This year, Muhlenberg is making changes to its two largest annual alumni events — THAW (or Toast Heard Around the World) and Alumni Weekend — to generate more participation and excitement and better meet the needs of alumni. THAW moved from January to March, and this fall, Alumni Weekend will combine with Family Weekend to make a larger celebration, Red Door Weekend.
“As we evaluated programs and schedules for our alumni events, we wanted to ensure that our events were balanced throughout the year and that they were as engaging as possible,” says Executive Director of Alumni Affairs Brad Ludwig. “Previously, only a few months separated when alumni would return to campus for a weekend and when they’d toast to Muhlenberg closer to home. Only a few weeks separated Alumni and Family Weekends. We hope these changes will generate more excitement and participation than ever before.”
THAW Thrives in Spring
THAW historically has happened when the northeast U.S., at least, is very much still frozen — in mid-January. This year, for the first time, it was held in early March: March 5 to be exact.
“Alumni and hosts had provided thoughtful feedback regarding THAW,” Ludwig says. “While planning the 13th celebration, we looked to minimize common winter weather disruptions that often affect our northeast locations, help mitigate the impact of seasonal illnesses, and create a more balanced program schedule throughout the year.”
For the first THAW held on the cusp of spring, there were 41 events with more than 750 attendees. Follow this link to see photos from the festivities.
Alumni Weekend Becomes Red Door Weekend
This year, for the first time, Alumni Weekend and Family Weekend will be combined for an all-out fall celebration, Red Door Weekend, which will bring together the entire ’Berg community. This expanded annual event, which will be held October 16-18, will unite alumni, families, donors, faculty, staff, and students for a weekend filled with connection, pride, and celebration.
“No one has more Muhlenberg pride than our alumni, our current students, and their families. By combining these two events, we will be able to celebrate our college in an unprecedented way — as one community, over one weekend, because we are one Muhlenberg.”
—Vice President for Advancement Rebekkah Brown ’99
“No one has more Muhlenberg pride than our alumni, our current students, and their families,” says Vice President for Advancement Rebekkah Brown ’99. “By combining these two events, we will be able to celebrate our college in an unprecedented way — as one community, over one weekend, because we are one Muhlenberg.”
The weekend will include reunions; the homecoming fair, tailgate, and football game (among other athletic events); ’Berg Bash; the annual Celebration of Student Research, Scholarship, and Creative Work; Classes Without Quizzes; a Presidential State of the College; and more. Registration opens in July. Find more information here.
