A Letter From Your Executive Director
Dear Fellow Gauchos:
These are truly the most interesting and trying times. They will be a test of our community, our institutions and our families. I want to pledge that UC Santa Barbara and the alumni family will be a strong and vibrant support network for you.
As you already know we have decided to cancel this year’s April All Gaucho Reunion. It was clear that holding such a gathering at this time was not prudent nor responsible. While we are discussing alternatives to an in-person event, we are also moving ahead quickly to put in place virtual opportunities for Gauchos to network, support one another and remain engaged with the University.
The week of April 20th to 25th we will hold A VIRTUAL RUN to replace our AGR Gaucho Gallop. We are urging Gauchos across the country to participate in solo runs and share their achievements. No distance is too short, no pace too slow. You will hear more as we approach that date. The first 300 to sign up will receive free Gaucho Run t-shirts.
At the same time we plan a major rollout of our Gaucho Network. This is the online virtual networking, mentoring and information platform that encourages Gauchos to get in touch with one another. At a time when social isolation may be the new normal for some period of time, this platform will allow Gauchos and current students to stay in touch. We urge Gauchos to sign up now and begin exploring the Network’s features and opportunities.
Finally, we hope to launch a series of virtual talks and lectures to replace our very popular Profs in the Pubs series.
We need your suggestions and recommendations. We need your engagement and enthusiasm. We need your passion for UC Santa Barbara. Now is the time to renew those Gaucho memories and unity. All things must pass and this will too. What remains is what we will hold most important.
George Thurlow ‘73
Executive Director, UC Santa Barbara Alumni Association