How to Plan an Iowa Alumni Reunion


A few years may have passed since your college days, but the memories can make it feel like yesterday. Reunions are a great way to gather Iowa alumni from the same graduating class, but they can also be a broader celebration of Hawkeyes with like-minded interests—such as members of alumni affinity groups, Greek organizations, athletics teams, and more.

Planning and executing a reunion takes time. It can take four to six months to plan an informal gathering, and nine to 16 months to organize a larger reunion. Download the reunion guide and checklist to get started.

Reunion Committees

A successful alumni gathering depends on a dedicated reunion chair and committee of volunteers who start planning early, work throughout the year, and share in the coordination and promotion of the event. The committee is also responsible for providing programming and activities that balance the interests of the group, while also including time for catching up with old friends.

General duties for the committee chair include:

  • Research, organize, and implement the reunion
  • Recruit and work with a committee of at least five others
  • Schedule meetings and coordinate the committee
  • Create and finalize a budget
  • Welcome attendees and volunteers during the event
  • Act as a liaison for the University of Iowa Center for Advancement
  • Support the mission of the University of Iowa

As you give your time and energy to planning a reunion, know that you are helping to strengthen the connections of proud Iowa alumni and friends.

For more information, email alumni.engagement@foriowa.org.

Looking for other ways to get involved as an alumni or friend of the University of Iowa? Check out upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.

Iowa Magazine
Explore the latest stories from Iowa Magazine.
Related Content

Iowa City pays a creative tribute to Herky and the Hawkeye spirit.

Iowa Magazine readers look back at the memories, music, and friendships made at the former downtown landmark.

Return to campus this fall for these annual festivities. Hawkeyes from around the world will swarm to Iowa City the week of Oct. 23?29 for homecoming. As you plan your visit for one of Iowa?s longstanding traditions, here are several events and opportunities you don?t want to miss. For a more detailed schedule, visit the Homecoming at Iowa website, where new events will be added each week. ? PARADE PHOTO: University of Iowa Friday, Oct. 28 5:45 p.m. Downtown Iowa City Iowa men?s wrestling coach Tom Brands (92BS) has attracted record-setting crowds to Carver-Hawkeye Arena in his 16 seasons leading the Hawkeyes. This year he and fellow grand marshal Clarissa Chun, the new Iowa women?s wrestling coach, will help draw more than 15,000 spectators to the streets of downtown Iowa City for this community celebration. After the parade, walk to one of many delicious downtown eateries located near the parade path. Hungry for a gooey pizza or a juicy burger? Your fellow Hawkeyes have some recommendations on where to go. ? Concert Friday, Oct. 28 After the parade Pentacrest lawn From classic acts like The Temptations and Three Dog Night to current breakthrough artists like Lizzo and Chvrches, the student-organized concert always offers an entertaining (and free!) crescendo to Friday?s activities. Before this year?s performance, revisit 25 legendary Iowa City concerts, or relive some memorable shows experienced by fellow Hawkeyes. How do artists make it big? Get an inside look at the music industry through the perspectives of five Iowa graduates. More information on this year's concert will be announced closer to the date on the Homecoming at Iowa website. ? FOOTBALL GAME PHOTO: Tim Schoon/University of Iowa Saturday, Oct. 29 2:30 p.m. Kinnick Stadium Iowa hosts Northwestern in a Big Ten West division battle. The game kicks off in the afternoon, allowing Iowa fans more time to explore campus, reconnect with fellow Hawkeyes, and enjoy tailgating before entering historic Kinnick Stadium. The Hawkeyes defeated the Wildcats 17-12 last November in Evanston, Illinois, and five of their last six meetings were decided by a touchdown or less. Quiz your friends before kickoff on all things Hawkeye football with Iowa Magazine?s Iowa Icons series. ? Other Homecoming Week Activities Hawkeye Athletics Cheer on the Hawks in volleyball at Xtream Arena on Thursday, or watch the softball, field hockey, and women's basketball teams on Friday. Visit Iowa's all sports schedule for a full list of upcoming home competitions and locations. Performance from the Brentano String Quartet and Dawn Upshaw Tuesday, Oct. 25 7:30 p.m. Hancher Auditorium Celebrate Hancher?s 50th anniversary season with a performance that brings an ancient myth into contemporary reality. The UI performing arts center attracts some of the world?s best performers each year. Wheel of Fortune Live! Wednesday, Oct. 26 7:30 p.m. Hancher Auditorium, Hadley Stage One of the greatest game shows is coming to Hancher. Guests will have an opportunity to try out for a chance to go on stage, spin the wheel, and play to win big. Audience members will be randomly selected to win cash and prizes. Game show fans can also enjoy the Price is Right Live at Xtream Arena on Friday, Oct. 28. Ceremonies and Receptions Several colleges and units will host alumni for a tailgate, award ceremony, reception, reunion, or building tour. Individual listings are available on the?homecoming website. All alumni and friends are invited to honor the university's 2022 luminaries during the prestigious?University of Iowa Distinguished Alumni Awards?ceremony at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28. If you'd like to attend, be sure to?RSVP. ? Explore Campus PHOTO: University of Iowa As you retrace your steps to some of your favorite UI destinations, here are several ways to enjoy your time around campus and the surrounding area. Take a campus tour Eat a meal in a campus dining hall Shop in the Iowa Hawk Shop Visit the UI Athletics Hall of Fame Book a tee time at the Finkbine Golf Course Work out at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center Attend a university event Take a self-guided, 1-mile literary tour ? STAY IN TOUCH Homecoming is a great opportunity to reconnect with Iowa?but it doesn't have to be the only time. You can stay in touch with the University of Iowa by updating your contact information, joining an alumni network, and reading Iowa Magazine.

University of Iowa alumni and friends can give back by mentoring and providing internship and practicum experience to current students.

We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Statement unless you have disabled them in your browser.