Jubilee Classes Reunion 2024

Celebrating Memories, Renewing Connections May 31 - June 2.

Reunion 2024 Postcard featuring various photos of alumni over the years

Jubilee Classes Reunion 2024

The Simmons Jubilee Classes Reunion took place from May 31 to June 2, 2024. This exclusive gathering was dedicated to the distinguished members of the 50th Reunion Class of 1974 and the classes before them!

Attendees rejuvenated the bonds of sisterhood, shared their pride in being part of the Simmons legacy, reminisced about the past, and dreamed about the future.

The weekend also served the noble purpose of contributing to the success of Simmons' mission and empowering the next generation of trailblazing students. Participants played a vital role in supporting the enduring excellence of Simmons University.

Registration

Registration for the weekend included:

  • Shared meals for all Jubilee classes
  • On-campus activities and educational programs
  • Shuttles between the Academic and Residential Quads
  • Transportation to/from optional Red Sox and Boston Pops activities

For those whose class volunteers partnered with the Advancement office to host a class-exclusive celebration, a separate ticket charge and registration were sent out.

The Early Bird rate before April 15 was $175, after which the rate for registrations and walk-ins increased to $225.

*Off-campus activity tickets were an additional cost.

Information about exclusive class celebrations was shared through class volunteer outreach. We truly enjoyed seeing everyone on campus!

Weekend Events

Check-in

2:00 - 6:00 PM
Management and Academic Building, Lobby

Collect your badge, some Simmons swag, and any optional activity tickets you purchased. If you are staying on the residence quad this is where you will receive information. This is a great place to schedule a meet up with fellow alumnae to kick start your weekend!

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Tour

3:30 - 4:30 PM
Isabella Gardner Museum

Enjoy a docent-led group tour of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Tickets purchased in advance.

Campus Tours

4:30 - 5:30 PM
Management and Academic Building, 5th floor

Join a campus ambassador for a chance to visit the renovations on the academic campus including the new Science Center and Library.

Appy Hour

4:00 - 6:00 PM
Managment and Academic Building, 5th floor, C-520/521

This is where the party starts! Come meet and greet your Simmons family, and start making reunion moments which will become cherished memories.

Van to dorms

4:30 - 6:25 PM
Shuttle Pick-up Areas: North lot off Palace Road, lot next to Smith Hall

Red Sox vs Detroit Tigers

6:30 PM Academic campus; 6:35 PM Residential campus
Shuttle Pick-up Areas: North lot off Palace Road, lot next to Smith Hall

Catch this game at Fenway Park from the grandstands! Tickets purchased in advance.

Sweet Soiree

6:30 - 8:00 PM
Managment and Academic Building, 5th floor, C-503

Class of '74 private event

Van to dorms

8:00 - 8:30 PM
Shuttle Pick-up Area: North lot off Palace Road to Residence Quad

Van to dorms

To be decided
Pick-up timing and location will be given at drop-off

Van service from dorms to academic quad

8:30 - 12:30 PM
Shuttle Pick-up Areas: North lot off Palace Road, lot next to Smith Hall

Stroll the Fens/Morning coffee

9:00 - 9:45 AM
Main Campus Building, Common Grounds (coffee); Meet your guide on the front steps of 300 The Fenway

Join in a 45-minute stroll around the Fens for a brief overview of the history of the area, the architectural and garden stylings, and how the scene has changed in recent years.

Brunch

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Main Campus Building, Linda K. Paresky Conference Center, 3rd floor, A-310

State of the University

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Main Campus Building, Linda K. Paresky Conference Center, 3rd floor, A-310

President Wooten and Associate Provost will provide insight into the current status and future vision for the University. Highlights include recent institutional achievements, challenges, and strategic initiatives, as well as faculty development and academic innovation. This session will be broadcast and recorded for virtual registrants.

Academic Campus Tours

12:30 - 1:30 PM
Main Campus Building, Common Grounds

If you missed the opportunity on Friday, a campus ambassador will lead another chance to visit the renovations on the academic campus including the new Science Center and Library.

"Timeless Ties: A Journey from Then to Beyond the Now"

12:30 - 2:00 PM
Main Campus Building, A-151

Join us for a nostalgic yet forward-thinking journey as we gather to reminisce, compare, and apply the rich tapestry of memories woven throughout the years at Simmons University. Delve into the past and what made it so special, celebrate the present, and help envision the future of Simmons University. Embrace the power of shared history, hear stories from today's students, and contribute to shaping the legacy of Simmons University for generations to come. This session will also be broadcast for virtual registrants.

"Communicating Across Generations"

12:30 - 2:00 PM
Main Campus Building, A-152

Professor and Master of Social Work Program Director Gary Bailey will lead a discussion about the complexities that can arise when one is communicating across generations. This conversation will explore the ways that our communication styles are shaped by the times we grew up in and our cultural context, which can either unite or create divides amongst the generations.

This conversation will unpack stereotypes that arise in intergenerational interactions, and examine how preconceived notions about different age groups can lead to misunderstandings, hindering effective communication. Professor Bailey will address the importance of understanding power dynamics, resistance to change, and even basic language and terminology nuances in facing these challenges. By fostering awareness, promoting open communication, and creating environments that value diversity of thought and experience, this talk aims to empower individuals to navigate and strengthen intergenerational relationships in today's dynamic world. This session will also be broadcast for virtual registrants.

Class of 1974: Private Lecture

2:00 - 3:00 PM
Main Campus Building, A-185

Classes of the '50s Photo Swap

2:00 - 3:00 PM
Beatley Library, E-155/Archive Room

Class of 1963 Class Meeting with Zoom

2:00 - 3:00 PM
Beatley Library, A-182

Class of 1964 Class Meeting with Zoom

2:00 - 3:30 PM
Beatley Library, A-184

Tea Party

3:00 - 5:00 PM
Beatley Library, Main Reading Room

High tea will be served to keep you satiated. Hats and gloves are encouraged! Our first hour is purely social and at 4PM we will be joined by Kelly Hager who will present "Alice's Wonderland - a looking glass of Victorian-Era Girls' Education."

Presentation: Alice's Wonderland

4:00 - 5:00 PM
Beatley Library, E-130

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, the classic children's novel by Lewis Carroll, tells the story of a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole into a fantastical world of peculiar creatures and nonsensical events. But the story is not just a whimsical tale of talking animals and never-ending tea parties. It is also, as Kelly Hager has discovered in her research, a critique of the era's education methods, especially of education for girls. This will be broadcast for virtual registrants.

Transit to dorms

5:00 - 6:30 PM
Shuttle Pick-up Area: North lot off Palace Road to Residence Quad

Class Celebration for the Jubilee Class of 1974!

6:30 PM - 9 PM
Lefavour Hall, 1st floor, Kotzen Room E-001/002

Private Event

Class of 1971 Class Dinner

6:30 PM
Beatley Library, A-183

Private Event

Transport to Pops

7:00/ 7:05 PM
Shuttle Pick-up Areas: North lot off Palace Road, lot next to Smith Hall

Boston Pops

7:30 - 9:30 PM
Boston Symphony Hall

Accomplished violinist and Symphony Hall Drag Queen superstar, Thorgy Thor joins the Boston Pops to kick off Pride Month with her take-no-prisoners comedy, self-proclaimed "fashion clown" style, and musical talents. Transportation will be provided. Tickets purchased in advance.

Breakfast

9:00 - 11:00 AM
Lefavour Hall, 1st Floor Lobby

Enjoy a bento box of breakfast items that's perfect to carry into our last program or hop in the car with if you need to go! In which case, be sure to say good-bye or better yet "until we meet again!"

Age Well and Thrive: Lifetime Nutrition and Exercise Tips from the Teaching Experts

10:00 - 11:00 AM
Lefavour Hall, 1st floor, Kotzen Room E-001/002

Dr. Jacqueline Beatty, Assistant Professor of Nutrition, and Tim Hanway, Assistant Professor of the Exercise Science Program at Simmons University, will discuss creating a healthier and more fulfilling life in your golden years. This exclusive event is tailor-made for our cherished Jubilee attendees who aspire to age gracefully and maintain an active, joyful lifestyle. This program will delve into the key aspects of healthy aging, offering valuable insights and practical tips that cater specifically to the needs of our community. These experts will guide you through nutrition essentials and fitness tips, providing a sensible approach to aging fitfully. Don't miss this unique opportunity to empower yourself with knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals on the path to a vibrant and fulfilling future. Secure your spot and invest in the well-being you deserve! This will also be broadcast for virtual registrants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your registration for the weekend includes all shared meals, social and educational programs, shuttles between the Academic and Residential Quads, and transportation for the optional Red Sox and Boston Pops activities. The early bird rate before April 15 is $175; after, the rate increases to $225. The guest rate is $225, regardless of when they register. Optional tickets include a private tour of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston Red Sox, and Boston Pops.

I didn't pre-register. Can I still attend as a "walk-in" guest?
Yes, please check-in Friday 2-6 pm or Saturday morning before noon to inquire about what events, programs, classes are still open for registration. Payment must be in the form of a check. Please note: off-campus ticketed events will not be available.

Can I attend only a few events? I can't stay the entire weekend.
Yes, the registration page is set up to select your own itinerary. The Registration Fee applies to the entire weekend, no matter how many programs you attend.

If I am only attending my (alumnae/i) class celebration, do I have to pay for the general admission fee?
Yes.

What if there is inclement weather?
Jubilee Classes Reunion is happening rain or shine.

Will I receive a Jubilee Classes Reunion Weekend registration confirmation?
Yes, when you register online, you will receive an automatic email confirmation. Mail or phone registrations will receive a confirmation email at the email address that you have specified within 2-4 business days of receiving the registration.

I cannot attend in person. Will there be virtual opportunities to participate? Do I need to register and pay?
Yes, the State of the University, and lectures will have a virtual offering. You do have to register so a link can be shared. Note that there is a separate virtual registration from the in-person registration. You do not have to pay for virtual offerings.

I have special dietary needs; will the University be able to accommodate me?
We do our best to accommodate special diets. That being said, we realize some diets are so specialized that we may be unable to make proper arrangements within our food service team. We will try to help individuals attending by making other accommodations within reason. Please note: if you or someone or your guest has a nut allergy, please be aware that our kitchen is not nut-free. Please list all food allergies on your registration form under the dietary/food allergy section.

Do I have to pick my activities and tours before the event?
Simmons must pay for off-campus activity tickets in advance of the reunion, and therefore must have firm counts by April 15. We appreciate you selecting what other activities you plan to attend so that we can select appropriate space. We understand that circumstances happen, and your on-campus activity plans may change during the weekend.

When will I receive my off-campus optional tickets?
All tickets will be given to you at check-in.

Can I get just one night in the dorms?
Sorry, due to the costs incurred for dorm stay (i.e. linens, cleaning, additional staffing, etc.), a two-night minimum is required.

Will Bartol Hall be open for dining?
No food will be available on the residential quad. You are welcome to bring snacks and use existing kitchen areas.

Are there elevators in the dorms?
Yes, we will be using Smith and Evans Dorms, and both have elevators.

Can I share a room with a friend?
Absolutely, but it is the responsibility of the registrant to communicate with the roommate and receive payment from them. A reservation will only be under one name, and payment through the registration process. Administration cannot be responsible to bunk people together.

When are the Residential Campus gates locked in the evening?
Gates are locked at 9:00 PM. After 9:00 PM, please enter the Residential Campus through Simmons Hall.

Are credit card payments, cash or checks accepted?
Checks can be made out to Simmons University with "Jubilee" in the memo line or accompanying registration. Credit card payments cannot be accepted on the day of. Cash or Venmo/Zelle, etc. is not an acceptable form of payment.

Can I register for Reunion and make payments?
If you use a PayPal account to pay for your registration, you can opt into payments on your account.

What happens if I register but get ill or cannot attend for some reason?
Please see our Reunion Cancellation Policy:

We understand that after booking the event unforeseen circumstances may arise, and your plans may need to be adjusted. However, to ensure the smooth execution of our upcoming event and to provide the best experience for all participants, we kindly request your cooperation with our cancellation policy.

Cancellations for registration of all Simmons University-run activities made at least 30 days before the event will be eligible for a full refund. We will make every attempt to resell any tickets/tours purchased; however, a refund for these items is not guaranteed. Cancellations made before 15 days of the event will receive a 50% refund for Simmons University-run activities.

Regrettably, any cancellations within the 14-day window leading up to the event will not be eligible for a refund. We appreciate your understanding and consideration, as this policy allows us to plan and organize the event with the utmost care.

In exceptional cases where unforeseen circumstances prevent your attendance, we encourage you to reach out to us directly. Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.

Will parking be provided?
The Simmons Garage is located on the Academic Campus, with the entrance being off Avenue Louis Pasteur. If using GPS, use the address: 86 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115. Discounted parking tickets for Simmons Parking Garage can be requested at registration. Pull a parking ticket upon entry to the gate, and a discounted parking ticket will be given at check-in for you to use upon exiting. Daily rates begin at 5 am. Discounted parking rate: Friday $24 Saturday $18 Sunday $18

Does Simmons provide transportation from airports/Logan Airport to campus?
No, transportation is not provided by Simmons to or from any airport or Logan.

Cover of Jubilee Reunion Program

Jubilee Reunion Program

A PDF of the Jubilee Reunion 2024 Event Program is available for you to download

Download The Program

Simmons University took audio and video recordings and photographs during this weekend. Those recordings will be used for a variety of Simmons University marketing and communication purposes.

Upcoming Alumnae/i Events

Simmons 125 Reunion Postcard

125th Anniversary Reunion

  • Jun 6, 2025 to Jun 8, 2025
  • All Day
  • Simmons University, 300 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115

Alumnae/i in the News

Susan Perron ’18 in front of the Shiprock known as the winged rock in Navajo

Simmons Nursing and Dix Scholar Alum Offers Palliative Care to Navajo Nation

Susan Perron ’18 received a DAISY award for her work as a palliative nurse at the Northern Navajo Medical Center. Perron reflects on the award and her work for the Indigenous community.


Three piles of books with sticky notes hanging out between the pages.

From Mock Printz to the Real Deal: Simmons Dual Degree Student Shares Her Awards Committee Experience

Elena McVicar ’11MA/MS shares her experience serving on the 2021 Printz Award Committee, and how her Simmons studies uniquely prepared her to work in the Children's Literature field.


Elizaabeth Carr ’04

Alumna Shares Journey from “Miracle” Birth to Fertility Advocacy

For Elizabeth Carr ’04, the first IVF baby born in the United States, fertility education constitutes empowerment and advocacy. She spoke with us about her widely publicized birth, new historical memoir, and formative experience at Simmons.


A small child eating a piece of toast.

Nutrition Alum Receives Award for Article

Jennifer Lerman ’09, who was a Dix Scholar and studied Nutrition and Dietetics at Simmons, received the 39th annual Huddleson Award for the article, “Evaluation of the Healthy Eating Index-Toddlers-2020” which was featured in the Journal of the Academy of...


Leslie Calderone ’11MS in the Whitehouse

Archives Management Alumna Preserves Behind the Scenes Life at the White House

Leslie Calderone '11MS is the Director of the Digital Library for the White House Historical Association, a small non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of the White House. Calderone shares some of her favorite images of life in the White House, both formal and behind the scenes.


Student in the stacks

Library and Information Science Alum Appointed to Association of Research Libraries

SLIS alum Marcel LaFlamme ’08MS has been appointed Director of Research Policy and Scholarship of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL).


A gallery in the Eric Carle Museum

Children’s Literature Alumna Receives Mentor Award at 2024 Carle Honors

On September 26, Elissa Gershowitz ’00MA, Editor-in-Chief of The Horn Book, received a Mentor Award at the Carle Honors ceremony in New York City. Bestowed by The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art these annual awards celebrate individuals and organizations who have elevated the art of children’s picture-book making.


The logo of The Boston Globe Horn Book Awards

Simmons Children’s Lit Alum on Judging the Horn Book Awards

Rodney Fierce ’12MA, a Humanities Teacher at Sonoma Academy, shares what led him to study children’s literature, his work at the Academy, and his recent experience on the Horn Book Awards Committee.