Issuu

SPRING 2025

The American Civics Academy Launches with the First National Civics Bee in California

From the Chairman

Less than two years ago, I had the honor of announcing the American Civics Campaign, a strategic endeavor of the Richard Nixon Foundation to teach elementary, middle and high school students about the fundamentals of American democracy, history, and civics. This ongoing effort is central to the mission of the Richard Nixon Foundation. As President Nixon aptly described in his memoir In the Arena, “We have a magnificent heritage and can never learn too much about it if we are to defend it and pass it on to our children.”

Many of you have answered our appeal to reclaim American history and, thanks to your generous support, the Foundation is already putting educational initiatives into action with the launch of the American Civics Academy. This year the Nixon Library welcomed middle school students to compete in the first-ever National Civics Bee competition in the state of California and elementary students to participate in the Orange County Gift of History Program. Local high school students are already enrolled to start an honors civics course this Fall, developed through a partnership between the Richard Nixon Foundation and the Placentia Yorba Linda Unified School District. Through a combination of leveraging partnerships and developing new content, these programs will become models and extend their reach in the coming years.

Furthering the impact of President Nixon’s legacy are the Foundation’s two flagship annual conferences. The Nixon National Cancer Conference was held in January and the Grand Strategy Summit will be on October 21 and 22 in Washington, DC. These events highlight the breadth of President Nixon’s domestic and foreign policy while applying his bold, insightful strategy to today’s challenges.

As we look ahead to America’s milestone birthday celebration in 2026, you will see in the pages of this magazine how the Richard Nixon Foundation is staying active and relevant while carrying on President Nixon’s vision to renew the spirit of America for another 250 years.

Very truly yours,

ROBERT C. O’BRIEN, CHAIRMAN

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Robert C. O’Brien, Chairman

Charlie Zhang, Treasurer

Lisa Argyros

James Byron

John H. Carley

Christopher Nixon Cox

Tricia Nixon Cox

Steven L. Craig

Monica Crowley

Julie Nixon Eisenhower

Melanie Eisenhower

Callista Gingrich

Hugh Hewitt

Lawrence M. Higby

Ming Hsieh

Blake Kernen

Bobbie Greene Kilberg

William Kilberg

Marlene Malek

James Mazzo

Maureen Drown Nunn

John Rakolta, Jr.

Geoff Shepard

J. Peter Simon

Daniele Struppa

David Tukey

DIRECTORS EMERITUS

Everett Alvarez, Jr.

George L. Argyros

James H. Cavanaugh

Barbara Hackman Franklin

Gavin S. Herbert, Sr.

Tod R. Hullin

Kenneth L. Khachigian

Richard (Sandy) Quinn

Ronald H. Walker

Pete Wilson

James Byron, President & CEO

Carrie Anderson, Editor

Joe Lopez, Executive Editor

UPCOMING EVENTSUPCOMING EVENTS

MAY

26 Memorial Day

11 AM Commemoration Ceremony

Pay tribute to America’s fallen warriors at a wreath laying ceremony and program.

JUNE

21 Nixon 5K Run/Walk for Title IX

8 AM Race start

Bring your family, friends, sports teams and community groups to this annual event to celebrate the achievements of Title IX. Athletes are encouraged to wear their favorite team gear supporting female sports! This is accessible for runners of all levels; strollers are welcome and dogs are allowed. Following the race, guests are invited to stop by the vendor fair in the Library parking lot!

JULY

4 Independence Day

Celebrate America’s birthday all day with free cherry pie, interactive educational programming, and an opportunity to meet and take photos with our Founding Fathers!

AUGUST

22 Meet General Stanley McChrystal

7 PM Book Talk and Signing

Come and hear McChrystal share his blueprint for living from his new book, On Character. Drawing from a lifetime of experience, he will distill profound insights on setting and meeting standards and offer practical advice on overcoming obstacles and pursuing self-improvement.

SEPTEMBER

11 Patriot Day

11 AM

Remember the victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks and the lives it continues to impact at this somber yet inspirational commemoration ceremony.

OCTOBER

1 From Richard Nixon and Georges Pompidou: USA, France and Europe

Held in partnership with the Institut Georges Pompidou at the French Embassy in Washington, DC, this conference will explore 250 years of French-American relations.

21 & 22 Grand Strategy Summit

Make plans to attend the Richard Nixon Foundation’s flagship foreign policy conference in Washington, DC. Visit grandstrategysummit.com for the latest details and speaker announcements.

New this summer!

Saturday morning yoga sessions in the Pat Nixon garden with seasoned instructor Suzanne LaRoque. Coffee and snacks will be available after the class. Visit nixonfoundation.org/events for dates and tickets.

New events are regularly added. Check nixonfoundation.org/events for the most current listing of upcoming events.

‘‘ I think that teaching kids my age to be active and informed citizens is one of the best things you can do to improve our society, because as we grow older we will keep those habits and be able to participate as good citizens.”

— Reagan Kemmerer, 8th grader and 1st place winner

Middle School Civics Champions Compete at the First National Civics Bee ® in California

From the writings of America’s founders to landmark Supreme Court cases and constitutional amendments, twenty middle schoolers showcased their mastery of civics knowledge in the inaugural National Civics Bee® competition in the state of California at the Nixon Library in March.

This historic regional competition of the National Civics Bee was sponsored by a partnership between The Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Richard Nixon Foundation. Middle schoolers from public, private and home schools in Southern California were invited to enter the competition by submitting an essay describing a problem in their community that they would solve using civic principles.

Students with the top twenty essays were invited to compete in the two-round competition on March 12, 2025. In the first round, the twenty students competed live on stage in a twenty-question multiple-choice quiz. Audience participation was encouraged as viewers could join the quiz on their devices.

Students with the top ten scores advanced to the next round, where they presented a summary of the civics projects from their essays and then answered questions from a panel of judges. From planning to regulate e-bikes to improving wildfire management, these students showed how they want to be active, engaged citizens in their communities.

The distinguished judges comprised Orange County civic leaders, including the Honorable Gaddi Vasquez, Ray Dunne, the Honorable Lisa Sparks, Jolynn Mahoney, and the Honorable Natalie Rubalcava

The top three students were awarded cash prizes, and the top ten advanced to the next round—the California State Finals, which will be held on June 21 at the Reagan Library. There, they will compete for a trip to Washington, DC, to participate in the National Championship and win the grand prize of $100,000.

This event is a key initiative of the Richard Nixon Foundation’s American Civics Campaign. Recognizing a donation from Trish O’Donnell, the Foundation unveiled the Trish O’Donnell Cup, a trophy that will proudly display the name of every California state champion of the National Civics Bee.

The National Civics Bee, a program of The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is in its second year. The growing competition now has forty states participating. Representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation traveled from Washington, DC to attend and mark the occasion of the first event in California.

Over 10,000 Third Graders Experience an Interactive History Lesson

Enthusiastic cheers of “OC” rang out in the East Room of the Nixon Library on April 24, 2025, as more than 350 local third graders participated in an interactive journey through Orange County’s history. An additional 10,000 third graders across the county joined the annual OC Day of History program for a virtual field trip via livestream.

Stan Oftelie, local history author, and Chris Lowe, Trish O’Donnell Director of Education at the Nixon Foundation, guided the students through a live scavenger hunt featuring video and in-person messages from local civic leaders and other special guests including Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools, Henry DiCarlo, Emmy award-winning AMS meteorologist at KTLA 5, Kristy Van Doren-Batson, granddaughter of

Vans founder Paul Van Doren and Freddie Freeman, First Baseman for Los Angeles Dodgers and Orange County native.

The third graders were encouraged to shout out answers as history came to life in the interactive lesson that focused on teaching that history is all around us and individuals have the power to impact their communities. Following state curriculum, the students covered a broad range of local history and governance including maps, law and order, water and environmental management and the famous people and places of Orange County, all while earning pieces of a badge to be members of the Orange County Secret History Club. All participants received a copy of the book Nothing Rhymes with Orange to take a deeper dive into local history.

Live from the Nixon Library

The annual OC Day of History is presented by the Richard Nixon Foundation in partnership with the Children’s Education Foundation of Orange County and the Gift of History program, an award winning multi-agency, countywide history program that creates civic pride, builds 21st-century skills, and promotes community engagement among third grade students. As described by Hilda Sugarman, Chair of the Gift of History, “This program brings community together with the pride of Orange County.”

To mark the occasion, Orange County Supervisor Donald P. Wagner presented a proclamation recognizing April 25, 2025 as Orange County Local History Day. This is the 17th year of the Gift of History program and its second year at the Nixon Library. The Gift of History program is an initiative of the Richard Nixon Foundation’s American Civics Academy, a strategic endeavor to teach elementary, middle and high school students about the fundamentals of American democracy, history, and civics.

To learn more about our civics education initiatives contact Chris Lowe at chrisl@nixonfoundation.org.

Honors Civics Course Developed for High School Students

During the 2025-26 school year, local high school students can enroll in a new Honors Civics course developed by a partnership between the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District and the Richard Nixon Foundation. Students enrolled in this unique, hands-on course, will participate in weekly sessions at the Nixon Library where they will learn how to research using primary source materials. During each semester the students will complete capstone projects (one on speech writing and one on civic action) that will build research and writing skills while teaching how to be active citizens.

The Enduring Legacy

From White House Restoration to Global Impact: Using Archives to Explore the Role of the Modern First Lady

On March 11, 2025, the Richard Nixon Foundation partnered with the National Archives and Records Administration for First Ladies & The White House: Initiatives and Impacts. This second annual symposium gathered historians, authors and Nixon Administration officials to explore the importance of the First Lady’s role and the White House in American culture.

Secretary Barbara Franklin, 29th U.S. Secretary of Commerce, delivered remarks to open the symposium stating, “It is fitting that this event takes place just five days before the 113th anniversary of the birth of First Lady Pat Nixon. Mrs. Nixon did so much during her years in the White House both in terms of initiatives and impact.”

The first panel titled The Changing Role of the First Lady used the First Ladies’ own words from speeches, letters and diary entries to explore how the modern role of First Lady continues to evolve. The panelists discussed how National Archives records can be utilized to compare the initiatives and contributions of twentieth-

century First Ladies with a focus on Eleanor Roosevelt, Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon, Betty Ford, Rosalynn Carter and Laura Bush.

In the second panel, The People’s House, White House historians explored the extensive White House renovation and restoration projects starting in the nineteenth century and continuing with the major changes during the Truman and Nixon administrations. First Lady Pat Nixon’s efforts to make the White House the People’s House were highlighted in addition to her extensive renovation project that added more than 600 pieces to the White House Collection.

The programming concluded with a moderated Q&A between White House Curator Donna Hayashi Smith and Tamara Martin, Director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Hayashi Smith spoke about what it is like to work in the White House and highlighted some special pieces of the White House collection while sharing that over forty items acquired by First Lady Pat Nixon are still displayed in the Green Room today.

of First Lady Pat Nixon

Celebrating First Lady Pat Nixon with Community Involvement

On March 16, 1912 — 113 years ago — First Lady Pat Nixon was born, just one day shy of St. Patrick’s Day. Her Irish father, Will Ryan, decided to observe her birthday one day late, dubbing her “my St. Patrick’s Babe in the morning.” Continuing the tradition started by her family, the Richard Nixon Foundation’s annual Pat Nixon Day of Service was held this year on St. Patrick’s Day.

In honor of First Lady Pat Nixon’s commitment to service, her annual birthday commemoration features a community involvement fair. This interactive event connects visitors with ways to give back to the community while showcasing many of the causes that the First Lady herself championed.

A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the First Lady’s memorial site, featuring remarks from Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40th); Dr. Vikki Shepp, CEO of Girl Scouts of Orange County; Mary Hall, board member of USC Town and Gown; Tamara Martin, Director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum; Joe Lopez, Acting President and CEO of the Richard Nixon Foundation; and an invocation from Rev. Kenneth C. Curry, Pastor at Friendship Baptist Church. The speakers highlighted the First Lady’s Southern California roots and her commitment to volunteerism. After the ceremony, guests celebrated with birthday cake.

This year a new addition to the Pat Nixon Day of Service featured a special evening performance from The Southern California Philharmonic. This all-volunteer orchestra presented three works by composers with disabilities, reflecting Mrs. Nixon’s commitment to making the White House more accessible for all.

Thanks to the following groups for participating in the community involvement fair:

4-H • American Chinese Athletics Assn. • Ardis Foundation • Brea Chamber of Commerce Brothers on a Quest • Crittenton Services for Children & Families • Floral Tea Bakery • Franklin Foundation Girl Scouts of USA • Littlest Angel Guild • Love Yorba Linda • Pat Nixon Republican Women Placentia Chamber of Commerce • Polly’s Pies • Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace Docents

Richard Nixon Foundation membership • Richard Nixon National Archives & Records Administration Office of Young Kim • Southern Army Battalion Recruiting • Sunrise Rotary Club Yorba Linda For Families of Active Military • Yorba Linda Women’s Club • Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce

The annual Pat Nixon Day of Service is made possible thanks to the generous support of The Crean Foundation.

2025 Nixon National Cancer Conference Fosters Discussion on Improving Communication, Utilizing Technology and Building Trust Within the Cancer Care Community

On January 15 and 16, 2025, the fourth annual Nixon National Cancer Conference convened at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. This annual gathering convenes global leaders in cancer research, innovation, education and care, to deliver honest assessments of current benchmarks, catalyze future goals, and be a source of inspiration to patients, doctors and those who support them, advancing the promise rooted in the National Cancer Act of 1971.

The 2025 NNCC featured eighteen speakers across four panels and keynote remarks from then-NIH Director Monica Bertagnolli —in her final public appearance as Director— to tackle improving doctor/patient relationships, the future impact of advances in artificial intelligence, and how new forms of media can help educate and motivate cancer patients.

Left to right: Jim Byron, President & CEO of the Richard Nixon Foundation, Robert Stone, CEO of City of Hope, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, National Institutes of Health Director, Dr. Ellen Sigal, Chairperson of the Friends of Cancer, and Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach, former NCI Director and FDA Commissioner.

‘‘What a deal for American people! We put in a tiny fraction from the government of what it takes to deliver the extra innovation– the extra incentive. What do we get for that? We get a community that is working together to solve problems together. We get a culture of innovation and caring for people with responding to resources. We get a community that is incentivized to write grants and get it funded. I listen to these discussions and think about what money we [the government] put in and what a return on investment we are getting from our Cancer Centers. It’s truly remarkable. The wisdom of the National Cancer Act to create this. Boy, do we take it for granted!”

- Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, recipient of the 2025 Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach Award

During the opening night event, the Richard Nixon Foundation presented the Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach Award to Dr. Monica M. Bertagnolli, 17th director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), whose work as a physician-scientist has placed her at the forefront of clinical oncology. Established in 2024, the Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach Award recognizes individuals whose work has significantly impacted cancer research and treatment, alleviated suffering, extended and saved lives, and whose visionary outlook continues to be a source of inspiration.

Robert Stone, CEO of City of Hope, introduced the award and this year’s honoree. After the award presentation, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli participated in a fireside chat with Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach. The conversation focused on their shared experiences working in oncology in the private sector at major cancer centers and then transitioning to the government sector.

‘‘With the Nixon National Cancer Conference, the Nixon Foundation is fostering the dialogue that drives new ideas for the betterment of our patients and for the future of oncology.”

- Dr. Peter WT Pisters, President of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Ambassador Robert C. O’Brien, Chairman of the Richard Nixon Foundation, opened the conference. Annette Walker, President of City of Hope Orange County and Jim Byron, President and CEO of the Richard Nixon Foundation delivered welcoming remarks.

The second day of the conference featured the following four panels centered around different aspects of the ways we communicate about cancer and a luncheon keynote with a policy update live from Washington, DC.

The Complexity of Cancer Care Today

Communicating about cancer research and treatment options is complex, especially considering the advancements made in treatment since President Nixon’s National Cancer Act of 1971. This panel focused on the patient perspective and ways that doctors and other health care providers can help patients navigate their journey.

Medicine, Cancer and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is bringing about a fundamental transformation to how we interact with the world. As described by Dr. Clifford Hudis, panel moderator, “AI is ubiquitous, universal and provides ever-present tools that are here to stay.” This session explored the ways AI tools are already being implemented to advance cancer research and treatment, discussed the limitations and challenges of using AI and considered what strides can be made in the future.

Luncheon Keynote: What’s Ahead for Cancer Policy

Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-2) joined the conference live from Washington, DC, to give updates on key pieces of legislation upcoming in the recently sworn-in 119th session of Congress. As the Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Rep. Guthrie discussed the bi-partisan effort to get resources for cancer research and care. Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach and Dr. Monica Bertagnolli followed Rep. Guthrie’s remarks with a discussion on the role of government in cancer research and care. They discussed the work of the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Centers, to develop new research and technologies as well as upcoming changes and initiatives centered around the goal to continue to make life better for everyone.

The Crisis of Trust in Health Institutions Today

One of the most significant challenges we face today is the society-wide crisis of confidence and loss of trust in the authority of institutions. Where medicine is concerned, despite the great advances in treatment and care, there has been a loss of trust in both the messenger and the message that was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This panel sought to give an honest assessment of the root causes of distrust so solutions to rebuild the doctor/patient relationship can be implemented.

New Ways —and Means— of Communicating About Cancer

This panel explored how new and reimagined methods of communicating including podcasts, self-published blogs and social media are playing a part in reestablishing trust in medical institutions.

With grateful thanks to those who made possible the 2025 Nixon National Cancer Conference.

Title Sponsor

What if?

What if August 9, 1974, was just another summer day in DC?

What if “Watergate” was just the name of a building?

What if President Nixon stayed in office?

If Nixon Stayed is a bold new docuseries podcast from the Richard Nixon Foundation and Foundwave Productions that reimagines a pivotal time in American history.

Drawing from newly released archives, expert interviews, and deep historical analysis, If Nixon Stayed explores an alternate timeline—one where President Nixon finishes his second term, builds on his 1972 landslide victory, and realizes his sweeping vision for a new American century.

Making a Global Impact

Richard Nixon Foundation Expands Partnership with Chapman University to Launch an International Executive Business Education Program

A first of its kind joint executive education program on global business debuted this spring. Developed through a partnership between the Richard Nixon Foundation and the Chapman University Argyros College of Business and Economics, this new program provides hands-on learning for business executives with a practical focus on areas including entrepreneurship, communications and technology. The inaugural class consisted of entrepreneurs and business executives from firstgeneration Chinese-American enterprises.

Participants in this global business program applied leading theories and hard data to real-world conditions in international, domestic and local contexts in Southern California. The students completed three months of coursework consisting of six class sessions per month including interactive lectures, field trips and student-developed business plan presentations.

Sessions covered topics such as U.S. & China economic and investment environments, the impact of national and local laws on business, the challenge of AI and quantum computing, and differing social media models between the U.S. and China. This multicultural program included instruction in both Chinese and English with courses onsite at both the Nixon Library and Chapman University.

There are plans to continue to offer the course with the U.S. & China focus while expanding it for other international student demographics, especially those aiming to increase their knowledge of and ability to contribute to international commercial opportunities involving Southern California.

For more information, contact Jane Zhang, Ph.D. at jane@nixonfoundation.org

Translation from Chinese: students and professors of the first cohort Nixon Foundation - Chapman University Executive Education on Global Business.

Nixon Foundation President Takes Leave to Manage U.S. National Archives

This February, President Donald J. Trump announced that Jim Byron will serve as Senior Advisor to Acting Archivist, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Byron, who has led the Nixon Foundation as President and CEO since 2021, will take a leave of absence while the Trump administration conducts its search for a full-time Archivist of the United States.

During this interim period, Joe Lopez, the Nixon Foundation’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications, will serve as Acting President and CEO.

Since joining the Foundation in 2012, Lopez has led major marketing and publicity initiatives that have expanded the Nixon Library’s national profile, including the Richard Nixon Centennial Celebration, the 50th-anniversary reunion of American POWs from Vietnam, and the reopening of the Nixon Library following a $15 million renovation.

Annual Tradition Started by First Lady Pat Nixon Returns to the White House this Spring

As First Lady Melania Trump opens the White House gardens to all Americans this Spring, it’s important to remember that the tradition of White House Garden Tours began with First Lady Pat Nixon in 1973.

Until then, the South Lawn had hosted events like the Easter Egg Roll, but Mrs. Nixon wanted something more—a tour where Americans could explore the grounds, learn about their history, and enjoy their beauty. Under her direction, the first Garden Tour featured the Rose Garden, Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, and even the Children’s Garden. A military band played, oversized historical photos were displayed, informational brochures were created, and staff from across the White House came together to make it a special experience for all. It was history and hospitality in full bloom.

In an interview for East Wing magazine about the White House Garden Tours, Bob Bostock, Nixon Foundation consultant, said, “The tour of 1973 very much looks like the tour of 2025, which, I think really speaks to Mrs. Nixon’s vision for this tour.”

The White House Garden Tours were only one component of First Lady Pat Nixon’s initiatives to make the White House more accessible. She also created White House tours for the blind, installed ramps for wheelchair accessibility and created Christmas candlelight tours so the White House could be seen outside of regular working hours. Her impact on the People’s House remains over fifty years later.

Jim Byron being sworn in as Senior Advisor to the Acting Archivist at the US National Archives.

To kick off the original White House Spring Garden Tours, President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon guided a group of student winners of a poster contest sponsored by the Society for a More Beautiful National Capitol through the White House Rose Garden on April 14, 1973.

NIXON LEGACY SOCIETY

Join the Nixon Legacy Society by including the Richard Nixon Foundation in your estate plans and become part of a distinguished circle of supporters dedicated to preserving President Nixon’s legacy and advancing the Foundation’s mission for generations to come.

Planned giving offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact—while potentially providing financial and tax benefits for you and your loved ones today.

The Nixon Legacy Society welcomes gifts through wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and other planned giving arrangements.

To learn more visit nixonfoundation.org/nixonlegacy-society, scan code or contact:

Reina Magana, Membership Manager, 714-364-1108, reina@nixonfoundation.org

Nixon Legacy Society Members:

MARJORIE ACKER*

STANTON ANDERSON*

ALEX AND BARBARA BOWIE

MARTHA A. CHENEY BROOKS*

FRANK CARLUCCI*

JOHN CASTIMATIDIS

VICKI AND MICHAEL CROW

SPENCER DAYTON

WILMA AND FORD DICKERHOFF**

FRANK HOGAN*

PATRICIA HOUSTON

TOD HULLIN

KEN KHACHIGIAN

FRED MALEK*

BILL MARRIOTT

DICK MARRIOTT

MIKE AND SUE NILSSON

ROB ODLE*

TRISH O'DONNELL*

SANDY QUINN

BRUCE WHELIHAN

* Deceased

Scan for more information

LEGACY SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT

Barbara and Alex Bowie

With a generous $3 million estate pledge, Orange County civic leaders Barbara and Alex Bowie have joined the Nixon Legacy Society— advancing the Nixon Foundation’s American Civics Campaign and inspiring others to invest in the future of our nation.

Why they give:

Alex Bowie was a partner at Bowie Arneson Wiles & Giannone and practiced law with Herbert W. Kalmbach, President Nixon’s longtime personal attorney. He played a pivotal role for decades in drawing civil maps and establishing water and land use rights to incorporate cities throughout Orange County.

Ken Khachigian

The Nixon Library is a vital educational asset, and the American Civics Campaign will positively impact our youth at a time when civics knowledge is declining.

“We are thrilled to support this critical effort.”

As a former speechwriter and advisor to President Nixon, Ken Khachigian’s $150,000 planned gift to the Nixon Legacy Society carries deep personal significance—honoring a legacy he helped shape firsthand.

A Legacy of Leadership

Ken’s remarkable career positioned him at the center of some of the 20th century’s most consequential moments. As a gifted speechwriter and trusted advisor to Presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, he shaped the rhetoric of the Cold War and helped define an era.

As a founding Director of the Richard Nixon Foundation, he played a central role in the creation of the Nixon Library and oversaw its dedication on July 19, 1990, ensuring it would serve as a lasting resource for preserving history.

The Lion of California Politics

Widely praised as “the lion of California politics” and “the premier Republican strategist and wordsmith,” Ken Khachigian embodies a lifelong commitment to American history and civic life.

His bestselling new book, Behind Closed Doors: In the Room with Reagan & Nixon, offers a rare insider’s perspective on presidential leadership at defining moments in our nation’s history.

Distinguished DistinguishedSpeaker

Congressman Mike Waltz

October 24

Nixon Seminar member and the first Green Beret elected to U.S. Congress, Rep. Waltz, shared lessons from his newly released book, Hard Truths: Think and Lead Like a Green Beret. Within weeks of his Nixon Library visit, Waltz was nominated to service in President Trump’s Cabinet as National Security Advisor.

Secretary Wilbur Ross

October 29

The 39th United States Secretary of Commerce shared lessons in civics from his new book, Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life, which includes advice gained from a 55-year career on Wall Street followed by service in President Trump’s administration.

Veterans Day

November 11

A weekend of events to honor veterans included a patriotic concert from The Huntington Beach Concert Band and a wreath-laying ceremony with remarks from Navy Captain Dan Pedersen (Ret.), creator of TOPGUN

Former Congressman Chris Cox

November

22

Speaking on his new biography, Woodrow Wilson: The Light Withdrawn, Congressman Cox explained why it is time to take a new assessment of President Wilson’s legacy, especially his role in the long national struggle for racial equality and women’s voting rights.

Captain Sam Brown

December

2

Captain Sam Brown, a Purple Heart recipient and former Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate from Nevada, shared his inspiring story of overcoming being severely burned in Afghanistan in 2008 while serving in the U.S. Army. Brown emphasized the importance of hope in overcoming challenges and finding purpose in life after trauma which he wrote about in his memoir, Alive Day

President Nixon’s Birthday Commemoration

January 10

Guests filled the Pat Nixon Amphitheater at the Nixon Library for a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating President Nixon’s 112th birthday. Featured speakers Rear Admiral Robert Nowakowski, Deputy Commander, Naval Education and Training Command – Force Development and Fred Mendoza, Member of President Nixon’s Cabinet Committee on Spanish-Speaking People, reflected on President Nixon’s accomplished legacy of service while sharing personal examples his leadership directly impacted their lives and communities.

Distinguished Speaker Series

Series SpeakerDistinguishedSeries Speaker Series

Presidents’ Day

February 17

History and civics came to life for visitors during this annual interactive event. Patriotic music from Mountain Fifes & Drums greeted visitors as they interacted with some of America’s favorite Presidents.

Eric Schmidt

March 4

Technologist, entrepreneur, philanthropist and former Google Chairman & CEO Eric Schmidt visited the Nixon Library to talk about the emerging and quickly-evolving technology of artificial intelligence while focusing on the process of writing two books on the subject with Dr. Henry Kissinger. The latest of those books, Genesis: Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit, was Dr. Kissinger’s twenty-second and final book.

“President Nixon and Dr. Kissinger changed the world for the better. When you tour the exhibits here [at the Nixon Library] you remember the incredible challenges they faced and how well they navigated it.”

– Eric Schmidt

Martha Blanding and Tim O’Day

March 31

An inspiring evening featured Martha Blanding, a trailblazer who made history as Disneyland’s first Black tour guide and built a 50-year career at The Walt Disney Company and her co-author and Disney historian Tim O’Day.

Steve Hilton

April 3

California Gubernatorial Candidate Steve Hilton spoke about the major takeaways from his newly released book, Califailure: Reversing the Ruin of America’s Worst-Run State. After describing his personal process of becoming an American citizen, Hilton followed by an assessment of California, with evidence of decline, while offering positive, practical ideas for policy reform.

OPENING NOVEMBER 17, 2025

A new, original special exhibit experience journeying through 250 years of American history.

A s the cornerstone of the Richard Nixon Foundation's America 250 commemoration, the Nixon Library will open a year-long special exhibition that tells the American story from the thirteen colonies to the social and technological changes during the Cold War.

This artifact-heavy exhibit will feature iconic emblems of American history from many of the country's preeminent institutions including: Mount Vernon, the Smithsonian, the Massachusetts Historical Society, the National Monument at Gettysburg, the California State Archives, other presidential libraries and prominent private collections. This is a rare opportunity to view artifacts from all over the country and from every period of America's history assembled together.

Artifacts on display will include:

H Declaration of Independence commissioned by John Quincy Adams in 1823

H George Washington's presidential china

H Relics from the Battle of Gettysburg

H A piece of the Wright brothers' airplane

H Thomas Edison's lightbulb submitted for patent

H Henry Ford's business suit

H Duke of Wellington Sword, presented to General Dwight D. Eisenhower by the City of London

H Pop culture icons including Marilyn Monroe's gloves and the jacket worn by the Fonz in Happy Days

This exhibit will inspire a sense of national pride and reflection in the ongoing progress of an audacious experiment that came into being on July 4, 1776.

Stanton Anderson

Stanton D. Anderson, age 84, passed away on January 12, 2025, at his home in Santa Barbara, California.

Stan had a distinguished career spanning law, politics, and business. His involvement in national political affairs began in 1972, and he played key roles in managing several Republican conventions. Notably, he served as Counsel to the Reagan-Bush Campaign in 1980 and held a senior position in the Presidential Transition of that year. His career also included time in the White House during the Nixon and Ford Administrations, along with senior roles in the State Department under Henry Kissinger.

Stan was honored with several Presidential appointments, including serving on the President's Advisory Committee on Trade Negotiations and the Presidential Commission on Personnel Interchange. He chaired the U.S. delegation to the 1981 United Nations Conference on New and Renewable Energy Resources.

After his government service, Stan went on to a successful legal and business career.

Sally Inge Buikema

Sally Inge Buikema passed away November 17, 2024. Born in La Junta, CO on May 9, 1942, Sally attended the University of Denver and went on to serve every Republican President from Richard Nixon through George W. Bush. She was a proud member of the Senior Executive Service and she worked in leadership positions on Capitol Hill. She was a pillar of the Old Town Alexandria community in Virginia. During the Nixon administration, Sally worked as a secretary for the White House Appointments Office and a receptionist to President Nixon when he worked in the Executive Office Building.

Trish O’Donnell

Patricia “Trish” O’Donnell, beloved philanthropist and a pillar of service in Orange County, passed away on May 3, 2025. Born Patricia Dwyer on December 22, 1938, in Evanston, Illinois, she moved to Southern California with her family in 1941, a place she would make an impact for the rest of her life.

Trish attended the University of Southern California, where she majored in sociology. On July 2, 1960, she married John David O’Donnell, a successful entrepreneur and real estate developer. Their loving partnership lasted 56 years until his passing in 2016.

Throughout her life, Trish was deeply involved in politics, education, and charitable work. She played a key role in founding a daycare center with the Assistance League, helped

Trish O’Donnell, continued youth through Angelitos de Oro (supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters), and actively raised funds for Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Hoag Hospital Foundation, the Orange County Rescue Mission, and Cristo Rey High School.

Her generous gift to the Richard Nixon Foundation’s American Civics Campaign enabled the Foundation to hire its first director of education in 2024 and establish the role it as an endowed position. In her honor, the “Trish O’Donnell Cup” is awarded annually to the California State winner of the National Civics Bee.

Her legacy of compassion, leadership, and civic devotion will continue to inspire generations to come.

Anne Collins Walker

Anne Collins Walker, age 85, of Tucson, AZ and Jackson, WY, passed away on January 21, 2025. Anne was a deeply devoted wife to The Honorable Ronald H. Walker for 66 years and a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who touched the lives of many with her faith, kindness, generosity, and humorous spirit.

Anne graduated from the University of Arizona, where she met Ron—the great love of her life—and they began their journey of remarkable service and adventure. She proudly served in Ronald Reagan’s White House and authored China Calls: Paving the Way for Nixon’s Historic Journey to China which tells the story of the advance team sent to China to prepare for President Nixon’s visit.

Throughout her life, Anne was active in politics, parks and community service. Anne played an important and faithful role in preserving the legacy of President Nixon. She was alongside Ron throughout his career of public service which included serving as Director of the White House Advance Office in the Nixon administration and Director of the National Park Service.

When Ron “came out of retirement” to serve as President of the Richard Nixon Foundation from 2009 to 2010 and Chairman of the Board of Directors from 2010 to 2018 —overseeing the renovation of the Nixon Library, the centennial celebrations of President Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon and the expansion of the Foundation’s educational programs—Anne was his partner, even blogging about the experience as a way to stay connected with the extended Nixon administration alumni.

Trish O’Donnell with her grandson, Oliver, and the 2021 recipients of the Architect of Peace award, Ambassador Robert O’Brien and Secretary Mike Pompeo.