Alumnae Day 2023

Marlborough’s Alumnae Day 2023 marked a joyous return to cherished traditions and connections as alumnae gathered on campus to celebrate their reunions as part of their alma mater’s rich legacy. With Caswell Hall newly renovated and the first completely in-person event since 2019, the day was filled with nostalgia and gratitude.

During the opening program in Caswell Hall, Alumnae Leadership Board President Carolyn Marounian Kassabian ’93 and Young Alumnae Council Co-Presidents Ashley Lyles ’09 and Shaina Zaidi ’03 welcomed their fellow alumnae to a rousing day of festivities. They applauded the remarkable generosity of Marlborough’s alumnae, noting the astounding success of 2022-2023’s Giving Day. This 24-hour give-a-thon marked its sixth anniversary by raising $170,000 from 584 individual donors in just one day. Many reunion classes in attendance had a particularly strong showing during Giving Day, with the Class of 2008 ranking seventh in participation thanks to the 19 classmates who donated. Close behind was the 35th reunion class—the Class of 1988—with 18 classmates donating; and the Class of 1988 came in fifth place for highest dollars raised with $10,457 donated by members of their class. 

Carolyn, Ashley, and Shaina closed the program by honoring the 2023 Alumnae Award recipients. Connie Chung Joe ’95 was named the 2023 Woman of the Year for her tireless dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and her commitment to empowering the next generation of women leaders. During her remarks, Connie shared, “For professional women trying to not just succeed but thrive in a patriarchal world, they need to be articulate, smart, analytical, and skillful. And that's why I send my daughter to Marlborough: because I know hands down she will get the best education a young woman can have.”

Sabaah Jordan ’09 was named the 2023 20Y Award Winner. This award was created to celebrate young alumnae who exemplify the core values of Marlborough through their personal and professional endeavors. Sabaah’s professional focus is on addressing the pressing questions of our time, a mission she undertakes through a distinctive storytelling approach informed by principles of behavioral science and social justice. While accepting her award at Alumnae Day, Sabaah spoke candidly saying, “I was one of those students from a different zip code, from a different socioeconomic background, who received financial aid. It was so crucial for me to be here because it became second nature to see myself as a leader, to feel entitled to be a part of the group of people who shape our society…Marlborough instilled in me a profound sense of familiarity with claiming space as a woman, of cherishing and supporting other women, of unbreakable sisterhood.”

Following these remarks, alumnae enjoyed a campus tour and a special archival display. This journey through the archives provided a delightful trip down memory lane as alumnae perused old yearbooks, snapped photos of class banners and mascots, and walked down a line of vintage graduation dresses displayed on mannequins. A cocktail reception on Booth Field offered the chance for alumnae to reconnect and reminisce with friends and classmates, fostering laughter and camaraderie as old friends shared memories and forged new ones. 

The day was particularly special for Head of School Jennifer Ciccarelli. As this was her first time experiencing Alumnae Day, she made a particular effort to immerse herself in the activities. Greeting every table of alumnae personally, she was able to forge meaningful connections and build community among our powerful alumnae network.

As the sun set on Booth Field, alumnae lingered for hours over dessert and drinks, continuing to deepen the bonds they began building years ago as classmates at Marlborough. Reflecting on the significance of Alumnae Day, Associate Director of Alumnae Engagement Natalie Makous Cuadra ’09 emphasized its importance in fostering lifelong connections and the spirit of paying it forward. “Alumnae Day is a testament to the enduring bonds that unite Marlborough’s community,” she remarked, “It's a time to celebrate our shared experiences, honor our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting future generations of Marlborough women.”

Looking ahead to future alumnae gatherings and reunion celebrations, Alumnae Day 2023 serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of sisterhood and empowerment that defines the Marlborough experience.
 

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In the image that accompanies this article, two alumnae embrace with joyful smiles on their faces.