Generations Welcome Back Tailgate: Fostering Legacy Connections and School Spirit

The Generations Welcome Back event is not merely a tailgate; it is a celebration of the Marist spirit and the enduring connections forged within the Marist community. It serves as a space for current Generations families to reunite, form new bonds, and warmly receive the newest legacy families embarking on their Marist journey. The event fosters friendships that offer a unique perspective on the mission and history of Marist School, one that is rooted in the lived experiences of Generations families.

The evening’s activities took place on campus in the Arcade, Alumni Plaza, and Parents Club Arcade Dining Area. Afterward, guests walked into Hughes Spalding Stadium together to cheer the varsity football team on to their home opener victory against the Pike Road Patriots. The game concluded in a resounding victory with a score of 42-14, providing a fitting end to a day filled with camaraderie and a heartfelt celebration of the Marist legacy.

“I know this new 7th grade class has a lot of alumni friends and classmates in it, but the tailgate was the perfect time to actually catch up with people and to see some faces that I didn’t even realize were back,” said Dana Madonia LeTourneau ’96, who attended the event with her family, including new 7th grader Mary Anne LeTourneau ’29. “The tailgate is the perfect pregame event and fun for the whole family.”

Matt Simmons ’02, who serves as the Alumni Association Co-President beside Devon Morgan McKenna ’00, reflected on the event, saying, “Seeing so many families at the Generations Welcome Back Tailgate affirms the concept of the Marist family. As alumni return to campus with their own children as students, we are provided the opportunity to see the true impact the Marist experience can have. Over the next couple of years, Devon and I look forward to working with the school and all alumni to find active ways to keep the Marist spirit alive in us all for years after we leave campus as students.”

The Generations Welcome Back Tailgate is a cherished tradition that exemplifies the strong bonds within the Marist community, where past and present seamlessly come together in the spirit of Marist. To relive the evening, view photos from the Generations Welcome Back Tailgate.

Mark your calendars and plan to join us for “Alumni Light Up the Night,” which is set to take place on Sunday, December 10, at the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s “Garden Lights, Holiday Nights.” Tickets for this anticipated, festive evening go on sale in October, promising another memorable gathering for the Marist community to enjoy.