The University of Mary Washington will host hundreds of alumni during Reunion Weekend 2018, June 1-3.
Chock full of food and fun, tours, art exhibits, learning opportunities, photo opps, and most importantly, a chance to catch up with old friends, the three-day affair will welcome Mary Washington grads from as long ago as the 1940s back to campus.
More than 800 alumni and guests are expected to attend the event, joining campus walking tours, perusing UMW’s museums and art galleries, exploring downtown Fredericksburg – including a trolley ride to Carl’s Ice Cream – and taking a walk down Memory Lane.
“Alumni have the option of attending over 60 educational, social and cultural events throughout the weekend,” said Executive Director of Alumni Relations Mark Thaden. “There is something for everyone.”
Academic departments will host open houses, and the ever-popular Alumni College sessions will give guests a chance to gather in their old classrooms and learn about new subjects like Makerspace, social media and the field of digital history. Other topics include understanding your sleep identity, learning techniques for persuasive speaking, and delving inside the minds of artistic geniuses and the world of contemporary musical theatre.
From sunrise yoga to farewell brunch, groups of Mary Washington graduates will explore their old stomping grounds at the height of spring, catching up on new campus construction and learning about plans for the University’s future from President Troy Paino.
Paino and wife Kelly also will host a welcome reception with live music on the Brompton lawn.
Alumni will revisit their glory days while indulging their taste buds during a Virginia wine and beer tasting, a reunion picnic with tent decorations and nostalgic Mary Washington memorabilia, and an all-class party with heavy hors d’oeuvres, live band and full bar.
Book signings with former faculty and students; children’s events, including a moon bounce, face painting and a family matinee round out the event, along with a dedication ceremony revealing the three million-dollar restoration of the Heslep Amphitheatre.
“We are excited to host what is expected to be a record number of alumni and guests on campus for Reunion Weekend 2018,” Thaden said. “It’s a special time for everyone to re-connect with Mary Washington.”
