Student Sendoff (SSO) –  A chapter year highlight!

The Orange County-Inland Empire Area Chapter celebrated its best and brightest at their annual student sendoff on Saturday, July 26, in Huntington Beach.  Perhaps it was to escape the heat, but our accomplished and eager students came from all over the IE and OC: Winchester, Wildomar, Riverside, Corona, Yorba Linda, Irvine, Santa Ana, and Foothill Ranch. Most came with their families, and all of them learned what to expect and what a great university WE ARE.

Mingling, making connections, and giving advice were the order of the day. Parents were happy to know that the chapter offers events all year; many are looking forward to our TV parties this fall.   Everyone was encouraged to join the Blue-White Society, apply for the chapter’s annual scholarship, get involved in all aspects of college life, and consider becoming a Lion Ambassador.

A delicious lunch and dessert were served in the PSU decorated clubhouse. Judy Wolfe chaired this year’s event, assisted by Michele Trasport-Gonzalez, Bob Hunter, and David Wolfe.  Chapter president David, who knows a thing or two about being an out-of-state student, a Lion Ambassador, a fraternity brother, and a Penn State Dad, enlightened the group with his inspirational and heartfelt parting words.

Each student was given a PSU swag bag to start their journey. Prizes were awarded to the participants who had traveled the farthest and the first to RSVP.

The OC-IE chapter’s diverse board members, area alumni, and various projects are the reason for its Elm status, the highest level with Penn State.