Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient Stories
For more than half a century, Citrus College has annually recognized alumni whose professional and lifelong development, community service and influence at the college set an example for others. Recipients are nominated and selected based on their educational journeys, professional achievements and community service, which exemplify the college's core values, and are honored during the college's commencement ceremony.
MARK LEAVENS · 2026
A longtime Nestlé executive, community leader and former president of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, Mark Leavens is a 2026 Citrus College Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He began his higher education journey at Citrus College in 1978 before earning degrees from Claremont McKenna College and the University of Redlands.
JAN QUALKENBUSH · 2026
Since the late 1970s, thousands of San Gabriel Valley motorists have relied on the services of Jan's Towing, founded and operated by 2026 Citrus College Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Jan Qualkenbush. A Glendora native, Qualkenbush also owns Jan's Racing Team, helping young drivers pursue opportunities in professional stock car racing.
LUCY CODE · 2025
A 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree, Lucy Code found direction at Citrus College while balancing family, work and her passion for art. Returning to Citrus at pivotal moments in her academic journey, she built a career in education, earned multiple degrees and now gives back as an advocate for students and lifelong learning.
REGINA DE DOELDER · 2025
Regina de Doelder discovered her passion for music at Citrus Union High School and Citrus College, leading to a Nazarene vocal scholarship and a long career at Aerojet. After retiring, she devoted herself to serving Glendora seniors and supporting veterans while traveling the world, crediting Citrus for preparing her for every opportunity.
RON HUSBAND · 2024
A trailblazing artist and the first African American supervising animator at Walt Disney Studios, Ron Husband discovered his talent at Citrus College before shaping a legendary career. His legacy includes iconic Disney films, influential teaching and national recognition.
JOE CINA · 2023
A proud Citrus College alumnus and president/CEO of the Glendora Chamber of Commerce, Joe Cina has built a distinguished career championing local businesses and guiding community progress. His leadership, rooted in the support he received as a first-generation college student, continues to inspire meaningful growth across the region.
VERONICA KIRTON · 2022
Veronica Kirton, a Monrovia resident who fulfilled her dream of graduating from college at 72, received the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award. She earned her AA-T in sociology at Citrus College, inspired her daughter to pursue a master's degree and discovered confidence and community through supportive faculty and campus involvement.
SAM PEDROZA · 2022
From his beginnings at Citrus College to serving three terms on the Claremont City Council, Sam Pedroza has spent his life uplifting the San Gabriel Valley. A respected leader in public affairs and local government, he continues to inspire through his commitment to service, advocacy and community-building.
ART VASQUEZ · 2021
While working long hours and studying automotive technology at Citrus College, Art Vasquez built a foundation that carried him through military service, leadership in the smog equipment industry and the creation of Rancho Vasquez. His journey from humble Azusa beginnings to agricultural success reflects unwavering dedication and service to others.
LOIS GASTON · 2020
From Citrus College to city hall, Lois Gaston built a remarkable legacy as Duarte's first Black woman mayor and a respected voice for community progress. Her service on regional boards, advocacy groups and local initiatives has earned her wide recognition and enduring gratitude.
JIM RILEY · 2020
Jim Riley turned his Citrus College beginnings into a lifetime of service, from Army specialist to Glendora Police lieutenant. Celebrated for his volunteer work, he has supported youth, veterans and community groups, earning wide respect as a dedicated leader and committed hometown advocate.
DR. MARTIN GUNDERSEN · 2019
Launching his studies at Citrus College, Martin A. Gundersen, Ph.D., rose to prominence as a pioneer in pulsed power research. After earning degrees at UC Berkeley and USC, he shaped breakthroughs across engineering fields, published widely, earned top honors and even advised on the film "Real Genius."
SAL MEDINA · 2019
A proud member of the Citrus College Class of 1995, Sal Medina built a path that blends education entrepreneurship and community leadership. From inspiring students in the classroom to creating Packing House Wines in Claremont, his journey reflects hard work curiosity and a commitment to uplifting others across the San Gabriel Valley.
KAREN M. CULLEN · 2018
A proud Citrus College alumnus and president/CEO of the Glendora Chamber of Commerce, Joe Cina has built a distinguished career championing local businesses and guiding community progress. His leadership, rooted in the support he received as a first-generation college student, continues to inspire meaningful growth across the region.
STEPHEN R. BAKER · 2017
From Citrus College Chamber Singers to Monrovia's official historian, Stephen R. Baker has devoted his life to community heritage. His work spans banking, organ building, landmark restoration and leadership on numerous boards, all reflecting his deep commitment to protecting local history and serving the public.
WINIFRED JEAN BRACE ROBERTSON · 2017
A lifelong force for community good, Winifred Jean Brace Robertson has shaped Glendora, Azusa and nearby cities through business leadership, volunteer service and local advocacy. A proud Citrus College alumna, she helped launch Foothill Presbyterian Hospital and continues to support regional history and community life.