PASADENA, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2025) – Today, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses newly installed President Mark Leavens, announced the 2026 theme, “The Magic in Teamwork.” The theme celebrates the sense of accomplishment in knowing that by working together, we can collectively achieve outcomes so much richer than we can ever experience as individuals.
The 2026 theme poster honors the organizations, agencies and community partners that make America’s New Year Celebration possible. Embroidered team patches from public safety partners, service organizations, and other parade participants reflect the teamwork demonstrated in working toward a common goal, to overcome challenges and produce amazing results. The poster embodies “The Magic in Teamwork”—not just in grand achievements, but in everyday moments of support, encouragement and shared success.
Chosen months ago, the 2026 Rose Parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” feels especially meaningful in light of recent events in the Pasadena area. As our community has faced challenges, from the devastating fires in Altadena to the everyday triumphs and struggles that bring people together, we’ve witnessed firsthand the power of teamwork—neighbors helping neighbors, first responders working tirelessly and volunteers stepping up in extraordinary ways. This theme is a tribute to the strength, resilience and connection that arise when we come together, proving that the magic in teamwork is not just an idea but a reality we live every day.
Earlier this month, the Tournament of Roses’ Board of Directors confirmed Leavens as President and Chairman of the Board for the 2026 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, providing leadership for the 137th Rose Parade® presented by Honda and 112th Rose Bowl Game® presented by Prudential on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Leavens has served as a volunteer Member of the Association since 1995 and was appointed as a Committee Chair in 2010. His journey continued with a pivotal role on the Tournament Board of Directors in 2013, followed by his election to the Executive Committee in 2016.
Throughout his tenure, Leavens has provided leadership to numerous committees. His significant contributions include serving on and chairing various committees, such as Communications and Credentials, Float Entries, Formation Area, Music, Parade Operations, and Queen and Court.
Beyond his impressive involvement with the Tournament of Roses, Leavens has given time to community service, including coaching YMCA basketball and AYSO soccer, Chairing the Nestle United Way Campaign and serving as President of the Pasadena Optimist Club. Professionally, Leavens worked for Nestle USA from 1989 through 2022 and held diverse management roles in Marketing Communications, Promotions, Events and Shopper Marketing.
Leavens grew up in Monrovia and attended Damien High School in La Verne. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Claremont McKenna College and received his MBA from the University of Redlands.
Mark and his wife Kay reside in Pasadena and are proud parents of three adult children: Katie, Ken and Melissa.