College alumni group makes plans to mingle all the way

Southwestern College alumni are gearing up for a festive evening of reconnecting, celebrating, and giving back at the annual Holiday Soirée on Dec. 11. The event, now in its third year, provides alumni a chance to reminisce about their time at the college while raising support for current students in need.

“This is a season for giving back,” says Irma, a Southwestern College representative. “Alumni gather not just to celebrate the holidays, but to give back to their alma mater and support the students who are walking the paths they once did.”

Past soirées have drawn enthusiastic crowds, with attendance growing each year. “The response from alumni has been incredible,” Irma notes. “Our first gathering had 35 attendees, and just last year we doubled those numbers and even outgrew the venue. It’s amazing to see the community come together.

The Holiday Soirée also highlights the accomplishments of both the college and its alumni. Guests hear updates from the college chair, student speakers, and participants in SWC Cares programs, celebrating the tangible impact alumni support can make. “We celebrate students and the campus by showing up for events, and whenever there’s a call to action, alumni respond,” Irma says.

Networking opportunities abound at the Soirée. Alumni from a wide variety of professional backgrounds mingle and reconnect, sharing their experiences and forming new connections. “These events are a perfect example of networking at its best,” Irma said. “The common thread is their Jaguar Journey began here at Southwestern College, and that shared history brings everyone together.”

Memorable moments from past events underscore the importance of the Soirée. “The very first holiday event was held… with Dr. Q, an SWC alum,” Irma recalls. “We supported his efforts and welcomed alumni for the first time, even before the Alumni Association had launched. By the second gathering, we doubled our numbers again, and four lifetime memberships were signed up.”

This year’s celebration is set for Sammy’s Woodfire Pizza in Chula Vista, with Seven Mile as the major sponsor. Attendees can look forward to music, food, prizes, and the chance to contribute to SWC Cares, helping students with food and housing insecurities. “All alumni are welcome,” Irma says. “Seasoned alums and recent graduates come together, share stories, and strengthen the bonds of our community.”

For alumni who can’t attend in person, there are still ways to participate. Donations of non-perishable food items to the Jag Kitchen or contributions to SWC Cares allow those afar to support the student community and remain part of the holiday spirit.

The Southwestern College Holiday Soirée is more than a festive gathering—it’s a celebration of shared experiences, alumni achievements, and the spirit of giving back. For Jaguars across the region, it’s a chance to come together, share stories, and toast a year of accomplishments while helping current students succeed.