Reunion 2009 is a hit!

More than 1,000 alumni and friends celebrated John Carroll memories and traditions – and likely made a few new ones – at Reunion 2009 held June 19-21. Sunny skies for most of the weekend -- with random showers in place of forecasted storms -- and daytime temps close to 80 made it a picture-perfect event.

New this year, a Welcome Home to Carroll Reception on Friday kicked off the weekend. More than 200 alumni and guests from all class years and geographical locations met and mingled in the Muldoon Atrium of the Dolan Center for Science and Technology. The reception was co-sponsored by the John Carroll Alumni Association, the Office of Alumni Relations and Office of Multicultural Affairs. Dinner under the Big Tent, music by Pineapple Wine and perennial favorite The New Barleycorn, and Carroll Casino rounded out Friday night.

Saturday kept kids of all ages and interests busy. Highlights of the day included the Fun Run 5K run/3K walk; the Family 5-Alarm BBQ; Reunion Mass with an inspiring homily from alumnus the Very Rev. Timothy P. Kesicki, S.J. ’84, Provincial, Detroit Province, Society of Jesus, and a Moment of Remembrance for deceased classmates; Class Photos; Carroll Casino; and the very well attended class dinners, which ended in music and dancing under the Big Tent.

Book signings by alumni and faculty authors also were new this year and is an activity the University hopes to expand next year. Featured books and authors were Heartfelt by David Rastoka ’90; Black Market Truth by Sharon Kaye, Ph.D., John Carroll philosophy professor; and Love that Does Justice by Rev. Thomas Schubeck, S.J., John Carroll professor of religious studies.

Sunday was a celebration of friendship, family, and fathers!  A special Father’s Day Children’s Mass in Saint Francis Chapel celebrated by Rev. Casey Bukala, S.J., ’54, and a Father’s Day Brunch featuring alumnus pianist John deHaas ’87, were the perfect ending to a memorable and fun-filled weekend for all. 

“Special thanks to all class committee members and to the 60 high-energy students who worked hard to make Reunion a memorable and fun weekend for all,” says Mary Lavin, director of alumni relations.

Reunion 2010, we will be celebrating classes ending in 5s and 0s. If you would like to serve on your Reunion class committee, please contact Carla (Lauer) Gall '05, reunion coordinator, at cgall@jcu.edu or 216-397-1592.