Laughter & Learning
Reunion Weekend 2004 gave alums a whirlwind experience

Reunion 2004 eclipsed all previous records for alumni participation — even last year's impressive numbers.

Nearly 1,200 alumni and guests returned to Evanston April 30 to May 2 for the Kellogg School's annual Reunion Weekend, an exciting blend of parties, workshops, keynote addresses and other educational opportunities. Most importantly, Reunion gave alumni a great chance to rekindle their connection with Kellogg and each other.

As always, an eclectic array of activities delighted alumni and their families and guests, including: workshops to help alums refine their networking and job search skills; the always popular T.G.I.F. party; the annual Special K Revue; four MBA Updates and panel discussions on the latest business trends and challenges; and the traditional Reunion Barbecue.

© Nathan Mandell Prof. Hayagreeva Rao leads one of four MBA Updates held during Reunion Weekend.

Particularly noteworthy was the Class of 1979 which returned to Kellogg with more than 80 people, all of whom enjoyed a gala Saturday Night Party.

"The Bullets," a band from the Class of 1984, performed at the 20 Year Saturday Night Party. With only one rehearsal in 20 years, audience members thought the group sounded outstanding and gave a great performance.

Bill Cobb '79, senior vice president and general manager (international) for eBay Inc., presented the Reunion keynote. With his address, Cobb reminisced about his experiences as a Kellogg student, including recalling the valuable lessons learned from such professors as Brian Sternthal, Louis Stern and Matt Tuite.

Cobb also drew from his professional life with advice for the assembled alumni, telling them "to identify a company's greatest asset and then drive and align all efforts behind that asset." In addition, he said to ensure that the firm's marketing efforts are themselves discussed widely.

This year's Reunion also provided a lot of child-friendly activities for alumni who returned with their families for the weekend. Kids were treated to storytelling, face painting, cookie decorating, balloon-folding, movies and more.

Alumni from the Kellogg School's Executive MBA Program enjoyed Reunion festivities, including a Saturday evening party at the James L. Allen Center.

The Kellogg School Office of Alumni Relations offers special thanks to all the Reunion class committee members for their efforts and time to make the weekend a huge success.