On Friday, Sept. 29 the Alumni Association held the first ever legacy luncheon. Alumni with current students attending UW and those who graduated 50 years ago, were invited to celebrate their time in the university and the future generations following in their footsteps.
Tanner Russell, the associate director of the Alumni Association stated that her goal for this event was to, “share the impacts, share the growth, and acknowledge our shared impact.” Russell explained that the plan for the lunch was to take the chance to honor and celebrate those who have turned studying at the University of Wyoming into an honored family tradition.
The luncheon featured performances from the Western Thunder Marching Band, the UW Cheer Team, and a speech by Jeff Tennant, the executive director of the Alumni Association. Russell, addressed the class of 1973 and the 50th Club and commended them on 50 years since their graduation.
Damon Bergman came to the Legacy Luncheon to celebrate his time in the University as well as to commend his daughter, a current student of the University. Bergman graduated from the university in 1994 with his degree in communications. He has since gone into the sales and marketing field and is currently working with AMBU, a company that provides medical supplies to anesthesiologists. During his college career, Bergman played center position for the UW football team.
Molly Bergman, is following in her father’s footsteps and is attending the University this fall as a freshman. Molly explained, “My major is Nursing and I am planning on being a Pediatric ER or ICU nurse after graduation.”
Bill Lee and his wife Sue, attended the luncheon as well. Lee is a part of the 50th Club and obtained his degree in Social Work during his time at UW. After working in the Social Work field for 45 years, he retired and is now enjoying his life with his wife of 50 years.
When asked about one of his favorite memories at UW during his time as a student, Lee regaled a story about the “Flagpole Incident” that happened in 1970 and how he and a few of his friends had been involved in the petition.
All in all, the first Legacy Luncheon was a success and united many former students of the University. The band and the cheer team’s presentation were a hit and the scent of nostalgia and poke pride lingered in the air.
