Caltech Associates Launches New Website

Attorney and local philanthropist Charles Fairchild has been elected the 50th president of the Caltech Associates.

Fairchild, who is known by friends as Chip, has a longtime connection to Caltech. As a teenager, Fairchild accompanied his uncle, Phil Sotel, to Associates dinners, trips, and lab tours, as well as Seminar Day, a yearly event that brings together the Caltech community for a day of learning.

He was in awe of what he learned then, and he continues to be fascinated with Caltech.

"The access to research and researchers makes Caltech, and especially the Caltech Associates, unique," Fairchild says. "Recently, while walking on campus, I was beckoned by former Associates president Ananth Natarajan, who was chatting with Professor Aaron Ames. The next thing I knew, we received a private tour of Professor Ames's robotics lab. Caltech offers the public the same openness and collaboration that Caltech researchers have with each other."

As Associates president, Fairchild will work with the Associates' executive director to help promote membership growth, identify new board members, and raise awareness of the organization in the community.

"It is a tremendous honor to lead the Associates," Fairchild says. "I am excited about giving back to an organization that has provided me with in-depth exposure to scientific discovery."

Established in 1926, the Associates brings together a community of lifelong learners who socialize and travel together while supporting Caltech's research and educational initiatives. Annual dues provide Caltech leaders funds to power new and bold ideas.

A resident of Pasadena, Fairchild serves as general counsel of Lost Creek Land & Cattle Co., an agricultural company based in Colorado. He received his bachelor's degree from Occidental College, his JD from Southwestern Law School, and a Master of Laws in Taxation from Loyola Law School. He also serves on the board of trustees for Southwestern Law School and the board of governors for The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens.