This past summer, we celebrated 25 years of HMI. Over 200 HMI alumni, family, and friends came to our campus in Leadville to reunite and reminisce. Here is a quick recap of the amazing weekend, and make sure to watch the video below!
Thursday, June 8th
The weekend started with an Alumni of Color Retreat, hosted by Lupe Bobadilla, HMI’s former Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The retreat, “Returning To Our Roots and Elevating Our Voices” included a hike to Turquoise Lake, meals together, a conversation with Carmela Montenegro, DEI consultant for the Outdoor Industry, and meeting with HMI’s Head of School, Sam Critchlow. This was an important and reflective opening to our reunion.
Friday, June 9th
After the conclusion of the Alumni of Color Retreat on Friday morning, the rest of the reunion attendees started to arrive on campus. Alumni took tours of new buildings, set up their tents, and reconnected with old friends. Campus was bustling with energy, and it was incredible to have folks ranging from Semester 1 all the way to Semester 49!
Everyone went their separate ways for dinner. Some enjoyed the new restaurants in town, while others used WhisperLites in the HMI driveway. Afterward, folks then came back to campus for a bonfire, s’mores, and live music on campus.
Saturday, June 10th
Saturday started off with a big breakfast in Who’s Hall. People had to fuel up for the Fun Run! Many reunion attendees took on a 10-mile trail run to Turquoise Lake, or a 5K run around HMI.
People gathered to cheer each other on at the finish line. Fun Run participants did an amazing job, especially with many coming from Sea Level. After the run, there was a walk to Turquoise Lake for a picnic on the beach. Some even braved the cold waters and went for a swim!
The rest of Saturday afternoon included affinity group meetings, a networking speed dating, going into town, or playing corn hole outside. Saturday afternoon ended with a Coffee House where many folks sang, played music, or read poetry.
After many tears from a rendition of “Rivers and Roads” to close the Coffee House, it was time to head into the tent for the evening!
There was music, delicious food, and a dance party to end the night. A real highlight was Head of School, Sam Critchlow, also know as DJ Diction, taking the stage as the DJ for the party.
Sunday, June 11th
Before everyone knew it, Sunday morning arrived and it was time to depart. Folks said goodbye to old friends and new ones, and headed off after an incredible weekend celebrating HMI and it’s amazing community. Make sure to check out Semester 44 Alum, Maple Buescher’s Article, “Why we need reunions, and how easy it is to rediscover community, beyond time and place” for an alumni’s perspective of the weekend.
The weekend was one we will not forget, and are deeply grateful to everyone who made the trip to Leadville. We can’t wait to see you at the 30-Year Reunion!
