A Memorable Evening at the Los Angeles Alumni Mixer
In the heart of Los Angeles, Casita del Campo was the perfect setting for a long-awaited alumni mixer. Graduates from the class of 1988 through the most recent class of 2022 gathered in an atmosphere of laughter and camaraderie. The event, marked by the colorful décor of the Mexican restaurant, allowed alumni to reconnect with old friends and create new bonds, showcasing the enduring unity that goes beyond time. The delicious spread of authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring flavorful tacos and savory enchiladas, added a delightful touch to the evening, leaving attendees satisfied and impressed.
In a warm welcome, Headmaster Brian Grisin presented updates on Villanova's achievements and future plans, emphasizing the institution's commitment to fostering a strong alumni community. The atmosphere turned emotional as beloved Tim Bunce, a retiring faculty member, delivered a moving speech expressing gratitude for his over 30 years of service. Tim's words resonated deeply, turning the event into not just a reunion but a heartfelt tribute to a teacher who had left a lasting mark on the school community. As attendees left with rekindled connections and cherished memories, the alumni mixer at Casita del Campo stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of Villanova and the lasting bonds formed within its community.
Two representatives from Villanova, Suzanne Feldman - director of admissions, and Sandi White - director of alumni and development, had the opportunity to visit South Korea, Japan, and China at the beginning of December 2023. They enjoyed a wonderful time meeting with alumni, parents, and potential parents in these areas. A BIG thank you to our hosts: Minsoo Kim `94 P `26 in Seoul, Masato Endo `05 in Tokyo, and Li Xie P `26 in Beijing. Your hospitality was very much appreciated! Also, thank you to all who attended the mixers; it was so nice to meet new faces and become reacquainted with others from previous visits. Please see the photos below from each of these locations.
Wildcats from different class years gathered to meet, mingle, connect, and reconnect at the Model Citizen neighborhood restaurant and cocktail bar. Owners Blake `03 and Derek `00 Ulrich, who also owns Prospect Coffee Roasters, graciously hosted the alumni and their guests.
The event allows alumni and Villanova staff to build real relationships with each other, brainstorm new ideas, and seek out potential. Everyone in the room is connected by a common thread of a Villanova experience, yet different in their life experiences after high school graduation.
Joseph Roulhac `62 was excited to be part of his very first VPS alumni event. "This is really great. Everyone is so welcoming, and it was good to meet some of the alumni," says Joseph." He said he would definitely come to the next VPS event with his wife. Alumni mingle while enjoying fun, unique appetizers and interesting interpretations of classic cocktails that are part of a new dining experience at the restaurant. A group of young alumni from the class of 2000 and younger enthusiastically shared life and work updates till late in the night. Everyone is so excited not just to network but to share their life experience.
Come join us at our next alumni mixer, where hundreds of interactions happen at once, and we build on your Villanova connections for life.
Photo - Ethel Escobar, Kevin Braza `16, and Roberto Escobar `70
What a fantastic turnout for this year’s Alumni BBQ on June 10th! We welcomed over 200 guests with over 41 class years represented, ranging from the class of 1955 to our most recent class of 2023. This year, special recognition was given to our 1973 graduating class for their 50th anniversary.
Wildcats of all ages interacted and enjoyed the day on campus with music, games, drinks, and good food. Current student ambassadors were guiding campus tours. It was great to see Villanova buzzing with activity.
The reunion was a day of fellowship, reconnecting, reminiscing, and storytelling—a continued reminder to cherish the moments of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Save the date for next year’s Wildcat Reunion on June 22, 2024.
Please call (805) 646-1464 x 166 or email Tim Bunce at tbunce@villanovaprep.org if you have any questions.
See you next year!
What a successful mixer we had at Coopers Hall Tap Room and Winery in Portland, The Vault Garden Alcove in San Francisco, and the Three Sisters in San Jose. These were by far our most well-attended mixer yet and it is great to see our network growing. Everyone seemed to enjoy mingling with old friends and making new contacts while sipping on wine and enjoying the food. These events are the first of our off-campus alumni events (post covid), which may also be one of the reasons why the mixers went on all night, far longer than expected...
Thank you to everyone who attended the event. We loved seeing you at this event and hope to see more of you next year!
If you have news you want to be included in future newsletters or have questions, please email Stella Day at sday@villanovaprep.org.