Distinguished Alumni

(L to R: Kristen Schrock, Alumni Board President; Jeff DeFranco; Nicole Brown; Jaymes Clements; Lee Bucknell; Frank Nigro Jr.; Joseph Rothschild; Weston Sousa; President Steve Perez)

At Chico State, we celebrate our outstanding alumni for the many ways they lead, serve, and inspire. As leaders in their fields, they help uphold the excellence and integrity of our academic programs while motivating our students, faculty, and staff to aim higher. Through their achievements and service, they embody what it means to shape the future and inspire our students to do the same.

2026 Distinguished Alumni Honorees

The 31st annual Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony was held on Friday, March 6, honoring a remarkable group of alumni whose accomplishments and impact continue to strengthen the Chico State legacy. The 2026 honorees reflect the University’s enduring values and exemplify lives of purpose, leadership, and meaningful contribution.

Please join us in congratulating this year’s Distinguished Alumni. Click on each honoree’s name to explore their story and read a featured Q&A.

• Nicole Brown (Chemistry, Home Economics, '84)
• Leland "Lee" Bucknell (Agriculture, '59)
• Jaymes Clements (Business Administration, '12)
• Jeff DeFranco (Psychology, '00)
• Frank Nigro Jr. (English, '89)
• Joseph Rothschild (Communication Design, '99)
• Weston Sousa (Mechanical Engineering, '90)

Watch highlights from this year's Distinguished Alumni Ceremony.

Nominate an Alumnus/Alumna

We invite faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the University to nominate deserving Chico State graduates for this prestigious honor. Strong nominations highlight the nominee’s significant professional achievements, sustained community involvement, and demonstrated commitment to advancing the values of Chico State. 

Submit a Nomination 

Recipients will be honored at the 32st Annual Distinguished Alumni Awards on March 5, 2027.