Reunion Leader Spotlight: FACS'74 to Mark 50 Years at U of G's Alumni Reunion
Passionate Guelph Grad, Laurie Ball (FACS’74), eagerly anticipates reuniting with her classmates this June at U of G’s biggest annual event, Alumni Reunion Weekend! In addition to revelling in the joy of sharing laughs after all these years, FACS’74 will mark an extraordinary 50-year milestone since their graduation.
FACS '74 2009 Reunion
The class of ’74, regular attendees of Alumni Reunion Weekend, eagerly anticipates their return to campus, keeping alive their tradition of reuniting every five years. Reunion planning committee, Kathi Bull, Liz O'Neil, Judi Norris, and Laurie Ball, have been busy planning since last October, ensuring a special celebration for their class. The jam-packed weekend includes the President’s Milestone Lunch, tours of their old homestead, Macdonald Hall and Macdonald Institute to view the latest campus developments, such as the John F. Wood Centre (opened in October 2023) and the Anita Stewart Memorial Food Lab. The weekend will conclude with a class meeting featuring a special visit from CSAHS dean Uwa Indemudia, and Lang dean Sara Mann.
It's a testament to the friendships made at U of G that the class has remained in touch through all phases of life, crossing paths again in unexpected ways. When asked what she is looking forward to the most this Alumni Reunion Weekend, Laurie shared that she is excited to catch up with her classmates again, take a tour of the Honey Bee Research Centre, and attend the President’s Milestone Lunch, where the class will be recognized for their momentous anniversary.
Over the years, Laurie has had the chance to explore different parts of campus during Alumni Reunion Weekend, including touring an observatory atop the Physics building for stargazing and visiting the Guelph Art Gallery.
Returning for reunions isn’t the only way this grad stays connected with U of G. Laurie frequently shows her Gryphon pride by attending Homecoming football games and alumni hockey games. Ball has even helped coordinate events for alumni living in England.
“I find it fascinating to hear from other students and graduates what Guelph means to them,” Laurie shares when asked why she encourages fellow grads to attend alumni events.
When asked what advice she would give to someone attending their first Alumni Reunion Weekend, Laurie suggests,
“Bring your friends and family and show them around the campus. See what changes have been made. Tell your stories, share your experiences, and remember to take pictures!”
Ball is taking her own advice and shares that she is excited to introduce her partner, Ian, to the friends she has been talking about for years!
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