By Steve Seepersaud
With nearly 1,500 alumni, more than 90 events and a sudden blast of summer-like temperatures in late September, Homecoming 2019 was an occasion to remember. The Alumni Association and many campus partners organized a number of milestone celebrations, including the golden anniversaries of the School of Management and Decker School of Nursing, the kickoff of Harpur College’s 70th birthday celebration, and class year and affinity reunions.
“Homecoming was filled with fun moments with friends both old and new, and students and alumni of all ages,” said Lynda Raihofer ’89, who led the planning of her class’ 30-year reunion. “The vibe on campus so warm and welcoming, and activities both planned and impromptu were touching and meaningful. Some of our friends went to join the co-rec football alumni game but were welcomed to play with the current students instead. After the game, the quarterback gave us a tour of our old residence hall and indulged us by taking plenty of pictures. Binghamton was always a great place and always will be.”
“We were thrilled to be able to connect with alumni from across a 40-year time span, including the founders of the organization who had so many great stories to share,” said Jessica Wallace ’16, who co-organized the 40th-anniversary celebration for Hinman Production Company (HPC). “It was an unforgettable experience to reminisce with so many of the people who helped make this group what it is today, and who have been so deeply impacted by its existence.”
“Without Homecoming, we would have no reason to all be in the same room at the same time,” said Sydney Rosen ’17, who worked with Wallace on the HPC reunion. “College years are invaluable, but what never fails to surprise me is how much Binghamton continues to teach me even when I’m not a student anymore.”
Alumni from all eras of the University’s history reconnected with their friends saw what’s old and new in Binghamton, and participated in the Saturday tailgate, Bing Brews and Bands, TIER Talks, the 5K run/walk and a plethora of open houses across campus.
Current students and their family members who are alumni celebrated their multigenerational Binghamton bonds at the Alumni Association’s Legacy Luncheon. In a relatively new tradition, the parents placed a legacy pin on their students.
“My wife [Heather Kidder ’90] and I are so proud our daughter [Lauren] is carrying on with the Binghamton tradition,” said Kenneth Kidder III ’85, Alumni Association board member. “It meant so much for us to attend the luncheon together as a family celebrating our Binghamton heritage.”
Experience Homecoming 2019 in photos on the Alumni Association’s Facebook page. Come back to Binghamton to experience the fun next fall; save the date for Homecoming 2020: Oct. 16-18.
