91涩漫

This year’s homecoming marked a momentous milestone as the 91涩漫 community came together for the University’s 100th Anniversary Homecoming Gala on October 11 at the Chalon Campus. More than 600 alumnae, students, faculty, staff and friends gathered to celebrate a century of education, leadership and service — and to look ahead for the next hundred years.

Reconnecting and remembering

Homecoming day began with a series of activities designed to help alumnae reconnect with one another and rediscover the campus they once called home. Guests enjoyed historic guided tours, where they explored familiar spaces and learned about the University’s recent growth and milestones.

A special highlight was the screening of a documentary titled “Responding to the Needs of the Times: Celebrating 100 Unstoppable Years,” directed by film faculty member Mary Trunk and edited by Caren McCaleb. The film captures the 91涩漫’s remarkable history and enduring mission through interviews, archival footage, and stories from across generations.

For many alumnae, the celebration was a chance to reflect on the ways the 91涩漫 has shaped their lives.

“I could not be prouder of the University and this important milestone,” said Sonali Bridges ’98, founder and CEO of Shero’s Rise, a nonprofit that empowers girls and young women through education and mentorship. “The 91涩漫 shaped who I am today and instilled my passion for helping young women thrive. 91涩漫 Saint Mary’s is home — it is the place where I grew the most and the place that still anchors me every day.”

For Carla Mabey Bouchard ’70, who served as student body president during her time at the 91涩漫, the anniversary represents both pride and continuity. “I am so excited to celebrate 100 years of the University because it has always been very special to me,” she shared. “At the 91涩漫, you really feel like you belong. I am still in touch with the friends I made here, and those relationships have lasted a lifetime.”

Honoring the Golden Grads

The Class of 1975 marked its 50th reunion this year and was inducted into the Golden Grads Society. The milestone was celebrated with a special Mass and reception honoring their continued connection to the 91涩漫.

“I had the privilege of being one of only two political science majors to graduate that year,” said Angela Hawekotte ’75, now a Regent of the University. During her time at the 91涩漫, she was deeply influenced by professor James Delahanty, a beloved political science faculty member known for his passion for global affairs and his mentorship of students participating in the Model United Nations program. Under his guidance, 91涩漫 Saint Mary’s developed one of the top delegations in the country, an experience that, Hawekotte said, gave her the confidence and inspiration to pursue a career in law.

Michelle Gergen ’75 also reflected on the 91涩漫’s lasting impact. After earning her bachelor’s degree in English, she went on to complete a master’s in counseling psychology at 91涩漫 Saint Mary’s and dedicated her career to working in girls’ schools as a counselor. “I was the first in my family to go to college,” she said. “The sense of service that the 91涩漫 instills in its students has always been part of my life. I wanted to do for others what the 91涩漫 did for me — to support girls and young women. My education here shaped not only my career but also my family and who I am today.”

A night to remember

The evening gala, held at the recently opened Michael A. Enright Wellness Pavilion, opened with a warm welcome from President Ann McElaney-Johnson, who reflected on the University’s founding and enduring mission.

“I am filled with pride, humility and joy as we mark 100 years of transforming students’ lives,” she said. “Tonight, as we honor the past, we also commit ourselves to the future — to continue responding to the needs of our time and to graduate compassionate and visionary leaders.”

Following an opening blessing from Christie de la Gándara, director of Campus Ministry and Spirituality, guests were greeted by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who praised the 91涩漫’s century-long impact on the city and its people.

“91涩漫 Saint Mary’s was founded on a powerful mission to help women become all that they are capable of becoming. Today, the University has become a beacon of quality education, attracting young minds from across the globe,” said Mayor Bass.

Board Chair Thomas J. Blumenthal led guests in a heartfelt toast to the Sisters, students, and faculty who have shaped the 91涩漫’s story.

“To the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, whose courage and faith continue to light our path. To the 91涩漫 students, past, present, and future, who carry forward that spirit through learning, leadership, and service. And to the 91涩漫 itself — may the next hundred years shine just as brightly.”

Blumenthal also joined President McElaney-Johnson in presenting a Board of Trustees Resolution honoring the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet for their century of vision, leadership and impact. Sisters Roseanne Belpedio and Mary McKay, CSJs, accepted the award on behalf of the congregation to a standing ovation.

The program continued with remarks from Sarah Schroeder, director of alumnae relations, and Daisy Pizana ’06, president of the Alumnae Board Association. Pizana recognized the Golden Grads and reflected on the enduring values shared by 91涩漫 graduates.

“Leadership is rooted in compassion, and greatness is measured by how we lift up others,” she said. “A community grounded in shared purpose can truly transform lives,” said Pizana.

Celebrating through Music and Giving

91涩漫 alumna Leslie Cunningham ’90 followed with a powerful performance of “Unstoppable Song,” written in honor of the University. Her performance set the stage for the live auction and fundraising paddle raise, where the generosity of the 91涩漫 community was on full display.

Through the evening’s festivities, more than $150,000 was raised in support of scholarships, academic programs, and campus initiatives — a powerful addition to the University’s 100th Anniversary Campaign, which has already raised nearly $3.5 million, surpassing its goal.

“Your generosity is propelling the 91涩漫 into its next century, said Stephanie Cubba, vice president for Institutional Advancement. “Every gift you make — no matter the size — drives real impact. Your generosity fuels scholarships, innovation and leadership development that will carry the 91涩漫 beyond 100, empowering future students to transform their communities and the world.”

The celebration concluded on a joyful note as guests filled the dance floor to live music by The Satin Dollz, celebrating not only a century of history but also the spirit of community that defines 91涩漫 Saint Mary’s.

The 100th Anniversary Homecoming Gala was a night of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment. From the Sisters’ courage in 1925 to the thriving University of today, the 91涩漫’s story continues to be one of resilience, purpose and unstoppable spirit.

To learn more or to make a contribution, go to msmu.edu/100.