Connections - An Alumni and Friends Magazine by Holy Cross College, Notre Dame, IN
Chicago Alumni Club of Holy Cross College Gathers for the First Event
It was only a matter of time before a satellite alumni organization was created for Holy Cross College.
On Thursday, October 11, club presidents Van Giles and Caitlin Hurley were joined by representatives from campus as well as friends and alumni from Chicagoland and across the country for the Holy Cross Club of Chicago’s first networking party.
English teacher Br. Raymond Harrington, CSC, Craig Horvath, Director of Development, Casey St. Aubin, Director of Student Activities, Andrew Wendelborn, Alumni Board member, and Admissions Counselor Adam DeBeck all made the trip from South Bend for the historic gathering. “This is a great night for Holy Cross College. It’s been a long time in the making,” said Hurley.
There was a large HCC banner outside the restaurant inviting guests in on a particularly cold fall evening. Supporters filled a private room at Sopo Bar and Lounge—a popular spot in the Lakeview neighborhood. Ironically enough, the establishment’s wall color was the same burgundy of HCC.
It seemed like no one wanted the good time to end as guests ate, drank, mixed, and mingled from 6:30 p.m. until well after 11:00 p.m. There was a great deal of laughing and updating as old friends who hadn’t seen each other in years—some since graduation—happily began the process of catching up and filling in the lost time.
After business cards, handshakes, hugs, and kisses were exchanged, friends dove right into old stories about life in the dorms, favorite teachers, memorable football weekends, and what they’ve been up to since their time at the Cross.
In short speeches, Van Giles, Caitlin Hurley, and Craig Horvath addressed guests and thanked them for coming, while explaining some of the club’s initiatives and goals.
Alumni and friends clapped and hollered as Craig Horvath outlined his plans. “This is the first in what will be many alumni clubs.” He encouraged some of the guests who came from as far away as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Orlando to consider heading up additional groups.
“None of this would have been possible without our friends in South Bend who provided the resources to create this club. The development, alumni, and administration offices went out of their way to give us the tools to succeed,” said Giles. Applause was abundant as guests realized the importance of a Holy Cross College Alumni Club and were proud that their alma mater now had an official presence in Chicago.
“It seems only fitting that Chicago is the first. So many students and alumni move to the Windy City to begin their careers or to get a taste for life in the big city. Chicago offers so much and South Bend is a short drive, making it convenient to revisit campus or attend a football game. In essence, we wanted to provide a club that people could turn to for any and all social and networking needs,” said Hurley.
California residents Jeff “Malibu” Ayres and Herb Kovatch were both impressed with the turnout.
“I was originally coming back for the Notre Dame versus Boston College football game but when I heard the club was having their opening event, I knew I had to be here. Now that I know the club exists, I will be sure to come back more often,” said Ayres.
Br. Raymond Harrington emceed a trivia game based on Holy Cross College history. Winners who knew what year the college was formed and who the first president was, were given Holy Cross College pins, sweatshirts, polo shirts, hats, and coffee cups for responding correctly. As Brother Raymond tested the crowd’s knowledge, Horvath, St. Aubin and De Beck fielded questions about staff, faculty, and life on campus.
In their remarks to the attendees, Giles and Hurley both stressed the need for everyone to spread the word so that the club will continue to grow. “We know there are people who would have loved to have been here tonight but getting current contact information is always a struggle,” said Hurley. “It’s up to everyone to update their information and encourage others to do so as well.”
The Chicago Club is scheduling their next event for December 8th. Looking beyond, there are big plans in the works for architecture cruises, Chicago sporting events, a golf outing, and various volunteer efforts.
To learn more about the Holy Cross College Club of Chicago, please visit www.hccchicago.com or email Van Giles van@hccchicago.com or Caitlin Hurley caitlin@hccchicago.com.
For help starting a club of your own, call Craig Horvath at (574) 239-8368. Wouldn’t an Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, or Detroit Club be great?