The enthusiasm and joy at being back on campus was visible in each alumnus as they were welcomed through the front gate. The Class of 2021 really wanted this reunion to happen–and it did on the afternoon of Sunday, June 7! Former faculty members Mark Aeschliman, Mario D’Azzo, and Paul Greenwood also attended, to the delight of their former students. Alumni checked in to hugs and back slaps, “Hey man! Nice to see you!” The plus-ones enjoyed seeing what their partners had been talking about, finally getting a chance to see TASIS live and not just hear about it through stories. Alumni often reflect that it is difficult to explain TASIS to someone who has not lived through the experience! Standout 2021 Class Agent Zhan Sarsenov remarked that it wasn’t a given to have a group this large attend. There was a lot of effort put in to unite the class, and it paid off as they gathered on campus on the heels of a very successful dinner at THE VIEW the night before that was organized by classmate Michele Cipolini.
When the group finally convened in the Palmer Cultural Center, KC McKee—their former Dean of Students and now Associate Director of Advancement—took to the podium to welcome a group he knew so well and discuss where the school is today and where it’s headed. Following the presentation, we were in quick formation for a group photograph in front of Casetta and then off on one of the shortest alumni campus tours I can remember, as this group of young alumni simply wanted to see each other and graze through the campus they know so well. The last stop on the tour was Villa de Nobili and its terrace before the group headed to the Casa Fleming garden for aperitifs and a luncheon. This is a very close class. Many thanks to Zhan for taking the lead and rallying his classmates to attend this reunion. The framework is set for this class to be and stay connected to each other and TASIS for a lifetime. Other highlights of the evening included the group poring over their yearbook and when KC's well-known disciplinary accessory—the infamous breathalyzer—made an appearance to the cheers of the group!
