Monterey Peninsula College Announces 2027 Lobo Legends Honorees
Congressman Jimmy Panetta Headlines Distinguished Class Honoring Leaders in Public Service, Education, Athletics, and Healthcare
MONTEREY, Calif. — Following a recommendation from the Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) Foundation Board of Directors, the MPC Board of Trustees has officially approved the 2027 Class of Lobo Legends, recognizing an extraordinary group of alumni, faculty, and community leaders whose accomplishments embody the spirit, values, and mission of MPC.
"The Lobo Legends represent the very best of Monterey Peninsula College and the profound impact our students, faculty, and alumni have on our region and beyond. Every Lobo Legend carries a piece of this college with them, and we celebrate not only what they've achieved, but the role this college played in shaping their futures, and the countless lives they continue to touch along the way. I couldn't be prouder to welcome them into the distinguished community of Lobo Legends.” - Dr. Marshall T. Fulbright III, Superintendent/President, Monterey Peninsula College
The 2027 Lobo Legends will be formally inducted into the Monterey Peninsula College Lobo Hall of Fame during a special celebration in March 2027. Additional details regarding the date, location, ticket information, and sponsorship opportunities will be announced in the coming months.
The 2027 Lobo Legends include:
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS
Congressman Jimmy Panetta
A proud MPC alumnus, Congressman Jimmy Panetta has represented California's Central Coast in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2017. Before serving in Congress, Panetta worked as a deputy district attorney in Monterey and Alameda counties and served as a U.S. Navy Reserve intelligence officer, earning the Bronze Star for his service in Afghanistan.
He is being recognized for his distinguished career in public service, unwavering leadership, and lifelong commitment to improving the lives of Central Coast residents.
“Monterey Peninsula College provided me with the foundation upon which I was able to move forward with my education and career in public service. It was a place that gave me the opportunity to refocus my work ethic from high school athletics to college academics, work full time, and save up to pay my way through college. As it provided me with the opportunity to move on to a four-year college, it also deepened my commitment and service to the place that I’ve always called home. I’m humbled to be recognized as a Lobo Legend, but more importantly, we should be so proud to realize that not only does MPC make its students better, it helps make our community stronger,” - U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19)
DISTINGUISHED RETIREE
Elliot Ruchowitz-Roberts
A beloved English professor from 1965 to 1997, Elliot Ruchowitz-Roberts devoted more than three decades to inspiring students through literature, creative thinking, and a passion for learning.
He is being honored for his lasting influence on generations of students, his dedication to advancing a love for poetry throughout Monterey County, and his extraordinary community service contributions.
OUTSTANDING ALUMNI-ATHLETES
Gina Cutrufelli-Carnazzo and Chrissy Cutrufelli-Bifano
Former standout softball student-athletes at MPC from 1992 to 1995, Gina Cutrufelli-Carnazzo and Chrissy Cutrufelli-Bifano distinguished themselves on the field before continuing to make a meaningful impact through their professional careers, family business, and community leadership.
They are recognized for their athletic excellence and their ongoing commitment to mentoring young athletes and supporting youth sports programs throughout the region.
RISING STAR
Rebecca Shiraev
Rebecca Shiraev has quickly emerged as a respected leader in oncology nursing at Montage Health, where she is recognized for providing compassionate, patient-centered care.She is being honored for her professional achievements, community service, and philanthropic commitment to supporting future MPC students through scholarships and educational opportunities.
Established to celebrate individuals whose achievements have brought distinction to Monterey Peninsula College and the communities they serve, the Lobo Hall of Fame recognizes alumni, retired faculty, and staff whose accomplishments exemplify the College's enduring mission of educational excellence, service, and community engagement.
Additional information regarding the 2027 Lobo Legends celebration, including reservations and sponsorship opportunities, will be available in the coming months at mpcfoundation.org/legends.
Media Contact: Fatima Rodriguez, (408) 313-5723
About the Monterey Peninsula College Foundation:
The Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for students to attend MPC and helps to ensure their college experience is the best it can be. We do this by providing students with financial support and investing resources into the college’s programs and facilities. The MPC Foundation has raised over $45 million since its inception in 1994 and currently provides more than $800,000 in financial assistance each year to deserving students. The MPC Foundation’s volunteer Board of Directors works hard to remove barriers for students and make their educational dreams possible. To learn more about the MPC Foundation, visit www.mpcfoundation.org.
Monterey Peninsula College - established in 1947:
Monterey Peninsula College, part of California’s public community college system, is an open-access institution committed to fostering student learning and success by providing excellence in instructional programs, facilities, and services to support the goals of students pursuing transfer, career, basic skills, and lifelong learning opportunities. In addition to the scenic Monterey campus located on 90+ acres, MPC’s district includes campuses in Seaside and Marina. As a comprehensive community college, MPC responds to the educational and cultural needs of its diverse community and is distinguished for its outstanding academic programs and strong commitment to student success. To learn more about Monterey Peninsula College, please visit www.mpc.edu and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.