An enthusiastic group of stalwart retirees trudged through snow, ice, and wind to greet future students and their families on the University’s first-ever Newly Admitted Students Welcome Day, hosted by the Office of Admissions on April 1. The goal: to convince these bright young people to make the leap and join the class of 2027!

The retirees greeted the arriving students and their families, directed them to various activities, and, most importantly, shared their affiliations with the University. The visitors seemed eager to interact with the volunteers.

Admissions staff engaged the would-be Gophers in a lively program that included campus tours (on freshly plowed paths), visits with Goldy Gopher, and the rousing music of the University of Minnesota Marching Band.

Hennepin County Commissioner and Board Chair Irene Fernando (’07 BS, ’14 MEd) served as a lively keynote speaker. She shared her inspiring story and how the University helped form and strengthen her leadership skills.

UMRA President Ron Matross thinks the Silver Gopher Service Corps t-shirts (see photo) are a great way for UMRA volunteers to show their connection to the Retirees Association and to the U. Shirts will be available for $15 at upcoming UMRA luncheons and future Silver Gopher volunteer projects.

—Peggy Mann Rinehart