Parade of Classes

Sister Mary Lonan Reilly OSF ‘50

     Who doesn’t love a parade…and especially if one is among the marchers?  During the first half-century of the life of CST, “parades” were always academic processions with students attired in caps and gowns – often with the much-hated gimp with its metal stays that assured a “heads up” stature.

     Our Centennial Parade will not be that formal – after all, the celebration is in Winona, and in July, so the temperatures and humidity could be a challenge for some.  It would be great, though, if a few staunch members would represent that past by volunteering to wear the black, gold, or white gowns minus the motor board and the gimp.

     Preliminary plans assure that the distance will be “doable” – a walk of approximately two blocks – so we hope that many alums, upon receiving registration materials, will be sure to check that event!  Faculty members, non-alumnae family members and other guests, and those finding that even two blocks is beyond their current stamina, are encouraged to cheer on the marchers from the review stands located on the steps of the library and Saint Cecilia Hall.

     Much planning remains, but several ideas have surfaced and others are welcome.  It seems appropriate to have a short (20 minutes or so?) program in the Chapel focusing on rituals and traditions of the past.  Would there be three Teresans out there willing to speak briefly on the ideals of Loyalty, Purity, and Truth as was done on Pledge Day?  And surely we must include a couple of verses of “Our Fairest Alma Mater” to conclude the event after we have arrived at the library and gathered in the former Reference Room.

     Other ideas floating around include a trumpet blast announcing both the beginning and end of the parade; someone with a flute, recorder, or similar instrument in advance of the marchers; the Saint Teresa Banner at the beginning and pennants designating the units (class groups?); and within those, designation of the various classes, perhaps via gold ribbon necklaces.  Comments regarding these ideas and others not mentioned are solicited, but must be submitted before April 15 in order to be included in the planning.

     Committee members hope that the parade will not only be a fun event but will also remind all of us of the many ways in which such traditions enhanced our education and added to our knowledge and our enjoyment during our college years.