The 100th Golden Circle Luncheon
From Mark Reynolds, College and Media Relations: Members of the KSC Golden Circle Society (for classes that graduated 50 or more years ago) met on November 6, at Lilly’s on the Pond restaurant in Rindge, N.H., for the 100th Golden Circle luncheon.
Norma Wright Walker ‘51, Golden Circle coordinator, chronicler, and hostess extraordinaire, was there, as always, with bell in hand, making sure everything ran smoothly and every one of the 62 guests was welcomed and recognized. These luncheons have been held at several locations throughout the state — and one in Kittery, Maine — every summer season for the past twelve years. The first one took place on June 14, 1997, at the Cat ‘n Fiddle in Concord. They are a wonderful way for Golden Circle alums to stay connected with their classmates and with the College.
Charles Contas, from the Class of ‘42, graduated longer ago than anyone else at the luncheon, and the Class of ‘53 had the largest representation. One of its members drove all the way up from Connecticut to attend. Clara Digilio ‘44 has attended all the luncheons this season. That’s the kind of dedication you get from these faithful alums.
But no Golden Circle alum is more dedicated or committed to service than is Norma Walker. She has been coordinating these luncheons since the very first one, and this 100th gathering was in large part a tribute to her unwavering service. KSC President Helen Giles-Gee presented Norma with a certificate thanking her for her excellent contributions to Keene State College, and Patty Farmer ‘92, Director of Alumni and Parent Relations, read a lovely poem in tribute to the value of Norma’s efforts.
Members of the Golden Circle classes then presented Norma with two-dozen yellow roses, the symbol of the Golden Circle. Always the gracious hostess, Norma handed out prizes to the winners of a drawing and announced the tentative schedule for next season’s luncheons.
Photo Annie Card: Norma Wright Walker ‘51, with her school bell and yellow roses in hand, and Charlie Contas ‘42 maintain order — and warmth and fun — at the 100th Golden Circle luncheon.
