by MaryAlice Bitts-Jackson
Dickinsonians are counting down the days until the weekend of June 10-12, when the college will present the 40th annual Alumni Weekend. Adding to the anniversary year excitement, this summer’s signature alumni event is also the college’s first traditional in-person Alumni Weekend since 2019.
“Although we had some wonderful experiences in bringing alumni safely together virtually during the past few years, we also know that alumni are eager to return safely to campus and reconnect in person,” says Andrew Calnon, associate director of alumni relations. “So we’re very happy to welcome them back to campus.”
Registration is now open, and the full Alumni Weekend schedule is available online.
Class-year celebrations and club, departmental and affinity group gatherings will be back in full force this summer, and the alumni band Bradley, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will keep the dance party going strong, as in previous years. Other popular events returning to campus in June are the Alumni Awards ceremony; the president’s Welcome Reception; the McAndrews Fund for Athletics golf tournament; Sunday’s memorial service and brunch; and the bike ride/lunch at the College Farm, where several exciting projects are underway. Campus tours and group outings, such as a guided tour of the Gettysburg battlefields and National Military Park cemetery, are also surefire hits.
Also back by popular demand: In-person Alumni College sessions that put some life into lifelong learning. Mike Bilder ’07 will recall the 50th anniversary of Hurricane Agnes and Dickinson’s response, and Dickinson coaches and alumnae will discuss the 50th anniversary of Title IX. Bill Keen ’57, P’89, will read from his most recent book. Beth Sandbower Harbinson ’81 and Emily Schrader ’93 will share how they create opportunities for others in recovery. The class of '72’s Tom Magill and Lou Titi will offer estate-planning tips. Michael Weiss '89 will give a talk and tour of his art exhibition, and Mike Capone ’88 will shine a light on data analytics.
The Dickinson College Farm Works
And don’t forget to visit Farm Works on High Street and the Dickinson College Bookstore in the HUB! Bookstore clothing and drinkware are 20% off during Alumni Weekend (you can also access the bookstore sale online, April 26 through June 13, using the code ALUMNI).
To safeguard participants’ health and comfort during in-person events, proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required. Those unable to travel to campus will have opportunities to learn and connect virtually. On June 6, Michael Snyder ’72 will lead a livestream interview of former classmate Vincent Paterson. On June 8, President John E. Jones ’77, P’11 will deliver the annual State of the College address, livestreamed. There’s a June 10 livestream presentation by Christopher Sharples ’87, recently highlighted, with Dickinson, in an Authority Magazine piece. You may also participate in the Alumni Awards ceremony virtually.
The registration deadline is Tuesday, May 31, and walk-in registrations are also accepted. But since attendance to some events is limited, and on- and off-campus housing options fill up quickly, we recommend registering early and booking a stay in Carlisle soon. (If requesting a roommate for on-campus housing, both parties will need to register before the desired room is reserved.)
The Alumni Weekend general information and FAQ pages provide additional information about the 2022 Alumni Weekend; you may also ask questions or submit comments by contacting the Office of Alumni Relations at alumwknd@dickinson.edu or 717-245-1373.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to your Dickinson home!
Please note that due to national and local staffing shortages, the Dining Hall will not be open during Alumni Weekend, and fewer staff members may be available overall. However, there will be on-campus dining options throughout Alumni Weekend. Please note any dietary needs on the Alumni Weekend registration form. A list of local restaurants for off-campus dining will also be provided at the Welcome Center during check-in. We appreciate your patience and your kindness to those who serve you.
Published April 26, 2022