Reunion and Commencement Frequently Asked Questions

When is my reunion?

Commencement-Reunion Weekend is May 23-25, 2008 (Memorial Day Weekend)
For 1943 and earlier classes, 1948, 1953, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, and 2003. (The next 45th reunion will be that of the class of 1964 in 2009. The next 50th reunion will welcome the classes of 1958, 1959, 1960, and 1961 to campus in 2010.)

If it's not my reunion year, why am I getting mail about the reunion?

Because of Bard's size, people were often friendly with members of classes before or after theirs. Also, sometimes people did not graduate in four years, but in three or five. Thus, in organizing reunions, we focus the committee organization on a specific year, but invite the classes on "either side."

What activities and programs will there be?

On Friday night, the President's Dinner will honor alumni/ae of special achievement. Following the President's Dinner the American Symphony Orchestra and student soloists, conducted by Leon Botstein will perfom student compositions. Gatherings of alumni/ae begin reunion celebrations at various locations.

On Saturday, enjoy the campus, special events, and don't miss the Commencement exercises in the afternoon. Class receptions begin around 5:00 p.m. The 25th and older classes host special dinners in Ward Manor and the Bertelsmann Campus Center. Reunion goers from the 5th through 20th reunions join new graduates and their families for a barbeque/picnic on the back lawn of Blithewood. All classes are welcome to enjoy the band, dancing, and fireworks at Blithewood. Reservations are a must.

On Sunday morning, recently deceased alumni/ae are remembered at the Memorial Service. This is followed by a special champagne brunch with Leon Botstein, the president of the Alumni/ae Association, and special guests.

More details about the weekend's activities will be available after January 15th.

How do I find out who will be attending?

Send your e-mail address to alumni@bard.edu. Updates will be sent throughout the year to let you know who is expected to attend. The names are not listed on the "public" part of the website, but are updated periodically on the bulletin board of the password-protected online community.

What will it cost? Can I attend just the fireworks and the dance, but not eat at the barbeque?

There is a cost for all meals. Receptions for the 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th reunions are complimentary.
If you plan to come just for the fireworks, please plan to be there after 8:30 p.m.

Do I need reservations?

President's Dinner: Yes. This is a seated dinner. Reservations are a must.

Reunion Dinners for the 25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, and classes of the early 1950s, 1940s, and 1930s: Yes. Reservations are a must to help us plan effectively.

Blithewood Barbeque: Yes. There MAY be tickets available the weekend of the event, but we cannot guarantee that. Tickets that are available the weekend of the event will cost slightly more.

Are there vegetarian options available at all meals?

Yes.

When can I register online for meals?

You can register now, by going to www.bard.edu/alumni/reunions.

Where do I pick up my tickets?

You can pick them up at the Registration Desk during the weekend. We do not mail tickets.

Where should I stay?

A list of accommodations can be found on the Reunions page.

Rooms are held for Reunion-Commencement goers at several hotels in Kingston. When you call them, be sure to mention that you will be attending Bard's Reunion-Commencement Weekend.

A limited number of residence hall rooms will be available to alumni/ae on campus on a first-come, first-served basis. You can make reservations at www.bard.edu/alumni/reunions. The Office of Special Events tries to place members of reunion classes in the same dorm and/or in nearby dorms.

I plan to stay on campus. Can I specify what dorm I want to be in? Do I need sheets and towels?

Not all dorms are used to house returning alumni/ae. Some dorm rooms are still occupied by graduating seniors or students working during the weekend. As noted, we do try to house reunion classes in the same or nearby dorms.

Towels, pillow, sheets, a pillowcase and a light blanket are provided. You may want to bring an extra light blanket.

Please remember that these are dorm rooms and are in use by returning alumni/ae less than 48 hours after students vacate them for the year.

Should I bring my spouse or significant other?

Certainly.

Should I bring my kids?

Sure. At the Blithewood barbeque, there will be children's activities at the beginning of the dinner. At the Manor Dinners (see above), if you are bringing young children, please call us about a special children's meal.

The President's Dinner is a more formal event with presentations and speeches. It may not be suitable for young children.

Is there childcare or a baby-sitting service provided?

No.