Hello alumni! Last year, Mary Helen George asked if I would help her organize the Alumni Reception during Founders’ Weekend. I had so much fun reconnecting with my former classmates and teachers. This year, 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 months, 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. Last year, 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 will assist me in gathering up-to-date information on all of our alumni and host events to foster this sense of community. We are also accepting nominations for an annual Vanguard Alumnus of the Year. This honor will be presented to an individual who has taken the dedication to excellence that carried them through Vanguard into their personal and professional lives.

Friday, Nov. 14, will mark our first Alumni vs. Varsity basketball game.  Any alumni interested in taking on the Viking squads should contact Coach Michelle Wheelis. A Vanguard Letterman’s Association is also being formed.  What a great way to reconnect with former classmates and support our alma mater at the same time!

We are now organizing class reunions each year during Founder’s Weekend, the last weekend in March. This year, we are planning reunions for the classes of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, and 1999, and 2004.

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 Alumnus of the Year. We would love to see photos from your days at Vanguard or your current life for the next edition of the Viking Voice.