In April the classes of 1970 and 1971, whose reunion had been delayed by the pandemic, joined the class of 1972 to celebrate their fiftieth reunions during the first of two back-to-back Reunion Weekends. The school rolled out the red carpet, but alumni provided the fellowship, laughs, memories, and fun that made the weekend memorable.
A highlight was the opportunity for alumni to hear from a group of sixth formers about today’s Woodberry experience and for the reunion class to enlighten the boys about what it was like to be a Tiger fifty years ago. Following a special luncheon in the Oval Garden, English teacher and varsity cross country coach Ben Hale led the lively session. Funny stories were shared from both eras, and there were smiles all around.
“It was an honor and a privilege to work with the reunion committees of 1970, 1971, and 1972 during the lead-up to Reunion Weekend,” said Dodie Chavez ’85, director of planned and capital gifts. “I joke with the class of 1970 that they now hold the record for the longest-running reunion committee in school history!”
Each fiftieth reunion class marks its legacy with a gift to the school. The three classes elected to establish scholarship funds to support tuition assistance, ensuring boys yet to come enjoy the same experience they did. The co-chairs of each reunion committee formally presented Headmaster Byron Hulsey ’86 with their class gifts at a Friday night dinner held in the Baker Gallery.
The class of 1970 honored longtime Spanish teacher and Woodberry legend Bob Vasquez by establishing the Class of 1970 Robert F. Vasquez Scholarship Fund. Bob attended the reunion dinner.
The Class of 1971 Andrew C. M. Keenan Jr. Scholarship Fund honors Andy Keenan for his long-standing and incredibly loyal service to the class. The class surprised Andy at the dinner when they announced the fund is named in his honor. The 1971 class also raised funds to support community service work by current and future Woodberry students.
The Class of 1972 Scholarship Fund is already valued at more than $1 million through a mix of current contributions and planned gifts by class members who joined the Walker Society.
“In the end, considering all of the delays to reunion weekend, the fact that all three classes celebrated together was the best possible outcome,” said Dodie.”What a special weekend for three very memorable classes.”