Homecoming 2011: Celebrating 125 Years
Old favorites such as the parade, football game, choir concert and “Pizza Sam Night” return as Alma College welcomes alumni Oct. 14-16 with a Homecoming 2011 theme of “Celebrating 125 Years.”
The College’s year-long celebration of its 125-year anniversary continues at homecoming with a two-fold focus: cherishing memories of times past but also looking forward to the College’s next 125 years, says Lou Ecken, director of alumni engagement.
“It’s a wonderful time of momentum and excitement as the College has added new programs, renovated facilities and increased its outreach to alumni over the past year,” says Ecken. “Homecoming also is a chance for alumni to reconnect with friends, faculty and staff and enjoy the beauty of campus.”
The Kiltie Marching band leads the parade.
The festivities begin Friday, Oct. 14 with a Career Explo from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Stone Recreation Center. Alma College alumni and friends share experiences and advice with students about their career fields.
Friday’s schedule also includes the popular Pizza Sam Night gathering from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Tyler-VanDusen Rotunda and a performance by the Alma College Percussion Ensemble at 8 p.m. in the Remick Heritage Center. Tickets for the percussion concert are $10 for adults, $5 for senior citizens 62 and up, and free for Alma College staff, students and youth 18 and under. Seating is reserved. Call (989) 463-7304 for ticket information.
Saturday’s activities include the Matt Reinke 5K Scot Trot at 9 a.m., an alumni memorial service in Dunning Memorial Chapel at 10:30 a.m., the homecoming parade on Superior Street at 11 a.m., the alumni picnic on the chapel lawn from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the football game at 1:30 p.m., and numerous other events and receptions. The 50-year class of 1961 and 25-year class of 1986 will celebrate reunions.
The Alma College Choirs join with former choir members for the annual homecoming concert and alumni awards ceremony at 8 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Remick Heritage Center. Admission is free and open to the public.
Serving as this year’s parade grand marshal is Charlie Gray, former teacher, coach and athletic director at Alma College.
Four alumni awards will be presented during the weekend festivities.
Joanne Finnorn
Distinguished Alumni Award
A native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Joanne Finnorn was a student at Alma just three years before graduating in 1985 with triple majors in business administration, history and German. After achieving a law degree and working for General Motors overseas, Finnorn joined OnStar in 2000 and now serves as vice president of subscriber services, overseeing the company’s operations. She demonstrates her commitment to Alma College by hosting alumni events and speaking with students about international business and the legal profession.
Kim Taylor
George Hebert Lifetime Service Award
Kim Taylor, class of 1983, has risen to the top of her profession as president of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Clearinghouse — the world’s second-largest exchange for futures and options on futures. She supports Alma students by assisting with internships and recommending Chicago-area contacts. She also is involved in alumni events. “Alma helped develop the analytical and problem solving skills that have proved useful in my career,” says Taylor.
Jessica Karbowski
Young Alumnus Award
Jessica Karbowski, class of 2004, faced a difficult choice when she graduated from Alma: She was accepted at the law schools at Yale, Stanford and Harvard. She chose Yale, and today she works in the Office of the Legal Adviser, U.S. Department of State, in Washington, D.C. A star on Alma’s Model UN team when she was a student, Karbowski continues to promote her alma mater in her numerous world travels.
James Goodrich
Smith Distinguished Service Award
James Goodrich, class of 1970, managing director of Northwestern Mutual in Mount Pleasant, has continuously supported Alma College for many years. He offers career and internship opportunities to current and graduating students and can occasionally be seen in a classroom or attending a career event. He also regularly attends campus events including musical performances, athletics competition and speakers. He previously was a member of the board of trustees and regularly supports the golf and music programs.
Posted: Tue, October 4th, 2011 at 12:33AM
