San Diego Chapter

For our November E-Newsletter, the University of Oregon Alumni Association would like to highlight the San Diego Chapter President of the UOAA, Brenda Gerard ‘96 (below left), and San Diego Chapter Director, Mandy Serrano ‘06 (below right). Together, Brenda and Mandy help build lifelong connections with alums within their region by being the eyes and ears of the UOAA. They assist the UOAA and put on events that cater to the southern California and bring a little bit of Oregon to the region.

UOAA: What is(are) your fondest memory(ies) of UO?

Brenda: Participating on the Executive Board of Directors as the Chapter Representative and getting to meet other UOAA leaders from all over the country, & getting to visit Eugene & Portland 3 times in one year.

Mandy: My fondest memories of UO were the times spent with friends. Football games were always great memories as well. Since I was so involved throughout the department and football program, events and game days were always something I enjoyed and looked forward to.

UOAA: Could you describe what it is like volunteering for your local Chapter?

Brenda: It’s great to be involved in the community, represent the university, have continuous duck connections and be able to help grow SD( San Diego) fellowship.

Mandy: It feels great to still feel connected to the U of O and rewarding to know we are helping give back to our local Oregon community by raising money for our scholarship fund. It has also been great to re-connect with old friends, making new ones and networking with local alumni.

UOAA: What do you enjoy most about being a part of the local chapter?

Brenda: Meeting people & planning and attending fun Duck gatherings.

Mandy: I enjoy attending our annual events and watch parties with fellow Oregon Alumni and friends. It’s also nice to feel like a little bit of home is here along with me in San Diego.

UOAA: What qualities, experiences or opportunities do you most appreciate regarding your education at the University of Oregon?

Brenda: My most memorable experience was being introduced to Camp Adventure which has since moved to University of Northern Iowa. This allowed me to travel the world and I have since been to 26 countries around the world

Mandy: I appreciated the various opportunities that were available and given to me. My time as an intern at the Athletic Department really helped prepare me for the real world and my career. As long as I was willing to learn and work hard, there was always someone there ready to offer me a new experience.

UOAA: What are some of the improvements or changes at the UO, UOAA or local chapter that you are most excited about?

Brenda: I love the new alumni center and arena that are soon to open. It’s important to foster that being an alumni can be just as great as being a student

Mandy: Although Mac Court is amazing, I’m excited to watch my first basketball game in the new Matthew Knight Arena. Of course all my responses are going to be sports related ?

UOAA: Do you have a single (chapter) contribution as a UO student or volunteer that you are most proud of?

Brenda: The San Diego Chapter Endowment. We raised $25K endowment that grows interest to generate scholarship funds each year. The chapter also gives out additional scholarships based on funds raised throughout the fiscal year.

UOAA: If you were to sum up why you are “a part of the UOAA” in one sentence or paragraph, what would that be?

Brenda: To make a difference, make connections, spread duck cheer in the SD community.

Mandy: I am a part of the UOAA because I want to remain connected with my alma mater and continue to try and give back to the place that gave me a great education and college experience.