Campus News
Philanthropist and arts advocate Pat Rebele dies at age 96
Patricia “Pat” Rebele’s quiet generosity helped shape Santa Cruz County for decades.
Pat and Rowland Rebele
Patricia “Pat” Rebele, whose quiet generosity helped shape Santa Cruz County for decades and was a champion for the arts, education and for those less fortunate, died Dec. 15 at the age of 96. The family announced her passing after holding private services earlier this month.
For more than 40 years, Rebele and her husband, the late Rowland “Reb” Rebele, were among UC Santa Cruz’s most ardent backers, offering both philanthropic support and valuable counsel to campus leaders. Their giving strengthened programs across the arts, sciences and student experience, leaving a legacy that will benefit generations of Banana Slugs.
A graduate of UC Santa Cruz, Rebele earned her bachelor’s degree in art history as a re-entry student in 1988, reflecting her lifelong intellectual curiosity and deep commitment to learning and creative expression. Her passion for the visual arts inspired a significant academic gift: the Patricia and Rowland Rebele Endowed Chair in History of Art and Visual Culture. Established with a 1996 pledge to the UC Santa Cruz Foundation, the chair advances teaching, research, and public engagement while creating new connections between the university and the broader arts community.
The Rebeles’ philanthropy also helped launch the UC Santa Cruz Institute of the Arts and Sciences through a $1 million gift. The couple also provided enduring support for the University Library, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, the Arboretum, Arts & Lectures, the University Center, UC Santa Cruz Opera, and other programs. Their investments extended into scientific discovery as well, including support for genomics research.
“Pat Rebele gave from the heart, with a deep belief in the power of education, the arts, and community,” said UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Cynthia Larive. “She and Rowland were a remarkable partnership and a powerful force for good, helping UC Santa Cruz grow in ways that will continue to open doors for our students and faculty for generations.”
In recognition of their extraordinary service and generosity, the Rebeles received the UC Santa Cruz’s Fiat Lux Award in 2009.
Beyond campus, Rebele was a steadfast advocate for organizations serving people experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, young people, and the region’s cultural life. The Rebele Family Shelter in Santa Cruz stands as a lasting expression of Pat Rebele’s belief that compassion must be paired with action. She also served on numerous boards, including the UC Santa Cruz Foundation Board and the Santa Cruz County Museum of Art & History, and was a regular presence at concerts, exhibitions, and community events.
Those who knew her remember a gracious, warm, and deeply engaged presence whose curiosity and kindness made others feel seen and supported. Her approach to philanthropy was personal and sustained — not only through financial contributions but through encouragement, participation, and long-term partnership.
She and Rowland shared nearly 70 years of marriage. She is survived by children Marianne, Andrew, and Chris; daughter-in-law Jeanne; and grandchildren Lily, Jessica, Chantou, Pidor, and Elodie.
Her life’s work helped strengthen the cultural, educational, and social fabric of Santa Cruz County. At UC Santa Cruz and across the community, her influence will continue to be felt for decades to come.