Jeff Clark 83C and Ben Hutto 68C worked together at the Royal School of Church Music in Newport, R.I. last year and began comparing notes from their Emory school days. Though graduating years apart, both men were history majors who pledged Sigma Chi, and both were privileged to sing at Emory under the choral direction of Bill Lemonds.
"The connections between us just kept growing," Clark recalls. One idea led to another, and before long the concept of an Emory Glee Club and Chorale Reunion at Homecoming 2013 took shape. The reunion is open to all former members, regardless of class year. Glee Club and Chorale alumni from across the decades will gather at the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts to rehearse and perform several pieces of sacred and secular music in memory of Lemonds. With reunion registration numbers growing every day, Clark couldn't be more pleased.
"Homecoming is about music and connections and being present right now," he says. "It's about recognizing Emory's place in the world."
In reflecting on the Homecoming events set for Sept. 26-29, Melissa Stone, assistant director of alumni relations, believes that connections are the core of the festivities. "Whether alumni are touring their freshman residence hall, gathering with fellow singers, or reuniting with classmates, reunions provide a unique opportunity to reconnect with friends from the past, meet new friends, and celebrate this amazing institution that they call their alma mater: Emory University."
What is new for Homecoming this year? Guests may register to participate in campus-wide events and affinity group get-togethers via the recently launched Homecoming website at emory.edu/homecoming.
"We're so pleased with our comprehensive website that lets people quickly see what's happening each day at venues across campus," says Gloria Grevas, director of alumni and student programs. "We listened to what our alumni wanted and needed to fully enjoy the range of Homecoming activities."
Planning a visit to campus is easier than ever. With reunion registration pages consolidated and activities arranged by class year, "alumni can quickly see who's coming to their class reunion," Grevas says.
"We've also created pages for dining, hotels, directions, childcare and so much more," Grevas explains. "Our new website makes event registration and planning your campus visit quite easy. We've even created a Homecoming checklist so our guests can maximize their Emory experience. "
The Homecoming Concert on Sept. 28 will feature the indie/roots band Dispatch.
Highlights from Homecoming Weekend
Welcome Centers: Alumni stopping by welcome centers at the Miller-Ward Alumni House or Peavine Parking Deck will get a free T-shirt and can enjoy a quick break, a Coke, a comfortable seat, and a friendly smile. Open all weekend.
Thursday, Sept. 26
Oxford College Ali Awards Banquet: Oxford College and Dean Stephen H. Bowen invites you to attend the Fourth Annual Oxford College Alumni Awards Banquet, which is open to all. Award winners will be announced during the evening festivities, which begin at 5:30 p.m. on the Oxford campus. Cost is $15; registration required.
Barbara Brown Taylor Lecture: "Learning to Walk in the Dark," 7 p.m. at the Glenn Memorial Auditorium.
Friday, Sept. 27
"Navigating the College Search Process": Work with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to gain extensive advice about the college search and selection process. Connect with current students in an informal setting. Geared toward alumni with high school-aged children. Presentations run 2-4 p.m., with a reception from 4-5 p.m. in the Oxford Road Building. Free admission, registration required. Oxford Road Building.
UNITE: CEBA/BSA Anniversary Welcome and Benefit Reception: Register to visit the new Black Student Union and re-unite with fellow classmates and current students. Help raise awareness and funds for the Herman L. Reese Community Service Award and the needs of black students through the Office of Multicultural Programs and Services. Reception from 7-9 p.m, DUC Down Under. Cost is $30 per person in advance, $40 at the door.
Saturday, Sept. 28
Spirit Day: Wear your Emory gear, and don't forget to pick up your free T-shirt at one of the Alumni Welcome Centers.
"Emory Street Eats"Food Truck Park: Get ready to munch and lunch at one of the amazing gourmet food mobile vendors on Asbury Circle and Cox Hall Bridge, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Complimentary Coca-Cola beverages available with pay-as-you-eat food.
GALA: Emory LGBT Alumni Blue Jean Brunch: Join Emory's lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender alumni group (GALA) for their annual brunch. This year's brunch will also serve as the annual fundraiser to support the GALA Leadership Award and the Office of LGBT Life Pride Awards. Brunch is served 11:30-1:30 p.m. in the DUC Faculty Dining Room. Cost is $15 per person in advance, $20 at the door.
Homecoming Concert featuring Dispatch: Dispatch is an American indie/roots band based in the Boston area with influences from Led Zeppelin, Traffic, Radiohead and the like. Just back from their first-ever European tour, Dispatch will rock McDonough Field at 2:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Sunday, Sept. 29
Golden Alumni Brunch: Alumni from all Emory schools who graduated more than 50 years ago are invited to come together to celebrate and connect from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Miller-Ward Alumni House.
Emory Travel Program Reception: Reconnect with fellow travelers, and enjoy previews for the 2014 Emory Travel Program lineup. Refreshments provided. Event runs 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Miller-Ward Alumni House.
See the full schedule of Homecoming Weekend events at Emory, including information about traditions such as the Homecoming Parade.