Alumni Weekend 2026 Brings New Traditions, Enduring Connections, and an Impressive Turnout

Alumni spanning more than eight decades came together for a weekend filled with learning, laughter, reflection, and reconnection as Emmanuel celebrated graduates from classes ending in 1s and 6s.

Among the special guests were Mary Zammitti ’44 and her sister Janice Zammitti Ellard ’53, who made their annual visit, as well as Emily Snow Peel ’56. Their presence served as a reminder of the enduring bonds that connect generations of Emmanuel alumni.

The turnout reflected growing participation from younger alumni while continuing the cherished traditions that have long defined Alumni Weekend.

Learning, Discovery, and Inspiration

Returning educational programs continued to draw strong interest from alumni. Following a popular debut in 2025, “A Visit with Isabella Stewart Gardner: America’s First Patroness of the Arts,” presented by character re-enactor Jessa Piaia, moved to the Janet M. Daley Library Lecture Hall to accommodate increased attendance. In full period dress, Piaia brought to life the spirited founder of the museum just steps from campus, offering attendees a glimpse into Gardner's passion for art, culture, and philanthropy.

Among the alumni-led presentations was “Planning Your Legacy: An Introduction to Estate Planning and Charitable Giving,” led by Diana Kenneally ’94 of Cambridge Trust and estate attorney Kerri Koen ’06 of Modern Legacy Law Group. The session provided an overview of estate planning essentials and explored ways individuals can incorporate charitable giving into their long-term plans.

Members of the Class of 1976 also enjoyed special open houses designed to showcase the ways Emmanuel has evolved while remaining true to its mission. Dr. Padraig Deighan, Dean of Science & Health/Associate Prof. of Biology, welcomed alumni to the Paul Shannahan CURE Lab, highlighting opportunities for undergraduate research and discovery. In the Leslie Ferrick McCafferty Career Center, Career Center Director Maureen Ashburn shared how the College supports students and alumni alike through career coaching, networking opportunities, job search assistance, and professional development resources available long after graduation.

New Traditions and Familiar Favorites

A new addition to Alumni Weekend quickly became a favorite. During the inaugural Emmanuel Spirits Stroll, faculty and staff welcomed alumni at five locations across campus, serving cocktails and beverages while encouraging guests to explore familiar spaces, discover campus changes, and reconnect with friends along the way.

“Pints and Trivia with Professors” once again drew enthusiastic crowds, inviting alumni to test their knowledge of pop culture, history, and Emmanuel trivia while enjoying the company of classmates and faculty members.

The Cheers! Blue and Gold Celebration proved to be one of the weekend's most popular events, filling the Jean Yawkey Center Atrium with music, laughter, and dancing. Alumni packed the dance floor as the band played familiar favorites, and the event was especially popular among younger graduates, whose strong presence throughout the weekend contributed to one of the most multigenerational Alumni Weekends. The night's standout moment came when Director of Alumni Relations Ellen Still stepped on stage to perform Journey's “Don't Stop Believin'.” The crowd enthusiastically joined in, creating a fitting soundtrack for a weekend centered on friendship, memories, and Emmanuel pride.

Meanwhile, adventurous attendees returned for the Emmanuel Campus Ghost Tour, led by India Baren ’21. Saturday night’s excursion explored some of campus's most storied buildings and the legends that have become part of Emmanuel lore.

For members of the Class of 1976, the weekend began with a special reunion Mass on Friday. The liturgy featured musical contributions from Patricia Chane ’76 on viola and Theresa Gulinello Raymond ’76 and her husband, David Raymond, on guitar. During the service, classmates paused to remember and honor members of the Class of 1976 who have passed away, creating a meaningful moment of reflection as the class celebrated its 50th Reunion.

On Saturday, alumni from the Classes of 1975 and earlier gathered for the annual Post-50th Reunion Luncheon with President Beth Ross, Ed.D., enjoying an afternoon of conversation, memories, and connection.

Emmanuel Now: Looking Ahead While Honoring the Past

Later that day, alumni gathered in the Chapel for the Alumni Weekend Mass, celebrated by Fr. Federico Cinocca, Emmanuel's Campus Minister. Through prayer, music, and scripture, attendees reflected on Emmanuel's mission and the values that continue to unite generations of graduates.

Following the Mass, Ross welcomed alumni home and offered a reflection on Emmanuel's momentum and future. Departing from the traditional "state of the College" address, she used a sneaker as a prop to emphasize a simple message: Emmanuel is moving forward with purpose in a rapidly changing higher education landscape.

Ross highlighted the College's strengths, including its location in the heart of Boston, strong internship and research opportunities, and the success of recent graduates, while also sharing encouraging signs of progress in enrollment and fundraising.

She also unveiled plans for the restoration of the Chapel Portico and stairs, a major preservation project that will help prepare Emmanuel's iconic front door for its second century. The Portico, she noted, has served as Emmanuel's iconic front door for more than a century and has provided the backdrop for countless Commencements, reunions, weddings, and personal milestones. Throughout her remarks, Ross reminded alumni that they are not simply part of Emmanuel's history, but an essential part of its future through their mentorship, advocacy, volunteerism, and support of the College. Read the full text of her remarks.

The celebration concluded, as it often does, with a spirited rendition of “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

Honoring Distinguished Alumni

A special highlight of Alumni Weekend 2026 was the presentation of Emmanuel's inaugural Distinguished Alumni Awards.

The first recipients were Kateri Bennett Walsh ’67, Maggie Marseille ’05, Michél Legendre ’14, and Isis Ortiz-Belton ’09. The award recognizes alumni whose meaningful contributions to their communities, professions, and places of worship exemplify the values instilled in them at Emmanuel.

Through leadership, service, mentorship, and advocacy, each honoree has demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact while carrying forward Emmanuel's mission in their personal and professional lives. The awards ceremony marked a new Alumni Weekend tradition celebrating graduates whose lives and leadership reflect Emmanuel's mission in action.

Gathering in Community

While steady wind and rain forced a change of plans for Saturday's Great Emmanuel Picnic, the weather could not dampen alumni spirits. The celebration moved indoors to the Jean Yawkey Center Gymnasium, where classmates gathered over a delicious barbecue lunch, sharing stories and renewing friendships that have endured for decades.

The weekend concluded with the Dan Darcy Memorial Service on Sunday. Dozens of alumni joined current and former faculty and staff to remember the beloved former Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Activities. Throughout the gathering, alumni shared stories and memories of Darcy's kindness, mentorship, humor, and unwavering support. Following the service, alumnus and Alumni Association Board member Dan Campagna ’07 joined members of Darcy's family and fellow alumni at a seat in the Jean Yawkey Center Gymnasium dedicated in his memory. Bearing the inscription, “Dan's Dream, Halo Legacy,” the tribute serves as a lasting reminder of the profound impact he had on generations of Saints. View a photo album from the service.

As alumni departed campus, they carried with them new memories, renewed friendships, and a shared sense of pride in the Emmanuel community. With more than 300 alumni and guests in attendance, growing participation from younger graduates, and a successful blend of beloved traditions and new experiences, Alumni Weekend 2026 served as a powerful reminder that while much has changed since alumni first arrived at Emmanuel, the connections formed here continue to endure, reminding alumni that no matter how much time has passed since graduation, Emmanuel remains a place they can always call home.

View a photo album from Alumni Weekend 2026.