Nine Claremont McKenna students (and one recent alumna) are practicing their smiles and waves over winter break, getting ready to take their places on Claremont McKenna’s Rose Parade float as it glides down Colorado Boulevard on January 2, 2023.
These exemplary CMCers will ride the float and represent Claremont McKenna, which celebrates its 75th Anniversary and “bright future” in line with the parade’s theme, “Turning the Corner.”
Meet Elizabeth “Lizzie” Iwicki ’23 from Sammamish, Wash.
For her first Rose Parade, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Iwicki ’23 will have a once-in-a-lifetime vantage point. So will her grandparents, who will be watching from the East Coast.
“I was so happy to tell my grandparents, as I do not see them very often and I am glad they will be able to be a part of this on television,” she said. “My grandma was very excited to hear the news and sent a rose for the float to help me celebrate!”
Selected to ride Claremont McKenna’s Rose Parade float, Iwicki, who hails from Sammamish, Wash. said, “I have not seen the Rose Parade before, and have never been to a parade. I am so excited that my first time seeing a parade will be from the float!”
Majoring in economics with a master's in finance, Iwicki represents the many facets of Claremont McKenna’s student life. She is a student-athlete playing on the Athenas soccer team, Robert Day Scholar, and the CEO of the Student Investment Fund.
“Claremont McKenna is a wonderful community, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this legacy,” she said. “My favorite part of becoming more involved with Claremont McKenna has been meeting alumni and parents. Everyone is so kind and I look forward to connecting with my fellow float riders!”
Favorite Flower: Peony. “They are my favorite because they look different every day. On the first day, they would be closed-up bulbs, and by the end, they were gorgeous blooming flowers.”
Favorite Campus Hangout: “Parents Field on a sunny day!”