As this year marks the 25th anniversary of my Caltech graduation, I have particular cause to reflect on the past and to look ahead. When I first arrived at Caltech in 1991, I could feel the aura of excellence. I still feel it when I walk the campus today, and when I engage with leaders, faculty, and staff. I especially feel it when I meet with you, fellow alumni. Each of us has something to bring to the table.
Our professions and interests vary, yet we are united by our technical foundation, early training in collaborative problem-solving, and pursuit of excellence. The Alumni Association is a prime example of what happens when we work together. Our board of directors is a passionate group I am proud to work with, and together with Caltech’s exceptional Alumni Relations staff, we continue to make bold strides in improving the alumni experience. Additionally, I have Techers to thank for connecting me to my first job out of college, my last job, and my current position. I hope to contribute as much value to the network as I’ve been fortunate to receive.
This magazine illustrates our individual and collective excellence. In these pages you can witness how excited alumni are to share hard-earned expertise with students via a new mentoring program; learn from your fellow Techers’ career transformations, entrepreneurialism, and use of novel methods to answer scientific questions; and take pride in this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.
We alumni play a significant role in ensuring Caltech’s continued excellence. Our responses to the recent alumni surveys prompted initiatives that are helping Techers across generations develop in their careers. Our gatherings at Reunion Weekend, Seminar Day, and other events spark fruitful connections that advance entrepreneurialism, research, and individual careers. Our leadership in the Break Through campaign is also helping Caltech continue to drive world-changing research, offer incredible educational experiences, and attract unprecedented support, such as the Resnicks’ recent $750 million pledge for sustainability science and innovation.
To quote Colin Powell: “If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception; it is a prevailing attitude.” Each of us provides a unique perspective, an individualized skill set, and a library of experiences that, combined, help ensure a long future of Caltech excellence. Your participation matters.
To future excellence,
Chris Bryant (BS ’95)
President, Caltech Alumni Association
P.S. I invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, and perspectives about excellence with your fellow alumni on social media. Please include #CaltechAlumni.
