Lauren Kane and Bob Hitchcock
On Tuesday, Sept. 9, Chapman University celebrated the power and importance of service and community at the 2025 Volunteer Recognition Event. The annual gathering brought together trustees, board members, alumni, parents, and friends of the university to recognize how volunteers enrich the Chapman and community experience.
“Tonight, we are here to thank and celebrate you, our dedicated volunteers, who use your time and talent to make our Chapman community thrive,” said Nicole Bigley, Director of Engagement & Volunteerism, in her welcoming remarks.
Volunteers serve Chapman in countless ways, from mentoring students and supporting professional development to sharing expertise in classrooms and panels, judging competitions, and offering warm welcomes at signature events. Their contributions, Bigley noted, help make Chapman “a better place every day.”
Outstanding Alumni Service Award
The evening included the presentation of the Outstanding Alumni Service Award, given this year to Jennifer Concepcion ’21 for her extraordinary work building Dodge Next Gen, Dodge College of Film and Media Arts’ alumni mentorship program for graduating seniors.
What began in 2023 as Concepcion’s idea has become an initiative connecting students with alumni leaders at Netflix, CAA, DreamWorks, Disney, and more. Under her leadership, the program launched with 13 mentors and 27 mentees, and has since expanded to 15 mentors and 30 mentees. Concepcion also organized networking events in Orange and Los Angeles, strengthening alumni-student connections.
“Jen has poured her time, talent, and energy into building this program from the ground up,” said Michelle Philo ’03, president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. “Her efforts have ensured that Dodge Next Gen will continue to flourish for years to come.”
Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award
The Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Mark Hilbert, trustee and co-founder of the Hilbert Museum of California Art. Founded in 2016 with his late wife, Jan, the museum has become a cultural landmark in Southern California, known for preserving and sharing California’s history through art.
Hilbert is a familiar presence at the museum, personally engaging with visitors, students, and community members to help them connect with the artwork in meaningful ways. His volunteer service extends well beyond the museum, reflecting a deep commitment to Chapman’s mission and community.
“Mark, your vision and generosity have left a permanent mark on Chapman,” said Jessica Berger, Executive Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer, while presenting the award. “Your volunteerism continues to inspire us all.”
In a special touch to the evening’s event, all the volunteers were given gifts from Aurelia Tea Experience, a student-founded venture created by Angelica Jauregui ’26 and supported by Chapman’s Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics.
To learn more about how to get involved with Chapman, please visit chapman.edu/get-involved.
