Stories of Sagehen Impact

Susan ’61 and David ’59 Hirsch’s enduring generosity established Pomona’s faculty research grants program in 1996. Now marking 30 years and more than 100 funded grants, they continue to expand opportunities for faculty scholarship and innovation.

When Chiu-Mi Lai ’83 boarded a train in Hong Kong bound for mainland China in 1981, she carried more books than luggage. More than four decades later, she and her husband, David Mohrig ’83, have honored the professor who made that journey possible.

Fourteen faculty members have been promoted, recognizing the exceptional work and impact of faculty across departments. 

Fourteen recent Pomona College graduates have been offered Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards for 2026-27. 

Leslie Derkum ’63 was defined by exploration. Now, through a Pomona College scholarship she created with her husband, Edward “Ed” Derkum ’61, her spirit of curiosity lives on in Sagehens just beginning their own journeys.

Ka Kiu (Kyle) Lau ’25 was one of 150 Scholars chosen from a record 5,800 applicants. He’ll step away from professional soccer this fall to pursue a master’s degree in global affairs from Beijing’s Tsinghua University.

Julius Torres Kellinghusen ’16 is being recognized as Pomona’s 2026 Inspirational Young Alumni honoree, an award given by the Alumni Board to recognize the dedication, perseverance and consistency of a Pomona graduate within the last decade.

Former Pomona College students joined colleagues and friends of Professor Samuel Yamashita at a day-long conference held on campus April 11 to reflect on Asian history, literature and policy as well as the impact of Yamashita’s mentorship.

Dr. Woutrina Smith ’96, a champion and leader of international conservation and global health initiatives, has received the 2026 Blaisdell Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing her impact on the wider world.

Members of the Pomona College community, joined by the family of Linda Wight Mazur ’81, gathered to dedicate a bench in honor of her lasting impact on the College and the Sagehen community.