The past weekend marked the celebration of our 6th annual Alumni Reunion Event. The campus was flooded with alumni students and parents from all over the country who came to recharge and reunite.
The even was kicked off with open house socials for both parents and alumnae students and a welcome back dinner that evening. On Saturday parents had a question and answer session with an alumnae panel and attended lectures from Dr. Jacob Hess and our own Clinical Director, Nikki Preece.
As always the Saturday evening Gala was the highpoint of the weekend. During the differ we recognized all of the alumnae, enjoyed beautiful musical numbers from the current students and recording artists Anne Steele, and shared some of the amazing things that we’ve been doing since last year’s event. We are so grateful to the donors and silent auction committee who made it possible for us to raise over $16,000 for the scholarship fund. The Gala ended with awarding alumna student, Rebecca Mellor, with the distinguished Lila Award, named for our dear founder Lila Bjorklund.
Sunday morning we met for some round table discussions and to put together our memory scrapbook from the weekend. We know, but it’s always great to be reminded that relationships are what tie us together. Everyone on the Alpine team values all of the parents and students that have graced the campus at one time or another. Whether we see you all the time or if it’s been years, you are always welcome back.
I wanted to share some of the thoughts from parents and students left in our memory book this year:
“Alpine Academy has turned my life around and has made me value myself, my family, and my own life. Anything is possible and the opportunities are endless for every single girl here. I didn’t think I was going to graduate high school with my 2.4 GPA and now I’m a fourth year at Cal Poly with a 3.4 GPA.”
“This year’s alumni even has taught me that I can get better and I can accomplish my dreams. I believe I can live a healthy life and I realize how blessed I am to have a chance to turn my life around.”
“There was connection, warmth, and a very strong sense of family all around. I have acquired an amazing group of friends this weekend. It’s amazing how only a couple of days can change a life. I will always be grateful for this experience.”
“I was really nervous and scared that a lot of people were going to be mad or disappointed in me for messing up again after I left. But everybody proved me wrong. I love everyone and missed everyone so much. I had so much fun and made more memories.”
Thank you to all of you who made this event special!