By Jane W. Ball, DrPH, MPH, RN
Dear Alumni,
Springtime weather is finally emerging, allowing us to have more outdoor activities. It is also the time of year that Johns Hopkins University Alumni Weekend occurs. This year, the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing participated by hosting alumni from three classes—1970, 1971, and 1972—for Reunion Weekend. Two classes of these jubilarian alumni had to postpone their special 50-year anniversary reunions because of COVID. That made this gathering of alumni even more special, with over 60 class members attending.
A special program was designed that allowed the alumni optimal time to engage with classmates while adhering to guidelines for public health and safety during the event. Reunion Weekend began with the SON Discovery & Innovation Showcase, featuring the innovative work of faculty and students, followed by a cocktail reception on Thursday evening.
On Friday morning, Dr. Nancy Glass presented the Isabel Hampton-Robb lecture “Women and Pandemics: How Disease Furthers Gender Inequality.” Individual class groups then rotated through three sessions. One was a tour of the new School of Nursing building, allowing alumni to gain an appreciation of changes in nursing education over time via simulations. The next session, “Capturing the Legacy”— a favorite of mine during my own 50-year anniversary celebration—was an opportunity to share memories about life
as a student nurse. This session was recorded for the classmates and will become part of the Johns Hopkins Nursing Archives. The third session was free time for classmates to use reminiscing or to visit the hospital rotunda.
On Saturday, alumni gathered for brunch and to be presented with their 50-year medallions during the Awards Ceremony. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with these alumni classes and hear some of our shared memories of the Johns Hopkins Hospital School of Nursing.
The weekend was quite successful, and everyone enjoyed the opportunity to gather and share memories. Alumni unable to attend will receive their 50-year medallions by mail.