Nearly 2,000 people wished the College of Lake County a fond “Happy 25th Anniversary” last weekend at the school’s first alumni reunion and picnic. For many, the anniversary bash was a time for remembering and catching up.
Returning was a contrast of the strange and the familiar to Rosemary Phan of Vernon Hills, who attended the college in 1981-83, when she was still Rosemary Nguyen.
“The school has changed a lot since then. And I wasn’t sure I would recognize anyone. But I saw my old math teacher,” said Phan, talking while waiting to take one of the picnic’s top attractions, a hot-air balloon ride.
Lake County Coroner Barbara Richardson, who chairs the steering committee responsible for the numerous anniversary events, including a recent successful black-tie gala and the alumni party, kept bumping into old friends and former co-workers outside the large food tent. Richardson was secretary to Academic Dean Ernest Dear when the college opened.
“It’s overwhelming. We were wondering if people would catch the spirit, and they have. It’s just great,” she said.
Richardson stopped to hug friend Candace Malson, Class of ’92. “I just had to come. My stepson and I both graduated from CLC,” said Malson of Antioch.
Former CLC President (1968-78) Richard Erzen of Normal, Ill., ambled over to greet former staff members. “It’s just great to see what has happened to the college in 25 years,” Erzen said.
Current President Daniel LaVista of Libertyville wouldn’t commit to making the event annual, but he likes the idea of alumni reunions. “It’s terrific for identifying with your school. I know the loyalty has been there, but this rekindles student and faculty contact and alumni support,” LaVista said.