Nicole Bigley
The Women of Chapman celebrated their 39th Annual Christmas at The Ritz on Dec. 13, 2025. The event raised nearly $300,000 for Chapman University.
The funds raised at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach will primarily benefit the Women of Chapman Student Hardship Assistance Fund, with additional support for the Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus. The Student Hardship Assistance Fund, administered by Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Jerry Price, provides flexible resources for students facing immediate and unexpected financial hardship, such as covering housing, food, transportation, technology, medical bills, and emergency travel home during family crises.
“Christmas at The Ritz has become a cherished tradition for Women of Chapman—a celebration of generosity, community, and our shared commitment to supporting Chapman students. Each year, this signature event reminds us of the extraordinary impact we can make together,” said event chair Jacqui Penner.
Chapman President Matt Parlow and Women of Chapman President Adrienne Brandes (MA ’84) welcomed guests, celebrating the organization’s cumulative $10 million contribution to Chapman over more than 50 years.
“Thank you, Women of Chapman, for more than 50 years of generous support,” Parlow said. “It is such an honor to lead this university, to be part of the Chapman Family, and to engage with people like you who contribute so much to our students and to our community. When you look around Chapman, almost no part of our campus and no major initiative hasn’t been fueled in part by the Women of Chapman.”
Hearing directly from students is always a highlight of the event, and this year was no exception as Dean Price introduced Mina Beattie ’28, a Presidential Scholarship student majoring in political science with minors in Spanish and honors, whose education was directly supported by the commitment of the Women of Chapman to student success. Beattie shared thoughts on her own Chapman journey and how the Women of Chapman are certainly a part of her degree pursuit.
“We are overjoyed by the success of our 39th annual Christmas at the Ritz, which raised approximately $300,000,” said Women of Chapman President Adrienne Brandes. “These crucial funds will directly benefit the Student Hardship Fund Endowment, an endowment of particular importance to the Women of Chapman, providing lasting support. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated committee for orchestrating such a wonderful event. Our guests were extraordinarily generous, and the afternoon was a perfect blend of heartfelt philanthropy and festive celebration.”
The afternoon also featured performances by operatic soprano Robin Follman (MBA ’15), along with College of Performing Arts alumni who performed as holiday carolers and a trumpet duo. Guests participated in live and silent auctions, a raffle, and a fund-a-need paddle raise.
Those interested in supporting Women of Chapman can apply for membership or donate online today.
