Category: Alumni profiles
Alo Slebir: Moving mountains
When alumnus Alessandro “Alo” Slebir slid down the face of a massive wall of water at the famed Mavericks surf break in December, he didn’t know his ride might be a record-breaking 100-foot wave
By Jim Seimas, May 2025
Cristina Valencia: Unlocking the past
Forensic anthropologist Cristina Valencia uses ancient DNA techniques and direct genome sequencing to help solve cold cases—bringing resolution to families who have waited decades for answers
By Haneen Zain (Rachel Carson ’21, politics), May 2025
Kate Compton: Serious play
Alumna Kate Compton is a coder—but more importantly, she’s a creator who reached the top of her field by being curious, caring, and collaborative
By Rachel Raiyani (John R. Lewis ’23, human biology), February 2025
David Huntley and Eric Reynolds: Living outside (the box)
Alumni David Huntley and Eric Reynolds, founders of the outdoor gear maker Marmot, share their story of the company’s beginnings
By Haneen Zain (Rachel Carson ’21, politics), November 2024
Negin and Negar Saei: Sister act
This UCSC alumnae duo, who are now leaders in quantum AI and mobile tech, say their inspiration for success includes their parents, UC Santa Cruz, and each other
By Tara Fatemi Walker (Porter '91, literature/creative writing), November 2024
Leo Merle: On track
Alumnus and former Banana Slug runner Leo Merle will represent Team USA at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, competing in the T38 mid-distance race.
By Haneen Zain (Rachel Carson ’21, politics), August 2024
Abigail Lopez-Byrd: Drawing in community
Alumna Abigail Lopez-Byrd is the founder of nonprofit arts organizations Color Compton and the Compton Art and History Museum
By Rachel Raiyani (John R. Lewis ’23, human biology), June 2024
Ayo Banjo: From campus leader to catalyst for change
Ayo Banjo (Oakes ’21, politics) became the youngest student body president in UCSC history, then went on to develop a vision of transforming communities
By Ayo Banjo and Haneen Zain (Rachel Carson ’21, politics), June 2024