Reunion 2018: A Celebration to Remember

We knew from the start that this reunion weekend would be special. Last summer, the Class of 1968 began planning for their 50th Reunion with great enthusiasm. As the fall progressed, each class year ending in 3 and 8 began to check-in with our Alumni Office reunion liaisons; the classes rallied their classmates on social media, through letters, and with numerous phone calls, rebuilding their connections as the schedule of the weekend took shape.

Many favorite events returned to the weekend’s must-have list. Golf and tennis, networking, and classroom experiences were all popular activities, in addition simply scoping out campus, visiting former dorm rooms and relaxing in the Adirondack chairs on Academic Row; and former faculty Peter Gulick returned to the podium to present the History of New Hampton School. Many alumni classes revisited local haunts, touring the streets and campus, and hopped on buses to enjoy time at Wellington State Park on Newfound Lake. And our youngest classes, 2008 and 2013, enjoyed a Friday night celebration hosted by the Arsenaults.

The Class of 1968 set a record attendance for their 50th Reunion Celebration, with more than 50 classmates, from a class of about 80 students returning to campus. Their special evening on Friday included a dinner set in Jacobson Arena where they took time to share stories, honor former faculty member Tom Diehl, and witness the unveiling of a portrait of former Headmaster Lou Gnerre and his late wife Patricia.

All told, over 300 alumni, faculty and friends came together to celebrate New Hampton School during Reunion Week 2018. We were honored to recognize several alumni during Saturday evening’s program for their service to the school, their achievements, and their continuing leadership. There was something for everyone, and we’ll remember this Reunion for many years to come. Thank you to all of our Reunion volunteers and the greater New Hampton School community; without you, this weekend wouldn’t be possible.