More than 1,000 alumni, family members, and friends returned to St. Mary’s College of Maryland June 11–14 for Alumni Weekend, reconnecting with classmates, faculty, and staff while celebrating the traditions and relationships that continue to define the St. Mary’s experience.
The weekend brought together graduates from across generations, including members of the Class of 1964 and more recent alumni celebrating milestone reunions. It also marked the first Alumni Weekend for St. Mary’s College President Rhonda Phillips.
“I was drawn to a college with a clear sense of purpose and a community that cares deeply about its mission,” Phillips said during the Golden Anniversary Luncheon for alumni from the classes of 1976 and earlier. “What I discovered after arriving exceeded my expectations. I found a place defined not only by academic excellence, but by genuine connection. I found students who are intellectually curious, faculty and staff who are deeply committed to their success, and alumni whose affection for this institution remains strong decades after graduation.”
That spirit of connection was evident throughout the weekend, from reunion gatherings and waterfront activities to signature events such as the annual crab feast, the popular 0.2K Fun Run, and opportunities for alumni to explore campus and reconnect with one another.
One of the most memorable moments of the weekend was the final lecture of Asif Dowla, professor of economics and Landers Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts. More than 100 former students, colleagues, and friends filled Cole Cinema on Saturday morning to celebrate Dowla’s career and lasting impact on generations of students.
“It was an overwhelming experience,” said Dowla after the weekend. “It took me a day or two to come down from the high of the gratitude and affection shown by the participants. Former students, colleagues, the provost and the president of the College showed up on a Saturday morning.”
Dowla noted that former student and now colleague Dan Savelle ’13, assistant professor of economics, introduced him “as usual, with the complaint that I had ruined his perfect GPA.”
“Several alumni sent apology notes for not being able to attend the event. One is living in China, and the other in Australia,” Dowla said. “I have always felt that the St. Mary’s community is my extended family, and their reactions are what you would expect from family members.”
Alumni Relations Director Dave Sushinsky ’02 said the lecture demonstrated the enduring relationships that develop between students and faculty at St. Mary’s College.
“We try to make Alumni Weekend better every year by introducing new programs without losing the more traditional parts like the crab feast and waterfront recreation,” said Sushinsky, who has been involved with Alumni Weekend since 2008.
Among the newer traditions are the 0.2K Fun Run, now in its fourth year, the Leonardtown Trolley offering complimentary transportation around campus, and expanded food truck offerings. Many additions and refinements to the schedule have come directly from alumni feedback.
“Our goal is to create a balance of experiences that appeal to different generations and interests while preserving the traditions alumni look forward to each year,” Sushinsky said. He also expressed gratitude to the staff, volunteers, and campus partners whose efforts made the weekend possible.
“SMCM Alumni Weekend was a wonderful reminder of the extraordinary strength, pride, and spirit of the St. Mary’s community,” said Stephen McDaniel, interim vice president for Advancement. “Whether reconnecting with classmates, celebrating milestone reunions, or welcoming alumni back to campus, the weekend reflected the deep bonds that continue to connect generations of Seahawks and the lasting impact of a St. Mary’s education.”
View the Alumni Weekend 2026 photo album on Flickr.
