Alumni honor the impact of two longtime SDSU philanthropists
Christopher Sickels and the late Frederick W. Pierce IV received the Ron Fowler Impact Award at a special recognition event.
The 2025 Ron Fowler Impact Award ― established in honor of alumnus, longtime philanthropist and former chair of The Campanile Foundation board of directors Ron Fowler (‘05, LHD) ― this year celebrated two remarkable members of the Aztec family.
During SDSU's annual Evening Celebrating Philanthropy Oct. 20, the awards were given to Christopher D. “Kit” Sickels (‘60) and in memory of the late Frederick W. “Fred” Pierce IV (‘84).
The honor recognizes individuals whose impact extends beyond financial contribution, celebrating their combination of philanthropic generosity, expertise and service that advances the university’s mission and unwavering dedication to community engagement.
The annual recognition event served as a heartfelt tribute, honoring their legacies alongside friends, family, and members of the university donor community.
Fowler, the award's namesake and inaugural recipient in 2024, celebrated the two new recipients’ enduring qualities.
Fowler noted that Pierce's commitment to SDSU was “far-reaching” and that he “truly embodied what it means to be an Aztec for Life.”
Fowler also praised Sickels, a visionary supporter with a relationship to the university stretching over eight decades, saying, “I don't know anyone with a longer and more meaningful relationship to SDSU.”
Pierce earned his bachelor’s in finance in 1984 and an MBA in Real Estate Finance in 1988. A lifelong Greek Life supporter and member of Beta Theta Pi, he served the California State University system as a trustee from 1999 to 2004. Pierce and his wife, Christine, contributed to the Snapdragon Stadium Excellence Fund, naming the upper suite level at the SDSU Mission Valley stadium the Pierce Pavilion. They also supported other programs on campus including SDSU Athletics, student scholarships, and the real estate program in the Fowler College of Business.
Sickels, a native San Diegan and Tau Kappa Epsilon member, earned his B.A. in education from what was then San Diego State College. After a brief teaching career, he worked in real estate development for over 50 years. Sickels and his wife, Karen, last year established the Kit and Karen Sickels Endowed Chair in University Heritage and Community Engagement, with Professor Seth Mallios as the inaugural chair.
For Vice President of University Relations and Development Adrienne Vargas, the Ron Fowler Impact Award is more than recognition.
“This award transcends recognition, reflecting the magnificent culture of philanthropy and service to SDSU — a spirit that donors have tirelessly built over decades,” Vargas said.
The Ron Fowler Impact Award will continue to honor passionate advocates of SDSU's mission, ensuring the university thrives for generations. Fowler stated the award ensures the spirit of “Aztec for Life” is continually recognized.
