Chapter Volunteers Honored at Annual Leadership Conference
Pepperdine Magazine is the feature magazine for Pepperdine University and its growing community of alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends.
Representatives from the 31 chapters of the Pepperdine University Alumni Association gathered in Malibu on February 25-27 for their annual Chapter Leadership Conference. Outstanding volunteers and chapters were honored in the conference’s annual awards ceremony.
Orange County Waves Recognized with Top Awards
The Orange County Waves chapter was selected for two of the highest chapter awards.
To receive the honor of Chapter of the Year, the volunteers offered 14 events last year with 580 attendees. The chapter board demonstrated consistent participation, passion, growth, relationship building, and knowledge, according to associate director of chapters and regional programs Sandra Barsoum (’99). “The Orange County Waves understand the mission, plans, and purposes of the University,” Barsoum said. “They took that to heart and went with it.”
In 2010 Orange County piloted the Waves of Service program. The chapter exceeded expectations by supporting multiple Step Forward Day events, establishing new protocols for offering Waves of Service scholarships, and awarding a Waves of Service speaker. “It was obvious,” said Waves of Service director Greg Porter (’87, MBA ’03). “They took full advantage of Waves of Service resources.
Other Chapter Award Recipients Include:
President’s Award: Seattle Waves
Rookie Chapter Award: New England Waves
Special Program Awards:
Bay Area
Colorado
Dallas
Los Angeles
Seattle
Kevin Smith (’01) was honored for his outstanding leadership and organization. Smith exemplifies a heart for service in Pepperdine’s Atlanta chapter and in his everyday life, such as when he gave his first-class seat to one of the rescued Chilean miners on an all-night flight.
Dedicated and servant-hearted, Erin Glass (’01) is honored for her organization and flexibility as a chapter leader. She has extended her term of service to further develop her chapter board and increase opportunities for alumni engagement in New York.
Peter Pham (MBA ’00) was honored for his enthusiasm, creativity, and passion for service. He often exceeds expectations by embracing purpose, service, and leadership as he promotes service in the Orange County chapter.
Lynnelle Smith (’86) was honored for her efficiency, consistency, and attention to detail. She exemplifies the spirit of Pepperdine with her work ethic and service, especially as she leads the Portland chapter.