Connie X. Rishwain '79, former president of the UGG brand at Deckers Brands, has built a successful career in the fashion industry. She led UGG's growth from a $10 million niche surf brand to a $1.5 billion global lifestyle brand, but her contributions to University of the Pacific go far beyond her professional achievements. Through her support of the Pacific Food Pantry and the Pacific Career Closet, Rishwain is helping students overcome obstacles and find success.

Rishwain chose Pacific because of both practical and academic reasons. “I received a Cal Grant for my tuition and Pacific had a pre-law major,” she says. She credits the university with providing her a solid foundation. “Pacific gave me a great liberal arts education and I believe more 'polish' as an individual,” she explains.

After graduation, Rishwain’s career in the fashion industry took off. She spent more than 20 years at UGG, leading the company’s transformation into a globally recognized brand. In 2016, Pacific honored her with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Service. She also served as a member of the Board of Regents, further deepening her connection with her alma mater.

But despite her professional success, Rishwain’s desire to give back to Pacific and its students has always been a central focus. Her support of the Pacific Food Pantry and Career Closet was inspired by her own experiences as a student. “I remember worrying about not being able to afford an outfit for an interview when I was in college,” Rishwain recalls. “It can be very expensive and overwhelming to put together a professional wardrobe.”

The Pacific Food Pantry provides essential food and supplies to students in need, helping to alleviate food insecurity and support their academic success. Rishwain’s commitment to these programs stems from her belief in the importance of both basic needs and confidence for students. “Basic food needs are critical for an individual's health and success. It is difficult to function and do well if you are not well nourished,” she says. Supporting Pacific's Career Closet, which offers free professional clothing to students, is equally important to her: “Supporting the Career Closet also contributes to students' self-esteem and confidence at school and in the job market and workplace.”

Rishwain’s own career journey also shaped her desire to help students succeed. “Once I started working and entered the fashion business, I was told how important your appearance was at work,” she says. “'Dress for your next job,' the human resources officer told us.” This advice reinforced her belief in the importance of professional attire, which is why she is committed to making sure students have access to the clothing they need to succeed in interviews and internships.

Rishwain’s career success can be attributed to a combination of “hard work, risk-taking, and loving what I did every day; never doing anything halfway,” she says. She encourages current students and young alumni to follow a similar path: “Get your foot in the door and learn the entry-level position. Be willing to work your way up.”

Rishwain’s legacy at Pacific is marked by her dedication to helping students overcome challenges and achieve their potential. By supporting the Pacific Food Pantry and Career Closet, she continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of future generations of Pacific students.