PASADENA, Calif.- The Pasadena Tournament of Roses on Monday introduced the seven young women selected to serve on the 2026 Rose Court, continuing a century-old tradition that highlights academic achievement, community service, and leadership.
The announcement, presented by Citizens Business Bank, drew nearly 200 people to the south lawn of Tournament House, where the finalists’ friends and family gathered to hear the results. The Rose Court members were chosen from 28 finalists after weeks of interviews conducted by the Tournament of Roses’ Queen & Court Committee.
The 2026 Rose Court includes:
- Riya Gupta, California Institute of Technology
- Serena Hui Guo, Arcadia High School
- Keiko Rakin, Alhambra High School
- Olivia Hargrove, Pasadena City College
- Sophia Bai Ren, Arcadia High School
- Naira Elaine Wadley, John Muir High School
- Livia Amy de Paula, Temple City High School
Selection criteria included scholastic success, school and community involvement, public speaking skills, and youth leadership. Each Rose Court member will receive a $7,500 academic scholarship, underscoring the organization’s commitment to celebrating educational excellence.
“This is a treasured legacy,” Tournament officials said, emphasizing that Rose Court members not only serve as community ambassadors but also gain valuable experiences that foster confidence and personal growth.
The 2026 Rose Court will be formally presented at the Coronation of the 107th Rose Queen on Oct. 28 at Tournament House.
In January, the Rose Queen and her Court will take part in two of Pasadena’s most iconic traditions: riding a float in the 137th Rose Parade presented by Honda, and attending the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential — both set for New Year’s Day, 2026.
