MEMBERSHIP University Club of Santa Barbara
A Santa Barbara Tradition History Of The Club In 1919, a group of eleven men, each representing a different alma mater, formed the University Club of Santa Barbara as a place to meet, enjoy a good meal, discuss the news of the day, shoot a game of billiards, or play a game of bridge. They originally rented a small house on Micheltorena Street in downtown Santa Barbara, but with a growing membership, quickly found the need for more space. In 1923, the founders got together and purchased for $30,000 what was then called Calkin s Castle a private estate originally built in 1880 for James W. Calkins. Formal opening of the Club took place on March 10th, 1923. Bi-weekly member dinners were initiated with families and guests invited every other Thursday for $1.25 per person. Originally for men only, the Club offered bachelor rooms upstairs (now staff & member offices), which rented for $80 a month, including three meals a day. Hard-hit by WWII, the Club s activities and membership slowed significantly but its doors never shut. All through the years, the same traditions have held: good food and great company for both business and social occasions. Family Legacies The University Club has seen generations of families pass through its doors. Many traditions and memories have been made here, and members take pride in the accomplishments of the Club s extended family. Photo Credit: John Watson-artist Photo Credit: Elizabeth Messina
Dining Dining Culinary Talent The culinary tradition has been an important aspect of the Club since its founding. Members are treated to a unique dining experience featuring only the freshest local produce and meats. The Executive Chef and culinary staff have been featured on television, radio and many print publications. Daily Lunch Lunch is served every weekday in the private, members-only restaurant. The Main Dining Room boasts an elegant, Spanish Colonial feel, for a more formal dining experience. Or, enjoy a more relaxed setting in the Bar, or outdoor patio. Bistro Dinner Members enjoy Friday night dining at their private club, where the Chef features an impressive three-course dinner. Enjoy the beautiful and historic Santa Barbara atmosphere, and be treated to a relaxed, dine-at-your-own-pace evening. Culinary Experiences Throughout the year, the University Club hosts spectacular food and wine focused events, such as: Wine Makers Dinners, Wine Tasting and many more. Photo Credit: Top: Vista Bella Photo, Center (Left to Right): Miki & Sonja Photography, Mi Belle Photography, University Club Photographer, Bottom: Linda Blue Photography Photo Credit: Linda Chaja Photography
Camaraderie The University Club s diverse membership boasts many interests, talents and professional and civic involvement. Through interest groups, committees, mixers and events, there are many opportunities to develop friendships, create business opportunities, support Club activities and give back to the community. Favorite Club Activities: Wine tasting with local Santa Barbara wines. Billiards and Bridge tournaments. Friday evening Bistro Dinners. Club Mixers & Events, such as: Luau, Fiesta, Holiday Dinner, Valentine s Day Dinner, Easter Brunch, Independence Day, Wine Tasting and featured Culinary Events. Committees to join: House, Activities, Technology, Food & Beverage, Membership and more. Photo Credit: Hansen Photography Photo Credit: Kristin Grinnell Photography
Culture The University Club of Santa Barbara has always been closely involved with the performing arts, food and wine and continuing education. The cultural activities are varied and exciting, such as an intimate wine tasting by the fireplace, a private opera performance over a gourmet dinner or our very popular Learn over Lunch and Ladies Who Lunch series. A walk through the Club reveals some of the buildings lovingly maintained heritage, such as the original hardwood floors, historical architectural features and an extensive collection of art and antiques. The Club is proud to have named the Areno room after Joseph Areno, a well-known California artist, whose oil paintings adorn the walls. From antique tables and tapestries to the artwork and the Steinway Grand Piano, the Club radiates a sense of tradition and gracious living. Cultural Activities Reflect the Club s Heritage Learn over Lunch and Ladies Who Lunch series with a local speaker of interest. Private performances of opera, dance and choral music. Wine tasting featuring local wineries and wine experts. Wine Makers Dinners and culinary events. Bistro Hors d oeuvres with local artists, authors and various guests of honor. Photo: University Club Photographer Photo: University Club Photographer
Memories The University Club is meant to be shared with friends and families. Members can take advantage of using a secluded room or the entire Club for a private dinner party, birthday celebration, corporate holiday party or wedding. Our culinary staff and Event Manager are here to help members plan every detail of a special occasion. As an all-inclusive venue, the Club can take the stress out of planning so members and their guests can relax and enjoy the day. All Events Include: Tables, linens, chairs, flatware, and stem-ware. Grand piano. Two dance floors to choose from. Complimentary menu creation and tasting. Executive Chef, Wait Staff and Bartender(s). Set up and break down. Complimentary guest parking. Complimentary event and wedding services. Private dressing suites. Photo Credit: Kristin Grinnell Photography Photo Credit: Kristin Grinnell Photography
Living Room Home Away From Home The Club s Living Room serves as a gathering place for members, with multiple seating areas, a Steinway grand piano, and stately fireplace. Library Boasting an extensive collection of books, fireplace, chandeliers, large windows and window seat, make this room a beautiful place to relax in. Billiards Enjoy a game of billiards, pool, foosball or bridge. Sit back, relax and watch the news or a game on the large flat screen... it is your secluded space. Park Room A light and delicate room, with its own sitting area overlooking Alice Keck Park, it s the perfect room for an intimate gathering. Sola Room Colonial inspired interiors with board room seating, lends itself as an ideal private meeting space. Alumni Room Overlooking the Club s front lawn, it s the perfect mid-size space for a dinner party or meeting. Dining Room, Bar & Patio The Club s private restaurant is a delightful dining escape during a busy work day, and a stately backdrop for the Club s many culinary events. Photo Credit: Austin Gros Photography Photo Credit: Elizabeth Messina Photography
Business Opportunities & Connections Members regularly use the Club s facilities to entertain clients, hold private board meetings or work away from the office. Members enjoy free access to the Club s business services, including high-speed wireless internet. Long known for the opportunities offered for networking and socializing, members from varied professional backgrounds enjoy spirited dialogue over local, national and world events. Located in the heart of the downtown Santa Barbara business district, the Club attracts a variety of professionals, entrepreneurs and civic leaders. Business Amenities Include: Six different private meeting rooms, each available for food and beverage service, audio/visual setup, and in-room phones. Member Business Desk, fully equipped with printer, fax and phone. Wireless high-speed internet access throughout the Club. Networking mixers and events. Photo Credit: Take Our Photo Photo Credit: University Club Photographer
Reciprocal Club Access In addition to their own Club facilities, University Club of Santa Barbara members enjoy reciprocal entrance into over 300 other clubs worldwide. Reciprocal privileges extend to such clubs as the St. James Club in London, the University Club of Chicago, Beverly Hills Country Club, the Georgetown Club in Washington D.C. and the Castle Royle Golf and Country Club in England, as well as many others nationally and worldwide. Many offer overnight accommodations on par with the finest of hotels. Lodging and dining at our fine reciprocal clubs is a wonderful benefit to members on vacation or business travel. Photo Credit: Reciprocal Club, The University Club of Chicago Photo Credit: Sun-Dance Photography
Inquire Potential members interested in applying to this distinctive Club are encouraged to speak with Club members and staff. Membership Requirements Attendance at an accredited College or University. Sponsorship by two active members. (Introductions can be made for applicants who do not know any current members.) Approval by the Membership Committee and Board of Directors. Special consideration made for those who have not graduated from a College or University, but have distinguished themselves in the community. Membership Categories Resident: Attended a college or University within twenty-five miles of the Club. Non-Resident: Live and work more than twenty-five miles from the Club. Associate: Not yet thirty years old. Junior: Not yet forty years old. Retired: Retired and over the age of sixty-five. Affinity: Group(s) of ten people or more. Photo Credit: Austin Dara Photography Firm: A company located within fifty miles of the Club. Designees must receive approval by the Club. 1332 Santa Barbara Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101 Phone: (805) 966-0853 Fax: (805) 966-9143 www.uclubsb.org