Written by Doug Goodnough
When people learn that I work at Hillsdale College, I occasionally get asked the question, “So, are your summers nice and quiet with the students gone?” I quickly explain to them that I am not a faculty member but on staff. My next line usually is, “Summers are actually the busiest time of the year for me.”
That continues to be the case. The summer started in early June with the first Alumni Europe Trip, which was a smashing success. We toured several World War II sites of historical significance in England and France with a group of 80-plus alumni and friends. It was not only an educational experience, but one that developed deeper relationships between the alumni staff and our travelers.
We quickly transitioned to host Red, White, & Blue Weekend, bringing in more than 500 alumni and families to campus in late June. This event continues to grow and improve each year. This year, with the nation’s 250th birthday, we decided to throw a party, including a stunning fireworks show that was staged at Muddy Waters Stadium.
As we talk to alumni at our various events around the country, we continue to educate them on this unique event. During White & Blue Weekend, alumni have the opportunity to have an extended stay on campus in a very relaxed setting. It’s a chance for people to create their own reunions, as well as have their children experience the College in a very personal way. In fact, families tell us they now save the date on the calendars each year to make sure they can attend.
In July, you may have received an email invitation asking for your opinion on the College and the outreach of the Alumni Office. If you responded, thank you. The survey results will provide invaluable insight as we try to find ways to meet the needs of alumni and improve our strategies and processes. That’s the Hillsdale way.
We recently started our 2026-27 Alumni National Tour, gathering in Lansing to reconnect with alumni there. There are more than a dozen alumni events scheduled, and you should have recently received a mailing informing you of the schedule. Make sure to check out an event near you if you are able.
Finally, here we are in August, with classes set to resume later this month. With students back, our workload doesn’t change much. However, it gives us a chance to connect students with our alumni, and there are plans in the works to do that at every opportunity.
Where did the summer go? That’s OK. The great news is that the Alumni Office is working 12 months a year to engage and inform our approximately 18,000 living alumni. Make it a priority to engage with the College this year. Homecoming is a great way to do that, and those dates are October 9-10. Hope to see you there!
Doug Goodnough, ’90, is Hillsdale’s senior director of Alumni Marketing. He enjoys connecting with fellow alumni in new and wonderful ways.
Published in August 2026
