A lifetime of loyalty

Steve Pickering ’74 earns the 2025 Alumni Service Award

Fifty years after graduating, Steve Pickering ’74 is still all in for Linfield.

As a student, Steve wore many hats: football player, track and field athlete, and proud member of Theta Chi. That same energy and Wildcat pride have powered his decades-long support of Linfield — from fundraising and friend-raising to reunion planning and beyond.

Today, Linfield honors that enduring commitment by naming Steve the recipient of this year’s Alumni Service Award.

From McMinnville to the boardroom

After earning a degree in business administration with a minor in political science, Steve launched a dynamic career that spanned industries and continents.

He served as president and CEO of a semiconductor capital equipment and medical/aerospace manufacturing company based in Tempe, Arizona, before taking on executive roles in international mining and telecommunications. Even in retirement (twice!), Steve didn’t slow down. He returned to lead a successful turnaround of a telecommunications firm as CEO and continues to advise companies on strategic planning, acquisitions and growth.

Steve also served as vice chairman and director of the Commerce Bank of Arizona until its merger with Bank 34 and remains active on several corporate and charitable boards.

Building community, one Zoom at a time

Despite living in Arizona, Steve has never let distance keep him from staying connected. He’s become a linchpin for Linfield outreach in the Southwest, often opening his home for alumni events and encouraging other Wildcats to stay engaged. He’s also been known to strike up connections (and invitations) to Linfield alumni in unexpected places, like a gas station.

For his 50th class reunion in 2024, Steve chaired the organizing committee and hosted monthly Zoom planning sessions. His team helped draw 75 guests and packed the local country club for a weekend full of memories, laughter and Wildcat pride. Even better? The Class of 1974 turned the celebration into impact by raising funds for a student scholarship.

Steve also led the charge for the class’s 40th reunion in 2015 and remains an active class ambassador.

Champions for Linfield Athletics

Steve and his wife, Ann, have been loyal supporters of Linfield Athletics for decades. Their contributions have helped fund the Rutschman Field House, the cardio exercise room, the Soccer/Lacrosse Complex and upgrades to the football turf.

They’re also consistent donors to the TopCat Club and longtime advocates for Wildcat student-athletes.

Steve served for 10 years on Linfield’s Athletics Hall of Fame committee and had the honor of presenting Coach Ad Rutschman ’54 with his award at the inaugural banquet. In 2019, Steve joined the Hall of Fame himself.

When Linfield began its search for a new athletic director, Steve stepped up again, offering advice and alumni perspective as part of a select advisory group.

Family, service and staying grounded

Now 49 years married to Ann, Steve is a proud husband, father of two and grandfather to an 18-year-old grandson. He’s a member of the Rotary Club of Tucson and volunteers with the First Tee program, helping coach young golfers.

Whether he's building businesses, planning reunions or mentoring future leaders, Steve brings his trademark energy, kindness and drive to every role he plays.

He’s a Wildcat through and through — and this year’s Alumni Service Award is a testament to the legacy he’s built.