Reflecting on Oldenborg’s 60-Year Legacy of Language Learning and Global Engagement

A collection of reflections from alumni, students, faculty and friends shaped by sixty years at the Oldenborg Center.

Since the 1960s, International Relations at Pomona has grown alongside Oldenborg, a pioneering center for language, international living and coeducation.

Jocelyn Cho ’28 reflects on the lasting impact of Oldenborg and the strong sense of belonging it fostered.

Anne Bages’ career at Pomona College began with a coin flip, and turned into a 44-year career helping shape two defining parts of the College’s history: the rise of women’s athletics and the enduring legacy of the Oldenborg Center.

Pomona College’s first-ever Student-Alumni merchandise design competition brought together Sagehens in a creative collaboration paying tribute to campus life and honoring the 60-year legacy of the Oldenborg Center.

A daily staple since the Oldenborg Center opened, the Oldenborg dining hall language tables have been serving up conversation and community for 60 years.

Oldenborg visionaries pioneered immersive, residential language learning to advance global understanding.

For nearly 60 years, the center has played numerous roles and been home to a wide range of experiences for all who have visited.

The grants enable Pomona students to apply their language proficiency, intercultural knowledge and research skills through community engagement.

Tina Blair ’70 embraced her global identity at Pomona through language study, cultural connections and Oldenborg’s international community.

Mark Housley ’78, who spent his childhood in Oldenborg’s residence halls, shares how Pomona helped launch his successful career in tech.

Politics major Dannhi Nguyen ’27 says living in Oldenborg’s Korean hall helped her practice classroom language skills in a relaxed setting.