Decades of Memories: 1974 and 1999 Alumni Celebration

Attention members of the 1974 and 1999 graduating classes of Rio! You are invited to an unforgettable reunion event on Saturday, May 11, filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration.

Brunch with President Ryan Smith: Kick off the day by joining us at the annual brunch alongside President Ryan Smith, where you can reconnect with old friends, reminisce about cherished memories, and forge new bonds. 

2024 Graduation Ceremony: Following the brunch, join us as we honor the achievements of the graduating class of 2024. Witness the culmination of academic journeys and the beginning of new chapters in the lives of our graduates. Be inspired by this year's Commencement Speaker, Elaine Armstrong '96, as she shares words of wisdom and encouragement.

Campus Tour: After the ceremony, embark on a guided tour of our beloved campus. Reacquaint yourself with familiar sights and discover the exciting developments that have taken place since your graduation. Let nostalgia wash over you as you stroll through hallowed halls and cherished landmarks.

Special Alumni Highlights: We are thrilled to announce that Earl Thomas, a distinguished member of the class of '74, will deliver the alumni welcome speech at this year's graduation. Thomas, a revered figure in Rio Grande's history, has left an indelible mark on our institution through his contributions as a coach and educator.

Thomas began his coaching career at Rio Grande in 1979 and went on to achieve remarkable success, including the school's only Final Four appearance in 2000-01. His dedication to excellence both on and off the court earned him induction into the Rio Grande Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022. In addition to his coaching accolades, Thomas served as an Assistant Professor of Communications at Rio, receiving the prestigious Ernie A. Wyant Award for outstanding teaching in 2003.

Rebecca Long '99, daughter of Earl Thomas, currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Rio. Rebecca's leadership and vision continue to shape the future of our institution, embodying the spirit of excellence and innovation that defines Rio Grande.

RSVP Information: If you're eager to partake in this memorable reunion, please confirm your attendance by April 15th. You can RSVP by contacting our Alumni Relations team at 740-245-7200 or visiting the registration page.

We look forward to welcoming you back to Rio Grande and celebrating the enduring legacy of our esteemed alumni.