Giving
Recognizing Excellence at UC Riverside
During a time when support from community members like you has never been more critical, thank you for your belief and investment in our 26,000+ students. The inspiring 2025 event raised funds to benefit UCR student success and honored 5 distinguished alumni and philanthropic leaders who exemplify our visionary mission of social mobility, educational access, and research excellence.
Recognizing Excellence: 2025 Honorees
UCR Medallion
Honoring the vision and legacy of inspirational leaders.
Brian Hawley ’89, M.S. ’91
DISTINGUISHED PHILANTHROPIST AWARD
Honoring the generosity and life-transforming impact of leading donors.
Dollie Wolverton ’57
Distinguished Alumni Award
V. John White ’73
Alumni Service Award
Keona Henderson ’08
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Gabriel Maldonado ’11
“Your generosity doesn’t just help students like me succeed—it fuels research, teaching, and service that can make a real difference.”
Donald Zarate ’23
Nominate an Alumni of Distinction
Do you have a former classmate or student that is doing amazing things? Since 1986, the UCR Alumni Association has honored graduates who personify the University's tradition of excellence and service. Nominations are accepted year-round.
A Look Back
Get a glimpse inside the dazzling moments of last year's Gala event.
The 2024 Honorees
UCR MEDALLION
Cheech Marin
photo by Carlos Puma courtesy of Riverside Art Museum, 2022
DISTINGUISHED PHILANTHROPIST AWARD
Byron Pollitt ’73 and Teresa Pollitt ’74
Distinguished Alumni Award
Christy Lopez ’90
Alumni Service Award
Manav Sachdeva ’99
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Jesse Melgar, MPP ’17
Help ensure critical student support programs remain intact.
There are countless opportunities to uplift the next generation of scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders at UC Riverside.