Our Distinguished Alumni
This past weekend, the University held its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards gala. With commencement week now upon us, this memorable event last Saturday evening seemed a fitting time to remember the distinguished accomplishments and contributions of students from prior graduating classes who have contributed to Cal State Northridge’s growing legacy and reputation.
At the banquet, we had the privilege of honoring three very accomplished Cal State Northridge alumni: Mr. Harvey Bookstein, one of the state’s most respected accountants who established the Harvey and Harriet Bookstein Chair in Taxation and the Bookstein Institute for Higher Education in Taxation on campus; Dr. Debra Farar, past chair and current member of the Board of Trustees of The California State University, who is known nationally for her leadership on higher education issues; and the Honorary S. James Otero, United States District Judge for the Central District of California.
Each of the honorees spoke with great pride of being Cal State Northridge graduates. They spoke glowingly of their experiences at the University, acknowledging that Cal State Northridge faculty played key roles in preparing them for success after graduation, and that their education gave them the skills, knowledge and opportunity to excel. As we wind down our celebration of the University’s 50th anniversary and 50 years of life-changing opportunity, I know all of us associated with this great institution were proud and moved on Saturday night to hear in a very specific and personal way about how the University had made a difference in the lives of these outstanding individuals. It was a memorable and enjoyable evening, and the Cal State Northridge Alumni Association deserves recognition for a fine, stylish event.
When I look out this week at the many happy faces of this year’s graduating class, I will do so with the knowledge that our students have been given an education that is second to none, and with the pride that they, too, are now distinguished Cal State Northridge alumni. A future Distinguished Alumni Award recipient may even be among this year’s graduates!