By Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez, Staff Writer
Saint Leo University came alive for Alumni Weekend from March 6-8. Alumni generations returned to the place where they created unique experiences for a three-day celebration. As they gathered in community, they continued to value the Benedictine values that guide the university as it grows today.
“Planning for Alumni Weekend is a year-round process that can begin up to a year in advance. After reserving campus spaces for the various events, our marketing efforts begin with a “Save the Date” message that typically goes out in September,” said Sarah Olsen, Director of Alumni Engagement.
There is a new service project called “Pack the Pantry” that played an important role in this year’s celebration because it is the initiative that invites alumni to donate canned goods, microwaveable meals, and toiletries for the student-run Leo Food Pantry, which provides students with up to five free items each week.
Donation bins were placed across campus and filled quickly throughout the weekend, showing strong alumni support and reminding the community that Saint Leo’s spirit of care continues long after graduation.
The weekend event began on Thursday, March 5, with the Alumni Association Board of Directors meeting in the Wellness Center Yoga Room. Board members discussed university updates and long-term goals for alumni engagement. Later that day, the Glen E. Greenfelder and Janet L. Denlinger Boardroom hosted the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
“Dr. Jim Burkee was speaking about his agenda for Saint Leo and where it is going. I like his idea of focusing on the New England states and the Midwest so we can recruit more students to come to Saint Leo,” said Kevin Callahan, ’75 alumnus.
Families, former teammates, and faculty came together to honor alumni whose achievements and service reflect Saint Leo’s mission, creating an atmosphere of pride that carried into the rest of the weekend.
“We also collaborate with Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club and merchants in the surrounding communities of Dade City, Wesley Chapel, and Plant City to help make the weekend a success for our alumni and guests,” added Olsen.
Friday’s events blended tradition with campus life; the day opened with the Alumni Weekend Golf Outing at Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club, where alumni enjoyed a relaxing morning of conversation and friendly competition. Later in the afternoon, alumni and families gathered at Thomas B. Southard Stadium for a baseball tailgate and game against Roosevelt University. Music, food, and team spirit brought the crowd together before cheering on the Lions.
One of the most meaningful gatherings of the day was the 50th Reunion Celebration for the Class of 1976 at Lake Jovita. Alumni shared dinner, stories, and memories about how Saint Leo shaped their lives.
Friday evening also featured the Spring Choral Concert, “The Holy Name”, performed by the Saint Leo Singers and Chamber Singers at the Abbey Church. The night ended with the Taste of Saint Leo, an all-alumni reception at the Wellness Center with food and beverage tastings from local businesses and live music by “American Idol” finalist Zachariah Smith. Winners of the golf outing were announced during the event.
Saturday began with ‘Breakfast with the President’, where President Burkee delivered remarks and presented the 2025 Alumni Awards, recognizing alumni who have made significant contributions to their professions, communities, or the university. Affinity Meetups at Benedictine Hall gave alumni the chance to reconnect with academic programs, student organizations, and groups that shaped their student experience.
The afternoon brought one of the weekend’s most energetic events: the Lion’s Fest Pool Party at the Wellness Center Pool. With food, drinks, live music, and a cookout, the event drew a large group and highlighted the campus’s scenic views. Athletics remained central throughout the day, with alumni volleyball, men’s tennis, baseball, lacrosse, and beach volleyball.
The men’s lacrosse game also included the Luihn Family Stadium Naming Ceremony, marking an important moment for the athletics community.
The weekend closed on Sunday with the Mass of Remembrance at the Abbey Church, honoring the Class of 1976 and remembering Norm Kaye, a key figure in Saint Leo’s athletic history. A Farewell Brunch in the Dining Hall followed, giving alumni a final chance to gather before heading home. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to a place that continues to influence their lives, reaffirming that the Saint Leo community remains strong across generations.
