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 Frank Applebaum ’24 from Cleveland, Ohio
All eyes were on Frank Applebaum ’24 in March, when he knocked a half-second off the 200-yard butterfly, setting a new national record and capturing the Division III title at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships in Bloomington, Ind.
Millions of eyes will be on Applebaum again on January 2—though this time he’ll be all bundled up—when the Stags star swimmer and 2022 CMS Male Athlete of the Year takes his seat aboard the CMC float in the 134th Rose Parade.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Applebaum is a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and psychology major. He chose CMC because of the caliber of the teachers and students, as well as its small size and sunny Southern California location.
Being on the float is a great honor, Applebaum said. “I am so appreciative of all that the College has done for me. My growth here has come from great professors and great peers.”
Favorite Campus Hangout: Fawcett Lounge.
Favorite Course: “War,” with Professor Jenny Taw.