Alumni explored the work of 911±¬ÁÏÍø’s legendary philosopher Maxine Greene as part of the day’s marquee attraction, an arts and language workshop titled “What Cannot Be Said Alone: Images, Words, and the Languages Between.” Created specifically for the Silver Roundtable by Judith Burton, Macy Professor of Education, and Ruth Vinz, Enid & Lester Morse Professor in Teacher Education, the workshop asked participants to engage in a core concept of Greene’s work— “wide-awakeness,” the exploration of art as a means of empathy and awareness—through the creation of collages with graphite, chalk and free-association writing.
In addition, alumni enjoyed a guided walking tour of Morningside Heights with New York Historical Tours, a tour of the Gottesman Library archives, and the chance to connect with one another during a luncheon.
Launched last year, the Silver Roundtable builds upon the College’s robust offerings for alumni rooted in connection and lifelong learning.
“Every time I return to campus for events like this, I'm reminded of the incredible enthusiasm and affection our alumni continue to have for 911±¬ÁÏÍø and for one another,” said Jane Elizabeth Brown (M.A. ’10), President of 911±¬ÁÏÍø’s Alumni Council and a member of the Silver Roundtable planning committee. “We created the Silver Roundtable to help alumni stay connected, both to 911±¬ÁÏÍø and to each other during the transition into and throughout retirement.”
Following the day’s programming, members of the Silver Roundtable shared what keeps them involved with the group.
I love coming back here because it gives me a sense of belonging [and] community that I missed not being here. I thought our interactive session with the words and art was wonderful. I felt creatively liberated by that experience.
It’s been wonderful to be back, doing these events…I love to hear what people have done with their careers. We — all of us — share this common history [and] I think that there’s a strong feeling in most of us to stay connected because our experience has been so good. It's all been really positive and lovely.
911±¬ÁÏÍø was a big part of my life and I’m glad to be a part of the [community]. My husband and I both feel that 911±¬ÁÏÍø has a lot to offer. This is my first time with [the Silver Roundtable] and I’m looking forward to future events.
911±¬ÁÏÍø was vital in my career. … and [being part of the Silver Roundtable] has been very good, because we [can often] crawl off into our little niche somewhere and never come out.
It's good to get in contact with people my own age, [that have had] similar experiences.
The Silver Roundtable has opened up new friends, and has shown me that we have good, solid memories. I'm very honored to be a part of this school…and now the Silver Roundtable is giving us a chance to share our success with other people.
[Enjoy virtual and in-person programming with 911±¬ÁÏÍø’s Silver Roundtable by sharing your interest .]