Reunion 2026: Schedule of Events
All alumni are invited to join the Macalester community as we celebrate Reunion 2026. Our four-day programming includes panels and office hours with faculty and staff, dance parties, campus tours, and opportunities to connect with your class. This year, we are recognizing classes celebrating 5 year milestone reunions: 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021. These classes will be recognized on campus throughout the weekend.
Not in a milestone Reunion year? No problem! We’ve redesigned Reunion to allow plenty of time to gather in community together to learn, remember, and have fun! We hope to see you back on campus. Visit our FAQ Page to learn more about registration, lodging, and other Reunion questions you may have for the big celebration.
Explore the full schedule below or jump to a specific day!
All weekend
General Check-In and On-site Registration
Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Check in for all classes and on-site registration.
Thursday, June 4: 3–7:30 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
On-Campus Housing Check-In
Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Check in for on-campus housing. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged as a limited number of beds will be available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.
Thursday, June 4: 3–7:30 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Alumni & Family Lounge
Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center, second floor
Stop by the second floor of the Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center to grab a beverage at the Mac Grille, or take a moment to work on a puzzle, play a board game, or color.
Thursday, June 4: 3–8:00 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 8:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 8 a.m.–11:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 7: 8–11 a.m.
Pick Up Your Mac Gear at the Highlander Bookstore
32 Snelling Ave S
Pick up your Mac gear at the Highlander’s location on Snelling Avenue. Enjoy 10% off your purchase of Mac gear through the Macalester Highlander online store starting May 21 using code: PRIDE26 or by using your Reunion name tag, in store, during Reunion!
Thursday, June 4: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, June 7: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Catch the Cart – Mac Wagon
Outside Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
A great Mac gathering means another stop at the Mac Wagon. Don’t miss the opportunity to come and meet members of your Alumni Board, purchase exclusive swag for Reunion 2026, spin-to-win swag, drop off your completed scavenger hunt card, and more!
Friday, June 5: 5–8 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Leonard Center
Treadmills, stationary bikes, elliptical walkers, weight machines, lockers, and showers are all available to registered Reunion participants! Please bring your Reunion name tag to check in and use the facilities.
Thursday, June 4: 3–8 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. (Lap swim from 11 a.m.–1 p.m., 5–7 p.m.)
Saturday, June 6: 8 a.m.–4 p.m. (Lap swim from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.)
DeWitt Wallace Library
Thursday, June 4: 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Class of 1976 Class Headquarters
Briggs House, 1644 Summit Ave
Briggs House is the Class of 1976 headquarters for all of Reunion 2026. Join us to catch up with classmates throughout the weekend.
Thursday, June 4: 3–10 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 8 a.m.–11 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 8 a.m.–Midnight
Parenting Rooms
Room 106, Theater Building first floor (access card needed)
Room 115J, Humanities Building first floor (access card needed)
Parenting rooms for nursing parents or other young child needs are available during registration hours throughout Reunion. Stop by Reunion registration for an access card.
Thursday, June 4: 3–7:30 p.m.
Friday, June 5: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 6: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Events marked with a $ symbol are ticketed programs and require advance registration. All other events are open to Reunion attendees on a first-arrival basis, as space permits, seating may be limited.
Events listed with a specific class year first (for example, Class of 1996 Reception) are intended for members of that class and their guests. Events listed as Hosted by a class or group are open to all Reunion attendees and guests.
Hosted by [Class Year or Group] = Open to all Reunion attendees and guests.
Class Year listed first (example: Class of 1996 Reception) = Intended for members of that class and their guests.
Thursday
Thursday Afternoon
3–7:30 p.m. | On-site Registration, Check-In, and Residence Halls Open for Reunion Guests
Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Check in for all classes and on-site registration.
3:30–4:30 p.m. | Back to Class: Building the Future: New Residence Hall & Welcome Center Talk and Tour
Davis Court, Markim Hall
Join AVP of Facilities Nathan Lief for an inside look at one of the most exciting building transformations on campus right now, the new residence hall and welcome center currently under construction. Nathan will begin with a brief overview of the project’s vision, design, and impact on student life before leading a tour of the construction site. Get a firsthand look at this major milestone in Macalester’s campus evolution and hear what’s ahead as the future takes shape.
3:30–4:30 p.m. | Oral History Session with 50th Reunion and Archives (pre-registration required)
Location TBA
The Macalester Oral History Program enriches the College Archives by capturing the stories of alumni. The 50th Reunion class will participate in a group interview, preserving their memories for future generations. Led by experienced interviewers, this conversation explores first impressions, campus life, and the times they lived through. No preparation needed, just stories waiting to be shared! If you would like to do an individual interview stop by the Archives Open House on Friday to schedule. Register in advance to participate, space is limited: Oral History Sign-Up.
4:30–6:30 p.m. | Grand Welcome
Alumni Gym, Leonard Center
Grand Welcome: Your Reunion starts here—together.
Gather with the full Macalester family for an opening celebration that’s equal parts homecoming and inspiration. See Mac values alive in the people around you. Connect with students, faculty, staff, and fellow alumni who are actively moving our mission forward—and feel, firsthand, what makes this community unlike any other. Then, raise a glass. We’ll honor this year’s Alumni Award recipients and celebrate the achievements and generosity that define who we are as a community. This is your all-class Reunion kickoff, and we can’t wait to welcome you back.
Hosted drinks and light hors d’oeuvres provided.
Thursday Evening
5:30–8 p.m. | All-Class Thursday Dinner $
Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
Relive your student dining experience by exploring Bon Appetit’s farm-to-fork offerings at casual buffet food stations inside the newly renovated Café Mac. Drop in during meal service times and reconnect with classmates. All are welcome.
7–8:30 p.m. | Tartan Trivia: Reunion Version, Hosted by the Class of 2021
Shaw Field Tent
Think you and your classmates have what it takes to be the ultimate trivia champions? Put your knowledge to the test at Tartan Trivia @ Reunion! Classes will go head-to-head in a fun and competitive trivia showdown, featuring a special round dedicated entirely to Macalester history and traditions. Gather your classmates, show off your smarts, and compete for bragging rights—and exclusive champion sweatshirts! Don’t miss this chance to relive your college days, challenge your classmates, and claim the title of Tartan Trivia champions.
Cash bar, food from Sasquatch Sandwiches food truck available for purchase between 6-9 p.m.
7–10 p.m. | Class of 1976 Thursday Welcome and Social Gathering
Briggs House, 1644 Summit Ave
Start Reunion right by finding your roommates and friends at a casual social with food from Shish in the former Alumni House. Catch up, enjoy refreshments, and make your weekend plans!
Friday
Hosted by [Class Year or Group] = Open to all Reunion attendees and guests
Class Year listed first (example: Class of 1996 Reception) = Intended for members of that class and their guests.
$ Symbol = Ticketed event; advance registration required
All other events = Open to Reunion attendees as space permits on a first-arrival basis
Friday Morning
7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. | On-Site Registration, Check-In, and Residence Halls
Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Check in for all classes and on-site registration.
7:30–9:30 a.m. | All-Class Friday Breakfast $
Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
9–10 a.m. | Trustees Emeriti Breakfast
Cafe Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
Join fellow Trustees Emeriti at Café Mac (First floor of the Campus Center) for breakfast and a chance to catch up with each other and learn about the current state of the college.
9–11 a.m. | Idea Lab Open House
Idea Lab, DeWitt Wallace Library Second Floor
Visit the heart of Entrepreneurship on campus! Exercise your creativity in the Idea Lab, a hands-on workspace in the heart of the library, where students innovate, collaborate, befriend, re-center, and work together to solve problems and drive positive change in the world. Hosted by the Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Archives Open House
Archives, DeWitt Wallace Library Second Floor
Visit the Macalester College Archives and browse spotlights, photographs, student organization material, and more! Do you have mementos from your college years tucked away in storage? Bring them to the open house and donate them to the Archives!
10–11 a.m. | Class of 1966 Golf Cart Tour
Meet by the MAC letters outside of Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Limited capacity, registration required.
10–11 a.m. | Back to Class: Positive Restlessness: A Historical Truthtelling of Macalester College
Arthur S. Flemming Room, Kagin Commons
Reunion is a meaningful moment to reflect on the stories we tell about Macalester. Over the past two years, we implemented a grant-funded project to explore Macalester’s past with a critical and constructive lens. Faculty, students, and alumni conducted archival research and interviews with alumni, faculty emeriti, and past administrators and staff to write a manuscript that includes overlooked voices, new perspectives, and deeper connections to Macalester’s mission and values. We’ll share four themes and some of the many stories that emerged from this project.
10–11:30 a.m. | Back to Class: Sustainability Walking Tour and Talk
Room 250, Olin-Rice Science Center
Get to know the sustainability initiatives at Macalester. During this tour and talk, participants will learn about sustainability initiatives on campus including: decarbonization and zero waste efforts, active transportation, gardens and food justice, and efforts to improve biodiversity and stormwater management.
10–11:30 a.m. | Class of 1976 Golden Scots Society Induction Ceremony
Weyerhaeuser Chapel
The Class of 1976 will be inducted into the Golden Scots Society with music, memories, and medallions during a heartwarming ceremony celebrating the past and the future.
Class of 1976 inductees are asked to arrive at the flagpole by 9:45 a.m. to line up.
All are welcome to attend!
10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Department and Faculty Office Hours
Various locations
Stop by to meet familiar and new faculty and staff members for an informal open house visit. Participating faculty and departments will be posted at registration (Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center) as well as on the Reunion website.
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. | Back to Class: What Can We All Learn from Adrienne’s Over 1,000 Days of Project Positivity?
Room 350, Olin-Rice Science Center
Join Professor Emeritus Adrienne Christiansen for a meaningful conversation about resilience, gratitude, and finding light in difficult times. What began as a personal practice of noticing daily moments of goodness and beauty became a source of strength through life’s challenges, including COVID disruptions, retirement, grief, and community pain. Along the way, Project Positivity also resonated deeply with others, offering encouragement and hope far beyond its original purpose. Discover what Adrienne’s over 1,000-day journey can teach us about building emotional strength, embracing joy, and sustaining hope even during times of despair.
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | All-Class Friday Lunch $
Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
11:45 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | Golden Scots Society Luncheon $
Alumni Gym, Leonard Center
For all celebrating their 50th Reunion and beyond, plus special recognition for milestone Reunions: 1976, 1971, 1966, 1961, 1956, and 1951.
Friday Afternoon
1:15–2:15 p.m. | Back to Class: Faith in Action: Conversations about Community Organizing and Religion in 2026
Weyerhaeuser Chapel
Macalester alumni all across the country have been engaged in social advocacy in this current moment, and many of them ground their work in their faith, spirituality, and values. Join the Center for Religious and Spiritual Life for a short storytelling panel with alumni on the ground in community organizing, followed by the opportunity to connect with other attendees to discuss the relevance of faith and hope in building a more just world.
1:45–2:45 p.m. | Golden Scots Society Coffee & Conversation
Room 111, DeWitt Wallace Library
Join your fellow Golden Scots to continue your conversations from lunch. Relax over a cup of coffee immediately following the Golden Scots Luncheon.
2–4 p.m. | Field Day, Hosted by the Class of 2011
John Leaney Field, Macalester Stadium
Come out to John Leaney Field at Macalester Stadium for a bit of activity, movement, fresh air, and friendly competition. Whether you’re looking to relive your glory days on the pitch or simply want to enjoy the sunshine with old friends, there’s a pace for everyone with yard games and sports equipment available for use.
2:15–3:15 p.m. | Back to Class: Black Feminist Politics from the Voting Rights Act to the Kamala Harris Vice Presidency: 1965–2025
Room 350, Olin-Rice Science Center
Join Professor Duchess Harris for a thought-provoking conversation on the lasting influence of Black feminist political thought in shaping modern U.S. democracy. Drawing from her book, Harris traces key moments in activism, scholarship, and social movements from the Voting Rights Act to Kamala Harris’s historic Vice Presidency. Explore how Black feminist analysis deepens our understanding of power, representation, and democratic change. Book signing to follow the program.
2:30–3:30 p.m. | Campus Tour led by Admissions
Meet on the street side of Weyerhaeuser Hall
Join your fellow alumni to see what campus looks like today through the eyes of a current student.
3–4 p.m. | Leave Your Mark: Creative Giving Strategies That Work for You
Room 200, Theater and Dance Building
What if giving could give back to you, too? Join fellow alumni for an inspiring conversation about creative, meaningful ways to support the causes you love — while making smart decisions for yourself and your family. You might be surprised by what’s possible. Real stories, real people, no jargon — just an honest look at what it means to give with intention and impact.
3–4 p.m. | Alumni of Color Reception
The Loch, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
Join fellow alumni of color for a celebration of our vibrant diversity, shared experiences, and collective achievements. This special gathering is your chance to reconnect with old friends, spark new connections, and celebrate the powerful, lasting impact alumni of color continue to make across generations.
3:30–4:30 p.m. | Keeping Hope Alive: Living Mac’s Values In Turbulent Times, Hosted by the Class of 1996
Room 202, Theater and Dance Building
The class of 1996 invites all reunion attendees to join us for a community conversation and panel featuring five class members who will share examples of how Mac’s values can continue to guide, inspire, and sustain us in uncertain times. Moderated by Andrew Foster Davis and featuring Migdalia Loyola Meléndez, Mani Mokalla, MD, Marika Pfefferkorn, and Eva Reid as panelists.
4:15– 5:15 p.m. | Speed Connecting, Hosted by the Class of 2021
James Williams Theater, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center lower level
Launched by the Class of 1975 and hosted this year by the Class of 2021, this speed meeting is an opportunity for cross-generational connecting and building more relationships. All are welcome for this Macalester community building event.
4:15–5:15 p.m. | Choral Sing Along
Mairs Concert Hall, Music Building
Join us for a choral sing along of some Macalester favorites. Whether you have been singing continuously since your time at Mac or just want to listen, it will be a time of community filled with joyful music.
4:30–5:30 p.m. | Macalester Athletics Social and Locker Room Reveal
Macalester Stadium Concourse
Join Macalester Athletics and Director of Athletics, Donnie Brooks, for complimentary snacks and beverages while reconnecting with fellow alumni and celebrating the next chapter of Scots athletics. Experience firsthand the modern locker room upgrades designed to support our student-athletes and enhance community.
Friday Evening
5–6 p.m. | Shabbat Gathering
Center for Religious and Spiritual Life (lower level), Weyerhaeuser Chapel
Join Jewish alumni and friends for a gathering with Macalester’s Rabbi Emma Kippley-Ogman to light candles, have a bite of challah, and schmooze. This is a great chance to share stories with alumni connected with Macalester Jewish Organization and Hebrew House across generations!
5–8 p.m. | Catch the Cart – Mac Wagon
Outside Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
A great Mac gathering means another stop for the Mac Wagon. Don’t miss the opportunity to come and meet members of your Alumni Board, purchase exclusive swag for Reunion 2026, spin-to-win swag, and more!
5–9:30 p.m. | Snacks at Mac
Shaw Field Tent
Cash bar and meal choices from food trucks are available for purchase. A variety of cuisines will be offered on-site. A special live salsa musical performance featuring Doug Little ’91 and Shai Hayo ’96 between 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. will include salsa lessons.
Food trucks at Snacks at Mac include: Egg Roll Queen, Habanero Tacos, Cave Cafe, Deep Roots, and Amazing Momos: Tibetan Dumplings.
5:30–6:30 p.m. | First-Generation Reception
The Loch, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
Join us for an alumni reception and celebration of community for first-generation alumni. This special event is designed to celebrate and connect first-generation college students and alumni, and will provide opportunities to share stories, build community, and foster lasting connections across generations. Join in community to reflect on where it all began. This gathering is a space to honor the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of our first-generation community.
5:30–6:30 p.m. | Men’s Basketball Alumni and Friends Social
Hall of Fame Room, Leonard Center
Reconnect with former teammates, meet the current Men’s Basketball coaching staff, and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Macalester basketball program. The social ends with a visit to the newly renovated team locker room.
Refreshments provided.
6–8 p.m. | Class of 1966 Dinner $
Location TBA
Enjoy an evening of great conversation while reconnecting with classmates. All dinners will be held on campus, with specific locations posted in the Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center lobby. Reservations required.
6–8 p.m. | Class of 1971 Dinner $
Location TBA
Enjoy an evening of great conversation while reconnecting with classmates. All dinners will be held on campus, with specific locations posted in the Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center lobby. Reservations required.
6–8 p.m. | Class of 1976 Friday Dinner $
Location TBA
Enjoy an evening of great conversation while reconnecting with classmates. All dinners will be held on campus, with specific locations posted in the Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center lobby. Reservations required.
8:30–11 p.m. | Class of 1976 Friday Social Gathering
Briggs House, 1644 Summit Ave
Come to Briggs House to continue the conversation with classmates.
9–10:30 p.m. | Late Night Vinyl presents 1999 by Prince
Theater, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Before 1999, Prince was already talented—but this album is where he explodes into a genre-defying force. He leans hard into synths, drum machines, and layered vocals, creating what would later be called the Minneapolis sound—a fusion of funk, new wave, R&B, and rock that reshaped ’80s pop.
If you’re new to Late Night Vinyl, here’s how it works: We listen to a vinyl record from start to finish, with a bit of pre- and post-discussion, but the main attraction is listening to really good music, on really good audio equipment across generations. Join Adan Martinez ’16 and Daymond Dean ’91 as we host late-night vinyl in honor of Prince, who passed 10 years ago.
Saturday
Hosted by [Class Year or Group] = Open to all Reunion attendees and guests
Class Year listed first (example: Class of 1996 Reception) = Intended for members of that class and their guests.
$ Symbol = Ticketed event; advance registration required
All other events = Open to Reunion attendees as space permits on a first-arrival basis
Saturday Morning
7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. | General Check-In and On-site Registration
Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
Check-in for all classes and on-site registration.
7:30–9:30 a.m. | All-Class Saturday Breakfast
Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
9–10:30 a.m. | Playground Meetup, Hosted by the Class of 2006
Mattocks Park, 441 S Macalester St
Join the class of 2006 and others from the Macalester community for a casual playground meetup. No formal program or activities—just a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meet fellow Scots in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
9–10:15 a.m. | Legacy Letters
Room 235, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
What are the family stories, life lessons, and blessings that you want to share with your children, grandchildren, and other loved ones? The Legacy Letters workshop is the designated time you’ve been waiting for to begin contemplating and recording these important messages—it’s easier and more meaningful than you might think. This is a guided workshop with prompts and examples. All materials are provided.
9–10:30 a.m. | Musings of a Half Century, Hosted by the Class of 1976
Room 200, Theater and Dance Department
Join members of the class of 1976 for a session featuring a series of brief, reflective talks hosted by Sue Abderholden ’76, Pamila Brown ’76, and Roberto Ochoa ’76. Speakers will share short remarks of under five minutes, with a timekeeper helping keep the program moving. The session may include time at the end for audience participation. Attendees are encouraged to sign up in advance, and outreach is underway to invite a diverse group of voices.
9:15–10:15 a.m. | Back to Class: Behind the Admissions Curtain
Room 350, Olin-Rice Science Center
Pull back the curtain on the college admissions process in this informative session designed for families beginning or continuing their college search journey. Admissions professionals will share practical insights on what to expect at each stage of the process. Learn the top things families should know, common misconceptions to avoid, and strategies for supporting students through the process. Whether you have a student preparing for the college search or are simply curious to gain insider insight into today’s admissions process, this session offers valuable information for all.
10:30–11:30 a.m. | Reunion Featured Program: From Page to Phenomenon: A Conversation with Lauren Billings ’96 and Professor Emma Törzs ’09
Weyerhaeuser Chapel
Join Lauren Billings ’96, one half of the bestselling duo behind Christina Lauren, in conversation with Macalester professor and acclaimed author Emma Törzs ’09 for an engaging look at storytelling, collaboration, and the publishing world. With more than twenty-one New York Times bestselling novels, Christina Lauren has captivated readers across genres and around the globe. Together, Lauren and Emma will explore how they both got their start and what’s ahead, including upcoming books and adaptations for TV and film. This conversation offers something for devoted readers, aspiring writers, and anyone curious about the journey from idea to international success.
10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Macalester Alumni of Moderation
Room 202, Theater and Dance Building
Macalester Alumni of Moderation invite you to attend our annual session and discuss the state of viewpoint diversity at Macalester… and now elsewhere. In 2006, our group was the first in the nation to raise this critical issue and now alums from many colleges and universities have prompted other such groups. Visit the Mac Mods website to learn more about Macalester Alumni of Moderation.
11 a.m.–12 p.m. | Campus Tour Led by Admissions
Meet at street side of Weyerhaeuser Hall
Join your fellow alumni to see what campus looks like today through the eyes of a current student.
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | All-Class Picnic $
Shaw Field Tent
All are welcome to enjoy festivities at a hearty picnic barbecue lunch featuring a variety of lively entertainers, including music by Professor Emeritus Dave McCurdy’s trio, face painting, lawn games, henna artists, caricatures, hooping, and more.
11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | Catch the Cart – Mac Wagon
Outside Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
A great Mac gathering means another stop for the Mac Wagon. Don’t miss the opportunity to come and meet members of your Alumni Board, purchase exclusive swag for Reunion 2026, spin-to-win swag, and more!
11:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m. | Macalester College Pipe Band Performs
Great Lawn
The bagpipes are calling! Experience one of Macalester’s most treasured traditions as the full Pipe Band fills the air with sound and spirit. Don’t miss this iconic performance.
Saturday Afternoon
12:30–3:30 p.m. | Stories That Shape Us / Voices of Color: Share your Macalester story
Archives, DeWitt Wallace Library second floor
Step into a powerful storytelling experience with Macalester Archives on Saturday, where your voice takes center stage. Share your journey, reflect on the moments that shaped you, and contribute to a living history that honors the experiences of alumni of color. Register in advance for an individual session between 12–2 p.m. or to be part of a group session (up to 10 people) at 2-3 p.m. to record your story in a welcoming, supportive space – your perspective will help inspire and inform generations to come. Register in advance to participate: Oral History Sign-Up.
12:45–1:45 p.m. | Back to Class: Indigenizing Initiatives: Preservation and Celebration of Indigenous Culture, Craft, and Community on Macalester Campus and Beyond
Room 350, Olin-Rice Science Center
Join alumni, former student leaders, and community members for a special panel celebrating the history and impact of PIPE through the years. Through stories and reflections, speakers will share their experiences at Macalester, the role PIPE played in fostering Indigenous culture and community on campus, and how that foundation continues to shape their work today. The program will also feature archival materials highlighting PIPE’s legacy and contributions across generations. Come honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision the future of Indigenous community at Macalester and beyond.
12:45–1:45 p.m. | Persistence of Vision: Documentary Portraits of American Visionaries with Steve Plattner ’76, Hosted by the Class of 1976
Room 200, Theater and Dance Building
Steve Plattner ’76 will give an illustrated, sometimes humorous talk recounting how his experience at Macalester shaped his career as a curator and documentary photographer. Steve will discuss some of his earliest photographic work for the Minnesota Historical Society (including time spent inside Stillwater State Penitentiary in 1978) and his 20-year documentation of eccentric visionary or “outsider” artists across America.
1:30–2:30 p.m. | M Club Water Balloon Slingshot Challenge
John Leaney Field, Macalester Stadium
Put together your three-person team and test your water balloon launching skills against other reunion teams. Exciting prizes will be awarded to teams who come closest to hitting the coo! Sponsored by M Club and Athletics. Open to all! A three-person team is required to participate.
2–3 p.m. | From Parties to Purpose: Panel of Macalester Alumni Award Winners from Class of 1986
Room 202, Theater and Dance Building
How did time at Macalester plant the seeds for future work to improve the world? Five award-winning class of 1986 alums will share stories about their path from college student to purpose-driven leader. Moderator: Grant Killoran. Panelists: Jane Breckinridge and David Bohlken, Jim Cummings, Paul Raushenbush, Gabrielle Funaro Strong.
2–3 p.m. | Back to Class: Why Was Shakespeare Obsessed with Ghosts… And What Does That Reveal about the English Reformation?
Room 350, Olin-Rice Science Center
“Enter the Ghost of young Prince Edward.” “Enter Ghost [of King Hamlet].” “Enter Ghost [of Banquo].” From the ghosts of Richard III’s victims to the ghost of Hamlet’s father, ghosts haunt the Shakespearean stage. This lecture—based on discussions arising from the popular course ENGL219 Demonology—explores Shakespeare’s supernatural imagination in the context of the English Reformation.
2–3:30 p.m. | 1976 Book Club: On Tyranny
Briggs House, 1644 Summit Ave
Join classmates from the Class of 1976 a discussion of On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder. This conversation will explore how lessons from history can inform our understanding of democracy today, touching on themes like civic responsibility, political rhetoric, and the role of individuals in shaping society. All are welcome, whether you have read the book or simply want to join the conversation.
2:45–3:45 p.m. | Children’s Storytime with Adrienne Christiansen
Harmon Room (First Floor), DeWitt Wallace Library
Gather for a delightful storytime with Adrienne Christiansen, where books come to life! Enjoy timeless favorites and discover new tales, including works by Macalester alumni. Whether you’re looking to relive cherished stories or experience something fresh, this is the perfect chance to escape the heat, relax, and immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling.
3–4 p.m. | Friends of Bill W. and Dr. Bob
Room 235, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
This is a closed meeting of A.A. 12-Steps discussion and coffee. Attendance at closed meetings is restricted to those who have a desire to stop drinking. Hosted by a member of the fellowship who is an alum of Mac. There is a WhatsApp group created by previous attendees. If you would like to be added to the group please contact Pamela at 917-843-6981.
3:15–4:45 p.m. | Scots Pride Then and Now Panel and Reception
Panel: John B. Davis Lecture Hall (lower level), Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center,
Reception: The Loch (lower level), Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
Join us for a dynamic Scots Pride Reunion Panel celebrating the origins, growth, and lasting impact of Scots Pride. Hear from voices across generations as they share how it all began, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and how Scots Pride has evolved into the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community it is today. This is a space to reflect, connect, and uplift the stories that continue to shape its future.
4–5 p.m. | Featured Program: A Community in Focus: Leadership and Community Impact After Metro Surge
Weyerhaeuser Chapel
Join Mary Moriarty ’86 and President Suzanne M. Rivera for a timely and engaging conversation on the aftermath of Operation Metro Surge and its impact on Twin Cities communities. Offering an inside perspective on the challenges of recent months, Moriarty will reflect on her commitment to transparency and accountability, what comes next, and the realities of leading through complex moments. The discussion will also explore her personal journey, including how her time at Macalester helped shape her values and path in public service. This featured Reunion program invites attendees to reflect on leadership, resilience, and the role of education in preparing changemakers.
Saturday Evening
5:30–7 p.m. | All-Class Social
Marvin Plaza
Listen to great music while enjoying a refreshing beverage and great conversation with friends old and new, prior to your class dinner. Classes will be led by a piper to their dinners from the social. Listen for your class year to be announced, and carry your class banner to your dinner.
7–9 p.m. | Reunion Class Dinners (Reservations Required)
All Locations TBA
Enjoy an evening of great conversation while reconnecting with classmates. All dinners will be held on campus, with specific locations posted in the Lowe Dayton Arts Commons, Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center lobby. Reservations required.
7–9 p.m. | Class of 1976 Saturday Dinner (50th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 1981 Dinner (45th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 1986 Dinner (40th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 1991 Dinner (35th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 1996 Dinner (30th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 2001 Dinner (25th) $
7–9 p.m. |Class of 2006 Dinner (20th) $
7–9 p.m. |Class of 2011 Dinner (15th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 2016 Dinner (10th) $
7–9 p.m. | Class of 2021 Dinner (5th) $
9–11:30 p.m. | Tartan Unwind: Games & Gathering Space
Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center, second floor
Looking for a quieter way to connect? Step away from the dance tent and join us in the Campus Center for a relaxed evening of conversation, games, and community. Unwind with friends—old and new—in a welcoming, low-key space.
9 p.m.–12 a.m. | Class of 1976 Saturday Social Gathering
Briggs House, 1644 Summit Ave
Come to Briggs House to continue the conversation with classmates and celebrate the culmination of your 50th Reunion.
9 p.m.–12 a.m. | The Tartan Toast: An All-Class Reunion Party
Great Lawn Tent
Gather with friends old and new for one last toast as we talk and dance the night away on the Great Lawn. All Mac community members are welcome. Purchase drink tickets in advance at registration. Food from a food truck available for purchase. A special Prince tribute dance party at 11 p.m.
Sunday
Sunday Morning
8 a.m.–12 p.m. | Residence Hall Check-Out
George Draper Dayton Hall Office and Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
8–10 a.m. | All-Class Sunday Brunch $
Café Mac, Ruth Stricker Dayton Campus Center
9–11 a.m. | Grand Old Day Parade Participation & March with President Rivera
Meet on street side of Weyerhaeuser Hall
Join President Rivera and march in the Grand Old Day Parade on Sunday morning. The parade starts at 9:30 a.m. at the corner of Dale and Grand and ends near campus. We will gather at 9:00 a.m. and provide transportation to the start of the parade for those that need it. The parade route ends at the corner of Grand and Snelling. Keep in mind, the parade route is about a 2 mile walk, so dress for the weather in your favorite Macalester gear and wear good walking shoes! Check the GABA website for more information about Grand Old Day.