The Washington State University Alumni Association is gearing up for a record-breaking number of class reunions, many of which were postponed early in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sixteen class reunions are scheduled for the first weekend in June. Hundreds of alumni are expected to return to WSU Pullman to reconnect with the campus and classmates, and celebrate their college years.

Honored will be the classes of 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1980, 1981, 1982, and 1983⁠—marking 40 to 73 years since graduation.

“It’s the most reunions we’ve ever held at the same time,” says Kim Mueller, director of alumni engagement for WSUAA, noting the last round of reunions was held in 2019.

Four⁠—Crimson, Golden, Diamond, and Platinum⁠—are typically held each year.

This year’s festivities, slated for June 1–4, feature four classes each of Crimson, Golden, Diamond, and Platinum alumni.

Crimson marks 40 years. Golden marks 50 years. Diamond marks 60 years. And Platinum marks 70 years.

Mueller has already received calls from members of the celebrated classes, asking for info.

Plans are still being finalized, but call for golfing at Palouse Ridge Golf Club on Thursday. Friday features a welcome from administrators as well as opportunities to visit different colleges and departments, followed by happy hours by decade and by major or department. Saturday, there are more opportunities to visit colleges and departments, including lunch with WSU Athletics, as well as an optional motor-coach tour of Pullman or a campus walking tour.

“I don’t want mobility concerns to keep anyone from coming,” Mueller says. “We will guide them or drive them anywhere.”

Families of alumni are also welcome. “We’re working with WSU Housing to offer the option to stay in one of the residence halls as a less expensive way for people to bring their children or grandchildren.”

Saturday night in the Compton Union Building’s M.G. Carey Senior Ballroom is the grand finale: a three-course banquet with a keynote speaker and musical performances. Another gathering is planned Sunday morning before departure.

“My hopes are that everyone feels honored and special and treasured,” Mueller says. “It’s been a difficult three years of not having hosted the reunions. It recharges the staff; we get as much joy out of it as the alumni do. We look forward to hearing their stories.”

Crimson, Golden, Diamond, and Platinum alumni who would like to share memories⁠—of favorite classes, professors, places on campus, special moments⁠—are invited to email anecdotes to wsm@wsu.edu.

 

For more information about the reunion weekend, visit alumni.wsu.edu/reunions.