Meet Alumni Relations Pro Adlar Garcia ’95

Adlar Garcia ’95 is the associate dean for Columbia College Alumni Relations & Engagement. With more than two decades of experience in alumni relations and development — including previous roles at the College in Alumni Relations and at the Double Discovery Center — Garcia is known for building strong relationships and leading impactful engagement initiatives. Prior to his current role, he was assistant VP of donor and alumni relations at Miami Dade College, overseeing programs, communications and annual giving for a large alumni network. He has extensive experience in cultivating alumni communities, enhancing brand visibility and developing volunteer leadership. Garcia earned a leadership and management certificate from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management in 2009.

What were you like when you arrived at Columbia?

When I first walked through The Gates, I felt a mix of excitement, nervousness and gratitude. As a first-generation college student, I had no roadmap, but I discovered a supportive and engaged community of student leaders who became my foundation throughout my college experience.

What do you remember about your first-year living situation?

I ended up in Shapiro Hall, not Carman, for my first year. Many student athletes on my floor encouraged me to attend their games and cheer them on. My roommate was Beto O’Rourke ’95, the former Texas congressman who ran for President in 2020 and continues to have a significant political career. Columbia truly has a unique way of shaping future leaders. Go Lions!

What Core class or experience do you most remember, and why?

The Core Curriculum forms the foundation that unites all Columbia College alumni, and like many others, it was a major reason I chose Columbia. I believe everyone should have a basic understanding and appreciation of philosophy, literature, science, language, music and art. Engaging with and analyzing diverse materials across different fields fosters and cultivates critical thinking. Music Humanities and Art Humanities were my favorites, as they allowed me to attend opera and philharmonic performances and explore various museums. I regularly draw upon the Core in my daily life and feel deeply enriched by the experience.

Did you have a favorite spot on campus, and what did you like about it?

There are so many memories that come to mind. I have countless fond recollections of spending time on Low Steps — whether relaxing between classes, studying, laughing with friends, or simply people-watching while soaking in the sun and the beautiful campus architecture. I often imagined how many prominent alumni had sat on those same steps. The Steps were a place of great reflection for me.

What, if anything, about your College experience would you do over?

While I wouldn’t trade my incredible experience at Columbia, I do wish I had taken the opportunity to study abroad in Europe for a semester or two. As a political science major, it would have been valuable to immerse myself in the sights, sounds and customs of different cultures, gaining new perspectives through a different cultural lens. The world is truly a classroom!