Hundreds of alumni and guests visited campus on Saturday, June 7, for Reunion
“It’s like coming home.”
Shirley San Diego (BASc ’00) was smiling ear to ear as she walked around campus at Reunion with her husband, Chan Lam (BASc ’00), and their two kids. Since they were making the trip to Waterloo from San Franciso, they decided to stay overnight in Mackenzie King Village, a University residence that offers summer accommodations.
“I used to live in Village 2,” Shirley said. “Staying here and walking on campus feels so familiar, almost automatic.”
Shirley and Chan became friends in their first year of Chemical Engineering, and by fourth year, they were dating. They’re now married and were thrilled to bring their whole family to campus for Reunion.
“When we were here, it was some of the best years of my life,” Shirley said. “We talk about Waterloo quite a bit, and now, we get to come back and show our kids.”
Besides touring campus with their family, both Shirley and Chan couldn’t wait to reconnect with their friends.
“Our classmates are scattered all over the world,” Chan said. “But when you’re with the same people for four or five years at Waterloo, you end up with strong relationships that last.”
Shirley and Chan, on the left at a semi-formal on campus when they were students, and on the right at Reunion 2025
The Forever Black and Gold luncheon is a signature Reunion event at Federation Hall. It features a buffet lunch with a special commemoration for those celebrating 25-, 50-, 55- and 60-year graduation anniversaries.
“Time flew,” Mandy Cheng (BMath ’00) said after being part of her 25-year milestone class photo.
“It was very exciting to see all the new buildings and the people are still very friendly here,” Mandy said. “I brought my kids here to show them what my life was like in university.”
Mandy stays in touch with classmates who live around the globe but says it is special to be on campus for Reunion.
“I’m looking forward to the 50th now!”
Alumni from the class of 2000
This year, alumni from the Faculty of Environment’s Planning class of 1984 rallied together to reunite on campus 41 years after their graduation.
“Time has passed, but people don’t change,” said Mike Rademacher (BES ’94), who admits it was his first time seeing some classmates since they graduated. “It’s really interesting to hear what they’ve done with their lives, especially their careers.”
Neil Smiley (BES ’94) called it “surreal” to be back together with his Planning classmates and enjoyed trying to put names and faces together.
“It’s great to see everyone,” Neil said. “When we’re in front of Environment 1, it’s like being home.”
Alumni from the Planning class of 1984
Don't miss future alumni events! Check out our events listing and register now for Alumni Family Day at Canada’s Wonderland on Saturday, July 19.
