Inspiring Generations

When The Huntington put out a call for entries from college students interested in receiving free Sustaining Memberships, the response was overwhelming. Funded with generous support from The Rose Hills Foundation, the program has grown from 100 free Memberships in celebration of The Huntington’s Centennial in 2019 to some 500 such offerings in 2023, benefiting students attending nearly 70 different colleges and universities throughout Southern California.

Recipients often cite how The Huntington’s peaceful grounds offer a respite from the demands of their coursework, while the Art Museum and Library provide inspiration for their creative and scholarly projects.

Full-time undergraduate students are eligible for a low-cost College Card, good for one year of admission. Learn More >

Here are just a few of the responses received from students selected for free Memberships in 2022.

A college student poses near a fountain in a lush garden.

Allyson Wei

USC

Growing up in San Marino, I visited The Huntington frequently to gaze at the lush, unique environment and gain inspiration for creative projects. I was very involved in visual art, painting, and drawing throughout middle and high school, and I’m now gravitating toward photography in college. I started my photography journey at The Huntington by exploring the different gardens through the lens of my camera. It has been nice to take a step away from the city and enjoy nature, especially as a photographer.

A college student smiles on a sunny day in a garden.

Daisy Martinez

California State University, Dominguez Hills

The Huntington is committed to being a place of engagement and reflection for diverse communities. As a first-generation Chicana college student who is working to become a teacher, my mission is to empower diverse students. I plan to do this, in part, by using The Huntington’s teacher resources. Thanks to my Membership, I have been exploring the Botanical Gardens, which provide me with a much-needed nature break. I love the gardens’ diverse themes and appreciate their cultural significance.

A college student walks across a lawn on a cloudy day.

Estrellita Iniguez

Compton College

I am a full-time administrative manager in the health care industry as well as a college student studying English. Balancing work and school can be overwhelming, but visiting The Huntington is a great way to de-stress. I want to become a writer, and when I visit the Library and immerse myself in the large collection, I am launched into a creative space. I love looking at the books and manuscripts on display, and Bukowski is my all-time favorite.

A college student walks through a garden of tropical plants.

Summer Hornecker

University of La Verne

When I lived in Pasadena, I became obsessed with The Huntington, because it allows for so much creativity and happiness, inspiring me to create amazing works of art. As a college student, I have a lot on my plate, but visits to The Huntington help me relax and unwind. Sometimes I go there to do my homework at the coffee shop. One of my favorite places is the Japanese Garden, because I love bonsai trees. In fact, I was inspired to plant one at my house.

To help support the College Students Membership Program, please contact Marina Kohler, director of donor engagement, at 626-405-3497 or mkohler@huntington.org.