Multi-Generational Families Highlight Strength of Chapman’s Alumni Network It’s not uncommon to find parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and even grandparents who all share the Chapman Experience.

wagner family
Multi-generational families like the Wagners reflect how a shared Chapman education can evolve into a deeply rooted family tradition.

It’s not uncommon to find parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and even grandparents who all share the Chapman Experience.

For generations, Chapman University has played a transformative role in the lives of the students who pass through its doors—shaping their futures, broadening their horizons and nurturing their aspirations.

But beyond the individual journeys, Chapman’s influence often runs deeper, weaving itself into the very fabric of families across decades.

“Families with deep Chapman roots share a special bond—where the Chapman Experience becomes part of a family’s story across generations,” said Kala Karden, director of Alumni Engagement. “About 10% of our students come from these multi-generational families, making this connection a truly meaningful part of our university community.”

This enduring bond is evident in families like the Wagners and Rubnitzes, whose multi-generational ties to Chapman reflect how a shared education can evolve into a deeply rooted family tradition.

Ethan Wagner graduated from Chapman in May with a BFA in animation and visual effects, more than 30 years after both his parents—Niki LaPorte-Wagner ’92 and James Wagner ‘93—were students at the university. Ethan was introduced to Chapman early, tagging along with his dad for alumni soccer games. Returning to Southern California to attend Chapman as a student has been a special experience. Chapman ended up being a great fit for Ethan, who has been involved in visual effects editing since high school.

“Niki and I think it’s amazing to see him graduate from Chapman, and that we are able to experience Chapman as parents visiting campus,” said James.

Ethan, too, feels the power of creating a shared family history at Chapman.

“As a recent Chapman graduate, looking back on the progress my peers and I have made fills me with excitement for the future and hope for the generations of students still to come,” Ethan said. “Being part of the Chapman Family means carrying the memories, lessons and spirit that will continue to guide and inspire me.”

Being part of the Chapman Family is also something Joel Rubnitz ’91 takes great pride in. While earning his degree in management, Joel benefited from the uniquely personalized nature of a Chapman education.

After graduating, Joel applied the skills he gained at Chapman to launch ABL Properties, which he has operated for more than two decades. Having benefited both personally and professionally from his Chapman experience, Joel was thrilled when his daughter Samantha chose to become a Panther.

“We are so proud of the academic and life journey Samantha has experienced at Chapman,” Joel said. “Getting to experience Panther Pride as a family is truly something special. With the incredible investment the administration and board have made for the future, I know that Chapman will be something Samantha and I can experience with future generations.”

 

Your Header Sidebar area is currently empty. Hurry up and add some widgets.

#printfriendly .pf-hide { display: none !important; } #printfriendly .elementor-background-video-container { display: none !important; } .elementor-widget-container span + .wp-audio-shortcode { display: none !important; }