Driving you home
Driving you home
How a golf cart captured the essence of Meliora Weekend
For those unfamiliar with Meliora Weekend’s scale, thousands of Yellowjackets swarm the University every fall for a weekend of reunions, lectures, family fun, and connections.
It’s a huge orchestration that would not exist without the dedication of staff, faculty, students, volunteers, and vendors. The weekend acts as a love letter to the University written by and shared aloud by the many people behind the scenes.
Many things make Meliora Weekend so special. The traditions (Ferris wheel, anyone?). The food. The breakout sessions. The concerts. The biggest “thing,” however, is the people. From alumni celebrating their 50th reunion to prospective students and their families touring the campus for the first time, all the Rochester campuses are abuzz with people who either love this University or who are about to learn they will love this University.
The golf carts zipping around campus and offering passersby rides perfectly reflected this range of campus visitors. One golf cart, in particular, experienced this unique cross-section of Meliora Weekend guests, highlighting the reach and impact the University makes across lives and generations. Riders represented graduates from the School of Arts & Sciences, Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Eastman School of Music, School of Medicine and Dentistry, School of Nursing, Simon School of Business, and Warner School of Education, reinforcing that no matter the building or campus considered “home,” Rochester is One University.
Meet some of the faces (and smiles) that were caught by Karina Anderson, director of regional advancement, who volunteered to drive a golf cart during Meliora Weekend.
Kevin McKennan ’74 and David Gunther ’74 returned to campus to celebrate their 50th reunion.
Mother-daughter team, Sandra Breitbart ’61 and Lorri Diggory ’88, enjoyed time together in the beautiful weather.
Gerardo Torres Davila ’19 was a Handler Scholar as a student and used his time on the golf cart to express his gratitude to the University and the people who mentored him.
Current students and cross-country runners grabbed a ride back to their residence hall after an “easy” 12-mile run.
Barbara Hart ’59 shared her 65th anniversary with her daughter.
Joshua Boxer ’99 and Ray Blush ’00 returned to campus for their 25th reunion with the energy and excitement of their college-age selves.
Students, parents, and alumni are united to make the world a better place, with the University at the heart of their efforts. Together, we are deepening our commitment to Meliora–ever better.
Save the date for next year’s Meliora Weekend, September 18-21, 2025. We can’t wait to see you.
— Mary Burke, October 2024