In Memoriam: Former Alumna of the Year Leaves Legacy of Hope

Charlotte Jan Bowman (M.P.A., 1980), founder of Charlotte’s House in Carson, passed away in early January after a long bout with breast cancer. Charlotte’s House – a transitional house for homeless women and their children – was founded by Bowman in 1994, earning her the 1998 Alumna of the Year Award. Her daughter, Darlene Bowman (B.A. Human Services, 1997), is a program director for the non-profit. Residents of Charlotte’s House are required to attend school or work and are allowed to stay for a maximum of two years, focusing on the transition to becoming contributing members of the community again.

CSUDH has maintained a supportive connection with Charlotte’s House since its inception. Staff member Linda Brown, documents processor, University Student Union, serves on the Board of Directors, and student organizations have donated goods to the shelter on several occasions. During the 2002 holiday season, a handful of organizations including Sigma Pi fraternity and CSUDH Serves from the Office of Student Life donated everything from canned goods to small area rugs to presents for the children. Martin Chavez (B.S. Public Administration, 1983), who also serves on the Alumni Association Board, said, “Charlotte was a great woman whose energy and compassion were only surpassed by the size of her heart. She exemplified the ideal of a great alumna.”