Grandparents go Back to School at Alverno

It was a chilly November morning as students arrived to school with their grandparents for a very special day at . The day began with guests checking in and enjoying warm refreshments.

“Grandparents’ Day is always such a special event,” said Wendy Finch-Burk, Director of Development and Alumnae Relations. “Our students have a chance to share their life at Alverno with their grandparents and our grandparents share their life experiences during the class discussions, which lends a multi-generational perspective to the entire day.  It’s a wonderful learning experience for everyone.”

Following check-in, students and their grandparents joined the rest of the Alverno community in a Thanksgiving Liturgy to celebrate the special day. Bishop Zavala presided over Mass and welcomed the grandparents and special friends to Alverno. Everyone was treated to music from the Alverno Mass Band and at a special moment during the celebration, students presented their grandparents with flowers.

"The Thanksgiving Liturgy was a beautiful event enriched by all of our lovely Grandparents. Sharing this mass with Grandparents brings true joy and enthusiasm to our mass,” said Susana Capra ‘04, Campus Minister. “The presence of Bishop Zavala was a perfect reminder to be thankful!"    

After mass, students guided their grandparents through a typical school day of classes, giving everyone an opportunity to hear stories from the grandparents about their experiences growing up and their thoughts on the issues facing young people today.

As the day came to a close, guests and students were treated to a catered lunch in the Villa del Sol d’ Oro, where everyone had a chance to share their favorite moments of the day. The lunch was catered by Mary Pat Brandmeyer who is a parent for the Class of 2014 and owner of The Market on Holly in Pasadena.

Alverno has hosted this event for 14 years.

This press release was submitted by Summer Williams at Alverno High School.