Forever black and gold: Alumni reminisce at Reunion

Former classmates reunited and celebrated graduation anniversaries at Reunion on May 31 and June 1, 2024.

The University of Waterloo’s campus was buzzing with activity from more than 30 events including campus tours, family activities and faculty receptions featuring updates on the latest news and visions for the future. This year, some alumni travelled long distances to return for Reunion — alumni from nine countries were represented.

Graduation milestones bring classmates together

At the Forever Black and Gold Luncheon, a signature Reunion event, alumni commemorated graduation milestones of 25, 50, 55 and 60 years. Class photos were taken with each cohort of alumni, who reveled in the opportunity to relive their years as students by browsing through old photos and artifacts displayed by Library’s Special Collections & Archives (SCA). Many alumni wore their favourite UWaterloo clothing or brought special items with them to the luncheon to add to the nostalgia.

Alumni sitting at tables in Federation Hall and eating lunch Alumni enjoyed a buffet lunch at Federation Hall for the Forever Black and Gold Luncheon.

Two alum sitting at a table, turning and smiling at the camera

Alumni looking at a display of photos from the archives Alumni travelled back in time thanks to displays from by the SCA.

Two alum wearing old University of Waterloo jackets

Five alum standing for a group photo Class of 1964

A group of alumni who graduated in 1969 Class of 1969

A group of alumni who graduated in 1974 Class of 1974

A group of alumni who graduated in 1999 Class of 1999

Alumni, families and friends enjoy cross-campus events

Reunion had something for everyone with two days of events supported by alumni and student volunteers, along with class champions who play a pivotal role in helping reunite former classmates.

Young visitors learning in the Ecology Lab Families took part in hands-on learning in the Ecology Lab.

Four people standing in a computer lab

A group of alumni on a campus tour Alumni strolled through campus sharing memories during a tour.

Four alumni holding beer glasses up for a cheers Friends, old and new, gathered to sip and socialize at the Grad House.

Visitors surrounding a robot on the ground Visitors got to explore the Waterloo RoboHub.

Two young visitors using the Sim Lab with a supervisor Families enjoyed the flight simulator, part of the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA).

Nicole Marcogliese with an alum in the archives Tours of the library and SCA brought out nostalgic memories for alumni.

Four alumni sitting at a picnic table holding up vintage UWaterloo clothing

Craft beer and community-building for University Colleges

Across the creek, the University Colleges hosted their second Beer & Bites event for Reunion, featuring a beer tasting walking tour of Renison University College, Conrad Grebel University College, St. Jerome’s University and United College. Conrad Grebel also invited alumni to revisit the days of grunge, neon and boy bands with a ’90s era event featuring trivia, dancing and music.

Alumni gathered for a group photo on a bridge