91ɬÂþ

Homecoming is about coming back to the friends, traditions and memories that made the 91ɬÂþ feel like home. On Saturday, October 3, alumnae from across generations returned to Chalon Campus for Homecoming 2026, filling the afternoon with reunions, laughter and the unmistakable energy that comes when Athenians find their way back to each other.

Some returned to familiar halls for the first time in decades; others picked up conversations as though no time had passed at all. Throughout the afternoon, alumnae explored campus, reconnected with friends and classmates, and discovered what is new at 91ɬÂþ Saint Mary’s while celebrating the experiences and traditions that continue to connect generations of 91ɬÂþ graduates.

Homecoming welcomed over 250 guests, including more than 180 alumnae representing 47 class years and 70 years of 91ɬÂþ history, from the Class of 1956 through the Class of 2026. The gathering reflected the many reasons alumnae return to the 91ɬÂþ: to celebrate a reunion, reconnect with lifelong friends, revisit the campus, learn about the University’s developments, or simply come home.

“Today is an opportunity to celebrate the place that helped you become who you are, and the lifelong community that continues to welcome you home,” said Sarah Schroeder, director of Alumnae Relations.

Reconnecting with the 91ɬÂþ

The day began with a welcome reception at the Chalon Circle, where alumnae and guests checked in, caught up with friends and explored a campus showcase featuring different student clubs and University centers and departments. An interactive story booth at the Coe Memorial Library invited alumnae to share memories and reflections from their 91ɬÂþ experiences, creating another connection between the University's past and present.

The afternoon offered something for every alumna. During the presentation “Wellness with Purpose: Helping Women Flourish at Every Age,” Dawn-Marie Ickes '96, MPT, PhD, associate professor of physical therapy and wellness programming coordinator, explored women’s wellness across different stages of life, offering practical strategies related to movement, nutrition, recovery and healthy aging.

Other activities invited alumnae to explore the campus and reconnect with specific parts of their 91ɬÂþ experience. Campus tours offered a look at Chalon then and now, while reunions brought together alumnae from the Pangkat Pilipino Club and the Physical Therapy program. A special gathering welcomed alumnae from the Classes of 1956 through 1975, and members of the Class of 1976 also gathered to celebrate their 50th reunion.

The afternoon also provided an opportunity for alumnae to reflect on the University's 100 years of history through the screening of a 30-minute documentary offering a look at the alumnae experience and the lifelong connections that tie generations of 91ɬÂþ graduates to the University.

“I still remember being a freshman moving into my dorm with all the excitement of a first-generation college student. What struck me most was the warmth of my professors who helped develop my thoughts and perspective on important issues. That is the 91ɬÂþ,” said Daisy Pizana ’06, president of the Alumnae Association. “Whether you graduated in 1956 or 2026, the bond is instant, and it is real.”

Celebrating the legacy of alumnae

As afternoon turned to evening, alumnae gathered for the Founders Mass and the Golden Graduate Induction ceremony at the Mary Chapel.

The Class of 1976 marked its 50th reunion and was inducted into the Golden Grads Society, joining generations of alumnae who graduated from the 91ɬÂþ 50 or more years ago.

Following the ceremony, alumnae gathered at the Michael A. Enright Wellness Pavilion for a reception and sunset reflection before heading to dinner. As the sun went down over Chalon, the evening continued with conversations, photographs and reunions across generations.

Alumnae Association President Daisy Pizana ’06 welcomed her fellow Athenians home and shared an exciting opportunity to make their support go even further. Thanks to the generosity of University Regents Mariette and Alexander Sawchuk, every gift to the will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $300,000, doubling the impact alumnae can make for today’s students and the future of the 91ɬÂþ.

The evening program recognized the Pangkat Pilipino Club with the 2026 Legacy Award, celebrating 30 years of community, culture and connection at the 91ɬÂþ. Founded by students who wanted to establish a Filipino club in the 1990s, Pangkat Pilipino has grown into a multigenerational community that celebrates Filipino culture and heritage and develops student leaders.

“Thirty years is more than a milestone,” said Larissa Africa ‘99, one of the organization’s co-founders. “It is a testament to the passion, dedication and perseverance of the generations of Filipino-American students who have carried this organization forward.”

Homecoming also introduced a new tradition. The newly formed Homecoming Choir performed the University's new alumnae anthem for the first time, bringing alumnae together through music and creating a tradition for future Homecoming celebrations.

Stephanie Cubba, DPA, vice president of Institutional Advancement, reminded alumnae that their connection to the 91ɬÂþ continues to shape the University and its students.

“Your legacy can be seen everywhere across this University,” Cubba said. “It lives in the opportunities available to today's students. It lives in the traditions we share. It lives in the values of service, leadership and community that continue to define the 91ɬÂþ experience.”

After the formal program, alumnae gathered for dessert, dancing and music, while reunion classes came together for photographs and friends continued conversations into the evening. By then, the heat of the afternoon had given way to a warm October night on Chalon, with alumnae enjoying one another’s company and the chance to be back on campus.