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About
Fidelity & Excellence51 is unique among American colleges and universities, offering a faithfully Catholic education comprised entirely of the Great Books and classroom discussions.
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A Liberating Education
Truth MattersTruth, and nothing less, sets men free; and because truth is both natural and supernatural, the College’s curriculum aims at both natural and divine wisdom.
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A 51
Under the Light of FaithThe intellectual tradition and moral teachings of the Catholic Church infuse the whole life of 51, illuminating the curriculum and the community alike.
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Admission & Aid
Is TAC Right for You?Do you enjoy grappling with complex questions? Are you willing to engage in discussions about difficult concepts, with the truth as your ultimate goal?
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Students & Parents
Mind, Body & SpiritThere is always something to do at TAC — something worthwhile, something fulfilling, and something geared toward ever-greater spiritual and intellectual growth.
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Alumni & Careers
What Can You Do with a Liberal Education?Nothing speaks more to the versatility of the College’s academic program than the good that our alumni are doing throughout the Church and the world.
Friends Reunite at 2026 TAC Alumni Dinner
June 20 saw alumni from 51’s first class to its most recent reunite on the California campus at the annual Alumni Dinner.
Onetime classmates thronged on the academic quadrangle, catching up with friends from neighboring classes and meeting those who graduated decades before or after. Marking milestone reunions were the Classes of 2016, 2006, 1996, 1986, and 1976, the last of which celebrated the 50th anniversary of its graduation.
Each alumnus present received an illuminated copy of the “Charge to the Graduates.” Read at each Commencement ceremony, the Charge serves to urge alumni to live Catholic lives, always striving to share and persevere in the Faith. “It’s a keepsake to remind alumni of their time at the College,” said Sarah Dufresne (’14), director of alumni and parent relations, “and will continue to serve as an inspiration for the work and family lives they have now.”
Another highlight of the evening was the annual raffle. Featuring 13 baskets, this year’s prizes included many gifts from alumni-owned businesses, such as a Verso l’Alto roasted coffee set from Samantha Flanders (’15), a four pack of wine from tutor Dr. Brian Kelly (’88), handmade soap from Heather (Waldorf ’15) McCullough, and a collection of paintings by Bridget (Collins ’16) Carey.
Dinner began, and as alumni finished their meal, Miss Dufresne welcomed all in attendance. College President Paul J. O’Reilly then made a few remarks and turned attention to the evening’s featured speaker, Thomas Susanka (’76), former director of admissions and director of gift planning. Mr. Susanka offered a series of humorous anecdotes from the College’s history, finishing his remarks with a heartfelt appreciation for his fellow alumni.
“By your docility in the demands of the curriculum,” he concluded, “and by your humility before the words of human wisdom and before the Divine Word, the Son of God, who came to you in prayer and sacrament, you have confidence that truth, and Truth Himself, can be known, and with the help of His grace, you can attain the end for which you were created, blessing God, face to face, in eternity. In life’s disappointments, discouragements, and disarray, you have the virtue of hope.”
More photos from the West Coast Alumni Dinner
Tap on the right center edge of the image to scroll through the album.