Pierce Looking for Distinguished Alumni

To celebrate what it has produced over the years, Pierce College officials are looking for distinguished former students to honor as part of the school’s 50th anniversary activities.

College officials are seeking nominations of Pierce alumni who have made their mark in the community, in education, or on the job, or who have devoted their time to helping others.

Organizers said they decided to honor outstanding former students because the mission of the college is to create community leaders.

“Essentially what we’re all about is education and students,” said Lyn Koller, a biology instructor and co-chairwoman of the event.

“We want to have students who have been a part of Pierce history.”

She said actor Mark Harmon, who played football at Pierce in 1970, and Doug DeCinces, former third baseman for the Angels and the Baltimore Orioles, as well as Denny Crum, coach of the University of Louisville’s men’s basketball team, are among the distinguished alumni already nominated.

Biology instructor and co-chairman Martin Ikkanda said the nominees have been from many different walks of life, ranging from sports to business.

The honor is open to anyone who attended Pierce, whether they graduated or not, officials said.

Later this year, nominees will be asked to complete a questionnaire, which will be evaluated by a committee that will chose 50 former students who will be honored at a function in April.

To make a nomination, send the name, accomplishments and the nominee’s address to Koller at Pierce College, 6201 Winnetka Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91371.

Nominations also may be made by calling Koller at (818) 710-4138, or Ikkanda at (818) 710-4288.