Inaugural Event Promises Unique Programs and Unprecedented Access

In her eight years at Wentworth Institute of Technology, Katie DePrimo has not seen an alumni event imagined at the scale of the upcoming Alumni Day ’22. 

“This event is our whole village–from faculty providing classroom experiences to recognizing the Class of 1972 who are celebrating 50 years as alumni–we have never done anything this big at one time,” said the senior director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations. 

The idea for such a grand plan came to Angela Johnson, senior executive director of Development and Alumni Relations, after she arrived at Wentworth in 2021 and noticed a lack of signature alumni events. 

“Looking at the last 15 to 20 years, there hasn’t been a day to gather alumni on campus in this way that is not a fundraiser or reception for another group,” said Johnson, who is organizing Alumni Day with DePrimo. “This is a chance for the entire university to engage and connect with our alumni.” 

Taking place Saturday, May 14, Alumni Day will feature (among other items): 

• School breakfast sessions hosted by the deans of Wentworth’s schools 

• Special luncheon featuring the induction of the newest members of the Athletics Hall of Fame  

• Tours of the Student Success Studio; Center for Engineering, Innovation and Sciences; Douglas D. Schumann Library & Learning Commons; and more 

• Special sessions on Accelerate; Wentworth graduate programs; the importance of Athletics; Co-ops + Careers; and School of Sciences and Humanities 

• Presidential Cocktail Reception 

• Scavenger hunts, lawn games, and more 

Beyond the programming, the day offers a chance for alumni to reconnect, particularly those who have not stepped onto campus in some time. 

"This is a chance [for alumni] to learn what wonderful things their Alma Mater has been engaged in,” said Johnson. “Our alumni who have not returned since graduation will find a campus community that is transforming, and educational resources for students and alumni alike.” 

DePrimo is likewise excited to see alumni return and learn more about how the university is providing opportunities to new generations. 

“I can’t wait for folks to experience the magic of campus again and the opportunities provided to current students,” she said, “from state-of-the-art lab spaces to support centers, to the power of community and access to a Wentworth education and all that comes with being a member of the Wentworth community.” 

The special sessions will provide unprecedented access to faculty and deans, where guests will be encouraged to ask questions about current academics. And social activities throughout the day will allow for networking opportunities among alumni.  

President Mark Thompson and Vice President for Institutional Advancement and External Relations Crate Herbert will provide updates at the luncheon, which will also feature the induction of the 2022 Athletics Hall of Fame class. 

“This is truly a once-a-year opportunity that alumni should take advantage of,” said DePrimo. 

Johnson, who has spent 30 years as a professional in development, and notes that she has met many folks throughout the collegiate world. But as she nears her first full year at Wentworth, she believes there is a common thread among this university’s students, faculty, staff, board members, and others she has met—true passion. 

“There is a true pride in Wentworth’s reputation for people who take action and get things done. It is inspiring!” she said. 

Registration is open until this Friday, April 29. Visit alumni.wit.edu/alumniday to register.