Alumni Weekend 2011 was a big success

More than 600 Emerson alumni and guests came back to campus June 3–5 to celebrate Alumni Weekend 2011. They reconnected with friends, honored standout alumni accomplishments, and celebrated the tenure of two presidents: Emerson College President Jacqueline Liebergott and Alumni Association President Robert Friend, who are both stepping down this year. Alumni also raised thousands of dollars to support student scholarships at the three-day event.

The weekend was a hit, according to Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Director of Alumni Relations Barbara Rutberg ’68. “Alumni from our most recent graduating class, 2011, and from as far back as the Class of 1936 all celebrated together,” she said. “I think everyone was impressed with the way the College has grown, yet stayed true to its roots.”

More than $30,000 was raised at the weekend’s Sixth Annual Emerson College Alumni Association Scholarship Auction. The funds will allow Emerson to distribute six $4,000 scholarships during the 2011–2012 academic year, tripling the number of scholarships that have been given in previous years.

“We appreciate all the Emerson alumni around the country who donated and bid on auction items,” said Sandi Goldfarb ’78, who co-chaired the auction with Madeline Yusna ’76. “As a result of their generosity, six deserving students will benefit from an Emerson education.”

Several alumni were honored throughout the weekend. Founding principal of marketing consultancy BBK Worldwide Bonnie Brescia ’82, prolific Hollywood producer Brad Epstein ’85, Emerson Trustee and CEO of real estate and hospitality company Goldman Properties Co.Tony Goldman ’65, and top-ranked financial advisor Raj Sharma, MA ’83, were presented with distinguished alumni awards. Morgan First ’06, a successful entrepreneur and social media and marketing expert, received the young alumni achievement award.

Additionally, a WERS Hall of Fame induction ceremony honored Al Jaffe ’68, Constance Lloyd ’79, and Gerry Kroeger (posthumously). Alumni also celebrated the Kasteel Well program’s 25^th anniversary with a luncheon that included Dutch treats and a visit from the program’s executive director, Dulcia Meijers.

Other weekend activities included an alumni and student showcase performance on the Paramount Mainstage, a karaoke night, film screenings, lectures, campus tours, reunion luncheons, dinner, dancing, and entertainment throughout Emerson’s Paramount Center.

It was “a wonderful weekend with old pals and a chance to show in-person appreciation to the fabulous Jackie Liebergott,” said attendee Bill Hennessey ’56. “My, oh my, how Emerson has progressed.”