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The annual Heritage Society Christmas Luncheon brought together alumnae, friends and supporters of Mount Saint Mary’s University for an afternoon of celebration and gratitude. Held at the Doheny Mansion on December 12, this festive gathering honored the transformative impact of planned giving while offering a warm and joyful setting to reflect on the Mount’s enduring legacy and bright future.

Guests enjoyed a festive luncheon accompanied by the joyful songs of holiday carolers, setting the stage for a program that celebrated the generosity of Heritage Society members. Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson, PhD, shared University updates and expressed appreciation for the group’s commitment, which includes $52 million in bequest intentions pledged this year alone.

“These transformative gifts will fuel innovative academic programs, provide vital scholarships and strengthen our endowment,” President McElaney-Johnson remarked. “Together, we are building a legacy of progress and possibility that will empower Mount students for generations to come.”

The President also previewed exciting initiatives on the horizon, including the launch of new academic programs. Among these are a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and a Doctor of Nursing Practice program, both set to begin in Fall 2025, with a Physician’s Assistant program and Master’s in Social Work following soon after. These are just a few of the several programs planned for the future, all designed to address regional workforce needs while advancing the Mount’s mission of fostering leadership and service.

The luncheon also highlighted the Mount’s upcoming 100th anniversary. Plans for this milestone include a commemorative publication, a documentary produced by the University’s film department and a Homecoming Gala scheduled for October 2025. “As we reflect on the Mount’s first 100 years, it is clear that none of this would be possible without the generosity of those who came before us. Your commitment ensures that the Mount thrives for generations to come,” said President McElaney-Johnson.

The program concluded with a special presentation by Benjamin Cornell, PT, MPT, PhD, a faculty member in the Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, who shared insights into a student-led pro-bono care program that provides free physical therapy clinics to people experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles. In partnership with The Midnight Mission, a nonprofit organization supporting unhoused people, the program has provided a total of 327 physical therapy visits since February 2024.

Dr. Cornell explained that the benefits of this program extend beyond clinical training. “After each clinic, I ask the students, ‘Did you make a difference in someone's life today?’ The answer is always, ‘Yes,’” he said. “To be a great physical therapist, you must have the technical skills and be able to have impactful interactions. This clinic prepares students for both.”

Attendees embraced the spirit of giving by contributing unwrapped gifts to the University’s holiday toy drive. These thoughtful donations were delivered to the St. Joseph Center to be distributed to families and children in need this Christmas season.

As the event drew to a close, attendees were reminded of their vital role in shaping the University’s future. The luncheon celebrated not only the season but also the shared commitment to empowering students and advancing the Mount’s mission of leadership, service and excellence.