Read More "Gift of Experience"

The Crowe Family.

A University of California Family

When Steve and Linda Crowe dropped off their son at UC Santa Barbara, they worried as he disappeared into a sea of students. They were relieved and gratified to learn that their son, Christopher “Chris” Crowe ’10, soon found mentors who nurtured him and connected him with opportunities. Chris excelled. With research experience and two publications, he went on to medical school at Stanford University and residency at the University of Washington. Steve and Linda established the Crowe Family Scholarship in honor of his time on campus.
Read More "UC Family"

Louise and Stephen Pahl.

For the Common Good

Louise ’77 and Stephen D. ’77 Pahl believe deeply in the promise that scholarly research can forge a path toward solutions for the most pressing challenges of our time. And their generous legacy commitment will help the university’s Division of Social Sciences deliver on it.
Read More "Common Good"

Sara Milles Gupta and family by an ice field.

When Culture Goes Viral

Sara Milles Gupta ’02 exposes Gauchos to worlds beyond their experience. Sara Milles Gupta ’02 spent her junior year in a relaxed, hip city full of bicycles — but it wasn’t Isla Vista. Copenhagen, Denmark didn’t attract many UC students, so Sara found herself navigating new relationships with Danish and European peers. Now, Sara supports the Education Abroad Program (EAP) to help students experience life and learning in other countries.
Read More "Culture Goes Viral"

Jim ’71 and Laura ’71 Putnam
I’m a big believer in social capital and I feel there’s a responsibility to give that back. If you can leverage your contributions with tax savings, you can increase the amount you give.
Jim ’71 and Laura ’71 Putnam
Richard Watts

The Power of Curiosity

Professor Emeritus Richard Watts delights in supporting campus in far-reaching ways through his support of the Fifth Grade Chemistry Outreach program, the Middle East Ensemble, Gene Lucas Scholarships, and many other gifts to diverse campus organizations.
Read More "Power of Curiosity"

Rebecca and Gary Eldridge.
The most rewarding part of UCSB Athletics is socializing with other supporters. It’s the connections with people and the hospitality.
Rebecca and Gary Eldridge
Morez in her Army uniform and today

An Audacious Adventurer

The youngest Gauchos learn and grow with help from Margaret Becker Morez, whose generous support of UC Santa Barbara’s Early Childhood Care and Education Services is inspired by her late husband's connection with youth.
Read More "Audacious Adventurer"

Gene Lucas with two students.
I have a great fondness for first-generation kids pursuing STEM education. My father was born and raised on a farm in Nebraska and was the first to deviate from that. He got his B.S. in chemical engineering on the GI bill after WWII. My wife, Susan, and I hope that financial support for first-generation students pursuing STEM will be a great way to honor their courage in taking this step and help them achieve their success.
Professor Emeritus Gene Lucas ’73
Gretler Foundation Members and Recipients

A Bridge to the Community

The Gretler Foundation considers UC Santa Barbara the center of community life. By supporting UCSB Athletics and the Department of Economics, the foundation helps locals connect with campus and understand our region.
Read More "Bridge to Community"

Verla Sorensen

Richness of Religion

Thanks to the Sorensen family, two visiting professors of Mormon and religious studies over a two-year period will create a new area of scholarship for UC Santa Barbara.
Read More "Richness of Religion"

Itzik Barpal.
I want today’s engineering graduate students to have the same opportunities for mentorship and achievement that I enjoyed. Together with my wife, Marge, I support engineering fellowships to empower students to focus on their research and professional development. Marge and I hope that the Barpal Fellowship inspires recipients to continue supporting future generations of engineers and scientists.
Itzik Barpal M.Sc. ’68, Ph.D. ’70
Tunç ’81 and Lale Doluca

The University Spark

UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Tunç Doluca MSEE '81 and his wife, Lale, doubled their commitment to Doluca Family Endowed Chair in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and made an additional gift to support priority equipment needs for undergraduate laboratories.
Read More "The University Spark"

Ross Dowd ’94

New Horizons

The Dowd Creative Computing Initiative, created by Ross Dowd '94, allows UC Santa Barbara to provide an exciting interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates computer programming and digital art, within a humanities framework, that stresses research methods, communication skills, intellectual empathy, mental flexibility and systems thinking.
Read More "New Horizons"

Will Cooper and family

A Home on Campus

Will and Jennifer Cooper are committed to making sure Gauchos have a healthy place to live, work and thrive through their support of affordable campus housing, sustainability efforts and scholarships for low-income, underrepresented students.
Read More "Home on Campus"

Sarah Argyropoulos

Turning the Tides

Thanks to UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Sarah Argyropoulos, women in the Bren School for Environmental Science & Management pursue doctorates to work for a sustainable future and expand our knowledge of the ocean.
Read More "Turning Tides"

Phillip Spector ’72

A Wider World

Trustee Phillip Spector ’72 credits his intellectual awakening within UC Santa Barbara's Department of Political Science for his successful law career in Washington, D.C. Phil created an unrestricted legacy gift for campus to help young people on their path to their futures.
Read More "A Wider World"

Mike ’87 and Catherine Byron

Homegrown Support

Mike ’87 and Catherine Byron believe in supporting the people and places who shaped their characters. The couple creates opportunities for economics students at UC Santa Barbara by providing scholarship support and enhancing departmental programming with campus speaker series, resume coaching and internships at Big Four accounting firms.
Read More "Homegrown Support"

Scott Dinsmore

Leaving Legacies and Living Legends

Bill ’68 and Janet Dinsmore were moved by the influence that UC Santa Barbara’s Technology Management Program had in their late son Scott’s life. Their generous gift will extend Scott’s legacy by continuing his work helping students find their passion.
Read More "Leaving Legacies"

Duncan H’09 and Suzanne ’70 Mellichamp

An Evolving and Rewarding Partnership

For over 50 years, Professor Emeritus Duncan Mellichamp and his wife Suzanne have cultivated a rich intellectual community in Santa Barbara. Duncan was a founding member of the UC Santa Barbara Department of Engineering, and Suzanne helped shape young minds as a schoolteacher. Together, their philanthropy has changed the course of UC Santa Barbara.
Read More "Rewarding Partnership"

David “DJ” W. Posley, Jr. ’09
Working in financial services, I knew how easy it was to make a legacy gift. I want UC Santa Barbara to compete in athletics at the same high level of our academics and lifestyle. My vision is for UC Santa Barbara to apply our expertise in innovative technologies to form research-based programs around athletic performance. I would love to be remembered as someone who changed the trajectory of the student-athlete experience.
David “DJ” W. Posley, Jr. ’09
Gorman Scholarship Recipients

Beyond Med School

It’s an exciting time for the life sciences, and donor Kevin Gorman wants to share that thrill. By establishing the Gorman Scholars Program, Kevin helps STEM students experience cutting-edge careers. Read More "Beyond Med School"

Fran ’80 and Barbara Mancia
One shouldn’t hesitate to foster and carry forward one’s specific passions for future generations to experience and enjoy. No legacy gift is too small.
Fran ’80 and Barbara Mancia
Trustee Steve '63 and Barbara Mendell

An International Perspective

They traveled the world together, and then they united to make it a better place. Steve Mendell ’63 and his wife, Barbara, established the Mendell Award in Political Science to encourage students to seek global solutions to challenges beyond the United States. Read More "International Perspective"

Carl Feinberg

A Visionary Return on Investment

When he was young, Carl Feinberg fell in love with physics. He fulfilled his childhood dream to advance our collective knowledge through a generous gift to the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics, where he found his kindred spirits. As Feinberg says, "civilization is a team sport." Read More "Return on Investment"

Dawn Wright.
UCSB had a huge impact on me in so many ways: the making of lifelong friends, the shaping of my world view and ethic as an academic professional and scientist, and a grounding in geographic information systems (GIS) that led to where I am today. Over the years, my experiences at UCSB have become among the most precious to me, and that let me to select the University as a major beneficiary in my estate plans.
Dawn Wright Ph.D. '94

Students in a technology lab

Supporting Exceptional People

Future scientists and engineers learn to think big at UC Santa Barbara's Institute for Energy Efficiency, thanks to fellowships established by trustee George Holbrook." Read More "Supporting Exceptional People"

Doug and Deborah Troxel

Investing by Intuition

Through supporting the Kavli Institute of Theoretical Physics, Doug and Deborah Troxel fulfill their mission to invest in pioneering programs and forward-thinking projects. Their visionary gift supports a KITP physicist engaged in creative scientific inquiry. Read More "Investing by Intuition"

T.A. Barron

Inspiration and Magic

Writer T.A. Barron has authored an innovative and interdisciplinary fund to advance environmental advocacy by humanities students skilled in communication and the historical and cultural implications of climate change. Read More "Inspiration and Magic"

Rafael Costas.
While I was an undergraduate student, my job at the UC Santa Barbara Library taught me about professional responsibility, living within one's means, and working with people who are different from yourself. I believe a university education is a social vaccine against ignorance and intolerance, and that's why I support UC Santa Barbara.
Rafael Costas '86

Coral Reef

Moving the Needle

Ocean science and the environment are UC Santa Barbara specialties, and the Zegars seized their chance to be involved with this important work. The Zegars are fighting climate change by funding research into coral bleaching and global food supply. This synergy of the Zegars’s passion and UC Santa Barbara expertise could slow the advance of global warming. Read More "Moving the Needle"

Scholars on Board

Undergraduates will explore the ocean for generations to come thanks to fund endowed by the Bentson Foundation in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology. In 2014, the Bentson Foundation launched the UC Santa Barbara Bentson Scholars Program, a merit-based initiative for undergraduates with an interest in the flora and fauna of our underwater world. Read More "Scholars on Board"

The Jue family: Crandal, Caitlyn ’18, Julie, and Cav ’20
The biggest thing that our kids learned – and the reason why we like UC Santa Barbara – is the diversity of the students. Sometimes donors don’t understand why they need to support UC Santa Barbara. It’s special, and that’s why we do it. The people are what make UC Santa Barbara special.
Crandal Jue, UCSB Parent '18, '20

Betty Elings Wells H’10

Making Waves

Inspired by her love of exploring nature with her young grandchildren, Betty Elings Wells H’10 has made a pair of gifts to marine education and the North Campus Open Space public trail system. Wells has made the largest gift to the REEF in campus history. Her support will power interactive education outreach and create the Betty Wells Marine Science Outreach Initiative. Read More "Making Waves"

Kristen Hayford '11
The ability to choose where your support goes makes it personal and worthwhile. It’s like saying ‘thanks’ for our experience. I’m at a point where I’m more set in my professional career where I have resources to give back.
Kristen Hayford '11
Mike Stewart ‘91

A Video Board to Spark Hoopla

Thanks to Michael Stewart ‘91, the Thunderdome’s video board will soon feature pregame introductions and instant replays. With 54-foot display, Gaucho fans will experience UCSB Basketball in vivid detail. Read More "Video Board Spark Hoopla"

Gus ‘78, ‘83 and Meg Gurley

A Passion for Unconventional Science

Gus ‘78, ‘83 and Meg Gurley were founding supporters of theoretical and quantitative biology at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP). Almost a decade later after the establishment of the Susan F. Gurley Chair in Theoretical Physics and Biology, the Gurleys continue providing ingenious generosity for the KITP and the Division of Mathematical, Life, and Physical Sciences at UC Santa Barbara. Read More "Unconventional Science"

Chris and Julie Proctor

Sacred Time for Research

UC Santa Barbara parents Chris and Julie Proctor see the spark in young scientists, artists, writers and entrepreneurs. Their support of summer undergraduate fellows through the College of Creative Studies helps students find their paths. University of California values run through three generations of the Proctor family, who believe in paying forward the education and experiences that shaped them. Read More "Sacred Time"

Getting It Started

Trustee Alex Pananides H’06 and his wife, Jan Dunbar, have enriched the Santa Barbara community for over 50 years. With his talent for launching projects, Alex has advanced healthcare through a Collaborative Research Symposium between UC Santa Barbara and Cottage Hospital, brought cutting-edge training technology to UCSB Men's Basketball, and helped to build an ice hockey rink with the vision to inspire a division one team.

Students wearing Give Day T-shirts

UC Santa Barbara’s community united for 24 hours of digital philanthropy

Alumni, students, faculty, staff, and families came together on April 12, 2018, to celebrate UCSB on Give Day. In just 24 hours, our community raised $5,695,951 to write the next chapter for UC Santa Barbara. Read More "Story Told Together"

Katie Records ’16 and Daniel Ring ’10

Gifting Grads

Katie Records ’16 and Daniel Ring '10 didn’t wait long before they began giving back to their alma mater. Through their growing philanthropy, current students will benefit from the same formative experiences that empowered Katie and Daniel to take on the world after graduation. Read More "Gifting Grads"

Operetta from the Miller's collection

Romance in the Rafters

A friend once told Michael Miller that he couldn’t collect everything. Michael and his wife, Nan, took this challenge to heart, amassing thousands of recordings, sheet music, and books: an unprecedented collection that will enrich research and culture at UC Santa Barbara thanks to the couple’s generous bequest. Their love of music and each other will echo forward in time through the UCSB Library. Read More "Romance Rafters"

Home-Team, Joanne Graham with family.

Home Team

Joanne and Patrick Graham raised their sons, Andy ’06 and Alex ’09, to look for ways to make a difference. While watching their sons pitch during UC Santa Barbara baseball games, the Grahams realized they could swing for the fences with support that would transform the stadium and the experience of Gaucho fans. Their gift is a true expression of Gaucho pride. Read More "Home Team"

Dr. Bruce ’71 and Susan ’70 Worster

‘Elemental Education’ Inspires Extraordinary Giving

Dr. Bruce ’71 and Susan ’70 Worster foster a diverse and thriving scientific community at UC Santa Barbara by supporting women in engineering and the sciences. Education was elemental to the Worsters, but as Susan rose in her field, she encountered fewer and fewer women. Together, the Worsters have established two endowed chairs and helped countless scientists find their paths. Read More "Elemental Education"

A Champion of Engineering

Trustee Steve Cooper ’68 is driven by his desire to support brilliant students. A true leader and advocate for UC Santa Barbara, Steve has funded a new computer lab, mentored aspiring engineers, and contributed to attract talented new faculty. Steve’s vision is evident throughout the College of Engineering.

Making Their Mark On and Off the Athletic Fields: Providing Invaluable Support of the Student Athlete

Good things happen when you work hard: that’s the motto for UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee, Dr. Richard Ryu and wife Linda Ryu. As donors to Intercollegiate Athletics, the Ryus believe that student-athletes fulfill unique roles as scholars and athletes---their time management, discipline, and sense of teamwork set students up for success. The Ryus exemplify generosity through their time and contributions with a focus on Student Health Services and UCSB Athletics. They have supported nearly all of our NCAA athletic teams and continue to make an impact, both on and off the field, with the services and the financial support they provide annually to over 450 student-athletes.

Lillian Lovelace

Collective Interests

With over three decades of university engagement, UC Santa Barbara Foundation Trustee Lillian Lovelace has provided significant funding for myriad events, exhibitions and centers at UCSB. The philanthropist believes in helping the efforts and the people she wishes to see succeed. Read More "Collective Interests"

Blair Hull speaking at UCSB 2016 Commencement

‘Quant’ Alumnus Supports Something Personal

Blair Hull '65 gives thoughtful consideration to all of his investments, including the one he made in UC Santa Barbara. The alumnus established the Hull Chair in Women’s Studies (now feminist studies), which supports a UCSB faculty member working to advance the understanding of women, gender and social justice. The gift was inspired by his late mother, Jean Matlock Hull, and his three daughters. Read More "Quant"

Mark and Susan Bertelsen

Champions of "The Best Kept Secret"

The Bertelsens are UCSB's early builders. As alumni and philanthropists, they've witnessed the campus's evolution over the years, and have supported technology, innovation and entrepreneurism at UCSB. They believe that today's world is made possible by generations of innovators and benefactors that came before us – and we agree. With such passionate leadership, the Bertelsens join the ranks of UCSB's Gold Circle Society. Read More "Best Kept Secret"

Bill Cheadle, Vernon Cheadle*, & Joey Cheadle ’16

Growing a Legacy

Vernon Cheadle, former UCSB Chancellor, was a world-renowned botanist whose collections are housed at the Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration. In a move to preserve his scientific legacy, Vernon's son, Bill Cheadle, with wife Mary Cheadle, have gifted the Center $1.6M, which will establish the Center's permanent endowment. Read More "Growing a Legacy"

Adrian Griggs ’88 with Daughter and Son

In Memory of Mom

For Adrian Griggs, UCSB provided a solid foundation in all things professional and social. The interconnectivity of students, university and the Santa Barbara community all contributed to his experience, which included meeting his late wife, Kristin Martinez (also a Gaucho). In honor of Kristin and their daughter Dakota, midfielder for UCSB's women's soccer, Griggs has established a legacy gift: an investment to renovate the women's soccer team room and support a team trip abroad. Read More "In Memory of Mom"

Eliot '00 and Stephanie '01 Peters
We hope that our giving will encourage other alumni to give back and help future Gauchos.
Philanthropists Eliot ’00 and Stephanie ’01 Peters
Keevers-landingpage-thumb

How Team Huddles Make the Difference

A consensus of friendship and partnership: that’s what these football hall-of-famers were after; and after 50 years, former football alumnus John Keever ’67 continues to stay engaged with UCSB. Together with his wife Debbie ’67, the Keevers’ generosity knows no limits. They exemplify altruism through their advocacy, and through their philanthropic support of Baseball and athletic scholarships. Read More "Team Huddle"

Trustee Thomas Harriman

High Risk, High Reward

Thomas Harriman knows that high rewards demand high risks. The philanthropist and UCSB Foundation trustee is backing UCSB’s Brain Initiative, which aims to catalyze discovery and innovation in neuroscience by fostering collaborative brain research. Read More "High Risk, High Reward"

Good for the Soul

Alumna and Trustee Judith Stapelmann '63, '65 remains a steadfast protector of open spaces and seeks to maintain rangeland and ranch land. She is the benefactor of the Sedgwick Reserve, and her support has funded the Stapelmann Operating Endowment for the Reserve as well as support for the ranch in myriad ways. Read More "Good for the Soul"

Megan Jones.
I am a strong believer in giving back. To improve the future, you have to start with the now.
UCSB First Co-Chair Megan Jones '17

Give Day 2016

On April 8, 2016, thousands of Gauchos engaged on social media to celebrate UCSB’s first-ever Give Day. This was a milestone event for UCSB, marking the university’s campuswide debut into the digital space and an unprecedented outreach to its alumni community. Read More "Give Day 2016"

Donors Dr. Jennifer Thorsch ’76, ’81 and Charles Kaska ’73
Any potential donor can lead by example at some level of contribution.
Dr. Jennifer Thorsch ’76, ’81 and Charles Kaska ’73

A Visionary Gift: The Breaux Family Fellowship

Trustee Richard “Dick” Breaux '67 and his wife Kathryn “Kathy” '68, discuss their inspiration and personal motivation for establishing the Breaux Family Fellowship in support of stem cell research in the Clegg Lab in the Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering. Their fellowship recipient, Britney Pennington, shares an inside look at her research behind studying eye development using stem cells in hopes of applying findings to cellular therapies for Age-related Macular Degeneration. Also featured is Dr. Dennis Clegg, Wilcox Professor of BioMedicine, Co-Director, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Engineering, Department of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology. Dr. Clegg’s lab is researching how stem cells can be applied in novel therapies to treat diseases, especially Age-related Macular Degeneration, neural development and neural disease. 

Gift of Responsibility: For the Duvals, Giving is All in the Family

Trustee Glenn Duval '80 and his family annually support undergraduates with academic promise in research or honors programs through the Duval Scholarships at UC Santa Barbara. He and his wife, Bettina, endowed the awards fund and named it in honor of their son, Bennett, a 2011 UC Santa Barbara graduate. Bennett manages the scholarship and fund on behalf of the family, a gift received from his parents in honor of his graduation.

Lynda Weinman and Bruce Heavin of lynda.com
It’s about understanding people better and understanding cultures better. And I think that’s a very important thing to support.
Lynda Weinman with Bruce Heavin

Supporting Students: An Opportunity of a Lifetime

Trustees Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree H'12 and John Arnhold '75 discuss their support for students. The Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree Endowment Fund which benefits outstanding students facing a barrier to education, such as financial need or a learning disability, has supported over 240 students since 1998. Arnhold, with wife Jody, have been major supporters of the Department of English through the Arnhold Undergraduate Research Fellows Program, which offers students unique opportunities to conduct research beyond normal undergrad course levels.

AlloSphere
It seemed to us to be something unprecedented and we were just taken with the passion they bring to the work. We see that this investment is going to have tremendous returns.
Neil Didriksen, COO Deutsch Foundation on UCSB’s AlloSphere

Commitment to the Arts

Trustee and donor Eva Haller makes a gift of Californian art by Fletcher Benton to represent fine arts as well as art history, symbolizing the merging of the intellectual and the visual. Her life of mentoring and philanthropy was inspired by the loss of her brother during WWII. Press Release "Commitment to the Arts"

Inspiring a Generation: The Larry Adams Scholarship Fund

Trustees R. Marilyn Lee '69 and Phillip Spector '72 discuss their formative years at UC Santa Barbara and the inspirational mentoring of former Political Science Professor Larry Adams. Lee established the Larry Adams Scholarship Fund in the Department of Political Science in 1999, an annual award which Spector has greatly contributed to. The Adams Award recognizes and honors Professor Adams, whose strong commitment to public service and political involvement inspired a generation of UC Santa Barbara students in the 1960's.

Trustee, parent and honorary alumna Marcy Carsey
Nobody has all the money in the world, so you try to figure out ways to most effectively use whatever money you can give.
Marcy Carsey H’04
Maxine Prisyon and Milton Warshaw On Sofa
Schools have lost so much funding for the arts. We try to help fill in that gap.
Maxine Prisyon and Milton Warshaw

Trustee Mark Schwartz '84 Talks About Giving Back

Trustee Mark Schwartz '84 and his wife, Lynda, discuss their commitment to the UC Santa Barbara soccer program. The Schwartz family has opened their home to Gaucho players from around the world, developing strong bonds which inspire the community and their children.

'Like Family'

Alumni Trustee Lynn '55 (1932-2016) and Winnie '54 Reitnouer married in 1953 in the midst of their college years at what was then called UC Santa Barbara State College. The pair shared their time and money with the campus they praise as “world-class” by funding the Reitnouer Auditorium and the Reitnouer Endowment Fund for Intercollegiate Athletics. Press Release "Like Family"

Parents Bettina and Glenn Duval ’80 (trustee)
I thought I’d try to give back every year, if possible, so that some other student could have the same opportunity.
Glenn Duval ’80 with Bettina Duval
Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree H'12
I've never thought of it as giving back but, simply, as giving, or sharing. And if the need is there, hopefully you have the privilege of sharing.
Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree H’12

Trustee Bruce G. Wilcox '77 and His Commitment to Community and Culture

Trustee Bruce G. Wilcox '77 describes the influence of his Chinese studies at UC Santa Barbara and his year and a half stay in Taiwan and Southeast Asia. Wilcox's education and confidence were instilled in him by these defining experiences; he believes in the value of cultural heritage and education as a tool in its maintenance. Wilcox has focused his giving on the needs of the university by donating a Gamelan orchestra from Bali to the Department of Music and graduate fellowships to the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultural Studies.

In Memoriam

Early UC Santa Barbara Alumnus and Longtime Trustee Recalls 1940's Campus Life

Harvey Schechter '47 talks about his journey to Santa Barbara and how he used to ride his horse, Chica, to school when UC Santa Barbara was a small campus on the Riviera. Schechter and his wife of 57 years, Hope, included the campus in their estate plans. Press Release "Schechter Recalls Campus Life"