GW’s Alumni and Families Weekend Brings ’90s Nostalgia and a Fresh Look

The George Washington University is kicking it back to the '90s for this year's Alumni and Families Weekend, an annual celebration open to all alumni, families and members of the GW community. The weekend, held Oct. 24 to 26, will offer nostalgic throwbacks to the era of skateboards, Walkmans and floppy disks while also providing a glimpse into GW's future.

The weekend offers a packed lineup of events. Friday night's Back to the '90s: All-Alumni Rewind Party in the USC Grand Ballroom will feature dueling DJs, retro snacks and a '90s Style Showdown as attendees are encouraged to wear their "flyest" '90s outfits-think flannel, overalls and windbreakers.

This event is also one of many that will provide GW community members past and present a chance to connect and bond over their spirit for the university.

"Alumni and Families Weekend is such a powerful bridge between GW's storied past and its bold future," said Patty Carocci, associate vice president of alumni relations and annual giving. "It's a time when generations of GW Revolutionaries come together-our accomplished alumni, who bring our university's values to life every day, and the students and families who are shaping what comes next."

Visitors can step into the University Student Center Great Hall from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, or from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, to be a part of GW's new marketing direction. Professional photo and video stations will be set up for attendees to share their GW stories and be a part of the university's evolving brand campaign. Guests can also stop by a selfie and Polaroid station to snap a keepsake from the weekend.

"The Alumni and Families Weekend activities are just another step in engaging our community as we update our brand story," said Vice President for Communications and Marketing Ellen Moran. "After gathering input from so many members of our community, we are thrilled to share a sneak peek of some elements that may be adopted as part of our new creative direction."

The best of current student life will also be showcased throughout the weekend. On Saturday afternoon, families can head to the Vern Harvest on the Mount Vernon campus for fall treats, crafts and games.

Comedian Joel McHale-known for his roles on "Community," "The Soup," "The Bear" and his quick-witted stand-up-will take the stage Saturday night at the Charles E. Smith Center for the 2025 Fall Comedy Show, put on by the student-run GW Program Board. Doors open at 8 p.m., and guests must be seated by 9 p.m.

These events also give students a chance to unwind, connect and build community during the busy semester.

"Alumni and Families Weekend is all about bringing the community together to make meaningful connections, and I especially love seeing family members take as much pride in GW as our students do," said Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Colette Coleman. "As students experience beloved traditions like Vern Harvest or AcapellaPalooza with their friends and supporters, it strengthens and expands our GW family."

Throughout the weekend, guests can drop in at the Deans' Open Houses across GW's schools to meet faculty, tour facilities and hear about initiatives on the horizon. The Best of GW Faculty Lectures series-held Saturday late morning into early afternoon -offers a taste of GW's classroom experience by sampling top faculty presentations. Also on Saturday, the Rev Up GW Resource Fair in Kogan Plaza connects families and alumni with campus support services and programs.

With nostalgic flair and a fresh look for the university, Alumni and Families Weekend promises to be, as the '90s would say, all that and a bag of chips.