It was hardly swimming weather. But when the throw was just right, President Seifert took the plunge at Alumni Weekend '25.
There are some Alumni Weekend traditions Saints count on and look forward to every year. The All Alumni Welcome Back Party drew more than 400 alumni and family last Friday night, and a day later, more than 500 people attended Bernie's Block Party. Chuck and Deb's Backyard BBQ was once again a smash success, and the Class of '75 earned their 50th anniversary medallions (so did the Class of '70 since their 50th was virtual due to the pandemic). But every reunion usually features something new as well. This year, it was Dunk Chuck.
For $10, anyone could take a throw, and on a direct hit, President Seifert would plunge into a vat of freezing cold water. Unfortunately for Chuck, Bill McGoldrick '68, interim vice president for Development and Alumni Engagement, bought multiple throws.
"Reunion Weekend is a special time for alumni who come home to Siena to be with friends and to share memories," said McGoldrick. "Bernie’s Block Party, the Saturday picnic, is a fun event for families who bring their kids and for alumni who visit the 'tavern' where the Siena Beverage Institute offered samples of wine and craft beer. The best game at the event was 'Dunk Chuck!' The president was a good sport and was dunked too many times to count. My first throw was off-target and Chuck sent some creative trash talk towards me. That got my 'Irish' up, so my second throw nailed the target and 'Down Goes Chuck!'”
Bernie was among those to hit the bullseye and receive an "I Dunked Chuck" t-shirt. In all, more than $1,500 was raised with proceeds going to Siena's Annual Fund.
"The water was absolutely freezing, and Bill looked a little too motivated with that fastball, but it was all for fun," said President Seifert. "From the BBQ to the block party, and even the dunk tank, it was a special weekend celebrating a mutual love for Siena with alumni and family. I'm already looking forward to next year, ideally with warmer weather."
Alumni reflections from Alumni Weekends:
"Too many favorite moments to list. Everyone had such a great time reconnecting. No one wanted to leave. Our class dinner was epic!"
"Every moment was great!! It's awesome to see people you haven't seen in years and pick up exactly where you left off as if no time has passed. Siena has created a special family!!"
"It was special just getting to walk around campus, visit our old townhouses, and meet Baloo!"
