With a very dedicated effort from the LEAD San Diego Alumni Association Council, it is with great pleasure that we share with you - our graduate members, investors, and community partners - many of the opportunities you've been asking asked for: additional educational opportunities focused on community issues in region, more chances to network with classmates and colleagues, and ways in which you can serve the community in a volunteer capacity. Combined, these efforts are designed to promote the mission of LEAD San Diego and to establish closer contact between the LEAD San Diego and its alumni.
> SEE LEAD San Diego Alumni Association Council Roster

On October 20, 2009, LEAD graduate and community members celebrated the Seventh LEAD Member Celebration at the eco-savvy, pet-friendly Hotel Indigo, newly opened in the Gaslamp Quarter. The hotel is the first LEED Certified Hotel Property (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) in San Diego.

Nearly 150 guests gathered on the 9th Floor “green roof” Phi Terrace to spend a few hours enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and visiting with friends old and new. LEAD members also took advantage of the reflection pool, fire pits, lounge seating and panoramic views of the cityscape at sunset. After a look at the guest rooms, many stayed to enjoy the first floor Phi Bar & Bistro.

Ben Haddad, Partner of California Strategies, LLC and Chair Elect of the LEAD Board of Directors, welcomed the group and thanked the guests for their ongoing support of LEAD San Diego. He also extended thanks to the event sponsors San Diego National Bank, AT&T, UCSD Medical Center and long time sponsor Childs Mascari Warner. LEAD’s president & CEO, Judy Forrester, provided an overview of LEAD’s new programming and event enhancements, and then welcomed Victoria Garrison (99), Education Director for the San Diego Zoo and LEAD’s Co-Chair of the recently formed Alumni Association. Garrison thanked members for their membership support and reported that there are now committees on the council who will focus their attention on community engagement, networking, continuing education, and increasing LEAD’s membership base.

> View Photos of the 2009 Member Celebration

August 25, 2009

The LEAD San Diego Alumni Association hosted a Summer Alumni Reception on August 25th to welcome LEAD’s newest Alumni – the Class of 2009 – to the LEAD network. The event was held at the University Club atop Symphony Towers, who generously sponsored the evening event.

Attendees offering an official welcome included many of LEAD’s board members, as well as LEAD gradates from as far back as 1988. After enjoying a cocktail and hors d'oeuvres, along with spectacular views of the city, the group was officially welcomed by LEAD President and CEO Judy Forrester, who expressed her delight at how many class members were able to attend this important reception. She then turned the mic over to Victoria Garrison (99), LEAD Board Member and Chair of the Alumni Association. Read More.

> View Photos from the 6th Annual Member Celebration