Santa Clara University Alumni Association: A Legacy of Connection and Achievement

Introduction

Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University (SCU) stands as California’s oldest-operating institution of higher education. Beyond its academic prestige, SCU fosters a strong sense of community, a bond that extends far beyond graduation. The Santa Clara University Alumni Association, established in 1881, plays a vital role in maintaining and strengthening these connections. This article explores the history, evolution, and impact of the SCU Alumni Association.

The Genesis of a Lifelong Bond

On April 27, 1881, a small group of students convened to establish the Santa Clara University Alumni Association and formalize its foundational constitution. Even then, students recognized the special bonds formed at this unique institution, and wanted to ensure those connections remained strong for life. This initial gathering marked the formal recognition of the lasting impact of the SCU experience and the desire to preserve the camaraderie forged within its walls.

Early Years and Growth

The early years of the Alumni Association focused on fostering connections among graduates and supporting the University's mission. As the University grew, so did the Alumni Association, expanding its reach and influence.

Evolution and Adaptation

Fast forward 140 years, the campus may look different and our alumni family has grown-to more than 106,000 alumni! But much remains the same as it did in 1881 and even in 1930, when alumnus George I. Lynn started the first alumni newsletter. What also hasn’t changed is the special Bronco camaraderie that fosters lifelong relationships. In that first newsletter Lynn wrote: “Strange as it may seem, nearly every visitor [to campus] finds an old friend.” And the Alumni Association works every day to keep that same sentiment strong today.

In 1961, a significant shift occurred when women were admitted into the Santa Clara University undergraduate program. This marked a turning point in the University's history and broadened the Alumni Association's membership base, bringing in diverse perspectives and experiences. The rest is history.

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Notable Alumni

The ranks of SCU alumni include individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, reflecting the University's commitment to educating leaders and innovators. The Alumni Association proudly recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of its members.

Politics and Public Service

SCU boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have served in prominent political positions. Edmund "Jerry" G. Brown, Jr., served as the 34th and 39th Governor of California. Gavin Newsom served as the Lieutenant Governor of California and is currently the 40th Governor of California. Mike Espy served as the United States Secretary of Agriculture. Zoe Lofgren has represented California in the U.S. House of Representatives. Patricia Mahan served as the mayor of Santa Clara. Tom McEnery served as the mayor of San Jose.

Other notable alumni in public service include: Robert E. Joseph W., Robert E., Richard A., James P., Walter F., Timothy L., Zacheus J., Cornelius J., James J., Louis C., Charles J., William C., Herman J., Patrick A., Thomas D., William J. Rewak, Paul L., Lisa A., David C., Rupert H., Jack D., J. Paul L., Lorry I., A.C. (Mike) Markkula, owner of A.C.M., Edward A., John A., Larry W., Paul Locatelli S.J., James V. Schall, S.J. Charles Poochigian (J.D.), Eugene M. Premo (J.D.), Richard C., Martin J., Alfred Delucchi (J.D.), Eugene Michael Hyman (J.D.), Thomas E., John A., Thomas D., John H., Cecil R., Robert J., B. T., Thomas M., David C., Bernard D. Murphy (B.A.), Patrick W. Murphy (B.S.), Charles Poochigian (J.D.), Gregory P., Augustus D., Dominic L., Benjamin J., Anthony P., Patricia Mahan (J.D.), R. Albert J., McGregor W., Yukiwo P. Jamby Madrigal (B.S.), Eileen Kato (J.D.), Murlene Randle (J.D.).

Arts and Entertainment

Barry O'Brien (1979) is a television writer and producer known for "Hanging with Mr. Lawrence".

Business and Technology

Brendan Eich (B.Sc.) is a computer programmer and creator of JavaScript. Peter Oppenheimer (M.B.A.) has held prominent positions at Apple Inc. Chris Malachowsky (M.S.) is a co-founder of Nvidia.

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Law and Judiciary

Edward A. Panelli (1953) (J.D.) and Martin J. are notable alumni in the legal field.

Military Service

US Army Brigadier General James F. and Charles E. Stanton, a military colonel and aid to General John J. Pershing, represent SCU's contribution to military leadership.

Athletics

Santa Clara University has a rich athletic tradition, and many of its former athletes have gone on to achieve success at the professional level.

Nelson Briles, MLB player, Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, Texas Rangers, and St. Mike Crudale, MLB player, St. Willie Hogan, MLB player, Oakland Athletics and St. Jim O'Rourke, MLB player, St. Frank Shellenback, MLB player, pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, pitching coach for St. Harry Wolter, MLB player, Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, St.

Bryan Barker, NFL punter for St. Jamil Walker, professional soccer player, Major League Soccer player for D.C.

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Daniel Nava also attended SCU.

Alumni Association Activities and Initiatives

The Alumni Association engages in a wide range of activities and initiatives aimed at fostering connections, providing support, and promoting the University. These include:

Networking Events: Organizing events that bring alumni together to connect and collaborate.
Career Services: Offering career resources and support to alumni at all stages of their professional lives.
Regional Chapters: Establishing regional chapters to connect alumni in specific geographic areas.
Alumni Awards: Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of outstanding alumni.
Fundraising: Supporting the University through fundraising efforts and philanthropic initiatives.
Publications and Communications: Producing newsletters, magazines, and other communications to keep alumni informed and engaged.
Mentorship Programs: Connecting current students with alumni mentors to provide guidance and support.

Resources and Archives

The SCU library provides digital access to historical documents, including:

The Redwood Yearbook Archive: A digital archive of The Redwood, the official yearbook, with issues dating back to 1902.
The Santa Clara Newspaper Archives: A digital collection of The Santa Clara, the official weekly student-run newspaper, covering issues from 1922 to 2013.

The SCU Fight Song and Alma Mater

The Varsity fight for Santa Clara, banners of red and white on high! Remember the lyrics, view several renditions, and download the ring tone today. Listen to the Fight SongThe Redwood Yearbook ArchiveVisit the SCU library's digital archive of The Redwood, the official yearbook, with issues dating back to 1902. View the YearbooksThe Santa Clara Newspaper ArchivesVisit the SCU library’s digital collection of The Santa Clara, the official weekly student-run newspaper, newspaper, which covers issues from 1922 to 2013.

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