Alumni Association greeting

Donald Burden ‘63
President of Gettysburg College Alumni Association

On behalf of the approximate 22,000 members of the Gettysburg College Alumni Association, I extend congratulation to the class of 2008.

To the many family, friends, faculty and members of the entire Gettysburg College community, I also extend congratulations and thank you for your support and encouragement to insure our "new alums" leave today with diplomas in hand.

Every college boasts of its traditions. Here at G-Burg, your alumni association has gifted each of you a "Stole of Gratitude". Become part of this cherished tradition by bestowing this token of appreciation on to someone-- family, friend or perhaps a faculty or staff member-who played a major role in helping you achieve your goal of graduating from Gettysburg College.

Most of you have spent four challenging years here on campus. Some of you experienced the luxury of studying abroad in the name of Gettysburg College. Where ever, you have shown pride in the "Orange & Blue." You have worked hard and - no doubt - you have played hard. You have invested a tremendous amount of time, energy and money to secure a very fine undergraduate education. Continue to Stay Young Forever.

Recall the lyrics of my Jersey Shore neighbor --Bruce Springsteen in "Forever Young":

May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
And may you stay forever young
May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of change shift
May your heart always be joyful
May your song always be sung
And may you stay forever young

Connect others to the Gettysburg experience. Stay connected through various alumni programs and offerings. This is a unique place-"Come Home" as often as you can. Walk these pathways and tour these buildings. Stay connected with classmates and faculty.

This Fall, swarm back here like a group of over sexed bees for Homecoming Weekend-September 19-21. Load those dates on your electronic calendars now.

Invest your time and resources as your fellow alums have been doing for 176 years.

Congratulations and thank you for your record breaking 85% plus participation in your Senior Class Gift to the college.

Continue to give back to this college to insure that subsequent classes reap the benefits you have enjoyed. Stay connected to your alma mater to insure an even richer and rewarding life ahead.

Today, we honor Jean LeGros, Assistant Vice President of Alumni and Parent Relations, as she retires from our "Alma Mater." While bestowing this very special "Stole of Recognition", we say thank you for her many years of service to Gettysburg College.

And now, from the music by Kool & The Gang:

Celebrate good times, come on! Let's celebrate.
There's a party going on right here
A celebration to last throughout the years.
So bring your good times and your laughter too
We're gonna celebrate your party with you!
Let's all celebrate the Class of 2008, our newest members of the Gettysburg College Alumni Association!