All-Gaucho Reunion 2017 Marks Historic Events

 Thousands of alumni will reunite at UC Santa Barbara to reminisce, network and show their support for the university at the 11^th Annual All Gaucho Reunion from Thursday, April 27 through Sunday, April 30, 2017. This UCSB signature event, which brings together alumni from across the United States and around the world, is held on the university’s campus and is produced by UC Santa Barbara Alumni with Nationwide as the presenting sponsor.

Highlights include a concert celebration of the major influence UCSB students, alumni and Isla Vista have had on the worldwide music scene; and the historic 50^th anniversary celebrations for the Class of ’67, the College of Engineering, and the University Center (UCEN), an important hub of student life. Community members are invited to the many events.

The All Gaucho Reunion is an important occasion not only for connecting and bringing alumni back to celebrate all things UCSB, but also to support current students. Proceeds from many of the All Gaucho Reunion events benefit student scholarships at UCSB. In addition, reunion participants will join with UCSB Greek life students in collecting food and monetary donations for the Associated Students Food Bank, which is run by students in support of fellow classmates experiencing financial challenges.

Reunion highlights:

·      Wasting Time: The Music at the Heart of Isla Vista

Zack Gill of the rock band ALO and of Jack Johnson’s band, Cool Water Canyon, Jimmy 2 Times and The Olés will highlight Isla Vista’s rich musical tradition, which launched the careers of many a famous artist.

·      College of Engineering 50^th Anniversary

The College marks its golden anniversary and status as a global leader among university schools of engineering with a No. 1 ranking worldwide in research impact, patents issued and its materials graduate program, and three Nobel Prize winners among its esteemed faculty. Alumni reception and time capsule ceremony will be held.

·      Gaucho Gallop 5K Benefit Race

This flat, scenic, professionally timed run through campus is a Santa Barbara Athletic Association Grand Prix Course geared toward all ages and fitness levels, and competitive and first-time racers. Tailored for future Gauchos, the Gaucho Gallop Kid’s Mile is free for kids ages 10 and under. All Kids Mile finishers receive medals. Refreshments by Country Catering and an awards ceremony follow the races.

·      Taste of UCSB

More than 40 alumni vintners, breweries, chefs and caterers will present the varied flavors of the Central Coast. This popular event features live music from the Isla Vista-grown band Cool Water Canyon. Vendors include Figueroa Mountain Brewery, M Special, Firestone, Koehler, Municipal Winemakers, Country Catering, Enterprise Fish Co., Woodstock’s, Silvergreen’s and McConnell’s Ice Cream.

Among other All Gaucho Reunion events are networking and career get-togethers, athletics, Greek gatherings, kids’ festival, tours and more.

Additional information about the All Gaucho Reunion, including a complete schedule of events, may be found at All Gaucho Reunion 2017. Questions can be directed to Samantha Putnam, UCSB Alumni Association programs director, at Samantha.Putnam@ucsb.edu.