January 14, 2019: This past weekend, Harpswell students, alumnae and staff came together to celebrate the annual Harpswell alumnae weekend.Celebrations began Saturday evening with an alumnae dinner. Over 70 alumnae, together with their partners and babies, journeyed from all over Cambodia to gather at the Orchidee Restaurant in Phnom Penh. It was a wonderful opportunity for alumnae to connect with their sisters, share memories, and to hear about each other’s post-graduate studies, careers, and families. Also in attendance were Founder Alan Lightman, Executive Director Alison Pavia, Board Member David Roe, and Advisory Board Members Jordan Sachs and Jeannie Sack.

Sunday morning, alumnae joined students at the dorms for the Harpswell Alumnae Association Day celebration. The celebration was led by Alan, who gave a Leadership Seminar on the history of the Harpswell Foundation. Harpswell Alumnae Association President, Eng Chandy, then paired groups of students with alumnae to discuss studies, passions, and career goals. Students were eager to hear from alumnae about their university and work experiences. Students were then asked to reflect on their personal goals for Harpswell, and to write the goal on a piece of paper to hang on a tree.The celebration concluded with closing remarks from Alison, who shared that her own personal goal for the coming year is to continue to build strong relationships between alumnae and current students. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed a lunch prepared by students and staff.