“If you can meet with triumph and disaster,
and treat those two impostors just the same.”
– Rudyard Kipling
For nearly five decades, McAlister Institute has been a trusted presence in San Diego County, helping individuals and families overcome addiction, stabilize their lives, and return to their communities healthy, connected, and productive. Through comprehensive treatment and support services, McAlister Institute creates pathways to stability, dignity, and hope. Thomas (Tom) P. Sayer, Jr. serves as the President of the Board of Directors for McAlister Institute.
#1 I was born at Mercy Hospital in San Diego, and other than 4-years in college and 1-year working in Northern California, I have spent my entire life here.
#2 We love Ireland but have traveled all throughout the United States and are constantly amazed at the variety and beauty of this Country.
#3 I have never been to Australia, Antarctica, Asia or Africa, and I would love to travel to any of those destinations.
#4 I am an avid Geocacher, which is a high-tech treasure hunting game that has taken me to just about every hiking trail in San Diego County and many other parts of the world.
#5 Going to a baseball game at all MLB ballparks is on my bucket list.
#6 My beloved Maxwell left us a decade ago but is still in my heart.
#7 My parents were always involved in charitable activities, and I saw how the City of San Diego benefitted from the work of civic leaders outside of government service.
#8 There is nothing so satisfying as to provide a service pro bono that truly moves the needle in a positive way in someone else’s life.
#9 Jeanne McAlister has been a tremendous inspiration. She has devoted her life to the least among us who often do not even know how much help they need. She has saved countless lives through her tireless work with the homeless and those suffering from substance abuse. She has maintained her personal sobriety for almost 70-years and spends the majority of that time in selfless service to others. The success of the McAlister Institute is a testament to her unyielding dedication to improving our Community and the lives of the less fortunate.
#10 When I was asked to join the McAlister Institute Board, I thought I could just serve in a general capacity, but when our collective thought turned to a specific grant that involved the acquisition of a new facility, my background as a real estate attorney became very useful. I am honored to have been of some use in assisting McAlister Institute to acquire the 54th St. Property which is soon to be renovated and re-opened as a short- and long-term care recovery center.
McAlister Institute
“Miracles of Recovery” Luncheon
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Coasterra Restaurant
880 B Harbor Island Drive, San Diego 92101
