Pasadena Chamber of Commerce annual Inaugural Gala, June 27, 2025 (Photos – PasadenaChamber)
The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce held its annual Inaugural Gala on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena.
By News Desk
The evening began with a hosted cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by a gourmet dinner and formal program celebrating community leadership, service, and support.
This year’s Gala marked the installation of Frank Girardot of BYD/RIDE as Chair of the Board for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The Chamber also expressed its heartfelt appreciation to Katelyn Barchowsky of Storied Lane Marketing, the outgoing Board Chair, for her dedicated service during the 2024–25 term.
The Chamber welcomed several new officers and Board members, including:
- Roger Huang, East West Bank
- Brandon Stansell, Athens Services
- Ray Asad, Fuller Theological Seminary
- Roger McCarty, California Pizza Kitchen
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of scholarships to emancipated foster youth transitioning from community colleges to four-year universities. Chamber member Womble Bond Dickinson sponsored a special scholarship for one such student.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of scholarships to two students, Cynthia Reyes and Nataly Perez, who are transitioning from community colleges to four-year universities.
The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Foundation also awarded recovery grants to two small businesses displaced by the Eaton Fire. These grants, made possible through a contribution from SoCalGas, are intended to support the businesses in their recovery and reopening efforts.
One of the last honors of the night was the presentation of the Corporate Citizen of the Year Award. This year’s award was presented to Southern California Gas Company.
Congrats