Mystery, memories, milestones: Reunion weekend brings ’Berg alumni home
Whether solving clues, sharing stories, renewing friendships or celebrating decades of Heidelberg memories, Alumni Weekend 2026 proved once again that no matter how far alumni travel, there’s always something special about coming home to the Berg.
This year, there was plenty of mystery in the air as Heidelberg embraced this year’s theme, “Clue at the Berg: Sweet Alma Home Edition.” But one thing was never in question: the excitement, pride and joy shared by the more than 600 alumni who returned home to celebrate milestone reunions and reconnect with their Berg family.
From Thursday evening through Sunday morning, the weekend was packed with opportunities to revisit favorite memories, create new ones and celebrate the enduring Heidelberg spirit. Leading the festivities was the Class of 1976, whose members returned to campus to celebrate their golden 50th reunion.
A golden start
Alumni Weekend officially got underway Thursday evening with the third annual Givers Gala, where approximately 140 Berg donors and friends gathered in Wickham Great Hall. The event honored the alumni and supporters whose generosity continues to strengthen Heidelberg through transformational giving. This year’s celebration highlighted the many opportunities their support creates for students.
Friday’s activities began with the cherished Medallion Luncheon, recognizing members of the 50th reunion class and alumni who have already celebrated their golden anniversary. It was the first of several milestone reunion events throughout the weekend.
Alumni of all generations enjoyed campus walking tours and explored downtown Tiffin alongside alumna Donna Gross ’92. As the day turned to evening, familiar faces gathered for the annual Happy Hour and Dinner on the Lawn, where conversations picked up right where they left off years ago.
Saturday traditions, new memories
Saturday morning brought alumni together in the University Commons for coffee, conversation and campus updates with President Rob Huntington and members of Heidelberg’s Strategic Leadership Team. The morning also featured a Reunion Sing-along and the Remembrance Tree Planting Ceremony, honoring alumni and friends who passed away during the past year.
The annual Saturday luncheon put Heidelberg’s Opportunity Makers theme front and center. President Huntington fully embraced the weekend’s mystery motif and his Clue character, appearing in a purple “President Plum” robe as he shared highlights from the past year and outlined the university’s vision for the future.
“’We are the Opportunity Makers’has become the essence of our brand, and its foundation is ‘We Believe in People,’” Rob told alumni.
One of the biggest success stories remains Frann’s Fieldhouse, which opened in October 2025. Since then, an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 visitors have passed through its doors for athletic events, campus activities, and community gatherings.
“Frann’s Fieldhouse is a game changer for us, and we’re excited about it,” Huntington said.
He also shared encouraging enrollment and retention projections, noting Heidelberg is positioned for what could be its fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth and steadily improving retention. Alumni learned about seven new academic partnerships established this spring between Heidelberg and Tiffin University.
Another major highlight: the record-breaking success of The Heidelberg Fund, which has reached $1.6 million in gifts this year.
“That’s a record, and we’re inching upward,” Huntington said. “Let’s continue to do it again next year.”
Looking ahead, fundraising efforts will remain focused on supporting student success, expanding opportunities, and fueling student passions.
Celebrating achievement, legacy
The luncheon concluded with a heartfelt performance by the Alumni Choir, which sang The Lord Bless You and Keep You and Sweet Alma Home under the direction of Randy Mann ’85 and Ed Ayers ’71, accompanied by Vicki Ohl ’72.
The event also featured the presentation of Heidelberg’s annual Alumni Awards, honoring the Haulman-Nutter Legacy Family, Dr. Matthew Garoufalis ’78 and Star Cunningham ’90 for their outstanding contributions and service.
Leslie Hallstead Behm, Jessie Cole Kubuske, Helen McEvoy and Mary Palmstrom, all ’76, presented Rob with a check $3,962,968, representing the combined lifetime gifts and pledges made by alumni from milestone reunion classes.
Love, laughter, lifelong connections
One of the newest and most beloved Alumni Weekend traditions returned for a second year. Heidelberg sweethearts who met on campus had the opportunity to renew their wedding vows, followed by a celebration complete with cupcakes and champagne.
Throughout the weekend, alumni also enjoyed Greek hall visits, Greek receptions, campus tours, a new Mingling by Majors event, and a reception gatherings for School of Music & Theatre alumni and Berg Bravo!
June 23, 2026
