Mass and Brunch Wrap Up Alumni Reunion
Alumni Reunion 2007 came to a conclusion with a special Mass at St.
Thomas More Church and a brunch held in Montgoris Dining Hall.
University President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. served as the
celebrant at the Alumni Reunion Mass and afterwards attendees made
their way to Montgoris for a champagne brunch.
Beautiful floral decorations, a feast of a menu and a trio of
classical musicians added to the festive atmosphere as alumni
reflected on the many activities they enjoyed during the weekend.
Jacqueline Bottenbley ’92C, ’92GEd said she was happy to meet with
fellow graduates and to reflect on her time at the University which
she so enjoyed. “I loved every minute of [being a student],” she
said. “The easy access to the professors, the not feeling like you
were just a number, but an individual person, was great. I know a
lot of people who went to large universities who felt like they
were just a number.”
Joanne Reilly Hughes ’57UC got teary eyed after posing with Barbara
Pfaffenschlager Evans ’57UC, Jane Power Kilcoyne ’57UC and Rina
DePaoli Austin ’57UC. Mrs. Reilly Hughes reflected on the happiness
she felt at once again being in the company of the women she
considered her closest friends during her college years. “As time
goes on, these types of friendships are even more important to
you,” she said, visibly moved. John Roberts ’82SVC came all the way
from Phoenix, AZ with his wife Pamela and said it was well worth
the trip. “St. John’s has always been a part of my life and it’s
been a long time since I’ve been back,” he said. “I heard about all
of the changes and all of the growth but to see it was amazing.
Now, I want to be more involved.”
That sentiment was exactly what Fr. Harrington wanted to leave with
those gathered as he urged them to continue to remain close to St.
John’s. He assured those present that while the University had
undergone many changes, it still remains the same in being “firmly
committed to the mission of educating with a quality education and
a special way of helping those who wouldn’t have the opportunity
otherwise.” “I ask you to stay part of the life of this, your
University,” he encouraged the crowd. “Don’t forget us.”
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