Alan A. Mannason

Giving Back is a Lesson He Wants to Teach

Awarding annual scholarship gifts to students enrolled in Cal State Fullerton’s Music Department is a bit of a sacrifice for Irvine resident Alan A. Mannason. But he believes that “you just can’t keep taking. Life isn’t about one big take. You should give back.”

Mannason wants his six grandchildren to understand this philosophy. As an aficionado of music, dance and theater, he believes that scholarships to deserving composition students acknowledge talented young people who need recognition.

“They earn it,” he says. “They show a great deal of talent and dedication to music. I’m pleased to meet so many young people who are not only talented – they are studied and professional.”

In addition, he says, the Music Department is outstanding. “I can’t say enough about the staff and professors. Their enthusiasm is exciting to see; they are doing this for the love of it.”

A retiree who spent 51 years in the wine and spirits business, Mannason has been involved with Cal State Fullerton since 1999 as a member of the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) and as a mentor to CSUF sales and marketing courses.

Today he and his companion, Patricia Nyborg – who helps review the students faculty selects for scholarships – are members of Music Associates, the MAMM Alliance for the Performing Arts, and Friends of Jazz. He is happy to be awarding the music scholarships as well as pledging a bequest to the new Performing Arts Center.

“The gifts are helping the community grow,” he says.