Alumni Reunion Weekend 2024

What an incredible weekend it was as we gathered to celebrate Aquinas Institute's Alumni Reunion Weekend from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, September 29! From reconnecting with old friends to making new memories, the energy and enthusiasm on campus were infectious, and we’re thrilled to share all the exciting highlights.

 

 

We kicked things off on Friday, September 27, with our Boys Varsity Soccer Team competing against Bishop Kearney. The campus was buzzing with friendly competition and alumni support as we watched our Li’l Irish triumph with a final score of 4-0.

 

 

The weekend really hit its stride on Saturday, September 28. Our alumni and their families were welcomed back to campus for tours of the school. Tours were led by our amazing students as they guided our alumni through the halls, stopping by the DiMarco Family Bookstore, Thomas F. Bell Auditorium, and other facilities. Our guests marveled at both the familiar spaces and new additions that have transformed Aquinas over the years.

 

 

The Class Scholarship Breakfast brought together alumni from the classes of '52, '53, '54, '55, '57, '58, '59, '60, '61, '62, '64, '65, '68, '69, '72, and '90, who have generously established scholarship funds for current students. Held in the Student Union, this breakfast was a heartwarming reminder of how our alumni continue to support the next generation of Aquinas students. Attendees heard inspiring updates on the impact of their scholarships and had the chance to meet this year’s student recipients.

 

 

We gathered in the Wegman-Napier Gymnasium for a moving Alumni Veterans Reception. Alumni veterans received Proud Veteran Pins and Challenge Coins (courtesy of Tony Iacovangelo ’59), and we recognized their service with gratitude. Highlights included a presentation on the Aquinas Alumni Veterans Scholarship and the opportunity to meet current student recipients, making it a memorable event for all involved.

 

 

Alumni and guests were treated to an exclusive event as Bob Gibbons ’65 launched his latest book, Becoming Aquinas. Held in the Thomas F. Bell '57 Auditorium, the event featured a Q&A session with the author, book signings, and a fascinating look into the history of our beloved school. Gibbons' work is the first comprehensive history of Aquinas, capturing the essence of our institution from its founding to today.

 

 

The excitement built to a peak during the afternoon when our Aquinas Li'l Irish took the field for the much-anticipated homecoming football game against Penfield High School. Alumni filled the stands, cheering loudly as our team delivered a fantastic victory. The atmosphere was electric, with the crowd roaring in celebration as we secured a win on our home turf at the Wegman’s Sports Complex. Excitement filled the air in both the VIP Tent and stands alike. Congratulations to the Li'l Irish for making this homecoming game unforgettable!

 

 

The weekend wrapped up on a high note with a beautiful Family Mass on Sunday, September 29, in the Thomas F. Bell '57 Auditorium. It was the perfect way to gather in faith and give thanks for our Aquinas community.

Following Mass, we held the highly anticipated Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This year’s honorees were an extraordinary group, including Mr. John A DePeters '69 (Distinguished Alumnus), Dr. Anthony L Barbato '62 (Distinguished Career), Prof. Frank J Giblin PhD '60 (Distinguished Career), Mr. Gary D Moxley '88 (Meritorious Service), Mr. Peter J Noto RICP '81 (Meritorious Service), Mr. Richard M Coachys '61 (Athletics), Mr. Kyle Manscuk '07 (Athletics), Mrs. Dana L Vasser '99 (Athletics), The Lynd Family, and the Aquinas Institute 2009 Baseball Team. It was an honor to celebrate their incredible contributions and achievements.

 

After an inspiring and heartfelt ceremony, we gathered in the Robert B. Wegman ’37 Field House for a delicious brunch prepared by our staff. It was truly a weekend to remember.

 

From start to finish, Alumni Reunion Weekend was filled with joy, laughter, and a deep sense of pride in the Aquinas tradition. We thank all of our alumni, families, and friends who joined us for this fantastic celebration, and to our faculty and staff who helped put on a full weekend of fun events. Here's to the cherished memories made this weekend—and to many more in the future!

 

Aquinas Evermore!