During April and May, I attended three different regional Bicentennial Celebrations which provided a chance for former classmates to reconnect and meet new friends. These events offer an opportunity for us to share what’s happening at the College – our building projects, new strategic initiatives and upcoming events. I’ve been impressed by the high attendance and the range of graduation years represented.
On April 16, 53 alumni attended the event at the Water Club in New York City. More than 75 people attended the event on May 7 at the Worcester Art Museum. On May 14, about 75 alumni and guests met at the JFK Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. This event was unique for two reasons: class years for the alumni who attended ranged from 1963 to 2013— spanning five decades! Also, alumnus E.J. Landry ’86 was given the Alumni Achievement Award as a surprise from the Nichols College Alumni Association Board of Directors. (Vice President of the Board, Dave Belanger ’89 presented him with the plaque.)
Whenever possible at these events, we showed the bicentennial video which created a sense of nostalgia and reminded folks about the rich history of Nichols College. When I talked with alumni about their experiences at Nichols, many expressed their fondness for the College and what a difference it has made in their lives. Alumni who have not been back to campus for some time remark about how beautiful it is and about the number of new buildings since they attended Nichols. I look forward to meeting even more alumni at future events and at Homecoming in September!