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Comprehensive Reunion Weekend Schedule

This schedule includes community-wide events, affinity/affiliation celebrations, and educational programs for alumni.

See also:

Check out 2008 reunion activities by day:

Friday, May 23
8:30 am–midnight Maddock Alumni Center open
Alumni are welcome to drop by Maddock Alumni Center, 38 Brown Street – the official alumni hospitality center for Reunion Weekend. Student reunion staff will be available throughout the weekend to offer assistance with event locations, directions around campus and in Providence, and any questions you may have concerning Reunion Weekend.
Maddock Alumni Center, 38 Brown Street (corner of George)
Noon–10:30 pm Registration
Under the tent on Wriston Quadrangle for the 10th through the 70th reunions and on the Pembroke Campus for the 5th reunion.
5:00 pm Brown parking lots open for use by Commencement /Reunion
guests throughout the weekend. See more details.
5:00 pm–7:00 pm Social Entrepreneurship Program Launch
Enjoy a wine and cheese event to launch the Social Entrepreneurship Program. Come hear presentations from current students and recent alumni on their social ventures.
Swearer Center for Public Service, 25 George St.
5:30 pm–7:30 pm
MAC Reception
Join the Brown Alumni Association’s Multicultural Alumni Committee (MAC) in a celebration of Brown's Third World Community and multicultural alumni affinity groups (Asian/Asian American Alumni Alliance (A4), Brown University Latino Alumni Council (BULAC), and Inman Page Black Alumni Council (IPC)). Gather with classmates and friends at this annual event celebrating the achievements of our student and alumni leaders. Enjoy music, student performances, and light refreshments.
Maddock Alumni Center Garden
5:30 pm–9:00 pm Brown Bear Buffet
The buffet is one of the oldest Reunion/Commencement events, with a generous menu of beef, chicken, pasta, salads, and desserts. Enjoy the sounds of student a cappella groups while you dine. A limited number of tickets can be purchased at the door. [$]
Sharpe Refectory
7:30 pm Hillel Community Kiddush and Shabbat Dinner
Join seniors and their families for a festive Shabbat dinner prepared by a gourmet caterer. RSVP: (401) 863-2805 or e-mail. [$]
Brown Hillel, 80 Brown Street
7:00 pm–9:00 pm Royce Fellowship Reunion
Past and present fellows, as well as friends and family of the Royce Fellowship, are invited to the annual Royce reunion and celebration. Come enjoy wonderful conversation, great food, and live music.
Machado House, 87 Prospect St.
8:00 pm–10:00 pm Swearer Center for Public Service Celebration
Join friends, family, community partners, staff, students, and alumni of the Swearer Center for a celebration and reunion.
Machado House, 87 Prospect St.
8:00 pm–10:00 pm Pre-Campus Dance Young Alumni Reception
Young alumni (Classes of 2004-2007) are invited to a pre-Campus Dance cocktail reception organized by Brown’s Class Campaigns office. Catch up with your friends and former classmates, win Thayer Street goodies, and enjoy free drinks and appetizers. RSVP: Online.
Tent outside MacMillan Hall
9:00 pm–1:00 am Campus Dance

The College Green is transformed into an outdoor ballroom with a giant dance floor for swinging to the sounds of the Duke Belaire Orchestra. Lincoln Field is set for the young at heart with two of Brown’s student bands. Tables for the 15th through 70th reunion classes are located on the Main Green in front of Faunce House. The 10th reunion is located around the flagpole on the Main Green, while the 5th reunion will have tables reserved on Lincoln Field. Tickets not purchased in advance will go on sale beginning at 8:30 pm. Sponsored by the Brown Alumni Association. [$]
The College Green and Lincoln Field

9:00 pm–midnight Third World Center Reception
Take a break from Campus Dance and stop in at the annual TWC / BAA reception. Mingle with classmates and friends in the TWC lounge, and enjoy the musical talents of fellow alumni. Sponsored by the Multicultural Alumni Committee (MAC) of the Brown Alumni Association (BAA).
Third World Center, 68 Brown Street

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Saturday, May 24
7:00 am–9:30 am Continental Breakfast
Light breakfast in individual class headquarters. All are welcome, whether staying on campus or not. This is a great way to meet classmates and start your day. Compliments of the University.
7:30 am–3:00 pm Registration
Check-in for late arrivals from all classes.
Wriston Quadrangle
8:30 am–midnight Maddock Alumni Center open
Alumni information and hospitality center for Reunion Weekend.
Maddock Alumni Center, 38 Brown Street (corner of George)
8:30 am
New
All-Class Memorial Service
Join classmates and fellow alumni for this meaningful ceremony. Each reunion class will have a representative to honor the memory of those who have departed our midst since our last reunion. University Chaplain Janet Cooper Nelson will officiate.
Sayles Hall
9:30 am
New
Hour with the President
Come and hear President Ruth J. Simmons discuss the Plan for Academic Enrichment and her vision for Brown. This is a unique Reunion Weekend opportunity to learn how alumni can be part of building Brown’s future.
Lincoln Field
10:30 am September 11th Memorial Service
All members of the Brown community are welcome to join the Delt Foundation in remembrance of the Brown alumni lost in the 9/11 attacks: Donald Greene ’71, Chuck Margiotta ’79, Dave Laychak ’83, Joanne Weil ’84, Ray Rocha ’95, and Paul Sloan ’97. Dimitri Gavriel ’97, who was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq, will also be remembered.
Participants will gather at 10:15 at Wayland Arch and process to the memorial locust tree on Patriot’s Court.
11:00 amNew

Alumni Reunion Forums
Explore the experience, knowledge and expertise of the Brown alumni community in these new alumni-to-alumni forums (at this time and at 3:30 pm).

"Ahead of the Curve: Producing for Film & Television"
David Brown ’98, producer/manager, Sleeping Giant Productions; Amy Gossels ’83, casting director/producer, Amy Gossels Casting; Bob Levy ’83, producer, Alloy Entertainment
The process of moving a film or television show from initial concept through to post-production is a complex one, all the more so in the expansion of market segments that has occurred over the past few years. Seasoned alumni share their professional perspectives on their part of the process and comment on what it takes to be successful in today’s industry.
Salomon Center, Room 001

"Dot Earth: Pursuing Progress on a Finite Planet"
Andrew C. Revkin ’78, environment reporter, Dot Earth blogger, The New York Times
In an illustrated talk, Andrew Revkin ’78, a prize-winning New York Times reporter and author, will describe his 25-year exploration of efforts to mesh human affairs with Earth’s limits, from the Amazon to the North Pole. Book signing to follow lecture.
W. Duncan Macmillan Hall, Room 115

Noon–3:00 pm New

Alumni Field Day
Reunion classes from the 5th through the 35th and the Brown Medical School will enjoy catching up with friends under their class/school tents at what promises to be the best Field Day ever, with a wide variety of activities for adults and children alike. Purchase barbecue tickets to enjoy hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, and salads, or bring a picnic lunch. All activities are free. A limited number of individual-only barbecue tickets will be available at the Field Day gate. Field Day is held rain or shine. Sponsored by the Brown Alumni Association.
Erickson Athletic Complex fields
3:00 pm Baccalaureate Service
Marking the first ceremonial moment of Brown’s Commencement, the service includes a distinguished guest speaker; music, greetings, and thanksgivings in several languages; and traditions drawn from the diversity of Brown’s family. Speaker: Dave Eggers, award-winning author of five books, including A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius; and founder of McSweeney’s, an independent publishing house in San Francisco and the magazine of the same name.
First Baptist Meeting House (simulcast to College Green)
3:30 pmNew

Alumni Reunion Forums
Explore the experience, knowledge and expertise of the Brown alumni community in these new alumni-to-alumni forums.

"What’s So Funny? Alumni Comedy Writers"
Kit Boss ’83, writer, ABC Studios; Jonathan Groff ’83, writer/executive producer, 20th Century Fox; Ian Maxtone-Graham ’83, executive producer, The Simpsons; moderated by Lauren Corrao ’83, president, Original Program Development, Comedy Central
Have you ever wondered how comedic writers go about the process of creating humorous copy? How do they know that their writing will give you a chuckle, or perhaps, land you in stitches? Join several alumni who have achieved critical acclaim to learn the art and science of comedic writing.
W. Duncan Macmillan Hall, Room 117

"Contemporary Design: A Conversation with
Jonathan Adler ’88"

Jonathan Adler ’88, artist/designer/owner, Jonathan Adler Studio and Stores; moderated by Sarah Medford ’83, director, Arts, Culture & Design, Town & Country Magazine
Jonathan Adler ’88 first tried his hand at throwing pots at summer camp when he was twelve years old. Since then, he has established Jonathan Adler Studio and Stores, featuring an extensive line of pottery and home décor collections. Also, in 2007, Jonathan was the lead judge on Bravo’s Top Design. Join Jonathan as he talks about his own work and comments on the world of contemporary design.
List Art Center, Room 120

3:30 pm–5:30 pm Inman Page Black Alumni Council (IPC) General Meeting and Reception
This meeting will provide an update on IPC’s activities for the year. Meet the board of IPC and learn how you can be involved. Refreshments will be served at the post-meeting reception. All alumni and friends are welcome.
Smith-Buonanno Hall
4:00 pm–6:00 pm Brown Daily Herald Reunion
Gather at the Herald offices to catch up with old colleagues and reminisce about your days (or nights) at the paper. See the renovated office and find out what’s next for the Herald. Refreshments.
195 Angell Street, between Thayer and Brook streets
4:00 pm–7:00 pm Sixth Annual Asian/Asian American Alumni Alliance (A4) Commencement Celebration
A4 will recognize members of the Class of 2008 and their families with an afternoon of hospitality and entertainment. Stop by and visit, watch performances by student groups, and enjoy light refreshments. Congratulate this years’ recipients of the A4 Community Service Award. Students, alumni, community members, and friends are welcome.
Faunce House, Petteruti Lounge
4:30 pm–6:00 pm Brown Student & Community Radio (BSR) Alumni Open House
Come to the BSR radio offices to talk with fellow alumni and celebrate your experiences at the radio station.
Faunce House, Rm. 342
5:00 pm–6:30 pm Theater Alumni and Graduate Cocktail Party
For information call 401 863-2838.
Liv Ullman Lobby, Stuart Theatre
5:00 pm–6:30 pm Garden Reception for International Graduating Students, Their Families, and International Alumni in Reunions
Join Chancellor Emeritus Artemis A.W. Joukowsky ’55, Corporation members, International Advancement Vice President Ronald D. Margolin, and Vice President for International Affairs David W. Kennedy ’76 for light refreshments. Invitation only.
Rochambeau House
5:00 pm–7:00 pm Brown TBGALA (Transgender, Bisexual, Gay, and Lesbian Alumni) Reception
This annual tradition brings graduating seniors and their families together with alumni, faculty, administrators, and staff. Meet up with friends to enjoy cocktails and light refreshments. Congratulate this year’s student recipient of the TBGALA Leadership Award and learn how you can get involved with TBGALA.
Robinson Hall
5:00 pm–7:00 pm BOLT Student-Alumni Reception
Brown Outdoor Leadership Training (BOLT) leaders and participants are invited to meet old and new BOLT friends and find out what has been happening with the program since you graduated. Refreshments.
Machado House, 87 Prospect Street
5:00 pm–7:00 pm Computer Science Reunion and Networking Reception
Join computer science alumni, faculty, and friends for a reunion and networking reception. Last year’s event was an enormous success, so be sure to include us as part of your Commencement and Reunion plans!
Center for Information Technology (CIT), 115 Waterman Street, 3rd & 4th floors
5:00 pm–7:00 pm Brown Club Reception
Graduating seniors, alumni, and parents are invited to this cocktail reception hosted jointly by the Brown University Club in New York and the Brown Club of Boston. If you are planning to move to New York or Boston, or already reside in either area, don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the exciting events these two Brown Clubs offer. Sponsored by the Office of Alumni Relations.
Chancellor's Dining Room, Sharpe Refectory
6:00 pm–9:00 pm Latino Commencement dinner
Alumni, faculty, administrators, and staff join Latino students and their families to celebrate the next step in the Class of 2008’s journey: their transition from students to alumni. Latino seniors welcome the opportunity to build community with alumni and talk about shared experiences. Kenneth Padilla ’92, BULAC’s incoming president, will deliver the keynote address. Co-sponsored by the Office of Student Life (Latino Student Programs) and the Brown University Latino Alumni Council (BULAC). Tickets required. Ticket information: e-mail or (401) 863-3309.
Pizzitola Memorial Sports Center
6:00 pm The 27th Annual Jagolinzer Memorial Recital
Featuring performances by outstanding graduating seniors. A pre-concert reception will take place at 5 p.m. Seating is limited, and patrons are encouraged to arrive early.
Grant Recital Hall
6:00 pm ONYX Rites of Passage Ceremony
A sacred ceremony of celebration and ritual marking the commencement of one stage of life into another for students of African descent at Brown University. This is a ticketed event. [$]
Rhode Island Convention Center, Downtown
7:00 pm–9:00 pm WBRU Alumni Reception
Enjoy some hors d'oeuvres and refreshments and meet current staffers before Campus Dance.
88 Benevolent Street
7:00 pm Commencement Dance Concert
A lively mix of choreography by faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate seniors. General admission is $10, and student admission is $5. Tickets are available at the door. [$]
Stuart Theatre
7:30 pm–9:30 pm Higher Keys 25th Anniversary
The Higher Keys, Brown’s oldest coed a cappella group, are proud to celebrate 25 years of high-quality, high-class music. The Keys invite their alumni to a private function to sing, reminisce, and enjoy some tasty treats.
Barus-Holley Lobby
sundown (approximately 8:30 pm)–midnight
WaterFire
Ninety-seven bonfires hover above the surface of the river and thread through the half-mile of downtown Providence’s Waterplace Park. Enjoy this spectacular award-winning multimedia fire installation created by artist and alumnus Barnaby Evans ’75. Sponsored by the Office of Alumni Relations.
Downtown Providence, Waterplace Park, and the River Walk
9:00 pm–midnight BOLT Celebrates 20 Years
Brown Outdoor Leadership Training (BOLT) alumni and current leaders, participants, and friends are all invited. Come join old and new BOLT friends in a celebration for 20 years of BOLT passing the pulse forward. Dessert reception.
Tent at 142 Angell Street
9:00 pm–1:00 am Ain’t No Stopping Us Now House Party for Rites and Reason Theatre
An evening of music, dancing and fun in the Rites and Reason tradition for alumni, students, and families. Hosted by the Inman Page Black Alumni Council.
Rites and Reason Theatre, 155 Angell Street

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Sunday, May 25
7:00 am–9:00 am
Pre-Commencement Procession Breakfast
All are welcome! Get energized for the day with a complete hot breakfast buffet. Choose from pancakes, eggs, home fries, fruit, muffins, cereal, coffee, juice and lots more. Tickets will be available at the door. [$]
Sharpe Refectory
7:30 am–3:00 pm Maddock Alumni Center open
Alumni information and hospitality center for Reunion Weekend.
Maddock Alumni Center, 38 Brown Street (corner of George)
9:00 am Commencement Procession forms
The traditional walk through the Van Wickle Gates, one of Brown’s oldest and greatest traditions, brings together the entire Brown community. Don’t miss the opportunity to march with your classmates! Each class has a special place in the Procession, which travels from University Hall through the Van Wickle Gates and down College Hill. Generally, the most recent classes form on George Street while earlier classes will form on the College Green. Look for your reunion class signs and your reunion student staff member for guidance.
The procession steps off at 9:45 am.
The College Green
Noon–1:30 pm
New
Grab ’n Go Lunch
Available for 5th through 45th reunion classes. After your return up the Hill, grab lunch as Reunion Weekend comes to an end. The extended hours at your class headquarters will allow you to enjoy the company of your classmates or, if weather permits, have an impromptu picnic on campus. If you registered for this lunch, pickup is in the Chancellor’s Dining Room of the Sharpe Refectory. A limited number of lunches will be available for purchase on-site. [$]
Wriston Quad
Noon–2:30 pm 50+ Luncheon
After your march down the Hill, enjoy a complimentary casual luncheon as Reunion Weekend comes to an end. Relax with classmates out 50 years or more. Sponsored by the Brown Alumni Association.
Sharpe Refectory

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