Fall 2008

Greetings fellow alumni,

Chilly evenings and the first hint of color signal another Minnesota fall. Across the state our campuses are welcoming students back - or for the first time - to St. Scholastica.

In late August the College's first football team held its first practice - on bright green turf under a brilliant blue sky. One young man interviewed by the local press talked about what it meant to him to be one of the first to play football on the field. "It's overwhelming," he said, "it's like starting another life." We are excited for him as he begins his life journey. With whole hearts, we welcome him and 580 other first-year students into the St. Scholastica fold, where they will soon learn what it means to be "Saints for Life." Excitement is building as we approach Homecoming Weekend, Oct. 3-5. See page 15 of Times Magazine for details.

Take a minute to look over the many events scheduled and, if you haven't already, sign up at homecoming.css.edu. Or, mail in your registration card from the invitation you received in July.

Alums, families and friends are welcome to all Homecoming activities. In particular, don't miss Sunday brunch with President Goodwin when our first-ever Young Alumni Achievement Award is presented. To learn more about the award or see who's coming back for Homecoming, visit alumni.css.edu.

Alumni enjoyed catching up and rekindling old friendships at Reunion 2008 in late June. Thanks to the class representatives, Alumni Association Board members, and staff for another great get-together! Mark June 25-28 on your calendar - the dates for Reunion 2009. We'll celebrate class years ending in '4 and '9, along with the 75th anniversary of the College's Healthcare Informatics and Information Management program. We look forward to seeing you there.

A word about giving back ... The College is kicking off its annual Tower Fund drive soon. I invite you to join me and fellow alums, parents, friends, businesses, and faculty/staff in making a generous gift. The Tower Fund provides direct support to our students through scholarships, academic enrichment services and extracurricular activities. Help support our vibrant campus community and enhance the overall St. Scholastica student experience. For more information visit www.css.edu/give.xml.  I look forward to seeing you at Homecoming!

Happy fall,

Steve Gacek '02