A Golden Anniversary celebration
Whether you graduated from Dean a year ago or 70 years ago, you know that Commencement is as much about community as the degrees bestowed upon the graduates. This year’s ceremony proved it once again, as the Class of 1975 enthusiastically returned to campus, along with current members of the 50th Society, to cheer on the Class of 2025.
Founded in 2010, Dean’s 50th Society honors alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. Both new and established 50th Society members are invited to join the Commencement processional every spring in distinctive golden regalia symbolizing wisdom and tradition. Members have the distinct privilege of forming an honor guard along Awpie Way, welcoming new graduates into the alumni fold. After the ceremony, new inductees are formally inducted into the 50th Society and receive an engraved medallion and perpetual invitations to participate in future Commencements.
Whether you graduated in 1975 or 1955, donning that gold cap and gown is a powerful reminder that the Dean experience truly lasts a lifetime. From your first steps on the Quad to your golden strides down Awpie Way, the Dean journey is shared, keeping alumni connected across the generations.
Record-Setting Return for the Class of ’75
This year, 38 classmates from the Class of 1975 returned to campus for their inductions into the 50th Society. It was the largest Golden class presence since the Society was begun 15 years ago. The class’s festivities kicked off the night before with a spirited Happy Hour at Boomer’s in the Student Center’s lower level. Laughter, memorabilia, a nostalgic playlist, and a photo slide show carried the Class of ’75 into the evening, setting the tone for the weekend. During a post-commencement luncheon, Interim President Mark D. Boyce presented each new inductee with a 50th Society medallion.
Looking Ahead: Calling the Class of ’76
Next May, the Class of 1976 will celebrate its golden anniversary. All current 50th Society members are warmly invited to don the gold regalia once more to welcome them. If 2026 will be your golden year, mark your calendar now, start tracking down your roommates, and please contact Joanne Coluccio, Director of Alumni and Family Engagement at jcoluccio@dean.edu if you’d like to start planning early.
Stay Connected
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50th Society Photos: view the album here.
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Update Your Info: New address? New email? New job? Let us know so you never miss a Dean invitation.
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Volunteer Opportunities: From mentoring current students to serving on reunion committees, there’s a place for every Bulldog.
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Homecoming: Join us October 3-4, 2025 for Dean’s Homecoming celebrations.