Pepperdine Mourns the Passing of Former Senior Vice Chancellor Lou Drobnick

Pepperdine University is saddened to announce the passing of Lou Drobnick (MBA '91), former senior vice chancellor, who died on May 17, 2026. A fundraising professional and passionate philanthropist, Drobnick spent much of his life volunteering in the community, serving as divisional president for the United States Professional Tennis Association; president of the Optimist Club of Malibu; board chair for the Malibu Chamber of Commerce; and a board member for the Salvation Army.

"Lou was an invaluable leader in both the Pepperdine and Malibu communities, unwavering in his dedication to strengthening the institution and city he loved and called home for so many years," said Sara Young Jackson ('74), chancellor of Pepperdine University. "Through his generous spirit, bold leadership, and steadfast commitment to service, he helped guide countless important initiatives at Pepperdine. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him." 

Drobnick was a dedicated leader and beloved community member, who provided four decades—from 1982 to 2022—of service to Pepperdine University. He began his tenure as director of the Crest Associates and retired as the senior vice chancellor of University Advancement. Over the course of his career, he was instrumental in numerous fundraising efforts, securing major gifts such as the Daniel and Luciana Forge gift and the Gulls Way gift that funded the creation of the Drescher campus.

“Lou embodied Pepperdine’s mission of ‘For Greater Purpose’ through a life defined by service,” shared Heidi Bernard (’85), director of community engagement, who worked alongside Drobnick for much of her Pepperdine career. “He made a profound impact on the University as both a skilled development professional and a deeply caring person who took the time to mentor colleagues, build lifelong friendships, and serve his beloved Malibu community. I join the many people whose lives he touched in saying how grateful I am to have known him and for all that he did for us.”

Drobnick's impact extended far beyond the University as he was deeply committed to the Malibu community. Recognized with a Dolphin Award in 1995 by the Malibu Times, he was celebrated for his work with the Malibu Chamber of Commerce, where he served as board chair, and the Optimist Club of Malibu, where he was a distinguished president from 1983 to 1984. Drobnick was a creative and active problem solver—one of his most noteworthy contributions occurred following the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Drobnick led a contingency of small business owners to Sacramento, where he successfully secured an accelerated 30-day repair of the bridge at the Adamson House, thereby restoring access to the Pacific Coast Highway and to vital services for Malibu residents. He was also instrumental in establishing a high school in Malibu, when Malibu High School opened in 1992 with its first graduating class in 1996. 

Known for his generous spirit, abounding heart, and hospitality, Drobnick served as a mentor to countless students, faculty, staff, and donors. He is survived by his wife, Kathie Drobnick; daughter, Molly Lynn (’05, MA ’13) and Eric Lynn; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeremy and Lydia Sarrow, and Danny Sarrow and Moira Gilbert; and six grandchildren. His legacy of service, optimism, and leadership leaves an indelible mark on both the Pepperdine and Malibu communities. 

Sentiments may be sent to the family care of: The Drobnick Family/Care of Pepperdine Alumni Affairs, 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, CA,  90263-4348.