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Waves of Change 20
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The Campaign for Pepperdine…Changing Lives
Celebrating Heroes, H eroines
75 Years
Pepperdine’s worldwide family came together on March 24, 2012, as the University celebrated 75 years of changing lives at the 36th annual Pepperdine Associates dinner. Set at world-famous Warner Bros. Studios, Pepperdine transformed the studio’s fabled New York street into a look decidedly more Los Angeles, hearkening back nearly eight decades to Pepperdine’s halcyon days in South L.A. Distinguished alumni Michelle (JD ’89) and Mark (JD ’88) Hiepler chaired Pepperdine’s anniversary celebration, with former Pepperdine first lady Helen Young (’39) serving as the evening’s honorary chair. “This year’s Associates dinner was an evening filled with inspiration and a worthy tribute to the Pepperdine we love,” said Michelle. “I am certain it infused the Campaign for Pepperdine with fresh momentum.”
Dinner chairs Michelle (JD ’89) and Mark (JD ’88) Hiepler
Hollywood magic was all around as 900 guests, coming off the red carpet, were greeted by the tunes of the Pepperdine Pep Band, boarded VIP studio trams, toured the Warner Bros. Museum, or reunited with friends or fellow alumni. A special exhibit showcased memorabilia, films, and photos from Pepperdine’s yesteryears. Among the brightest stars of the evening was current student Demi McCoy, a Seaver College sophomore and Posse Foundation scholar. A member of the Continued page 4
The Campaign for Pepperdine
Pepperdine mascot Willie the Wave
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Greetings
from the Campaign for Pepperdine
Henry Ward Beecher once famously said, “It is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich.” With these words, Beecher departed from many of his 19th-century contemporaries who supported a penchant for acquisition and self-preservation. He understood that true prosperity, born of the human spirit, was found only in giving to others. Set against the desolate backdrop of the Great Depression in the 1930s, young entrepreneur George Pepperdine profoundly understood Beecher’s words, yearning to discover “how humanity could be helped most with the means entrusted to his care.” Believing that he was to be only a steward of the assets God had entrusted to him, he felt it was wrong to amass great wealth, only then to use it selfishly. Because of his convictions, Mr. Pepperdine dedicated his fortune to endowing this institution that means so much to us, promising students a preeminent education, uncompromised in its Christian faith. During this 75th anniversary year, I am reminded of the obstacles the University has faced in its eight-decade history and the heroic challenges it has overcome. But perhaps most of all, I am reminded of the sacrifices made on its behalf. From a humble college welcoming 167 new students in 1937 to the global reach of today’s University nearly 8,000 students strong, Pepperdine is an institution guided by the stalwart faith and steadfast dedication of its leaders, alumni, and friends. The Campaign for Pepperdine is indebted to all of its volunteers and supporters whose unwavering resolve continues to nurture Pepperdine into a premier university. As we acknowledge the vital impact of Pepperdine’s largest campaign ever, we remember all who have given to—and sacrificed for—our treasured University and its distinctive mission. Because of the selflessness of countless individuals like you, committed to George Pepperdine’s vision of 75 years ago, Pepperdine University offers its students a life-changing experience…unlike anywhere else in the world.
Marylyn M. Warren (’58) Senior Vice President, Retired eHarmony.com Member, Board of Regents
The Campaign for Pepperdine
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School of Law
Salutes Waves of Giving Campaign
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Begins atrium Renovations
The Pepperdine School of Law successfully completed its year-end Waves of Giving campaign, created to encourage alumni support and engagement with the law school. To commemorate the arrival of Deanell Reece Tacha, the School of Law’s newest Duane and Kelly Roberts Dean, the school created two distinct avenues for campaign giving.
Over the holiday break, the school completed phase one of the atrium renovation project. New carpet, tile, and furniture were installed along with the removal of the atrium’s tree and metal lockers. This summer, the school will complete phase two, installing new lockers better suited to the needs of today’s law students. New lockers will carry dedicatory plaques on which donors have honored faculty, family, and others who have been significant in their lives.
“The Waves of Giving campaign gave alumni and friends the option of giving to the School of Law Ken Starr Excellence Fund or purchasing a new locker for a law student,” said Dean Tacha. “Both options provided me with the flexibility I needed to accomplish one distinct goal—to renovate the Lon V. Smith Atrium in the McConnell Law Center.”
“The campaign has been instrumental in connecting our alumni giving directly to our students, producing an immediate and tangible impact,” enthused Dean Tacha. “The atrium renovation is a perfect illustration, made possible because of the generosity of our alumni. Without their support, the speed and success of the renovations would not have been possible.”
Gifts to the Waves of Giving campaign were generously matched by alumni and School of Law Board of Visitors members Scott Mager (JD ’82) and Janet Kerr (’75, JD ’78). In total, 268 alumni and friends contributed to the campaign and 89 new lockers were purchased, raising an extraordinary $260,000.
For more information about the Waves of Giving campaign or to purchase a locker, please visit law.pepperdine.edu/waves-of-giving.
Memorial Scholarship Established for
Athletic Chaplain Maurice Hilliard
An endowed memorial scholarship has been created in honor of Maurice T. Hilliard, who passed away on March 12, 2012, at age 44. A member of the Pepperdine family for more than a decade, Maurice most recently served as the University’s athletic chaplain and was program director of the University’s Boone Center for the Family. Maurice deeply impacted the lives of countless students during his time with the University, providing endless encouragement with his ministry. Seaver College alumna Jazz Brice (’11) was among these students, serving as an intern with Maurice during her undergraduate years. “Maurice was a servant-leader whose entire existence flowed out of his profound purpose of loving God and loving His people,” reflected Jazz. “I hope that Maurice’s scholarship can provide an opportunity for future students to encounter God in the Pepperdine community that Maurice loved so much.” For more information or to contribute to this scholarship, please contact Lacey Von Lanken at (310) 506-6899 or lacey.vonlanken@pepperdine.edu.
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University Board member and library campaign committee chair Robert Barbera and wife Jo
University Board chair Pat Boone and Crystal Wave inductee Ilse Erpel
Athletics campaign committee member Robert Katch (’84, MBA ’91) with wife Loretta (’85) and family
Genesis Gospel Choir and gifted poet, Demi delivered the evening’s devotional through powerful verse to the crowded streets of alumni and friends. Evening dinner sponsors Stevan and Alida Calvillo
Evening dinner sponsors Louis and Beth Graziadio with “Marilyn” and “Clark”
“On these storied streets where stars are born and movies are made, we honor you, our 1,860 Associates, as Pepperdine’s ‘supporting cast,’” said Keith Hinkle (JD ’97), senior vice president for advancement and public affairs. “Each of our Pepperdine Associates fills a different role. In the life of an independent institution like Pepperdine, we would not be where we are today without all of you.”
Celebrating Heroes, H eroines &
75 Years continued
Pepperdine president Andrew K. Benton spoke on the vault of Warner Bros. superheroes and the common element of sacrifice in the “hero’s journey.” He suggested
Pepperdine Ambassadors Council members Bobby Hall (’12) and Vanessa Magos (’12) The Campaign for Pepperdine
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President Benton with University Board member Bill Ahmanson and wife Karla
that Pepperdine’s narrative is no different. “Sacrifice is at the heart of every Pepperdine story we tell,” he said, recounting transformative champions like Blanche Seaver. “Blanche was all in, holding nothing back. She fully invested herself in the Pepperdine dream and made it happen.”
Seaver student and devotional speaker Demi McCoy
President Benton with Crystal Wave inductees Jeff and Laurie Ubben
And as Pepperdine drafts its own script for the future to transform higher education, Pepperdine’s CEO reminded his audience that in order to build upon the University’s largest campaign ever, a new cast of characters will be required. “Each Pepperdine generation depends upon generous men and women to support the daily journey,” he said. “But each generation also depends upon a unique set of heroes who hold nothing back. They see the future—before anyone else—and decide to pursue it relentlessly.”
President Benton with Seaver parents John and Celeste Plueger
Seaver Board of Visitors member Craig Garner (JD ’95) and wife Natalya
Elva and Henry Respess Endow Research and Internship Programs
Despite living on the East Coast, Seaver College grandparents Elva and Henry Respess are no strangers to Pepperdine University. With twin granddaughters Evanne (’12) and Alanna (’12) Lindley having just graduated, and granddaughter Caroline Lindley a current student, their decision to support the school was, according to them, everything they were looking for in deciding to give back. “Pepperdine, quite simply, is an inspiration,” Henry explained. “As our girls were deciding to attend, I loved learning about the school, its mission,
and the people who make it all happen. They have inspired us to keep helping the cause.” After a successful career in which they built their own company in the oil industry, the Virginia residents are supporting research and internship programs in the Business Division of Seaver College. Designed to encourage research pursuits and the scholarly work of future business leaders, the program will engage faculty and student participants who will be known as Respess Research Fellows and Respess Student Fellows.
“Pepperdine...is an inspiration. I loved learning about the school, its mission, and the people who make it all happen.”
Scholarship Named in
Honor of Michael D. Gose Seaver College alumni Eric (’88) and Jennifer (’88) Wolford have given a pacesetting gift toward establishing an endowed scholarship in the name of Seaver College professor Michael D. Gose (MA ’75), honoring his service to Pepperdine University. In making their lead gift to the scholarship for Seaver students, the Wolfords hope to inspire other alumni who have been impacted by Dr. Gose’s life and teaching to contribute to the scholarship as well. “While a good teacher passes along important information, a great teacher shapes how you look at that information,” said Jennifer. “Michael Gose has shaped our thinking, our faith, and our lives.” Eric added, “We are confident that those who’ve studied with Dr. Gose will realize his imprint
on their lives and join us in honoring his work. There seems to us no better way to honor a great teacher than to bless a student with the opportunity to learn.” Dr. Gose is a professor of humanities at Seaver College. Teaching for the popular Great Books Colloquium, he is often among the first faculty members that freshmen meet. He received his master’s degree in religion from Pepperdine in 1975 and his doctoral degree in education from Stanford University in 1979. He served as the Blanche E. Seaver Professor of Humanities and Teacher Education from 1999 to 2004. Dr. Gose has inspired students at Seaver College for 32 years and continues to be one of Pepperdine’s most admired professors.
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For more information or to contribute to this scholarship, please contact Lacey Von Lanken at (310) 506-6899 or lacey.vonlanken@pepperdine.edu.
pepperdine.edu/campaign
Farmers in the DELS Alumna Faye McClure
Reflects on Her Company, Alma Mater, and Their Enduring Connection By Nate Ethell (’08)
“For over 70 years, Farmers and Pepperdine have shared a commitment to excellence, leadership, and education...”
Although it may not be apparent by just looking at her, Faye McClure is no ordinary corporate executive. Today Faye is vice president of strategic marketing for Farmers Insurance Group, but as a child, she grew up with humble roots in the inner city of Los Angeles—the daughter of a minister who taught her that, through hard work, she could accomplish anything. As the youngest of 13 children, Faye recalls that Pepperdine was often at the forefront of daily conversation in her family, leading to her own decision to attend. “I was originally drawn to Pepperdine because several of my siblings graduated from the Los Angeles campus,” said Faye. “But I also appreciated the Christian values that are part of the social fabric of the University.” Faye discovered her passion for business and marketing early in her academic career at Pepperdine. “One of my best memories was in my marketing class when I had to choose a project to market,” said Faye. “I selected my roommate’s dad, Sidney Poitier, who was the number one box office draw in the country at the time. I was able to show how he developed his career, and Mr. Poitier topped it off by coming to the class for a surprise talk. It was the best ‘A+’ I have ever received.” Faye went on to receive her bachelor of science in business administration and credits her alma mater for instilling in her the value of giving back to her communities. In 2005, Faye decided to do just that, joining the Graziadio School of Business and Management’s Board of Visitors. “I was introduced to Dean Linda Livingstone by
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longtime family friend Ron Berryman (’62, MBA ’67), who is a member of the Graziadio School’s Board of Visitors as well as the University Board. I was inspired by the dean’s vision and goals for the business school, so when I received an invitation to join the Graziadio board, I eagerly accepted.”
such as Paul Hopkins of Farmers, Brian Moynihan of Bank of America, and Anne Sweeney of Disney/ABC Television. These distinguished executives are then able to share their valuable wisdom and insights with students, alumni, and friends.” Faye also has encouraged Farmers to support other critical initiatives at the Graziadio School such as the school’s Excellence Fund and its Education to Business (E2B) program, ranked one of the top ten college courses in America by U.S. News & World Report. In return, the partnership also has provided significant value to Farmers. “The program was incorporated at the time that Farmers was implementing strategic Hispanic and Asian initiatives. Our relationship with Pepperdine proved to be invaluable in targeting those segments.”
Soon thereafter, Faye identified the Dean’s Executive Leadership Series (DELS) at the Graziadio School as a strategic opportunity for Farmers, where she has worked since 1994. Designed to be the preeminent executive leadership education event among graduate business schools nationwide, Faye recognized that DELS was a unique platform on which she could raise the presence of Farmers and Pepperdine. “When Dean Livingstone discussed the idea for DELS with me, I believed it was consistent with Farmers’ core values of education and giving back to the communities we serve,” Faye commented. Dean Livingstone agrees. “For over 70 years,” said the dean, “Farmers and Pepperdine have shared a commitment to excellence, leadership, and education, going back to the relationship between Farmers cofounder John Tyler and the University.”
Faye now serves on the Graziadio School’s campaign committee and hopes Farmers’ support for Pepperdine will make a lasting difference and inspire the next generation of leaders. “When much is given, much is required in return,” said Faye. “Our desire is to give the opportunity of higher learning to as many students as possible.” For Dean Livingstone, Farmers is building an important bridge to community and leadership at the Graziadio School. “Farmers’ generous support of DELS and other vital initiatives continues to provide life-changing experiences for our students,” she reflected. “Through these experiences, students learn new perspectives, discover new possibilities, and see new potential in themselves.”
Recognizing the value in the unique partnership between Farmers and Pepperdine, Faye has faithfully increased Farmers’ support for the program in recent years, with over a half million dollars given to date. “Farmers’ support of DELS has been essential to our ability to enhance and grow the program,” Dean Livingstone remarked. “This shared commitment embodied in the series makes it possible for us to engage exceptional business leaders
“When much is given, much is required in return. Our desire is to give the opportunity of higher learning to as many students as possible.” 7
pepperdine.edu/campaign
Campaign
Gifts Pledges We are grateful to the following major benefactors whose generous support in recent months has brought our total to more than $290 million.
CAROL AND GARY RICHARDS have made a new commitment to support Pepperdine students, designating 75% of a remainder unitrust to benefit the University. Elizabeth and Raymond Q. Armington Trust has given $791,980 to support the University. Ralph M. Parsons Foundation pledged $500,000 to the University Libraries campaign to support the Payson Library renovation. Lauren and James (MBA ’85) Harger pledged $100,000 to establish the James N. Harger Endowed Scholarship at the Graziadio School. Elva and Henry Respess have pledged $100,000 to support research and internship programs within the Business Division at Seaver College. Jennifer (’88) and Eric (’88) Wolford made a pacesetting gift toward establishing an endowed scholarship in the name of Seaver College professor Michael D. Gose (MA ’75).
The Campaign for Pepperdine
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About the
Campaign
The Campaign for Pepperdine, led by cochairs Marylyn Warren (’58) and Glen Holden, and seven volunteer-led campaign committees, is transforming the lives of our students through four aspirations that advance learning, knowledge, and scholarship; honor God and our heritage of faith; build community; and respect diversity and promote global understanding. With “Changing Lives” as the campaign theme,
Connect Mission, Giving, and the Pursuit of Excellence Alumni Deanne and John Lewis
More than three decades have passed since Seaver alumni Deanne (’84) and John (’83) Lewis began their Pepperdine legacy, but if someone were to ask them, they might reply that they are just getting started. “As Pepperdine students, we met through our roommates, who were common friends between us. Deanne was a bit resistant to go out, but she gave in eventually!” exclaimed John. With Pepperdine to thank for their relationship, and while Deanne was finishing her bachelor’s degree, they married in Stauffer Chapel in June 1984, with future Pepperdine president David Davenport officiating. Since then the Sierra Madre residents have steadfastly remained engaged as alumni, impassioned by Pepperdine’s mission to change lives. “What resonates most for us is the sense of mission that flows through Pepperdine, which we hope is reflected in our own lives as well,” said Deanne. “To be fully committed to Christ and focused on excellence is a powerful combination to express that commitment,” added John. Realizing the powerful impact of their own experiences as students, Deanne and John began giving back to Pepperdine soon after graduating, hoping to create something equally profound for the classes that would follow them. “We’ve long been inspired by Chancellor Emeritus Charlie Runnels and his focus on young people,” Deanne said. “Our hope is to see them transformed for a lifetime of purpose, service, and leadership.
Pepperdine has set a goal
Continued page 11
of $450 million to support student-centered priorities to do just that—educate our students to change lives around the world.
Campaign
Funds Raised $290,125,040* *As of March 31, 2012
Seaver campaign committee co-chair John Lewis (’83) and University Board member Deanne Lewis (’84) share the stage with President Andy Benton.
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Creating Your Legacy with a
Charitable Remainder Trust Thinking about selling stock but worried about the tax bill?
The stock market has risen considerably in the last year. Some stocks have even doubled in price. Donating stock to Pepperdine is a tax-advantaged way of supporting the University. Combining a gift of appreciated stock with a charitable remainder trust (CRT) can multiply the benefits for you and our students.
“A charitable remainder
When you sell appreciated stock, you pay capital gain tax on your profit. But when you give appreciated stock to Pepperdine, you can avoid this tax because Pepperdine is a tax-exempt institution that can sell the stock without paying any tax. You receive a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the stock, which may further reduce your income taxes. Additionally, your stock gift can be used to establish or endow a scholarship or program at Pepperdine in your name.
trust was the perfect instrument to lend support for a cause I am passionate about while
You may also contribute stock to a charitable remainder trust. A CRT is a special type of tax-exempt trust that first pays you income for life and then benefits Pepperdine after your lifetime. Gifts to a CRT give you a charitable income tax deduction and the same naming opportunity as a normal stock gift. And just as Pepperdine is able to sell stock without paying tax on the gain, so can the CRT. Assets compound in the trust tax-free, increasing its value over time.
providing lifelong income
If you are considering selling stock, let us prepare a CRT proposal to see how you might benefit from this unique opportunity.
that the funds will be
security. Not only does it provide me great peace of mind for my own life, but I am reassured knowing used to support students, values, and programs that
pepgift.org
curt.portzel@pepperdine.edu (310) 506-4003
are important to me.”
Curt A. Portzel (’92), JD
Jean McCrady
Executive Director
Center for Estate and Gift Planning
easy steps to
income security and Legacy A Charitable Remainder Trust
TR ANSFER APPRECIATED ASSET TO TRUST
Stock, cash, or real estate Flexible payout rate (generally 5–8%) Asset sold tax-free
The Campaign for Pepperdine
PAYMENT FOR LIFE Income for life to one or more donors or for a fixed term of years
REMAINDER TO PEPPERDINE
Immediate tax deduction
After lifetime, remainder benefits Pepperdine, its faculty, and students
Bypass capital gain tax Potential inflation protection
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Events on the Horizon Alumni Deanne and John Lewis Connect Mission, Giving, and the Pursuit of Excellence continued
To that end, we try to connect the dots between our giving and how the specific experiences that we are empowering advance that mission.” Today Deanne is a member of the University Board and founding member of the Alumni Leadership Council. John, CEO of Eugene Lewis & Associates, CPAs, recently accepted one of his most significant roles at Pepperdine as co-chair of the Seaver College campaign committee. “With this role, I have the opportunity to lend a small hand in moving forward Pepperdine’s mission,” John explained. “Charlie often talks about planting trees whose shade we will never enjoy. By moving the campaign forward, we can plant trees that many future generations of Waves will enjoy.” As the Lewis connection at Pepperdine grows stronger, with son Tim (’10) a recent graduate and daughter Mindy having recently completed her freshman year, Deanne and John are eager to see their support assist students in their pursuit of excellence. “Giving to Pepperdine has tremendous leverage, bringing all the pieces of the Pepperdine experience together,” reflected John. “In turn, students are prepared to have a disproportionate impact on the world for decades to come.”
For more information or to register for an event, please call (310) 506-4448.
MAY 29 – JUNE 2
Parkening International Guitar Competition Smothers Theatre, Malibu Campus
July 26
London 2012 Olympic Games International Alumni Reception 56 Prince’s Gate, London Campus
AUGUST 4 – 10:30 A.M.
Graziadio School Graduation Firestone Fieldhouse, Malibu Campus
Leading lives of purpose, service, and leadership. Pepperdine University Alumni Affairs
congratulates the Los Angeles Waves on winning
Chapter of the Year! To join the L.A. Waves at an upcoming event or to find an event near you, call (310) 506-6190 or visit pepperdine.edu/alumni.
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pepperdine.edu/campaign
Pepperdine University 24255 Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, Ca 90263-4546
Contact Us The Campaign and University Advancement teams at Pepperdine stand ready to respond to your inquiries. Contact us to discuss campaign opportunities and giving methods with you and your financial advisors. All inquiries will remain confidential. For more information, please call or e-mail:
Tuesday–Saturday • May 29–June 2, 2012 Join us when 15 of the finest young classical guitarists on the planet converge on Malibu for this thrilling competition with $65,000 in cash awards at stake. The excitement culminates in the final round on Saturday, June 2, when the three finalists perform with the Young Musicians Foundation Debut Orchestra. Final Round and Awards Ceremony Saturday, June 2 7:30 pm $70 • $60 • $40
Smothers Theatre, black tie optional
To order tickets, please call
310.506.4522
or visit
arts.pepperdine.edu
The Campaign for Pepperdine
S. Keith Hinkle (JD ’97)
Senior Vice President for Advancement and Public Affairs
(310) 506-4898 keith.hinkle@pepperdine.edu
Claudia Arnold Preston
Campaign Director and Vice Chancellor
(310) 506-4546 claudia.arnold@pepperdine.edu Campaign Office (310) 506-4546 pepperdine.edu/campaign
Editor Nate Ethell (’08) Graphic Designer Liz Waldvogel (’05) Photographer Ron Hall (’79) Patti Yomantas Director, Advancement Communications Published quarterly by the Office of University Advancement
pepperdine.edu/campaign