Homecoming 2014 marks the official opening and dedication of Fredonia’s newest building – the Science Center! To mark the very special occasion, there will be a full day of events on Friday, Oct. 17. Capping the day will be a special fireworks display at 7:15 p.m. outside of the Williams Center. A special Science Alumni Conference has been planned for Saturday, Oct. 18.
Many other wonderful events are planned, including the Ruterbusch 5K Run (in memory of Fred Ruterbusch, ’77), spectacular concerts, a self-guided tour of President Horvath’s home, athletic contests, and reunion luncheons for the classes of 1954 and 1964. The Alumni Office is sponsoring the first-ever Fredonia Family Legacy Lunch outside in the Rockefeller Arts Center arcade. The event is an opportunity for generations of Fredonia graduates, and/or any children and grandchildren of alumni currently enrolled, to share happy memories.
Many wonderful athletic contests are scheduled. On Friday at 9 p.m., the student group, House of HOOPS, will sponsor “MIDNIGHT MADNESS” for students and alums in Steele Hall for a nominal charge. On Saturday, the Ruterbusch 5K is at 10 a.m. at the Steele Hall indoor track. Also at 10 a.m., the men’s alumni soccer game will be held. The Men’s Soccer Team will play Potsdam at 1 p.m.
There are several free musical performances slated for Homecoming. The Fredonia Reunion Jazz Ensemble will perform on Friday at 8 p.m. in Rosch Recital Hall. A Choral Showcase of student talent is slated for Saturday at 4 p.m. in Rosch Recital Hall, and at 8 p.m., the College Symphony Orchestra will perform in King Concert Hall. Also at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, in Marvel Theatre, there will be performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets for the play may be obtained after Aug. 25 by calling the Ticket Office at 716-673-3501.
Some alumni may be inclined to participate in a little performing! At 1 p.m. on Saturday, the Folk Music Weekend/Geosciences Reunion will commence at the College Lodge in Brocton. “Jamming and Jabbering” will include snacks, listening and/or playing music, and just great fun. Join former Geosciences faculty member and chair, Dr. Richard Gilman, his wife, Carmen, and numerous others for an afternoon and evening that will include a 6 p.m. buffet supper and 8 p.m. square dance.
Fredonia’s Department of Athletics will induct five new members into its Hall of Fame on Saturday evening. The program will begin at 6 p.m. (cash bar cocktails) and continue with dinner and the program at 7 p.m. in the Cranston Marché at University Commons. The induction class of 2014 includes Danielle Bleecker, ’08 (Women’s Soccer); Matthew Clark, ’06 (Baseball); Heather (Martin) McIntosh, ’05 (Women’s Volleyball); Heather Mercer, ’04 (Women’s Softball); and Eric Preston, ’97 (Men’s Hockey). Make your reservations now!
The classes of 1954, 1964 and 2004 will celebrate anniversaries with special events. For all of the other honored classes – the classes of 1959, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, and 2009, there will be an Honored Class Multi-Reception held in the Williams Center Tim Horton’s area from 4 to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Look for your respective area. Charge per person is $5 and includes light refreshments, prizes and a cash beer/wine bar. Specific downtown establishments will be designated for further opportunities in which to gather later in the evening. Look for the location assignments at the Homecoming Registration Table.
Of course, there are other events that may pique your interest. There will be a reception/networking opportunity on Saturday at 3 p.m. in the Pucci Room, Williams Center, for alumni who graduated from College Student Personnel and Higher Education advanced degree programs. All proceeds from the event (charge is $5/person) will go to assist current students with graduate school application fees (for these same disciplines).
Check out the entire Homecoming schedule online and in the Statement. You can register for events online or contact the Office of Alumni Affairs, 286 Central Ave., Fredonia, NY 14063, Alumni.Office@fredonia.edu, or call the Alumni Office at 716-673-3553.
