‘Once a Don, Always a Don’: Alumni Celebrate 150 Years of Santa Barbara High

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Santa Barbara High School alums like to say, “Once a Don, always a Don,” and many make it a point to attend the annual All Dons Reunion.

Santa Barbara High School graduates take pride in their mascot, which represents a Spanish gentleman or lord.

This year, they are celebrating the 150th anniversary of Santa Barbara High School.

People of all ages attended the reunion.

The community celebration put the spotlight on some of the oldest alumni, who reminisced about school, sports, history, and more.

“It’s really great. No kidding, I really enjoy it, seeing people here. I quit my senior year because I was gonna be eligible for the draft. And I got my diploma, what, sixty years later? I got to walk down the hill with my grandson!” said Paul Lopez, who was part of the Class of ’43.

A ceremony took place to celebrate the lives of the oldest alumni, including a very special Jane Wickman, who turned 106 this year.

Other All Dons Reunion activities included a car show, music, food, and an auction.