Gettysburgians from across the generations joined together in Philadelphia for a first-of-its-kind celebration in support of the College and its future.
Over three days in mid-November, Gettysburg College blitzed the greater Philadelphia area to offer a series of fun-filled events and showcase new initiatives launched as part of the College’s Strategic Direction.
“In recent days, we’ve spoken with The Philadelphia Inquirer, high school teachers, college counselors, prospective students, top employers, alumni, donors, parents, and friends, and they’re all saying the same thing: what we’re building at Gettysburg is special,” said President Bob Iuliano at the Gettysburg ♥️ Philadelphia reception on Nov. 16.
“This city has played an outsized role in the success of our College for nearly 200 years. From fertile recruiting grounds to a pathway to career opportunities to an alumni base that is passionate, engaged, and gritty in the best possible ways, you make us better. As we approach our third century, we want you in our corner. I believe with the love and support of those in this room, we can help Gettysburg go from a college endeared in Philadelphia and across the country to a college truly revered around the world.”
Micro-Classes and Lifelong Learning
Kicking off Gettysburg ♥️ Philadelphia, Public Policy Prof. Chris Rick visited Malvern Preparatory School and Germantown Academy to teach two micro-classes for prospective students. The micro-classes were followed by three lifelong learning courses tailored for Gettysburg College alumni.
The first—How to Get Along at Thanksgiving—featured Tracie Potts, executive director of the Eisenhower Institute, and provided guests with the tools and insights to navigate difference, build bridges, and find common ground in today’s hyperpolarized times.
The Science of Cocktails with Kurt Andresen, Ronald J. Smith Professor of Applied Physics and Biochemistry and Molecular Affiliate, served as a second course for Gettysburgians. The session taught guests how to make drinks change colors, the science behind bubble formation, and other physics concepts through an interactive mixology experience.
Lastly, the College’s third lifelong learning course—Golf Like A Bullet—partnered alumni, parents, and friends with Gettysburg athletic staff, including Men’s Golf Head Coach Jason Badecki, for an unforgettable evening at Topgolf in King of Prussia.
College Counselor Gatherings and A Night of Ping-Pong
The next morning, more than 30 college counselors from top high schools throughout the region met with President Iuliano, Trustee Rob Schwartz ’92, and admissions staff for an information session and breakfast at the Hotel West & Main in Conshohocken.
Admissions staff then joined Potts and Mike Mattia, executive director of intercollegiate athletics and campus recreation, for an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) lunch, where the group discussed a wide range of topics, including the Eisenhower Institute, the College’s Conversations for Change dialogue series, and the NCAA Division III student-athlete experience at Gettysburg College.
That evening was highlighted by a joyful celebration at SPIN, the original ping-pong social club. The venue, which features 16 ping-pong tables, house DJs, and delicious eats and creative cocktails, served as the perfect backdrop for alumni to reconnect with close friends and make new ones.
To cap off the night, guests and Gettysburg College staff walked to John F. Kennedy Plaza—better known as LOVE Park—for a group photo in front of Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE Sculpture, commemorating Gettysburg ♥️ Philadelphia.
Joining Together to Amplify Our College’s Voice
Gettysburg College’s three-day celebration culminated with a closing reception at the Hotel West & Main. Guests were joined by a bus of students, faculty, and staff that traveled 120 miles from campus for the special gathering.
Alumni engaged with students at four interactive stations showcasing a wide range of student activities and accomplishments, including tables focused on the College’s new finance major, the Innovation and Creativity Lab, and the Humans of Gettysburg Instagram campaign.
Guests were even invited to add a brushstroke to a painting created by Diptiman Das ’27, which beautifully interpreted the celebration’s theme, Gettysburg ♥️ Philadelphia. The painting featured imagery of Philadelphia City Hall and Pennsylvania Hall, centered by President Abraham Lincoln.
At the conclusion of the reception, the painting was raffled off and won by a lucky Gettysburg College alumna, Janette Guarisco Scott ’77.
In addition to President Iuliano’s closing address, the reception was highlighted by a memorable performance by the Sunderman Conservatory of Music’s choral ensemble, Camerata, as well as inspiring remarks from Student Speaker Ava Burchell ’25.
“My Gettysburg education has opened so many doors for me. It has not only turned me into a better student, but it has also allowed me to become a better job candidate, a better leader, and a better person,” said Burchell.
“If we take advantage of the opportunities in front of us, if we are brave enough to be ourselves, and if we passionately advocate for this College—this community we love—I am confident, with your help, Gettysburg College will continue to be a home for generations of talented students to come.”
Get involved at Gettysburg College today by visiting www.gettysburg.edu/volunteer. Learn more about Gettysburg ♥️ Philadelphia at www.gettysburg.edu/gburglovesphilly.
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Photos by Abbey Frisco and Kailey White ’21
Posted: 11/22/24