Student worker Randall Johnston ’09 affixes the Swarthmore sign to Clothier Hall in preparation for Alumni Weekend 2008.

54: Number of classes represented
79: Average high temperature for June 7 in Swarthmore, Pa.
94: High temperature on Sat., June 7
110: Number of events held during weekend
1,600+: Alumni Weekend attendees

Alumni were able to enjoy a rain-free reunion for the second year in a row. The entire weekend was beautiful, with barely a cloud in the sky, and, despite unprecedented high temperatures, everyone had a fabulous few days back on campus.

On Friday evening, alumni gathered for an outdoor cocktail party and dinner, before making their way to one of three faculty lectures. The lectures were given by Ben Berger, assistant professor of political science; a joint lecture with Lynne Molter ’79, professor of engineering, and Ann Renninger, professor of educational studies; and Tim Burke, associate professor of history.

Our traditional Parade of Classes was led by the oldest alumni in attendance, a trio from the Class of 1933: Franklin Miller, Grace Snyder Stuart, and Howard Turner. The Parade marshals were Anna Orgera and Diane Wilder of the Class of 1983. Serenading the parade for the second year in a row was Alô Brasil, a group that includes Alex Shaw ’00. Collection was well-attended despite the heat, and speaker Rishi Reddi ’88 gave a wonderful talk on Swarthmore’s legacy of activism.

Throughout the afternoon on Saturday, there were events to suit every taste, including an open microphone event in the amphitheater, a variety of department and affinity-group receptions, an art exhibit, and a kid’s carnival on the lawn. A performance of Mozart’s Requiem—a perennial favorite—was led by Associate Professor of Music John Alston. Reunion class dinners were enthusiastically attended and offered alumni the chance to re-engage with old friends and make new ones.

Alumni who stayed around on Sunday had the opportunity to hear from two popular campus entities. First, Carr Everbach, professor of engineering, led a discussion on sustainability planning at the College, followed by a talk from current students involved in War News Radio about their organization and experiences.

Alumni Weekend 2008 was a fantastic event. Thanks to the many alumni, student, staff, and faculty volunteers who worked countless hours planning events to ensure that everyone had a fabulous time.

We look forward to seeing you again next June!