By The Oneonta Club Board
The Oneonta Club Foundation marked its 50th annual banquet on May 12 at the War Memorial Building in South Pasadena, continuing its longstanding tradition of recognizing academic excellence and dedicated educators.
In a celebration attended by 100 Club members, school officials, and local dignitaries, three South Pasadena High School seniors were awarded the prestigious Philip V. Swan Scholarships. Additionally, two exemplary teachers were honored with grants for their outstanding dedication to student success.
SPHS Seniors Awarded Scholarships for Academic and Community Achievements
Hosted by Club Board member and SPHS alum Tom Rogers, the evening began with a lively performance by the South Pasadena High School Jazz Band, led by new conductor Tim Orindgreff. The festivities also included a cherished Oneonta Club tradition—singing the school’s alma mater, joined by scholarship recipients, honored teachers, and SPHS alumni.
Foundation President Dean Serwin welcomed the guests, emphasizing the organization’s mission to support exceptional students as they embark on their college journeys.
The 2025 Philip V. Swan Scholarship recipients are:
- Benjamin Regan, who will attend Oberlin College to study communications and Spanish while playing baseball. Regan co-captained the SPHS baseball team, edited the Tiger newspaper, and spearheaded the “Hope, Soap, and Blankets” initiative for the unhoused community.
- Austin Hwang, future UC Berkeley civil engineering student, served as SPHS ASB president. He plans to design homes and renewable energy projects for underserved communities and has already contributed to a housing project benefiting 150 people.
- Theo Hilger, set to study Agricultural Engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, led the boys varsity water polo team to its first CIF and state championships. Hilger also dedicated his carpentry skills to rebuilding structures in the Altadena burn area.
Teachers of the Year Recognized for Dedication
Foundation Scholarship Chair Carl von Bibra presented SPUSD’s Teachers of the Year awards, including a $1,000 grant and commemorative plaque for each educator:
- Eva Muniz, Monterey Hills School, praised for her innovative teaching strategies and strong community relationships.
- Katy Chen, South Pasadena Middle School honors and accelerated math teacher, recognized for her dedication and leadership in organizing the annual student trip to Washington, D.C.
Honoring Community Leaders and Legacy
The banquet also honored retiring Music Director Paul Killian for his 30 years of service and SPUSD Superintendent Dr. Geoff Yantz, who shared a retrospective of the district’s progress during his 12-year tenure.
“As we celebrate the Foundation’s 50 years,” said Oneonta Club President Charlie Wilson, “we are reminded of the power of investing in the future, in our educators and our youth. This evening perfectly reflects the spirit and legacy of our Club.”
Foundation’s Enduring Mission
Serwin concluded the evening by announcing the upcoming 50th Anniversary Fundraising Gala this September.
Founded in 1975 by Philip V. Swan, the Oneonta Club Foundation has awarded over $700,000 in scholarships to South Pasadena students. The Oneonta Club, established in 1923, continues to foster community service, leadership, and academic achievement through its mission of building friendships and supporting future leaders.
