Welcome from the Alumni Board President

Dear Fellow Alumni,

I am sure, like me, you enjoy reading the Packer Magazine. Each issue takes me on a new adventure-whether it's reading about former classmates, learning about technological innovations that enhance the educational experience or being an armchair traveler on one of our student service learning trips. While the articles usually highlight what is new at Packer, there is much in the magazine to remind us that Packer is at its heart the same school we attended.

Today, 11 alumni from classes 1952 through 2001 serve as members of the Alumni Board. Our major responsibilities constitute raising support for Packer's Alumni Annual Giving program and organizing events to bring alumni together and to keep everyone informed about the Packer of today. We welcome the participation of our fellow graduates in the life of the school, as Packer alumni provide an invaluable bridge between Packer's past and its future.

There are many ways to become involved as an alumna or alumnus. Throughout the academic year, the Alumni Board hosts events at Packer and at sites in and around New York City and around the country. In addition to Packer's annual Reunion Weekend, some classes organize individual cocktail parties, luncheons or dinners in sites beyond the tri-state area. Dona Metcalf Laughlin and Samantha Fingleton, members of Packer's Alumni Office, are always glad to help organize such gatherings. Please contact either of them if you are interested in arranging an event for your class.

Of course, Alumni Annual Giving remains as important to Packer as it was when we were Packer students. The 2008-09 school year marked a record for money raised by Alumni. This year I hope that you will once again join me in responding to our alma mater's needs. When you receive an appeal letter or phone call from your Class Agent, please consider making Packer one of your philanthropic priorities. Whether you are a college student, a baby-boomer, or a senior citizen, your support of the school is important and appreciated.

You have a standing invitation to become involved as a Packer alum. I believe that you will find re-engaging with Packer both interesting and rewarding. It is gratifying to contribute to the overall well-being of our school, and it is always a pleasure to return to the place that defines our beginnings. We also invite you to join our Facebook group "Packer Collegiate Institute Alumni Association" where you can re-connect with friends and find news about Packer.

If you have not had the opportunity to visit Packer in the last year, I urge you to stop by the school for a visit. Any member of the Alumni Office would be glad to see you and provide you with a tour of the school.