Suggested Weekend Events

There are many options available for a class reunion and each class will have different needs and goals for their reunion.  A reunion that consists of a small number of people may not need an entire weekend to conduct their activities and may find that a simple single day reunion event to be more appropriate. Likewise, a class that has many “out of towners” may want a longer weekend with more events to maximize time with old classmates and friends.  Of course, cost is always an issue and should be considered in your reunion arrangements.  The following are suggested weekend events:

Friday Evening Mixer

·        This pre-reunion event can consist of a simple evening of drinks and/or coffee where classmates get together as an ice breaker to the weekend events. A mixer consisting of appetizers with or without a cash bar can be held at a restaurant, bar or a classmate’s home. Your former teachers may be invited so you can reconnect with them.  Spouses and family attendance is optional.

Friday Evening Outing

·        This pre-reunion event can be in lieu of an evening mixer where classmates can get together as an ice breaker to the weekend events.  Depending on the timing of the reunion, this outing could be at one of Villa’s sports games.  It could also be held at a local riverboat casino or at an entertainment restaurant like Dave and Busters. Spouse and family attendance is optional.

St. Walburg Monastery Guest House Overnight

·        If you were a boarder while you attended Villa, then you surely have some very unique and special memories.  Have an overnight with your classmates in the Guest House and re-live the days when you were a boarder at Villa.  Minimal costs are involved.  Dates should be scheduled at least one week in advance.  (Please note that there is a 10 bed maximum, and not all rooms are private).

Friday Evening Dinner

·        Depending on the type of weekend you are planning and the time of year, this can serve as the main event of the reunion.  Suggested locations include restaurants, bars or a classmate’s home. 

Saturday Afternoon Outing (On your own)

·        This can be a planned outing to a mall and/or other area local attractions (zoo, museum) where classmates can get together in small groups and catch up prior to the Saturday evening get together. Former teachers may be invited on an individual basis by students for lunch, coffee, etc. 

            Tour of VMA grounds

·        If it has been a while since you and your classmates have seen the Villa, you can schedule a guided tour of the school during the weekend to see what has changed and what is still the same.

Saturday Afternoon Reunion Picnic Only – Main Event

·        Classes with smaller numbers or reunions with a smaller attendance may like this idea because much of what happens in a three day weekend can be accomplished with this simple event.  An outdoor venue such as a local park, a classmates home or school grounds can be a perfect place to get together. The picnic can be a “pot luck picnic” or an old fashioned barbecue. 

Saturday Evening Dinner - Main Event

·        This is the “grand” event of the weekend where dinner is served and the entire class is reunited.  Dinner may be formal sit down, buffet or BBQ.  Classmates may also choose to have a less formal light dinner at a tasteful local pub or eatery. A short program may be involved for a welcome address, recognition of the reunion committee, tribute to classmates who have passed away, etc.  Suggested locations for this event include hotels, restaurants, a classmate’s home or an outdoor venue.

Saturday Evening Potluck Dinner – Main Event

·        This weekend main event can take place for small to medium size classes that are having a one-day event.  A main course of fried chicken can be purchased for the dinner by the class and each classmate can bring her/his own covered dish and/or dessert.  This event may be more cost effective and still accomplish the same goal of reconnecting and reuniting old friends and classmates without paying a hefty price for a hotel ballroom or reserving a banquet room at a restaurant.

Sunday Morning Family Picnic, Family Outing or Breakfast

·        This “day after” get together is a way to wind down and serves as a last minute catch up activity for those who want just a few more moments with lost friends and old classmates.  It also serves as a time where friends and classmates can say good bye in a more relaxed and deliberate atmosphere.

May Alumni Luncheon

·        Our annual Alumni Luncheon will take place on campus at the Athletic Complex at 12:00.  All alumni from every class are invited to attend the Luncheon.