1987

1987

Hello, fellow ’87s!

As I write this column I am still reliving amazing memories from our “Off the Green” reunion that took place in Chicago on September 16-18. Led by our 35th reunion chair Tim Parker and local host and class treasurer Maurice Holmes, the reunion planning committee created a weekend of reconnection, discussion, and lots of good times for approximately 150 classmates and guests. We were also honored to be joined for much of the weekend by Dr. Shontay Delalue, senior vice president and senior diversity officer at the College.

The weekend kicked off with beautiful weather and a Friday afternoon baseball game at Wrigley Field coordinated by Gregg Rippey. That evening we gathered at the Loews Hotel for a lively rooftop welcome reception set against the stunning backdrop of downtown Chicago. We had expected classmates to break off for dinner, but most stayed and talked until late in the evening.

Saturday morning started off with breakfast and the much-anticipated TED talks featuring

Sandy (Reeves) Spears, Gregg Rippey, Larry Pedersen, and Derek Lopez and moderated by Peter Murane. In the afternoon some classmates attended a guided tour of Bronzeville, the historic center of Black life in Chicago, and visited the DuSable Black History Museum. Other classmates took an architecture boat tour or had some muchneeded downtime. Saturday evening culminated in a scenic dinner cruise on Lake Michigan, complete with fabulous and nostalgic music by DJ Mario Brossard, a crowded dance floor, and a rousing rendition of “Dear Old Dartmouth” (the alma mater).

Sunday featured a brunch as well as recognition of the members of our class social justice initiative “Peace Justice Respect.” This was followed by a beautiful memorial service led by Crystal Crawford and an uplifting and emotional performance by members and friends of the gospel choir.

Many of our classmates who were there commented on what a unique and special experience it was to celebrate a reunion outside of Hanover. And some noted that the weekend caused them to embrace their classmates and their Dartmouth experience in a way they had not done previously. Fortunately, our class is already planning more events to bring us together again during the coming year.

I have sad news to report of a beloved classmate who has recently left us. Evan Marquit died in August after a nearly two-year struggle with cancer of the pancreas. Melissa Wallshein Smith wrote a beautiful tribute to Evan that was featured in our November newsletter and can also be found on our class web page.

Hoping that all of you are happy and well. Please send me your news!

—Lisa Snyder, 430 Ward St., Newtcm, MA 02459; dartmouth87classnews@gmail.com

Lisa Snyder