Raising a Glass for Scholarships: Sal Medina Gives Back

Raising a Glass for Scholarships: Sal Medina Gives Back

University of La Verne alumnus, educator-turned-entrepreneur, and community leader Sal Medina is giving back as a donor to support student academic scholarships. (ULV Photo/Claudia Gonzalez)

Sal Medina Champions Student Success Through Gala Giving

A University of La Verne alumnus and co-owner of Packing House Wines in Claremont, Sal Medina credits his success to the community that shaped him. Now he is giving back as a donor to the ULV 2026 Scholarship Gala, supporting the next generation of students.

Medina, who is also a Claremont City Council member and previously served as mayor in 2024, has, along with his team, provided a curated selection of wine to the event that blends personal favorites with recognizable labels designed to excite bidders and maximize fundraising.

As a double alumnus, he earned his bachelor's degree in political science in 1998 and later returned to complete his master's in education in 2000, an experience that became far more meaningful than he ever expected.

"I wouldn't be the person I am today," Medina said. "If it wasn't for the university, I wouldn't have the friendships, the experiences, or the foundation that shaped who I am."

Medina spent years as a teacher and volleyball coach before ultimately finding his way into entrepreneurship. While working in education, he picked up a side job at a local wine shop, where he discovered a passion that would eventually change his career.

Along with his wife, Ev, a ULV alumna, he opened Packing House Wines in Claremont in 2007, a space that reflects the same sense of community and learning that shaped him. "I still teach," he said. "Now, I just teach adults that want to learn about wine."

For Medina, supporting the Scholarship Gala is one of the most meaningful ways for him to give back."When you look at where those dollars go, they directly impact students," he said. "It relieves pressure and allows them to be themselves and perform at their best."

That belief is what keeps him coming back to the Scholarship Gala year after year. Whether attending with friends, bidding in auctions, or stepping in to help sell wine pool tickets, Medina sees the ULV Scholarship Gala as both a celebration and a responsibility.

"It's important to support the things that gave you opportunities," he said. "If you don't have the money, you might have the time. There's always a way to give back."

Sal's wines will be featured among a range of auction and raffle items available to gala guests. Among the selected wines is Castello Banfi's "Magna Cum Laude," a Super Tuscan red blend from Italy, which he describes as "absolutely fantastic," chosen not just for its quality, but for its ability to create buzz and drive participation.

"You want people to feel like they're getting something special," he said. "Something they're excited to win and take home."

The ULV Scholarship Gala brings together alumni, supporters, and community members to raise funds for student scholarships, ensuring future generations have access to the same opportunities that shaped Medina's journey.

For sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and additional details about the 2026 Scholarship Gala, visit laverne.edu/gala.