On Friday, April 14, and Saturday, April 15, over 300 alums from around the world, spanning the Classes of 1944 through 2020, returned to 100 East End Avenue for our beloved Reunion festivities.

On the Friday, alumnae had the opportunity to visit a class, tour the School, observe Clubhouse (Chapin’s after-school program), and enjoy refreshments courtesy of the Maria Bowen Chapin Legacy Society.

At 5:00 p.m., alums headed to the Assembly Room for the Alumnae Association Annual Meeting which, in addition to the speakers mentioned below, featured remarks honoring outgoing Head of Middle School Mary Rafferty, and the induction of the Class of 2023 into the Alumnae Association. (The meeting was also livestreamed for those who were unable to attend in person.)

“Reunions are a time to reflect on our history and look to our future,” began President of the Alumnae Association Wallis Post ’99. “This is when we celebrate our friendships and give thanks for what that this School has given to us. At Chapin, we have gained so much more than an education. We’ve learned how to go out in the world and make an impact. And, we have forged deep friendships. Our classmates lift us up during challenging times and help us celebrate happy milestones. It is humbling to think that our Alumnae Association was founded in 1914, with the goal of supporting wartime and welfare efforts.”

Next, our 50th Reunion Class speaker, Susan Loney ’73, shared an insightful speech celebrating both her class and our soon-to-be alums, saying, “Looking at a list of the interests and accomplishments of the Class of 2023 is truly awesome. I have no doubt that you will go on to do great things. It is my hope that as well as a great education, your time at Chapin has offered you some of the intangible gifts that we, the Class of 1973, have carried with us over these many decades…If possible, take time to reflect on the journey you’ve taken together to arrive here today, surrounded by a community that will always support you in the years to come.”

Class 12 President of Self-Government Mansia Momo followed with her own moving speech, saying, “By entering the Alumnae Association today, we become a part of Chapin’s preserved history…Today signifies the unity that Chapin holds. It’s amazing to see the Class of 1973, the Class of 2023, and alums from many graduating years in one room. While Chapin continues to evolve in many ways, the core remains the same. All of us will have a home here at 100 East End Avenue.”

Attendees also had the pleasure of hearing from Head of School Suzanne Fogarty and Board Chair LeeAnn Black before heading to the 11th floor “Sky Gym” for a sunset cocktail party.

On Saturday, April 15, alums returned to Chapin for a lovely morning spent catching up with friends over coffee, tea and mimosas. They also enjoyed student performances in the new Choral Room located in the heart of our performing arts floor before attending the Traditional Reunion Lunch in the Gordon Room. Following lunch, ACAP (Alum Cultural Awareness Program) hosted an afternoon gathering to meet, mingle and enjoy each other’s company.

We were ecstatic to have so many alums back to 100 East End Avenue and can’t wait for more opportunities to welcome them again!

 

Photos taken by photographer Virginie Carolina, Chapin staff and alums