History
A Legacy of Service and University Engagement Since 1985
Founded in 1985, the Crest Advisory Board was established to strengthen the relationship between Pepperdine University and the surrounding community through meaningful partnership and engagement.
Established by Dr. Michael Adams under the leadership of Andrew Benton, the Board was created to build and sustain collaborative relationships in support of the University’s mission. Leadership has included Lou Drobnick and, beginning in 1995, Heidi Bernard. The executive board was formally established in 1989, solidifying its long-term structure and guiding vision.
From 1992 to 2020, the Board fully funded the Pepperdine Ambassador Council through annual outreach fundraising efforts. In 2003, it launched a mentorship initiative that continues to connect community leaders with students in meaningful and lasting ways.
For nearly four decades, the Board has advanced partnership, leadership, and generosity in service to the University and its broader community.
Our Mission
- Facilitate meaningful dialogue between campus and community
- Support academic, cultural, and athletic initiatives
- Advise students and community members
- Serve as ambassadors for higher education in the Pepperdine tradition
Advancing Campus Growth
Crest Advisory Board members supported key University initiatives including Drescher Campus approvals (1995), the Campus Life Project (2011), and the Parking Project (2021), helping secure approvals at every level.
Year Established
Executive Board formed in 1989
Lifetime Giving
Collective Board contributions to the University
Community Engagement
Events, mentorship, and campus advocacy
For Greater Purpose
The legacy of service established by the Crest Board continues today through Pepperdine's
For Greater Purpose initiative, a brand campaign that pays homage to our 1937 foundation
while building boldly toward the future.
Signature Programs & Milestones
- Emergency Services Reception (1992–2000)
- Crest Lecture Series (1994–2004)
- Concert by the Sea (1995)
- Dale Chihuly Reception (2005)
- California Art Reception (2006)
- Frederick R. Weisman Art Reception (2007)
- Community Art Receptions (2008–2009)
- Wave Weekend Special Community Reception (2010–Present)
- Athletic Event Receptions (2015–2020)
Community members supported the university through key capital projects.
Board Chair Leadership History
- Ed Stotsenberg (1985–1988)
- John Merrick (1988–1992)
- Jerry Orefice (1992–1995)
- Deborah Johnston (1995–1997)
- Greg O’Connor (1997–1999)
- Ellen Weitman (1999–2002)
- Clark Cowan (2002–2005)
- Debbie Betts (2005–2007)
- Barry Garapedian (2007–2010)
- Kevin Steele (2010–2016)
- Dan Bishop (2017–2022)
- Sheldon Lodmer (2022–Present)
President Andy Benton presents Crest Board member Ellen Weitman with a plaque for her service as Board president
Crest Board members Bob McIntosh, Larry Mira, and John Merrick
Crest Board members Patti Adair, Jane Takeyama, and Heidi Bernard
Crest Board member Dorothy Stotsenberg signs her book, 50 Years in Malibu
Crest Board member Ashley Lewis and Mary Hawkins meet with Pepperdine Ambassadors Ashley Wilkerson, Jenna Sutherland, and Janie Smothers
Pepperdine Ambassador Kevin Mills meets with Crest Board member Grant Adamson
Crest Board members Eileen and Tim Bice help landscape the yard for the Pepperdine Habitat for Humanity House
Pepperdine student Jennifer Hollingsworth, Crest Executive Director Heidi Bernard, and Crest Board member Clark Cowan gathered with others to landscape the yard for the Pepperdine Habitat for Humanity House in Oxnard
Crest Board member Clark Cowan and Pepperdine Vice Chancellor Lou Drobnick
Crest Board members Warren Orlando, Heidi Bernard and Debbie Betts dressed in their robes before marching in the Founder's Day Parade.