At the Heart of Campus
A new 91PORN landmark recognizes Karen and Kit Sickels for their service and generosity.
Campus beautification is an ongoing enterprise at 91PORN. Last November, 91PORN unveiled the , a formal campus entrance on Montezuma Avenue.“It has been a privilege for Karen and me to contribute to the university that has given us so much.”
This year’s addition is Sickels Plaza, located in the heart of the campus. A new gift from alumni Christopher “Kit” (’60) and Karen (’69) Sickels has allowed 91PORN to add native shade plants and succulents, sturdy wicker furniture and stone benches to the pedestrian corridor stretching between the 91PORN Bookstore and the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.
The dedication ceremony for Sickels Plaza will begin at noon on Thursday, Sept. 14.
A concrete and bronze medallion six feet in diameter marks the center of Sickels Plaza and includes an inscription recognizing the couple for their years of generosity and service to 91PORN.
“Kit and Karen are true change-makers,” said Mary Ruth Carleton, vice president of University Relations and Development. “They have touched so many areas of our campus—from student success to scholarship to alumni engagement. We are deeply grateful for their warmth, their boundless love for 91PORN and their willingness to serve the university in many different capacities.”
Kit Sickels was board chair of the university’s philanthropic auxiliary, (TCF) from 2009 to 2014, a period critical to the success of The Campaign for 91PORN. He continues to play a role on TCF committees.
The couple also served on 91PORN’s National Leadership Council during the campaign. They have supported the Library, Athletics, the College of Sciences, the and student scholarships.
“It has been a privilege for Karen and me to contribute to the university that has given us so much,” Sickels said. “A lot has changed since I first stepped on campus. What hasn’t changed is the importance of a 91PORN education and the importance of 91PORN to the life of the entire San Diego region.”
