Final preparations are under way as St. Mike’s gears up for the 2024 Alumni Reunion. We are eager to welcome alumni back to campus from May 30 to June 2. This year’s reunion schedule includes free lectures, soirées and special celebrations for those who graduated in the years ending in 4 and 9.
“Campus comes to life in a different way when alumni come back for Reunion,” says Lisa Gleva, Executive Director of Advancement. “As alumni reminisce with each other, they bring with them nostalgic memories of the past, reminding us of St. Mike’s long history as a caring, connected community. The Alumni Reunion Committee has put together a terrific program for 2024 with a theme of ‘Renewing Friendships, Celebrating Memories and Creating Community’. From social events to celebrations and a great lineup of lectures, there’s something for everyone. We’ve even set up a ‘Touchdown Space’ in the Dodig Family Coop where alumni can meet up while enjoying light snacks and beverages.”
Reunion kicks off with the USMC Alumni Association’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday, May 30 from 5:30-6:30 pm in the John M. Kelly Library. The meeting will be followed by an opening reception in the Dante Garden, offering attendees a chance to reconnect in a one-of-a-kind setting surrounded by sculptures created by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz.
All are welcome at the Alumni Reunion Mass in the Loretto College Chapel at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 31st which will include a ceremony to remember alumni who have passed on since we were last together. Following the Mass is the 50th Anniversary Brunch for 1974 graduates and their guests to celebrate their milestone anniversary.
On Friday afternoon, St. Mike’s Film Club has organized a screening of The Paper Chase in Alumni Hall. The film will be followed by what is sure to be a lively discussion.
There’s a little something for everyone on the Friday evening: USMC Young Alumni will take over the Maddy pub with a night of trivia, while the Coop will be transformed into St. Mike’s Pub. And for something a little mellower, be sure to check out the Wine & Whisky Smooth Jazz Salon in Charbonnel Lounge. Guests are welcomed to ‘meet in the middle’ on the Coop Patio.
Saturday, June 1 will feature a day of learning, and alumni, guests, and members of St. Mike’s faculty will deliver presentations on a variety of exciting topics:
- Prof. Paolo Granata: Learning with/by AI.
- Principal Irene Morra: From Shakespeare to Dr. Who: Postwar Britain, Canada, and the Making of a Cultural Identity.
- Alumnae Initiative for Women Panel: Women and the Impact of Their Money.
- Eric Alper: The Canadian Contribution to the Rock, Blues, and Folk Musical Canons.
You’re invited to attend any – or all – of the free lectures!
The USMC Reception and Banquet held on Saturday, June 1 will celebrate the anniversaries of graduates of the years that end in ‘4 and ‘9. Join your fellow classmates for a meal and conversation in the Sorbara Auditorium in Brennan Hall.
The 2024 Alumni Reunion concludes with Mass at St. Basil’s on Sunday, June 2, followed by the Awards Ceremony and Brunch. These awards recognize individuals who embody St. Mike’s values.
The University of St. Michael’s College Archives has prepared a special exhibit entitled “Our Past Inspires Our Future,” which will be on display in the Kelly Library throughout the weekend. It features memorabilia from athletic victories, St. Mike’s performances, and formal dances. Many of the items on display were donated to the Archives by alumni and friends of the University. The Library is also hosting a voting station for St. Mike’s 2024 Christmas Ornament. Help us choose this year’s ornament by voting for the building you’d like to immortalize as a keepsake.
Past years’ Christmas ornaments featuring St. Mike’s landmarks such as Brennan Hall and St. Basil’s Church will be available for purchase.
And yes, the Coop will be open to all attendees throughout the weekend as a “Touchdown Space”. Whether you want to stop by for snacks, catch up with friends or post updates on the community message boards, the Coop will be the heart of this special weekend.
Many of these events require registration. Don’t be disappointed; reserve your spot this week by visiting stmikes.utoronto.ca/reunion.