For longtime Orange resident Maureen Gutierrez, a routine walk on Feb. 23 turned into a frightening moment.

Gutierrez, who is in her 80s, was walking near Collins Avenue when she suddenly lost strength in her legs and fell in a nearby yard, unable to get back up on her own. As she tried to recover, four Chapman University students driving through the area noticed her and quickly stopped to help.

The students helped Maureen to her feed, made sure she was okay, and took the extra step of driving her home safely. Although she did not catch their names, their kindness left a lasting impression.

“My mom calls the students her heroes,” said her son Paul Gutierrez, who reached out to the Chapman Dean of Students Office to express their gratitude. “They not only helped her to her feet and made sure she was okay, but they also gave her a ride home. It’s comforting to know that community still exists and that places like Chapman University are helping to keep it alive.”

Moments like this reflect the shared sense of care that continues to connect Chapman students to the Orange community.