Hello alumni! A few years ago, Mary Helen George asked if I would help her organize the Alumni Reception during Founders’ Weekend. I had a lot of fun reconnecting with my former classmates and teachers. Over time, my role has transitioned into serving as the Director of Alumni Relations. I have enjoyed being back on campus working with many of the faculty who taught me and shaped who I am today. I have seen photos and heard countless stories that have flooded me with fond memories of my experiences at Vanguard. Simply walking the Vanguard campus has reminded me of traditions such as Norbert Wiener Day, The Odyssey, and Mrs. John’s tessellation project. And who could forget Vanguard’s annual Winter Glitter?
Over the past few years, I have realized how important alumni relations and support are for a school. Vanguard is very lucky to have Bill Borg serve as its head of school. Bill strongly believes in an active alumni community at Vanguard and has supported me throughout this journey. In 2008, a Vanguard Alumni Board was created. The board’s main purpose is to keep Vanguard alive in the hearts and minds of all alumni and the community. Board members assist me in gathering up-to-date information on all of our alumni and host events to foster this sense of community.
We have also started giving an annual Vanguard Distinguished Alumnus award during Founders’ Weekend. This honor is presented to an individual who has taken the dedication to excellence that carried them through Vanguard into their personal and professional lives. The 2009 and 2010 recipients were Abbye Silver and Michele Wucker. The presentation of this award, along with class reunions, occurs each year during Founder’s Weekend, the last weekend in March.
Alumni are a vital part of the Vanguard family, and I would love to here from you! Please send me updates about your address, career, family, and achievements. Contact me at AimeePhipps_Wood@vanguard.org if you can help me plan your class reunion, need contact information, or submit nominations for Vanguard’s Distinguished Alumnus. Our redesigned website includes a list of all Vanguard graduates. If you would like your name linked directly to your email address or Facebook page, so fellow classmates can contact you, please let me know.