The 65th reunion was a smashing success. One hundred and forty classmates and families converged from many corners of the earth. The Jack Aguirre family set an all-time record, namely 18 family members of several generations from Bolivia, adding an international flair to the reunion.


Some of the highlights of the weekend included a fascinating presentation by Ric Bradley about his family’s involvement with the state park system and Ken Burns’ new PBS series. The Dartmouth-Penn football game was played in the pouring rain, and although we lost, our team put up a good fight. The Marching Band blew the roof off the Hanover Inn, as they played through the dining room at full blast.


After the class meeting we had the honor of a private address by President Jim Kim, whose electrifying presence and sense of humor impressed everyone. During his remarks President Kim lauded the “connectedness” of the Dartmouth community and the loyalty of its alums. Which brings us to the topic of the class’ future. The College considers us part of the over-the-hill-gang, but they may have underestimated this class’ cohesiveness. There is a strong and active spirit among these ’44s who refuse to go quietly into that night, and intend to continue to celebrate our remarkable closeness.


We would be remiss if we did not acknowledge our great debt to Joan and Eric Barradale and the many invisible hands that put this great reunion together. Many thanks for a smooth and memorable weekend.


Your new class president is Penn Frost, also our Webmaster and newsletter editor. As your new secretary I have been forced to join the 21st century, and you’ll find my e-mail address below, so let me hear from you. 


—Betty Munson, 80 Linscott Road, York, ME 03909; emmunson1944@gmail.com