Homecoming highlights

by | Jan 6, 2020 | Alumni Network, Winter 2020 | 0 comments

There’s nothing like the excitement of Homecoming at Mines. Alumni were welcomed back to Golden in October to celebrate the Oredigger spirit and reflect on days past, and current students participated in the traditions that have become signatures of the Mines experience. We’ve highlighted some of the weekend’s best moments.

Homecoming Distinguished Lecture featuring Mae Jemison

When was the last time you looked up? That was the question posed by Mae Jemison, this year’s Homecoming Distinguished Lecturer. The entrepreneur, physician and former NASA astronaut gave an inspiring talk about how innovation starts by looking up. Through a discussion about interstellar travel, building a better future and choosing the person you intend to be, Jemison encouraged the audience to be aware of how what we do impacts everyone and that together, we can make amazing things happen.

50th class reunion

An essential part of Homecoming is the opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and share memories, but the reunion is even more special when marking a milestone year, like the 50th class reunion. Members from the Class of 1969 reunited to reminisce on their time at Mines and careers.

Homecoming 5K

Orediggers of all ages came out in force for the annual Homecoming 5K. 280 alumni, students, faculty and staff enjoyed the 3.1-mile jaunt around the Mines campus, enjoying scenic views of Clear Creek and the new additions to the Mines landscape.

Tailgate and football game

You can’t have Homecoming without the ultimate celebration of school spirit at a tailgate and football game. Going head-to-head with Fort Lewis College, fans had plenty to cheer about as the Orediggers beat the Skyhawks 42-0.

Sunrise M Climb

All Orediggers are introduced to the M Climb in their first year at Mines, carrying a 10-pound rock up to the M on Mt. Zion. Alumni had the chance to relive the tradition with a sunrise hike or retrieve their rock if they didn’t complete the reverse M Climb as a senior.

Mines Antiques Roadshow

New to the Homecoming lineup this year was the Mines Antiques Roadshow, an event where alumni could learn about the Mines history archive and the library’s mission to preserve the story of Mines students and alumni. Learn more about the school’s history archive on page 24.

Boots & Barrels Alumni Party and Awards

An alumni-exclusive event that brought Mines graduates together for an evening of reconnection, Boots & Barrels was a celebration of alumni accomplishments and Oredigger pride. This year, five alumni were recognized for their contributions to the Mines community:

Ken Brettmann ’84, Outstanding Alumnus Award
Kendra L. Lema ’96, Melville F. Coolbaugh Award
Damian Friend ’75, Alumnus of the Year
Christina Volpi ’12, Young Alumnus of the Year
David Mayer ’80, Academic Support Award
Tiffany Brewster ’07, M Club Leader Award