The Pasadena Educational Foundation celebrated 40 years of supporting the Pasadena Unified School District with a festive party on Sept. 15 at the Paseo Colorado Courtyard.

Hundreds of students, families, and community members enjoyed performances from PUSD high school students, food from El Chollo Restaurant, and cupcakes provided by Catina Pollard. Students from Blair's Culinary Arts helped with food service. Steve Tobia, publisher of THE Magazine, was the emcee for a Parade of Students that represented every school in the district. Students marched with pride while displaying icons representing the many educational items and programs that PEF has provided for their schools.  

The party preceded the annual State of the Schools Address that took place across the street at the Pasadena Convention Center.  

PEF's party was the kick-off event for its first-ever Community Awareness Campaign that will run throughout the fall.

Students and parents are invited to a PUSD College Fair on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pasadena City College's Galloway Plaza. 

With college reps on hand from more than 80 colleges and universities from around the country, students and families can explore a diversity of higher education opportunities.  Institutions will include UCLA, USC, UC Berkeley, St. Johns University, University of Arizona, Oregon State University, Stanford, and more.  

Participants can attend workshops to prepare for the college admission process and meet experts who can answer questions about the process, financial aid and more. The free event is sponsored by PEF in partnership with the Pasadena Unified School District, Pasadena City College, and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.