Pepperdine Graduate Schools Unite for Waves Weekend West LA Networking Mixer

On Friday, October 3, 2025, Pepperdine University graduate school alumni, faculty, staff, and students gathered at Whiskey Red’s in Marina del Rey for the second annual Waves Weekend – West LA Networking Mixer. The event, held in celebration of Waves Weekend—Pepperdine’s homecoming tradition—brought together more than 140 members of the Pepperdine community for an evening of connection, celebration, and purpose.

Overlooking the scenic marina, guests enjoyed food, refreshments, dessert, and a relaxed, coastal atmosphere. The event featured a photo booth kiosk, a gift basket giveaway, and plenty of opportunities for guests to reconnect, share stories, and expand their professional networks. Many attendees stayed well past the official end time, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie that defined the evening.

This West LA Networking Mixer was founded by Dr. Renee Dorn, Director of Alumni Engagement for the Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), and Nicole Logan, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement for the Graziadio Business School. The event was created to ensure that Pepperdine graduate school alumni could participate in Waves Weekend festivities—even if they were unable to attend the Malibu celebration.

“Waves Weekend is about bringing our alumni community together in meaningful ways,” said Dorn. “This mixer allows our graduate school alumni to celebrate their Pepperdine connection closer to home while still feeling part of the larger University tradition.”

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event in El Segundo, the 2025 mixer saw participation grow from 104 attendees to 141. Organizers hope to see continued growth in future years as the West LA event becomes a beloved complement to the Malibu celebration.

Waves Weekend remains a highlight of the year for Pepperdine alumni, embodying the University’s spirit of belonging, community, and lifelong connection.