Dear Penn Alumni,
Circle the dates: October 27 and 28. Make Penn your destination! Join thousands
of alumni and their families and friends to celebrate Homecoming. We promise a
weekend of diverse activity full of opportunities to reconnect with our alma mater
and experience the energy and excitement of campus today.
For those who haven't returned in recent years, prepare yourself for remarkable
changes almost everywhere. You'll see new buildings next to campus icons with
spectacular renovations, and hear key leaders talk about their aspirations for the
University and the ambitious plan for the eastern expansion.
You can capture a sense of today's Penn as you visit the new Platt Student
Performing Arts House and get the facts about non-fiction at Kelly Writers House.
Learn the art of making a decision from a Wharton professor — then shop for
artworks from around the world at the Penn Museum's annual Treasures show
and sale. Participate in seminars and workshops that range from nanotechnology to politics to career networking.
This Homecoming we continue to celebrate Penn's commitment to diversity as
we honor the 125th anniversary of the graduation of Dr. James Brister, Penn's
first scholar of color. The Diversity Alliance is presenting special events to commemorate this milestone, in addition to the many annual activities that recognize
our rich heritage. The Alumni Award of Merit Gala will once again pay tribute to
some of our most remarkable and dedicated alumni. And don't miss the
University-wide "tailgate" at Quakerfest on College Green before the game —
a celebration for alumni and kids of all ages.
Gather with old friends and make new connections — with each other and with
Penn. The University is always changing, not simply to maintain the pace but
rather to lead the way among peer institutions worldwide. Among all these
exciting changes, however, the robust engagement, dedication, and passion of
Penn alumni remain vibrant and unique.
Reconnect with the past and embrace the future! We can't wait to welcome you
at this year's Homecoming celebration.
Paul Williams, W'67
President, Penn Alumni
Robert Alig, C'84, WG'87
Assistant Vice President, Alumni Relations
Executive Secretary, Penn Alumni