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Highlights

Convocation with Harry Gray - August 29, 2012

It was my pleasure to present Harry Gray, famed Caltech chemist, with an honorary degree during our Convocation ceremony to kickoff Occidental’s 126th academic year.  Professor Gray’s work has been integral in revolutionizing the study of the electronic structure of small molecules.  During a rousing speech to Occidental’s Class of 2016, Harry proclaimed Occidental to be “the best college on this planet.” more photos

 

Pelosi, Becerra Meeting on College Affordability - May 23, 2012

I was honored to host House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Representative Xavier Becerra, along with some local college students and presidents, to discuss college affordability and student loan interest rates. Juan German ‘12, an Occidental Fulbright Scholar from Rhode Island, accompanied me and explained how crucial low-interest loans are in improving access to quality education from schools like Oxy. more photos

 

Commencement - May 19, 2012

Upon receipt of his honorary degree at Oxy’s 2012 Commencement, Kwame Anthony Appiah from Princeton presented a thorough defense for the unmatched value of the liberal arts. Assisted by his iPad (until it overheated), Appiah delivered an eloquent speech about how genuine understanding and knowledge are essential in navigating the modern technological world.  more photos

 

Commencement Rehearsal - May 15, 2012

Since my arrival, a new tradition has emerged at Oxy as our graduating seniors prepare for the commencement ceremony. more photos

 

 

Honorary Degree from Pomona - May 13, 2012

I was humbled to receive an honorary degree from Pomona College at their commencement ceremony. Since the rivalry between our institutions is the oldest in the history of Southern California, this was a particularly special occasion for the Sagehens to graciously host me as both Oxy and Pomona embark on 125th anniversary celebrations.

 

Founders Day - April 20, 2012

We kicked-off the celebration of Occidental’s 125th anniversary with an 1887-themed carnival on campus featuring a Ferris wheel in the middle of the Quad. The celebration included a series of panel discussions by distinguished alumni Ian McKinnon '89, Soroosh Shambayati '86, Octovio Herrera '98, Zaryn Dentzel '05, and Todd Garner '88. This spectacular day culminated in a stunning candlelight dinner in the Bowl, followed by a live band and dancing on the Quad. It was a remarkable opportunity to bring so many Tigers together. more photos

 

Samuelson Alumni House - April 20, 2012

As part of our Founders Day weekend, we unveiled the Samuelson Alumni Center alongside Jack Samuelson '46 and Sally Samuelson '48. As the first permanent location for the Alumni Association, the Samuelson Alumni Center symbolizes both the College's renewed commitment to its alumni and Jack and Sally's generous lifetime of service to Occidental. more photos

 

Dance Production - March 23, 2012

Some very persuasive students encouraged me to be a little more involved in this year's annual Dance Production. YouTube video

 

 

Howard Behar's Visit - February 22, 2012

Howard Behar, founding president of Starbucks International and former president of Starbucks North America, came to Occidental for a lunchtime lecture centered on the principles of his successful career. more photos