Alumni Weekend 2024: News and Nostalgia
April 11-13 was a beautiful weekend on campus, and we welcomed alums from classes spanning 1956 to 2023.
During the fun-filled 2024 Alumni Weekend, the College hosted events that celebrated tradition and innovation and gave a special nod to members of the Class of 1974 celebrating their 50th reunion. Campus was abuzz with activities highlighting Stephens’ trailblazing educational strides while honoring its rich history.
The reunion included many engaging Campus Connection Experiences, including student-led tours highlighting the College’s academic and extracurricular programs. Thursday concluded with the Harbinger 2024 Edition Launch Party and an entertaining Karaoke Night, blending alumni nostalgia with contemporary student culture.
On Friday, alums participated in interactive sessions like the simulated patient experience with the Physician Assistant Program and visits with the students in our Children’s School. Attendees participated in the grand opening of the Center of Excellence for Veteran Success as the new home for the Mission Promise Kept program. They learned about the newly launched Women in Trades program, which will empower women in male-dominated fields. The Crossing the Bridge Ceremony for the Class of 2024 symbolized the seniors’ upcoming transition from students to alumni, underscoring the continuity of the Stephens community.
Later that day, during the Alumni Awards Ceremony, the College honored Kristin Atwell Ford ‘91 with the Alumni Achievement Award, celebrating her Emmy-Award-winning career as a filmmaker and Sally McClure Jackson ‘56 for her nearly 70 years of service to Stephens and the Equestrian Program. The evening culminated in the Ten Ideals Ball, a fairytale-themed gathering that enchanted all attendees.
Saturday’s State of the College Address by President Dianne Lynch provided an overview of the challenges facing private higher education and outlined Stephens College’s innovative strategic responses, including the adoption of a block program launching in Fall 2024, the addition of new academic and certificate programs, the strengthening of athletics, and a focus on affordability for students. Her address was particularly significant since, on Thursday, she announced her retirement in May 2025 after 16 years of service. This revelation added a poignant note to her speech as she reflected on her tenure and Stephens’ trajectory towards future growth and the College’s adaptation to the educational needs of students.
President Lynch’s forthcoming retirement stirred deep reflections among the alumni about her impactful leadership and the foundation she has built for her successor. Her updates and strategic vision have bolstered alumni’s confidence in the College’s direction and plans for continued success and a promising future.
The weekend continued with the 80th-anniversary fashion show “The Collections” and the Conservatory for the Performing Arts Senior Showcase, each highlighting the impressive talent of today’s students.
President Lynch’s State of the College Address can be viewed here.
2024 Alumni Awards Ceremony can be viewed here.
Alumni Weekend Photos can be viewed here.
Thank you to all who attended for making it such an enjoyable weekend for all of us on campus!
