Penni McRoberts
Member-at-Large
Class: 1971
Degree: BA
Major: Sociology
Term Expires: 5/31/10

A proud alumna of Chapman University and World Campus Afloat, Penni McRoberts ’71 credits her Chapman experience to her global perspective and hunger for knowledge. As an undergraduate, Penni worked on campus in the Graduate Office and was a member of the Thetas service organization. The spring semester of her sophomore year she sailed as a student aboard the Ryndam with the World Campus Afloat program which proved to be a pivotal point in her life, awakening her to the thrill of learning about and exploring our extraordinary
world.  Exposure to the colorful tapestry and diversity of the world’s cultures, customs, and richness of lives was also a life-changing experience.

Upon graduating from Chapman with a BA in Sociology, she earned a secondary teaching credential while working for World Campus Afloat, and subsequently worked her way around the world during a second and third voyage aboard the SS Universe as Secretary to the Dean on both the Fall ’73 and Fall ’74 voyages.

Penni’s journey to Chapman started as a member of the Disciple of Christ church in Sacramento through the encouragement of other members who had been Chapman students, both young and old.  Not only was the small intimate liberal arts campus a perfect environment for her, but she is grateful for the excellent education she received.  Perhaps the most significant contribution Chapman has had on her life is the indelible imprint of life-long friends made while a student.  These exceptional relationships continue today to be precious and extraordinary gifts.

She is excited about sharing her energy, time, and resources with the Alumni Association to help promote Chapman to alumni and the community at large, as well as invest her time and talent to strengthen the ties that bind the University to the greater good—that of educating young, bright students and influencing lives that can, and will, change the world.

Throughout the years she has stayed involved in Chapman campus life.  Through her continued involvement with Chapman events such as American Celebration, Homecoming, and on-campus lectures, as well as being an active member of Town and Gown, Penni has been able to remain connected to the University and the many individuals who have, and continue to be, an inspiration in her life.

Involved in nonprofits since 1991, Penni now serves as Director of Development and Communications for the Council on Aging of Orange County, a private nonprofit corporation providing free services to older and disabled adults across the county. Penni strives to make Orange County a kinder, gentler, and friendlier community for the elderly. Penni lives in Santa Ana with her son, Alex, a college student.