By: Angela Bailey, FNU Associate Director of Development and Alumni Relations

As anyone who has visited the Big House at Wendover knows, there is a magic in those grounds that connects visitors to the history and service of Frontier Nursing University (FNU) in a nearly spiritual way. That magic was in abundance during our 2016 Homecoming celebration held Sept. 30 - Oct. 2.

Over 40 individuals came together for laughter, sharing and renewal. Attendees enjoyed a special Pioneer celebration, alumni and courier award presentations, continuing education opportunities, a party to celebrate the 90th birthday of Kitty Ernst, the Mary Breckinridge Festival, and much more.

While a plethora of planned activities were available, some of the most special moments occurred spontaneously. Here are just a few of the moments that made the 2016 Homecoming so magical:

• Lynn Kugler, class of 1965, shared her original saddle bags, log books, and experiences from her time at Frontier Nursing Service (FNS) and Harlem Hospital in New York City.

• Vivian Good, class of 1957, shared stories about her experiences with younger graduates who sat gathered around her in the Big House living room.

• Silvia Enriquez, class of 1958, was joined with four of her six children.

• Alumni Advisory Committee President Susan Clapp, Class 81, donned the FNS uniform and joined Dr. Susan Stone and other graduates as they walked in the Mary Breckinridge parade.

Awards were given to the following:

• Dr. Jan Stalder received the Distinguished Service to Society Award (read more here).

• Dr. Pat Caudle received the Distinguished Service to Alma Mater Award (read more here).

• Marian Liebold received the Courier Unbridled Service Award (read more here).

We hope that you will join us for Homecoming next year! Look for details coming soon!

View photos of our Homecoming celebration here.