This spring, Carroll College hit the road to reconnect with Saints across the country, bringing together alumni, students, and friends in a series of memorable gatherings. From coast to coast, these visits reflected the strength of the Carroll community and the shared pride that continues to unite Saints wherever they are. One of the highlights of the month was an unforgettable theatre trip to New York City.
A group of 34 students, staff, faculty, and alumni hopped on a plane heading east to spend their spring break in New York City on a trip led by the Carroll College Theatre Department.
“I loved watching this group become confident in navigating the city, finding treasures, taking care of each other, and building connections with new people,” said Dr. Kim Shire, Theatre Department Chair. “This trip always expands the horizons of our students and helps them understand more about building a career in theatre.”
Carroll College Interim Co-President and President-elect Dr. Jennifer Glowienka was able to join the group for a few days as well.
“It was wonderful to be a part of this special trip. Getting to spend invaluable time with students, alumni, faculty, and staff is something I treasure,” said Dr. Glowienka. “Everywhere I go, I’m reminded of how wonderful the Carroll community is and how it’s not for school but truly for life.”
The group was able to sample a little bit of everything throughout the week – late night cookie runs; morning bakery and bagel stops; an afternoon stroll through Central Park; art and history museums; visiting bustling Times Square; looking out over the concrete jungle from atop skyscrapers; and attending a combined total of 26 plays and musicals, including Hamilton, Hadestown Town, the Great Gatsby, Ragtime, Every Brilliant Thing starring Daniel Radcliffe, and more.
“One of my favorite memories from this trip was organizing a dinner with all of the students late one night after shows. We all got together and went to a Dim Sum place near our hotel that was recommended by [Julia Harris], one of our professors,” said Lexi Larsen, Communication and Theatre double major from Kettle Falls, Washington. “… We spent the entire time crying, laughing, sharing food around the round family style table, and swapping stories about our favorite moments from the Broadway shows we'd seen so far.”
For Shire, it’s difficult to pick a favorite moment, but a fond memory that stands out for its comradery building is visiting the crown of the Statue of Liberty.
“It was a tough scramble up those stairs, but we laughed through it and came out the other side ready for more adventures,” said Shire. “Our group split into about six different smaller groups after that climb and ended up exploring so many new places on a warm, sunny day in Manhattan.”
Patrick ‘06 and Biral Rieley hosted an Alumni, Student, and Friend Brunch on Sunday, March 8, for the group in partnership with Senior Director of Alumni and Community Engagement Reneé Wall.
“The brunch was a joy to host! It was incredible to bring together current students, faculty, and alumni Saints from different decades to one place, especially here in New York City,” said Patrick. “The Carroll College community is truly very special and seeing such a large Carroll College presence on the east coast in New York City was a blessing.”
Amber Barnes, adjunct instructor for the Theatre Department, noted how the trip is personally fulfilling for herself and other theatre faculty to see what’s being done professionally and connect with other professionals in the field of theatre.
“We get to see a different side of our students and get to know them in a different way, which makes it more special as well,” stated Barnes. “This year, we had so many more alumni than we've had in the past, and it was fun to get to know some of the lovely humans who have helped shape Carroll throughout the years.”
This is the fifth time the department has led a spring break trip to New York City. The next planned trip to the Big Apple is in March 2028, so mark your calendars.
(Submitted by Megan Michelotti '22, Senior Executive Assistant to the President)
While the New York City trip offered a transformative experience for students and alumni alike, it was just one part of a broader month of connection. Across the country, Saints gathered in cities near and far to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate all that is happening at Carroll.
Carroll’s Day at the Ballpark in Phoenix brought together alumni, families, and friends for a lively afternoon of connection and spring training baseball. Co-Presidents Dr. Jennifer Glowienka and Bishop Austin Vetter joined attendees as the Seattle Mariners faced the Texas Rangers, creating a fun and welcoming kickoff to the spring alumni travel season.
In Portland, alumni, prospective students, and families gathered at Old Town Brewing for an engaging evening hosted in partnership with Admissions. Alumni shared their Carroll experiences and connected with future Saints, highlighting the lasting impact of a Carroll education.
The Seattle gathering brought together a dynamic group of alumni, including many recent graduates. Board Chair Dr. Joyce Stewart ’79 and Trustee Rosie Selle ’06 shared updates on the college, while Bishop Vetter encouraged continued connection and engagement within the Carroll community.
In Denver, alumni and friends gathered for an evening hosted by Trustee Tom Whyte ’83 and Kim Whyte ’84. Guests heard updates from Trustee Benji Robinson ’95 and Bishop Vetter, with strong turnout from alumni, parents, and supporters reflecting the strength of the Saints network in the region.
Together, these events are a powerful reminder that the Carroll experience extends far beyond campus. Whether gathering in a major city or cheering on a spring training game, Saints continue to show up for one another in meaningful ways. We are grateful to all who joined us this spring and look forward to continuing these connections in the months ahead.
