Ò»Æð²Ý

Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating Ò»Æð²Ý’s commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning. As we enter our 24th academic year, we rise together—creating a community where every student belongs, opportunity is accessible, and learning leads to meaningful real-world impact.

Learn more and register  Registration closes September 11.

2026 Awardees

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  Christine Garvey

  2026 Robert J. Lagomarsino Awardee

  Christine Garvey is a seasoned executive with deep expertise in corporate real estate and banking. Over the course of her career, she managed more than 150 million square feet of real estate for major financial and technology institutions, including Deutsche Bank in London, Cisco Systems, and Wells Fargo, and oversaw real estate lending at Bank of America. A graduate of Suffolk University Law School, Christine served on the CSU Channel Islands Foundation Board of Directors for twelve years, contributing her expertise in finance, real estate, and governance to advance the university’s philanthropic mission. Through personal giving, matching gifts, and advocacy, Christine has responded to students in crisis, invested in peer mentoring, and supported the programs that keep our most vulnerable students enrolled and on track.

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  Natalie Yanez, '14

  2026 Distinguished Alumni Awardee

  Natalie Yanez, ’14 MBA, is a Government Relations Manager within Local Public Affairs at Southern California Edison, where she leads regional engagement across Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties, partnering with elected officials, government and business leaders, and community organizations on energy, infrastructure, and public safety initiatives. Prior to joining Edison, Natalie spent more than 15 years in financial services, including leadership roles at Ventura County Credit Union, where she oversaw payment services, strategic community partnerships, corporate philanthropy, and financial literacy programs. A passionate advocate for community advancement, Natalie serves on the CSU Channel Islands Foundation Board of Directors, previously contributed to the Ò»Æð²Ý Alumni and Friends Association, and chairs the West Ventura County Business Alliance. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from San Diego State University and an MBA from Cal State Channel Islands, and is dedicated to strengthening her community through leadership, partnership, and a lifelong commitment to giving back

• Student Speaker