Your Reunion Planning Guide

We understand that your class reunion is about much more than just marking the years since your graduation! It’s an opportunity to reconnect, to share good company, and to celebrate friendships – old and new alike. 

No need to wait until a milestone year to get together! If you are thinking about organizing a reunion for your class, here are a few steps to get started:

#1 - Start the Conversation

Every reunion begins with one or two people asking the question: “Should we do this?” Though it seems like a big undertaking, you’d be surprised at how simple the planning process is after building some anticipation with your former classmates. Send a group message, pick up the phone, and spread the word that a reunion is in the works!

#2 - Gather a Team & Shape the Vision

No one has to do this alone! Many hands make light work, so don’t be shy about asking a few classmates to lend a hand in making it one to remember. Everyone can bring their strengths – whether that’s creativity, organization, or simply knowing how to keep people connected.

With your reunion team, ask yourselves: “What do we want our reunion to look like?” Some classes love a formal dinner, while others prefer something more casual. Think about what personal touches would feel authentic to your class. Perhaps that means re-creating a class photo or having a social at a favorite local spot. 

It all starts with a conversation. If you are interested in coming back to Stang to tour the facilities or host a Mass in honor of your classmates who have passed on, the advancement team is here to support you as you make your reunion special. 

#3 - Research Venues that Fit your Vision & Budget

Once you know the type of event you’d like to host, the next step is finding the right place to bring it to life. For some classes, that may mean booking a banquet hall or bar and restaurant. For others, it might be as simple as reserving a community space or gathering on campus. Be realistic about your budget and remember: the most important part isn’t the venue itself, but the people who will fill it.

#4 - Save the Date & Spread the Word

As soon as you have a date, everything else falls into place. The most important thing is getting it on people’s calendars. The advancement office is here to assist with communications – from digital save-the-dates to registration reminders – and help you spread the word to your entire class. You can ensure this is done effectively by encouraging your classmates to update their information so no one misses a single announcement. While we are not at liberty to distribute contact lists, we are happy to spread the word on your behalf.

#5 - Celebrate the Moment

A reunion is about joy – the joy of reconnecting and remembering how our time at Stang shaped us. It is a gift to yourself and your classmates, and it will create memories you’ll carry with you long after the reunion is over.  Be sure to capture photos and videos to celebrate the occasion, and we would love to share them with our community on social media. 

Once your reunion event is over, it will be much easier to keep the momentum going for the next go-around. Remember: no need to wait until a milestone year to meet up! You will find that it will help your class feel more connected than ever.

We look forward to learning about how we can make your celebration a success.