Homecoming and Family Weekend 2007 (October 12 – 14) brought some 1,500 alumni, family and friends to campus to enjoy the lovely (and cooperative) fall weather, a number of fascinating talks and gatherings, and some exciting wins in football, volleyball and women's soccer. The weekend featured talks by three outstanding alumni. Dr. Kathy Magliato '85, one of the few female heart transplant surgeons in the world, spoke about her work and about the importance of recognizing risk factors for heart disease. Phil Alden Robinson '71, perhaps best known as director and screenwriter for Field of Dreams, spoke on his career and the nine-year challenge of making another of his films, Sneakers, as part of the alumni writer series sponsored by the English department. Steve Ritterbush '68, a trustee with an extensive resume of creating companies worldwide, spoke about entrepreneurship to the Eliphalet Nott Society.
The College also paid tribute to some important volunteers at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, held Friday, October 12th in College Park Hall. Harold Krupa '69 received the Special Appreciation Award for his 30-plus-year commitment to the Alumni Council, his class and the Schenectady Club. Since graduating, he has been a ubiquitous presence at campus and club events. For the last two decades, he has been an associate and head class agent, leading the Class of 1969 to a number of records in alumni giving. Stephen Ciesinski '70, trustee and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, received the Distinguished Service Award. Steve has long been a generous contributor of his time, energy and resources. As member of the Board since 1993, Steve helped lead the campus through a number of important initiatives including the Minerva system, the blending of liberal arts and technology, international study, undergraduate research, significant improvements to the campus, development, and the selection of the College's 18th president, Stephen C. Ainlay.
The weekend continued with events for one and all: alumni lacrosse game, pre-football game tailgate picnic, campus tours, tours of downtown Schenectady and Proctor’s Theater, East Asian terms abroad ReUnion, legacy reception, harvest dinner, young alumni celebration, autumn brunch and the list goes on and on! The weekend wouldn’t be complete without a Union football game, of which Union was victorious over Susquehanna University! Of course, there were other sporting events featured including Men’s Hockey, Women’s Volleyball and Women’s Soccer. The weekend was a splendid display of all Union has to offer. For those that joined us, we know you’ll be back. For those who missed it, we will certainly see you next year.
