St. Olaf celebrates Reunion Weekend
St. Olaf College welcomed hundreds of Ole alumni back to campus June 3-5 to celebrate Reunion Weekend in person for the first time in two years.
In addition to bringing together Oles of all generations for a weekend of fun, food, and entertainment, this year’s celebration featured a special St. Olaf Orchestra Reunion in honor of retiring conductor Steven Amundson.
The events kicked off on Friday night with socials for each class year as well as a social for St. Olaf Orchestra alumni. Attendees could then choose to go to the Alumni Band Showcase — which featured alumni musicians from different classes — in the Pause or the Silent Disco on the Campus Green. There was also a movie showing on the campus lawn sponsored by the Class of 1972, which celebrated its milestone 50th reunion.
The celebration continued on Saturday, starting with a 5K run/walk and the Orchie Softball Game. Later in the morning all alumni were able to get involved in the All-Class Rally and the All-Alumni Celebration. The rally featured the largest rendition of Um! Yah! Yah! in St. Olaf history, while the celebration highlighted the achievements of all Oles and featured a State of the College address by President David R. Anderson ’74. The St. Olaf Orchestra Reunion Concert featured more than 400 past and current members of the ensemble for an incredible midday concert. The day wrapped up with a number of activities for alumni to enjoy, including the St. Orchestra Alumni Reception, a performance by St. Olafs’ own G.B. Leighton rock group, and an evening prayer.
Reunion Weekend wrapped up on Sunday with a walking tour of the St. Olaf Natural Lands and an All-Alumni Worship Service.
To all the alumni who attended this weekend, thank you. It was our honor and joy to welcome you back, and welcome you home. Um! Yah! Yah!
Watch the All-Alumni Celebration from Reunion Weekend below.