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Ƶ Hall of Fame

Ƶ's Hall of Fame celebrates our extraordinary alumni who have made remarkable contributions to our community and beyond. Each spring, we honor outstanding graduates who have distinguished themselves in various fields, from business and education to public service and athletics. Our annual Hall of Fame dinner showcases the incredible achievements of individuals who exemplify the transformative power of an Ƶ education. These remarkable alumni demonstrate how Ƶ nurtures talent that goes on to make significant impacts in our community, nationally and internationally, inspiring current and future students to pursue their dreams and create lasting change.

Hall of Fame 2026
From left to right: Ƶ Foundation Executive Director Todd Evangelist stands left of inductees, Tammy Summers, John Cabanilla, Karla Sigmond, and Crispina Calsada, as Ƶ Superintdent/President Lennor Johnson stand on the right during their induction into foundation's 2026 Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala on Saturday, May 2. 

Ƶ Foundation Hall of Fame Gala Sets Record-Breaking Success 

IMPERIAL, Calif. — The Ƶ Foundation celebrated a milestone evening at its 2026 Hall of Fame Dinner and Gala on Saturday, May 2, welcoming approximately 230 attendees and achieving a record-breaking net total in support of student scholarships and programs. 

Held at the College Center, the annual event brought together alumni, community leaders, and partners to honor the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees—Tammy Summers (Class of 1997), Karla A. Sigmond (Attended 1981–1982), John Cabanilla (Class of 1997), and Crispina Calsada (Class of 1989)—while raising critical funds to expand educational opportunities for Ƶ students. 

The evening featured 30 sponsored tables and generated strong philanthropic support across the community. A total of 89 individuals contributed pledges and donations, resulting in $71,000 raised through giving efforts alone. Combined with $29,000 in underwriting sponsorships that fully covered event costs, the Foundation anticipates net proceeds of approximately $83,000, marking the highest net return in the event’s history. 

“That’s a record net profit. I’m happy that we raised more gross and had a higher net than last year,” said Ƶ Foundation Executive Director Todd Evangelist. 

 

Community Support Drives Success 

The success of the gala was made possible through the generous support of underwriting sponsors, whose contributions ensured that all event costs were fully covered: 

Premier Sponsor 

  • Erickson-Hall Construction 

Platinum Sponsors 

  • BHE Renewables 
  • Nielsen Construction 
  • Sun Community Federal Credit Union 

Gold Sponsors 

  • Legacy MD Medical Group 
  • Management and Training Center 

Silver Sponsors 

  • Betty Jo McNeece 
  • IVEDC 
  • ES Minerals 
  • Xen & Shirley Jones 
  • M&M Controls, Inc. 
  • Imperial County 
  • Sayrs Morris 
  • Louis Wong 

 

In addition to underwriting sponsors, the Foundation received significant pledges from Sanders Inc., All Valley Urgent Care & Dr. Brian Tyson, Corazo Credit Union, Sun Community Federal Credit Union, Padre USA, Dr. Lennor Johnson, and Alexis Villa. 

“The work we do at the Ƶ Foundation changes lives across our valley through the students we support” commented Sean Wilcock, VP of Business Development with Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation as well as the Chair of the Ƶ Foundation.  “The Hall of Fame Dinner creates incredible momentum by raising critical funds while shining a spotlight on Ƶ alumni who have gone on to do extraordinary things in their lives and careers” commented Wilcock.    

Honoring Excellence, Investing in the Future 

As highlighted in the event’s original announcement , the Hall of Fame recognizes distinguished alumni whose achievements reflect the values of leadership, perseverance, and service. The 2026 inductees represent a diverse range of fields, from education and public service to biotechnology and global leadership. 

The gala not only celebrated these accomplishments but also reinforced the Foundation’s mission to support student success through scholarships, basic needs resources, and academic programs. 

Looking Ahead 

With record-breaking results and continued community investment, the Hall of Fame Gala remains one of the Foundation’s most impactful fundraising efforts. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Ƶ students, helping remove financial barriers and expand access to higher education. 

Community members are encouraged to stay engaged with the Foundation and consider nominating outstanding alumni for future Hall of Fame recognition. 

About the Ƶ Foundation 

The Ƶ Foundation builds partnerships with businesses, alumni, and community organizations to expand educational opportunities. Through fundraising and community engagement, the Foundation supports scholarships, student services, and initiatives that promote student success. 

For more information, contact the Ƶ Foundation at (760) 355-6113 or ivcfoundation@imperial.edu 


Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 | Ƶ College Center
Cocktail Reception 5:30pm • Dinner 6:30pm • Dancing at 8:00pm

Formal Attire | Theme: Under The Stars

 

Hall of Fame