by Fred Sgambati (’83)

It was just like old times at Acadia University during Homecoming Weekend 2022. Skies were overcast, but the rain held off and the enthusiasm of alumni returning with fewer pandemic restrictions lent an upbeat and festive mood that was everywhere on campus.

There was no shortage of things to see and do from Oct. 13-16 either, and events included the Acadia Business Banquet, with a keynote address from Martin Suter (’88); a delightful campfire/singalong featuring Sarah Pound (’08) in the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens; reception to honour the 1971 basketball Axemen on the 50th anniversary of their historic national championship victory; reunion gatherings for the Classes of 1972, 1977, 1982; an EXIT 10 in the MacKeen Room; and an ASU-sponsored country and western-style outdoor concert on President’s Field featuring Ben Chase, Farewell Town and headliner Matt Lang.

Archivist Wendy Robicheau hosted a campus walking tour, describing in vivid detail the University’s architecture and rich history; returning reunion groups participated in Class meetings; David Potvin (’12) played to a full house at Sunday Music in the Garden Room in the K. C. Irving Environmental Science Centre; and a full slate of varsity athletics was on tap. A service in Manning Memorial Chapel Sunday evening was a perfect way to wrap up the weekend with special music by Mel Comeau (’16).

Approximately 300 alumni and friends attended our signature event, the Backyard Barbecue on Clark Terrace at Alumni Hall/Wu Welcome Centre. Sponsored by the Acadia Alumni Association, TD Insurance, iA Financial Group, Stirling Fruit Farms and Kings Arms Commons, guests enjoyed hearty fall fare, fun, fellowship and live music from The NonRefundables before heading over to Raymond Field for the football game. Acadia fell 46-11 to StFX, but everyone who attended #AcadiaHOCO2022 had a great time during an incredible, action-packed Homecoming celebration!

Pictured above is Acadia Alumni Association Director and recently retired Director of the School of Nutrition and Dietetics at Acadia Barb Anderson (left, ’77) and Acadia Students’ Union President Sadie McAlear. (Photo: Peter Olesekevich)

To view the photo album, click HERE.

(Photos by: Fred Sgambati, Peter Oleskevich, Sandra Symonds, Mark Pound, Melanie Jackson, Charlotte Hayes, Nancy Handrigan)