Pepperdine Community Gathered for a Global Reunion at "Waves Around the World: Hong Kong"

This April Pepperdine University took its global community on an extraordinary journey into the Eastern Hemisphere. “Waves Around the World: Hong Kong” was a multiday event that served as a vibrant hub for connection, bringing together more than a 100 Pepperdine alumni, families, and friends to celebrate their shared love for the University and one another.

The reunion boasted a full itinerary, commencing with a vibrant welcome reception at the Hari Hotel that served as the official launchpad for the weekend. The opening gathering allowed traveling Waves and local Hong Kong residents to introduce themselves, reconnect, and build a palpable sense of excitement for the busy schedule ahead.

Pepperidine leadership, staff, and alumni gather at various events throughout the reunion

Participants were treated to a program that blended intellectual engagement with alumni connections and reconnections. Highlights included an insightful global panel, networking luncheon, and a tour of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, where attendees explored the evolving economic landscape of the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on international business, regional development, and global leadership. Additionally, Pepperdine parent Mahesh Harilela graciously hosted an unforgettable gathering at his family home alongside Pepperdine president Jim (JD ’93) and first lady Joline ('92) Gash. This event brought together a variety of Pepperdine community members and beautifully spanned University history, uniting seasoned alumni from as far back as the Class of 1960 with the newest representatives from the Class of 2025.

For Harilela, the opportunity to not only host but also reconnect with generations of Pepperdine community members felt like a “heartfelt homecoming.” He described the experience as a joyful celebration, filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and powerful reunions years in the making.

Alumni touring Hong Kong

"Coorganizing and cohosting this gathering was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life," Harilela said. "Witnessing renewed friendships, shared memories, and the collective pride of our Pepperdine community left me deeply moved and profoundly grateful." 

The event also featured a curated cultural tour of Hong Kong, allowing attendees to explore the city's rich heritage, historic landmarks, and stunning architectural vistas. Guests further enjoyed several dining opportunities highlighted by presentations from Pepperdine's Asian and European/UK alumni chapters. These sessions were punctuated by inspiring updates on the University's future vision while expressing profound appreciation for the enduring strength, dedication, and global reach of its international community.

The historic weekend culminated with a poignant time of faith and fellowship. Rooted in Pepperdine’s foundational Christian values, the community joined together for a morning worship service, which was followed by a celebratory farewell brunch. This final gathering offered a perfect opportunity for attendees to exchange contact information, share final embraces, and reflect on their shared purpose and mutual love for Pepperdine.

Alumni and Pepperdine friends enjoying meals together

"We hoped that our efforts to build our International Pepperdine Community would culminate in a great event in Hong Kong in April of 2026, but something happened and it turned out to be so much more than we dared to hope for," shared Mark Gammons (JD '93), associate vice chancellor for Development for Western Europe and Asia. "That something was an amazing team of Mahesh, Nicky, Ray, Roy, Levina, Alisha, Razan, and Becky, with the leadership support of President and First Lady Gash, Hung and Adrian; and the result was magical and set the course for amazing growth of the International Waves Community into the future. Go Waves!"

Hung Le (center left) and President Gash (center right) with alumni

Reflecting on the event, Hung Le ('87, MA '03), senior vice chancellor of alumni affairs, expressed deep gratitude for the collaborative effort that made the reunion possible. "It was such a joy to be with our alumni from all over the world," shared Le. "Our time together in Hong Kong was meaningful and affirmed the goodness of our Pepperdine family. I am deeply grateful to everyone who generously contributed to make this event possible...The planning committee’s work was truly superb; their commitment to strengthening our Pepperdine family is a beautiful gift. It was wonderful to reconnect with dear friends, strengthen our relationships, and honor one another as fellow members of the Waves family."

Le noted that a standout moment was the gathering at the Harilela home. He described the opportunity to experience the family’s hospitality as a 'blessed gift,' adding, 'We were blessed by the love of an incredible family who has loved Pepperdine and committed to our mission for decades.'

Attendees were equally as thrilled to gather in the vibrant cultural hub of Hong Kong and connect with both fellow Waves and the Pepperdine leadership that made the experience possible. Levina Li ('93) shared, “It was wonderful to meet the leadership of Pepperdine University and connect with alumni from across Asia in Hong Kong. I truly enjoyed getting to know everyone, and I’m very much looking forward to the next European Reunion at the Pepperdine's Swiss Chateau!”

Learn more about upcoming reunions and celebrations on the Pepperdine University website.