Stephani Anderson
Staff Writer
The UCSB Alumni Association is gearing up for the 11th annual All Gaucho Reunion, which will take place Apr. 27-30, 2017 and feature food, music, department receptions, and alumni presentations. Many events invite alumni, current students, and community members to come together and celebrate the Gaucho spirit.
“As the name ‘All Gaucho’ implies, this weekend is designed not just for alumni but students and the community as well,” said John Lofthus, Associate Director of the UCSB Alumni Association. “We hope that the each type of Gaucho walks away with a stronger appreciation for our university.”
The reunion starts with the Senior Breakfast on Apr. 27, 8-10 A.M. at the Mosher Alumni House. Free pancakes and the Class of 2017 shirt will be provided in celebration of this year’s graduating seniors.
Next, Montecito Bank & Trust will provide evening drinks and appetizers at The Rotunda at Deckers Outdoor Company. The winner of the Annual Wine Raffle will get to take home 25 bottles of wine, valued at over $500. Plus, students will have the opportunity to network with other local Gauchos and young professionals.
The following night at 8:00 P.M there will be an evening of “story-telling, music, and nostalgia” at “Wasting Time: The Music at the Heart of Isla Vista.” Cool Water Canyon, The Olés, Jimmy 2 Times, and Zach Gill, solo artist and Jack Johnson’s band member, will perform at Campbell Hall. This event is open to alumni, locals, and current students to explore and appreciate the IV music scene for $10 (student price).
Another featured event is the Gaucho Gallop 5K, which will go from the Thunderdome, University Center, Storke Tower, Davidson Library and end at Harder Stadium. All ages and fitness levels can participate, and young runners can run the Kid’s 1 Mile course. T-shirts, goodie bags, breakfast burritos, and coffee will be offered as an end of race incentive.
There are several other events to attend which are detailed online, and some events allow online ticket purchases as well. The proceeds from the All Gaucho Reunion benefit the community as a whole, as the funds will go towards student scholarships and alumni services at UCSB.
“The reality for UCSB is that we cannot rely on state support alone to provide a world class education for our students,” said Lofthus. “Who is stepping up to fill this growing void? While students have clearly felt the effects of this decline in state support through increased tuition, they cannot fully make up this gap in funding. Private support, once a luxury for UCSB, has become a necessity for us to continue our march up the ranks as a top university.”
According to Lofthus, the All Gaucho Reunion is more than fun activities and events. Lofthus believes that this reunion is valuable because it can help ensure the university’s success, reconnect Gauchos to their alma mater, and unite the Santa Barbara area.