The Hilltop was full of familiar faces the first two weekends of June as Saint Anselm College welcomed back alumni for their reunion celebrations. The first reunion weekends held since 2019, this year was unique as three cohorts returned for each celebration, which meant that classes celebrated with friends outside of their class year. More than 1,300 alumni returned to campus.
It was such an honor to welcome back so many alumni to the Hilltop after a long absence,” says Jim Flanagan, senior vice president and chief advancement officer. “Loyal alumni keep the college’s mission alive and ensure that future generations of Anselmians thrive during their time here on the Hilltop.”
The first weekend, June 3-5, celebrated the 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, and 50th reunions of alumni as well as welcomed back all members of the Order of Golden Anselmians. Over the course of the weekend, attendees reconnected, celebrated, and attended a variety of seminars including a historical walking tour of campus, a presentation on beekeeping and the Benedictine tradition, and a discussion of the impact of Vietnam and Kent State on Saint Anselm College’s students.
Alumni also gathered that weekend to remember their classmates who had passed during three events – the Golden Anselmian Memorial Mass, the Military Tribute, and the Alumni Memorial Mass.
“Our Anselmian community is forever shaped by the courageous men and women who left the Hilltop prepared to put their lives on the line for our country. Sadly, in both world wars, in Korea, in Vietnam, and most recently in Afghanistan—Anselmians have died in wartime service,” said Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D., president of Saint Anselm College. “The names of these fallen classmates and members of our monastic community are forever inscribed on this monument. May we always remember our Anselmians who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.”
The second weekend, June 10-12, celebrated the 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, and 25th reunions of alumni. Attendees, many with young families, returned to the Hilltop to gather at the Pub to cheer on the Celtics, relax and play cornhole at the Alumni Barbecue, and those who worked closely with the Intercultural Center gathered for a multicultural alumni reception. The weekend ended with an Alumni Memorial Mass.
A special thank you to: Patrice Russell, and the alumni relations team - Fr. Benet Phillips, O.S.B., Javier Videla, Maria Sato, and Emily St. Jean, the entire Advancement team, the Dining Services team, the Physical Plant team, and the College Communications and Marketing team.