Steve Carmichael ’67 heard many stories about the University of Redlands from his father, Dan Carmichael ’39. That included living in Melrose Hall with singer and actor John Raitt ’39 (singer Bonnie Raitt’s father). “They had a close connection and shared an interest in music and football,” says Steve. Given his Bulldog family connections (including aunt Maudene “Marty” Hoppin ’51 and uncle Harold “Pete” Petersen ’50) and his familiarity with the campus and its traditions, it was a “no brainer” to attend the University. “I even knew the ‘Och Tamale’ before my orientation,” remembers Steve.
A member of Alpha Gamma Nu fraternity, Steve studied business administration and enjoyed close relationships with faculty, including Business Law Professor Harold Kirchner. “The professors had a personal interest in me,” says Steve. “Their encouragement and the ability to talk to me one-on-one gave me a sense of purpose, and that carried through everything I did.”
After serving in the U.S. Navy after U of R graduation, Steve began working in insurance and spent much of his career with Allstate and Northbrook. “When I began working, I realized the value of the education I received,” notes Steve. “Redlands expanded my ability to grow in my career.” He credits content from his U of R classes to helping him bring together people from different backgrounds to build his team.
While she did not attend the University, Steve’s wife, Jane, was already connected to Redlands before they met. After graduating from Columbia Nursing School, she lived on College Avenue and attended the Feast of Lights with a friend in 1963. “I always loved choral music,” says Jane. The couple married in 1972, and they continue to attend the Feast of Lights every holiday season. It’s a tradition that was also beloved by Steve’s parents, Dan and Beverley. “Dad always talked about the Feast, and it was just another example of how Redlands allows you to expand your horizons,” notes Steve.
Steve previously served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and volunteers as his class notes reporter (see page 53). He was recognized in 1991 by the Alumni Association with the Distinguished Service Award for his commitment to the University, which also included service on his class reunion committee and the Orange County chapter. Jane, too, has enjoyed all the Redlands people she has met over the years. “Everyone is so friendly and very committed. Redlands is connected to its students, and a small school makes a difference.”
Among the top leadership donors during the Forever Yours campaign, Steve and Jane’s generous support includes an endowed scholarship, an endowed student science research fund, and an endowed chair in business. As members of the Cortner Society, they also have included a bequest for the University. “We want to strengthen the University and open opportunities that would not otherwise be there,” says Steve. “We also want to make sure the best educators will come to Redlands so they can help students explore new avenues in a wide breadth of experiences.”
For information on how you can create an endowment at the University to support scholarships or faculty, please contact Gabrielle Singh, associate vice president for advancement, at 909-748-8349 or gabrielle_singh@redlands.edu.
