2025 NU Foundation Gala

Congratulations to the NU 2025 Humanitarians of the Year

National University (NU) is pleased to celebrate the 2025 Humanitarians of the Year. This award recognizes people who have through their creativity, leadership, and vision made extraordinary contributions to improve their communities, to increase the well-being of the people around them, and to fuel the progress of humanity as a whole.

NU honors Jeanne McAlister, the founder of the McAlister Institute, who for more than 40 years has shined as a beacon of hope for people recovering from addiction in the San Diego region. In addition, community leader and former Chargers football great Rolf Benirschke and his wife Mary will also receive the award for their incredible contributions to the San Diego community.

Ms. McAlister, a pioneer in the field of recovery, used her own experiences to build an institute based on empathy and hope, and then dedicated her life to serving those who suffer. Through her vision, and with the help of McAlister Institute’s programs, tens of thousands of individuals have successfully regained their lives.

For decades, Rolf and Mary Benirschke have served as role models for the San Diego region. From Rolf’s status as a local hero during his football career, to the example the couple set in surviving and thriving through health challenges, to their deep and sustained commitment to this community, they stand as exemplary citizens