The two-day celebration kicked off with an extraordinary gala dinner, originally planned to be held on an acrylic surface extending over the swim center pool. However, when inclement weather prompted a change of venue, our rain plan effortlessly took effect. The event was moved indoors to the student center, where an immersive aquatic lighting design recreated the ambiance of the pool setting, ensuring guests still felt enveloped in the atmosphere. Attendees were captivated by the evening’s festivities and inspired programming.

The following afternoon, the campaign celebration continued with the Pacific Discovery Showcase. Thirteen schools and departments each presented dynamic 7-minute segments, showcasing the best of their programs. Students, faculty, deans, and performers lent their talents, creating a vibrant 1.5-hour theatrical presentation that energized the audience.

As the Showcase concluded, guests made their way to a campus-wide wine and food festival. Donors, alumni, faculty and families mingled on branded lounges and leather seating in the quad while the UOP Alumni Band infused the event with a festive spirit, setting the stage for the official campaign launch celebration.

As the sun set, the evening’s highlight began. University leadership, students, donors and alumni shared moving stories of how Pacific had profoundly shaped their lives. When the President of the University announced the campaign goal, the iconic 16-story tower came to life with an awe-inspiring 8-minute 3D projection, perfectly synchronized with a dramatic fireworks display set to an energizing mashup of Eye of the Tiger and Roar. The video concluded with a stunning visual of a tiger crashing through the stained-glass windows atop the tower, leaving only the campaign logo, Leading With Purpose, glowing brightly on the building as fireworks exploded overhead.

But the night didn’t end there. After the fireworks, Grammy-winning artist H.E.R. took the stage for a 45-minute concert, performing before an audience of 2,000 students, donors, faculty, staff and alumni.

The two-day celebration was an overwhelming success, leaving a lasting impression. As the event drew to a close, one of UOP’s major donors remarked, “I’ve never been prouder of this school than I am today!”