The support funds established through the initiative by UC Davis current and emeriti faculty and staff were matched by the estate of Charlie Soderquist, a visionary UC Davis graduate alumnus, entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist.

Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies Jeffery C. Gibeling began the event by recognizing the philanthropic efforts demonstrated by the donors and Charlie Soderquist's inspirational work and contributions to UC Davis.

He then introduced Scott Frost, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Chemistry and recipient of the 2012-13 Erika and Walter Jennings Graduate Student Fellowship to speak as a representative of graduate student recipients. "Through this fellowship, and others of the same cloth, graduate education has the chance to thrive at [UC Davis]."

Silvia Hillyer of the Silvia and Ted Hillyer Award also spoke on behalf of the donors. She and her husband who have worked exclusively with graduate students throughout their 31 years here at UC Davis, expressed admiration for the university. "This is a great place, with impressive people, students, and staff alike....It is our pleasure to give this money."

"It is inspiring to receive fellowships, and philanthropy is so important to UC Davis [and the] success of our students in their careers," expressed Dean Gibeling, as the reception came to a close.