Bright Spots

Making waves, making change, or both, our alumni are bringing light to all parts of the world, in all kinds of ways.

Issue Name
Spring / Summer 2024

Maya Rupert against a gold wall

The accidental, and optimistic, political strategist

Lawyer turned sought after campaign manager Maya Rupert ’03 brings the hope in her uplifting political podcast, “When We Win”

Issue Name
Fall / Winter 2023

women with arms raised together

Better Together

Sisters Sara Tanza ’06 and Melissa McConville ’07 couldn’t find a fun and inclusive race, so they created one. This year, 9,000 people will run their She.is.Beautiful events

Issue Name
Spring / Summer 2023

Portriat of Jena Pruitt on orange background

Zone of Genius

Creative director Jena Dominique Pruitt ’14 makes a case for world travel and self-exploration in her quest for success

Issue Name
Fall / Winter 2022

group of paddlers in the ocean

The Friendship Paddle

Every year, a giving group paddleboards across the Channel, raising funds and spirits for friends in need

Issue Name
Spring / Summer 2022

Bianca Valenti riding a huge wave at Mavericks

Bianca Valenti

Fighting for equity, representation — and really big waves — is all in a day’s work for this pro surfer and activist.

Issue Name
Fall / Winter 2021

Emma Rose Cohen and a reusable straw

Bright Spots

From innovations in reusable straws to passing on a love of music to children in underserved communities, these Gauchos are paying it forward in ways that make us proud.
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