Dozens of UC Merced alumni — from the classes of 2009 to 2022 — gathered in downtown Sacramento on April 2 for an exclusive networking mixer hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations.
More than 70 Bobcats and their guests had the opportunity to network and trade their favorite Merced memories at the private rooftop reception at the M!X Downtown.
They also connected with several campus leaders, including Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Vice Chancellor and Chief External Relations Officer Ed Klotzbier, School of Natural Sciences Dean Betsy Dumont, Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer Daniel Okoli, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement Brian O'Bruba, Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education Sarah Frey, Director of Student Involvement and ASUCM Advisor Enrique Guzman and cognitive science Professor Zenaida Aguirre-Muñoz.
"We know our alumni lead very busy lives and may not be able to visit UC Merced as often as they would like. Therefore, this reception was the perfect way to meet them where they are and learn about their latest achievements," Klotzbier said. "Some alumni had not seen each other in over a decade and others met for the first time, so the energy on that rooftop was remarkable."
Aside from the good vibes and conversations, alumni enjoyed an array of appetizers and refreshments. The event was catered to former students living or working in the greater Sacramento area, and plans for additional gatherings are already underway.
"Our Bobcats' journey does not end with commencement; it continues well beyond their time at UC Merced, and we want to continue being a part of their journey and cheer them on," Associate Director of Alumni Relations Jessica "JaeJae" Julian ('10) said. "Our Bobcats at Dodger Stadium alumni event in September was a hit, this Sacramento mixer had a great turnout, and we are looking forward to hosting more events from LA to the Bay in the near future."
To stay connected and informed about next regional gatherings, alumni can keep their contact information updated online and follow the UC Merced Alumni Association on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
