Class of 1968 Reunion

Nazareth Classmates Celebrate 50 years!

1968 was a very good year!  Over 25 classmates came together for one  weekend to celebrate and remember our days at Nazareth.  We began on Friday June 22, gathering at the Sheraton for Happy Hour and dinner.  Classmates drove in from as far as Iowa and Wisconsin; others flew in from Denver, Florida and VA; and many arrived from all points Michigan.  What fun to see people reconnecting, especially old roommates!  Sociology Professor Jim Keating joined us too.

Saturday started with a group picture in front of the Georgian Room fireplace.  Then we toured the grounds with the help of a knowledgeable,  dedicated alumnae, who explained many of the changes in progress.  Sr. Kit Kaiser described background information on the Holy Family Chapel, the Reliquary, the Holy Stairs and the History Room.

Science Professor Sr. Pauline Zeleznik, English Professor Sr. Germaine (now Gertrude Maurer) and Sr. Thomas Aquinas (now Sr. Mary Hallock) surprised us with a visit, which made for a fun photo opportunity!

Father Michael Howell topped off our day with a special Mass just for us!  We closed the day with a casual dinner at the Olde Peninsula Brewpub.  Sunday Brunch at Bravo’s was perfect way to end our weekend.  We left with happy tears and hugs with promises to stay in touch! 

                   Ann Yerks Riege

                   Find me on Facebook to see more pictures of our reunion!

posted 7/9/2018

"Those Were The Days My Friend"
By Anita Rosenberg
Nazareth College. Class of 1970


My four years at Nazareth College are an excellent example of how choices we make alter our lives. Prior to attending Nazareth, my life and public school education took place in Bellevue, Michigan, a small farming community, northeast of Battle Creek. I worshipped at St. Ann's and received my religious education from the IHM Sisters of Monroe.

For as long as I can remember, social work was my chosen profession and to make that happen, a college degree was necessary. As I was contemplating my choice of a school, my mother came home from a Catholic Woman's Conference she attended at Nazareth College with information about the school. It became my number one choice. The idea of a small liberal arts, all women's college was appealing. Also important was the fact that it was a Catholic institution. I had not had the opportunity to receive a Catholic education in the classroom. And I desired to have that experience.

What I was seeking I found. I did learn the skills that were required of a social worker and received valuable guidance from my counselors. That prepared me for my career, but what I gained from my required classes of theology, philosophy, biology, French and English gave me a broader look at the world. That is what happened in the classroom. Outside of the classroom my education continued.

The women with whom I lived in Dillon Hall, shared our faith and with whom I developed friendships shared with me new and varied life experiences, which expanded and changed my view of life. They took me from my small town community to the big city, introduced me to different ethnic backgrounds, exposed me to new ideas of how social events occur, how different families function, to the enjoyment of the arts and The Gull Road Tavern. I have maintained these friendships and they continue to enhance my life.

Inside and outside of the classroom was the presence of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. What great role models!!! Their lives dedicated to the Lord they serve, committed to their vocation, educating, directing, counseling, managing, in a very humble, knowledgeable and spirit-filled manner.

My choice was an excellent one, so many life lessons learned. Definitely a life changer!!

Submitted Feb 14, 2018