Ann (Hoffmann) '57 and Steve Hinchliffe '55 have quietly supported Oxy for the last 50 years. The secret is out—but their work continues
The newest wing of one of Occidental's main academic buildings has been named Hinchliffe Hall to honor a lifetime of service and support from the family of Steve Hinchliffe '55 and Ann (Hoffmann) Hinchliffe '57.
The location of Hinchliffe Hall—a 22,600-square-foot addition to Swan Hall opened in 2012—at the center of campus "symbolizes its central role at the College, and now the central role the Hinchliffe family has played at Oxy," President Jonathan Veitch said at a June 6 dedication ceremony. "We are all in your debt—deeply in your debt."
Steve Hinchliffe joined the Alumni Board of Governors in 1965 and was first appointed to the Board of Trustees in 1970. He has since served in a variety of roles, including board chair from 1992 to 1994. He retired in June after more than 47 years of service, a total surpassed only by the Rev. William Stewart Young, one of the College's founders, who was a trustee for half a century.
"Service to Oxy has been a lifetime deal for Ann and Steve," said John Power '58, a trustee since 1992 and a former board chair as well. "Loyalty, leadership, generosity, and stature in the broader community are a major part of the Hinchliffe family legacy. It is truly fitting that this dedication recognizes the legacy of this wonderful family."
The Hinchliffes' ties to Oxy run deep, including Steve's sister-in-law and brother, Robin (Street) '60 and Doug Hinchliffe '64; son John Hinchliffe '88; and grandson Ryan Link '18. Daughter Lisa Link recently joined the Board of Trustees, continuing the family's work.
The Hinchliffes have provided regular Âfinancial support for the College for five decades, and today are counted among Oxy's most generous benefactors. At the family's request, much of that giving, which has Âfocused on student scholarships, has been without fanfare.
"As I look around I see a lot of Oxy alumni who are proud, as we are, that this is our alma mater," Ann said on behalf of the family at the dedication. "We got a good Âliberal arts education that made us well grounded for our careers. We've been fortunate to be able to give back to the College, and I'd like to encourage everyone to think of doing the same."
