Dear Antioch Community,
I want to take this opportunity to reflect on what a wonderful 2025 Reunion we had and thank all those who made it possible. This year’s Reunion was especially moving for me. I felt the warmth of Antiochians greeting each other as if no time had passed, and I watched with joy as our current students listened to the stories of those who paved the way before them. Those moments reminded me that Antioch is not only a college, but a living community that continues to nurture, challenge, and inspire across generations.
Reunion also affirmed my conviction that Antioch’s future is bright. The energy, creativity, and commitment of our alumni and students give me great hope for what lies ahead. Together, we will continue to build on Antioch’s legacy of action, ensuring that future generations experience the same transformative education and lifelong community that make our College so distinctive.
We had a record number of young alumni attend, thanks to the work of Alumni Relations Director Shannon McCarville, who worked to offer affordable registration options and volunteer opportunities for our younger classes. Their attendance brought a vibrancy to campus and I am excited to see what the future holds as our young alumni engage with the College to build a bright future for Antioch.
Another special thank you to our Volunteer Work Project. In the week leading up to Reunion our dedicated group of Volunteer Work Project members accomplished an astonishing amount of work and we are incredibly grateful for their Antioch spirit and support. A group of 46 volunteers reported to Campus and completed over 1,500 hours of work on projects like repairs to campus tools and spaces, weeding, painting, bench and window washing, and administrative tasks. Your presence on campus is deeply valued and we thank you for the example you set that hard work continues beyond graduation at Antioch College.
I also want to thank people who stepped in to help as unexpected needs arose. Members of the President’s Cabinet and College leaders, thank you for jumping in to set up for events as illness impacted our staffing and weather caused unexpected location changes.
To the faculty and staff who attended Reunion, thank you for being a part of such a meaningful weekend and showing your pride in Antioch College. It is a great joy to see our alumni interact with the faculty and staff who carry out our mission each day with the same Antiochian spirit that our graduates have.
Finally, to our students who attended and worked throughout Reunion weekend. Your engagement and help with preparation was truly appreciated. I am thrilled for the years ahead and all that they will teach you about Meaningful Work and being a part of this unique Antioch College community until one day you attend your own reunion.
Take good care,
Jane K. Fernandes