By Georgene Pilling ’04M, Program Director for Alumni Relations

More than 300 alumni, family and friends gathered at Arcadia University during Reunion Weekend to catch up with classmates, revisit their old campus haunts, explore the new Commons and enjoy a brilliant fireworks display. Watch a recap video.

The activities began Friday afternoon with an excursion to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. Jana Bailey ’09 and Matt King ’09 met the group and shared their art and work experience at PAFA, and Richard Torchia, Gallery Director, led alumni on a behind-the-scenes tour.

Later that evening, alumni attended the opening of The Greatest War, a solo exhibit by Andrew Ortwein ’07. The event was quite a hit as attendees had the opportunity to meet with Ortwein, learn the history and process behind his impressive work and sample treats from the chocolate dessert bar.

The alumni art exhibit, Bring Your Own Art (BYOA), unfolded over the weekend and featured 14 alumni who literally brought their work to the Gallery when they arrived on campus for display on walls or pedestals. BYOA was ready for show by Saturday afternoon, and after a two-hour celebration of artistic talent, the artists collected their pieces and disappeared one by one.

Saturday was a full day of activities and included the Parade of Classes, which commenced with the ringing of the wishing well bell by Betty Weiss ’60. The Philadelphia Mummers led the Parade with the 50-year Class of 1962 strutting just behind them, followed by the Class of 1952 and onward up through the classes. The Parade concluded in the Commons Great Room, where alumni enjoyed a luncheon.

The luncheon featured Song Contest, a treasured Beaver College tradition. A close competition resulted with the Class of 1962 taking the trophy, though high marks went to the Class of 1967 for its clever lyricism and the Class of 1957 for its lively rendition of the Wheels on the Bus, complete with moving bus and props.

Lunch also included the announcement of Reunion Class Award winners (read more) and the recipients of the coveted Golden Disc Awards (read more). Formal presentations were made later that evening. Two afternoon champagne toasts honored the Class of 1962, whose Reunion Class Gift made possible the naming of the Easton Hall Student Lounge (first floor) and the 1962 Endowed Scholarship, as well as the Class of 1957, whose Class Gift made possible the naming of the Commons South Terrace. Cheers to alumni generosity!

The alumni picnic came to life in the late afternoon with face painting, moon bounce, balloon hats, water ice and DJ Nick Lutchko, who warmed up the crowd with musical hits. It was a beautiful afternoon and everyone had a great time. The day ended on Haber Green as alumni, families and friends, community neighbors, Arcadia staff and faculty gathered to enjoy a rousing overture by the Cheltenham High School Marching Band and a dazzling display of fireworks over the Castle.

The Office of Alumni Relations is grateful for the support of the Arcadia University family, in particular Parkhurst, Aramark, Public Safety, University Relations and Media Support, who made the weekend flow smoothly from beginning to end.

Reunion 2012 photos are available to view on Flickr and Shutterfly.