Diversity has been the watchword of Chancellor Tien's tenure and it will be evident as well in a Cal family tribute to Chancellor and Mrs. Tien set for Friday, Feb. 21, at 8 p.m. in Zellerbach Auditorium.

Admission is free, but tickets are required and available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Zellerbach box office.

On the program are performances as varied as an African music ensemble with drums, rattles and bells; excerpts from Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream"; Gospel, choral, and symphonic music; and rousing renditions from the Cal Band.

Presentations and reflections will come from those who have worked with the Tiens over the years -- distinguished faculty, staff representatives, students, parents and alumni, including the president of the California Alumni Association, the Berkeley Pledge Coordinator, the ASUC president, Academic Senate chair, and campus and Office of the President officials.

"Although arranging an event like this is far more complicated than an amateur impresario ever expects, it turned out to be remarkably easy to persuade people to participate," said Professor David Littlejohn, program committee chair. "The willingness and enthusiasm we received from all branches of the Cal community demonstrate the genuine affection Chancellor Tien has inspired among a great many people here in the last seven years," he said. "Although they may have deserved it, no other chancellors in the last 42 years since I first came to Berkeley have won this sort of tribute on retiring from office."

Proceeds from a pre-event reception -- and contributions from others who wish to participate -- will support an Alumni Leadership Scholarship honoring the Tiens.

The $150 per person reception includes wine and hors d'oeuvres, priority seating for the tribute and an opportunity to talk with the Tiens.

A post-tribute gathering will be held in the main floor and mezzanine lobbies for an additional opportunity to congratulate the Tiens and performers.

Well-wishers may also contribute reminiscences for a Memory Book, which will be bound for presentation at the tribute. Thoughts and reflections on the Tien years can be in any form -- letters, poems, photographs or sketches. Cards to submit reminiscences are available at the Alumni House reception desk Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.