Single Digit Contingents Reconnect for an Evening of Community

In the final weeks of December and into January, some of the first Prep for Prep and PREP 9 students and NYMRLA alumni had the opportunity to walk down memory lane with their fellow contingentmates. Our Alumni Affairs team organized virtual reunions for these trailblazers to connect across the globe. Alums tuned in from as far away as Aruba, the Netherlands, Poland, and Scotland! Ruth Roman (II) said that “all the Contingent II participants were emailing each other the next day talking about how wonderful it was."  

The events each featured a presentation of photos marking the Prep journey of these trailblazers, including submissions from alums as well as images uncovered in the Prep for Prep archives. Because Prep for Prep Contingents I-IX represent the beginnings of the program, paving the way for contingents and programs to come, Prep’s founder Gary Simons sent a message of gratitude and congratulations! “It is the greatest privilege of my life to know so many of you,” said Gary. The message included a video of several alums making headlines for their many achievements and hard work. 

The evening also paid homage to those alumni who are no longer with us, but still close to our hearts. “We all do appreciate the opportunity and space you gave us to convene this illustrious group after a handful of decades,” shared Prep alum Gina Lam (IV). Lizette Colon (VII) added, “It was incredibly necessary. It doesn’t matter if we haven’t seen one another in over 30 years or within the past ten years, it feels right. We were part of a unique journey that only we can understand. Prep brought us together. Thank you for allowing us the platform to connect, laugh, cry, and just reminisce and gush.” After a difficult year, the Alumni Affairs team was happy to give our alum trailblazers a sense of community. “A simple thank you won’t suffice!” said Lovey Rountree Oliff (P9 VI). “This was the event of the year and I am grateful for all the hard work you guys put into making this happen.”

The Alumni Affairs team has more Prep for Prep and PREP 9 Reunions planned for 2021, including: 

Prep for Prep X-XV, January 28

PREP 9 X-XV, February 4

Prep for Prep XVI-XX, February 18

PREP 9 XVI-XX, February 25

Prep for Prep XXI-XXV, March 11

PREP 9 XXI-XXV, March 25

Prep for Prep XXVI-XXXII, March 31

Alums should check their emails from Prep for RSVP details. We hope to see many more alums at these virtual reunions soon!