A Year Full of Impact: Celebrating Our Alumni Community in 2025
By Marilyn Nguyen (Ryman ‘11), Alumni Engagement Specialist
As we step into 2026 with excitement, we’re taking a moment to look back with gratitude. Thanks to the creativity, generosity, and dedication of our alumni community, 2025 was truly a year full of impact for Ryman Arts. From showing up for students to strengthening programs and celebrating milestones together, our alumni continued to shape the Ryman Arts community in meaningful ways.
Alumni Showing Up for Our Students
Guest artist Audrey Densmore (Ryman ‘11) demonstrating puppeteering at USC
Through the year, alumni played a vital role in supporting and inspiring current Ryman Arts students. Their presence and generosity were felt across programs and events all year long.
Alumni played an active role in supporting the Ryman Arts program, from volunteering at the 2025 Graduation & Student Exhibition to returning as college and career speakers and guest artists. By sharing their experiences and creative journeys, alumni offered students invaluable insight and inspiration from those who once stood in their shoes.
Creative Careers: Working Artist Alumni Panel with Crystal Jow (Ryman ‘12), Lindsey Warren (Ryman ‘99), Liana Sposto (Ryman ‘09), and Megan Broughton (Ryman ‘06) (clockwise)
These moments of connection remind students that they are part of a lasting and supportive creative community.
Giving Back, Together
Robin Enriquez (Ryman ’14) at our holiday Peer-to-Peer Fundraiser kickoff breakfast
Alumni came together in a powerful way to support Ryman Arts’ mission. Our alumni community collectively raised over $16,000 through donations, peer sharing, and advocacy.
Every contribution, whether large or small, helped ensure that Ryman Arts can continue providing free, high-quality studio art education to young artists. We are deeply grateful to every alumnus who gave, shared, or championed Ryman Arts throughout the year.
A Special Evening Celebrating 35 Years
Last October, more than 50 alumni and friends gathered for an unforgettable celebration of Ryman Arts’ 35th Anniversary! The evening was especially meaningful as it took place at Craft Contemporary, where alumnus Rody Lopez (Ryman ‘05) is Executive Director. Surrounded by art and community, the event was filled with reconnection, reflection, and joy as we honored more than three decades of creative impact.
Rody Lopez
During the celebration, Rody reflected: “Ryman Arts didn’t just teach me techniques; it gave me a language. It taught me how to think, how to look closely, and how to connect with those through creativity. That lesson has followed me through every stage of my career, from curator to fundraiser, to now Executive Director of Craft Contemporary…And yes, I still have my original Ryman Arts bin. Mine was black, and it sits on my shelf in office at home as a reminder of where I started and what is possible when someone believes in you before you believe in yourself.”
The inspiring event was made even more special thanks to the generosity of our event sponsors, Artist & Craftsman Supply, Strand Studio founded by alumna Lacey Waterman (Ryman ’02), and Ryman Arts Director of Education Rebecca Tuynman. Guests also enjoyed handmade pizzas from Windsor Hills Pizza, owned by alumnus Luke Lucas (Ryman ’15). Together, we raised over $3,000 in support of Ryman Arts while celebrating the community that makes Ryman Arts so special.
Growing the Alumni College Mentor Program
Peer mentor Madison Rodas-Cabrera (Ryman ‘24) with mentee Lucy Turcios (Ryman ‘25) from Otis College of Art & Design
2025 marked the fourth year of the Alumni College Mentor Program, a milestone that reflects the strength of alumni-to-alumni support. This year, we launched the 2025–26 cohort with 25 mentor–mentee matches spanning 16 colleges and universities across the country.
Miranda Liz Garcia (Ryman ‘25) and her peer mentor Michael Decastro (Ryman ‘21) at UCSD
“Michael already had experience assisting other students, so he knew how to respond to my questions about job opportunities on campus, scholarships, and how the process works. He took the time to discuss the best places to study near my residence building,” shared Miranda. “I enjoyed my first experience with the Ryman Arts College Mentor Program, and we are looking forward to our next meeting.”
Through shared experiences, guidance, and encouragement, this program continues to help alumni navigate college life while strengthening connections across graduating classes.
Alumni Shaping Ryman Arts from Within
Alumni as part of program and organization staff
Alumni impact extends beyond programs and events. In 2025, alumni played vital roles throughout Ryman Arts.
From supporting students as Teaching Assistants and office staff to representing alumni voices on the Ryman Arts Board of Directors, our alumni’s leadership, insight, and experience continue to strengthen Ryman Arts from the inside out.
Alumni Teaching Assistants preparing Art Bins for the first day of class
As we look ahead, we’re energized by the alumni community that continues to show up, lead, and give back in meaningful ways. Their creativity, commitment, and generosity expand what’s possible for young artists and help propel Ryman Arts forward. Here’s to carrying this momentum into the year ahead, and to the powerful impact still to come!