Tom Garnella (third from left), co-chair of this year’s Founders’ Day, poses with Matty and fellow yell leader at CSUN’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2008. Photo by Lee Choo.

When Tom Garnella ’64 (Elementary Education), M.A. ’74 (Educational Administration) arrived at San Fernando Valley State College, he thought he’d leave after a few semesters for a larger, more recognized school. However, the campus’ great faculty, closeness of the student body, small class sizes and affordability convinced him to stay and create great memories.

“I feel very good about having had the opportunity to attend what was then locally and fondly referred to as Valley State College,” said Garnella, who was involved on campus as the freshman class president, a member of the golf team, a yell leader and a member of Phi Sigma Tau Fraternity, which is now known as Cal Zeta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta. “I call VSC one of the lucky stars in my life.”

Garnella credits California State University, Northridge with providing the basis for his long and successful career as an educator and school district administrator. He is encouraging alumni and friends of CSUN to celebrate the university’s legacy at the annual Founders’ Day celebration on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the University Student Union.

Alumni, faculty, staff and friends are invited to attend the celebration. Alumni who earned their degrees in 1964 and faculty and staff who worked at CSUN during that time will be inducted into the 50-Year Club. CSUN President Dianne F. Harrison will give this year’s keynote address, and attendees will enjoy lunch and campus tours — including a visit to the Student Recreation Center and the newly renovated Matadome.

“It’s an opportunity to reconnect with friends from past years, to become aware of the great accomplishments that the university has made since the 1960s and 1970s and to give thanks to the education,” said Garnella, co-chair of this year’s event.

Emeritus professor Ken Jones, who taught in the Department of Biology for 32 years and is serving as this year’s co-chair, said he came to CSUN because it was one of the few universities that allowed faculty to teach as well as conduct research.

“It was a great place to work,” Jones said.

During his tenure, Jones served as department chair, dean of graduate studies and several other administrative roles that introduced him to colleagues from throughout campus.

“We made a lot of friends, and we had good relationships,” Jones said. “I’m looking forward to seeing people I’ve lost touch with.”

Tickets for Founders’ Day are $35. To purchase tickets or for more information about the event, call (818) 677-1300 or visit the CSUN alumni website.

2014 Founders’ Day

When: Saturday, Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.
Where: University Student Union
What: Luncheon and tours of the Student Recreation Center and the newly renovated Matadome; receptions; welcome from President Dianne F. Harrison and Founders’ Day co-chairs Tom Garnella and emeritus professor Ken Jones; and 50-year inductions.

Cost: $35 per person
Sponsor: CSUN Alumni Association
Attendees: Primarily San Fernando Valley State-era alumni, faculty and staff
RSVP: Open to all on a space-available basis. RSVP by Sept. 19 via online registration or by returning the invitation reply card.
Info: (818) 677-1300 or specialevents@csun.edu