November 07, 2025
Michelle Mittelman
Golden Foresters Luncheon celebrates lifelong connections across generations
During this year’s Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, Lake Forest College welcomed back members of the Class of 1974 and earlier for the annual Golden Foresters Luncheon—a new tradition celebrating alumni who graduated 51 or more years ago.
The luncheon offered the perfect blend of nostalgia, laughter, and heartfelt conversation as alumni reconnected with classmates and shared stories with current students.
For Bob Hernquist ’58, returning to campus for his fiftieth reunion several years ago sparked a lasting tradition.
“I came to my 50th reunion and found it was fun enough to start coming back year after year,” Hernquist said. “Ever since, I’ve taken advantage of a lot of other events. I feel as much a part of the campus now as I did when I was going to school. The Golden Foresters Luncheon made me feel like an honored guest, and I greatly enjoyed having the students at my table—their energy and stories are always fascinating.”
This year’s luncheon included a new intergenerational twist: students from the Gummere Fellows Program were invited to join the Golden Foresters Luncheon for conversation and connection. The exchange of stories highlighted how Forester values—curiosity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning—continue to define the College community.
Simon Hill ’26 reflected on the deep sense of continuity he noticed in his conversations with alumni.
“From my interactions with the alumni, it was clear that the values upheld by the College then and now continue to play a strong role in every individual’s journey,” Hill shared. “The alumni I met showed genuine interest in the growth of current students, which highlighted how lifelong engagement strengthens our community and fosters meaningful opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and growth.”
For Keisha William ’27, the luncheon was an inspiring reminder that the spirit of advocacy and ambition at Lake Forest has deep roots.
“I was truly in awe of the alumni I met,” William said. “Some of them were even members of Psi Chi, just like I am now, and it was inspiring to see how the values we uphold today—standing up for ourselves, creating change, and using our voices—have deep roots in Lake Forest’s history.”
The Golden Foresters Luncheon continues to be a highlight of Homecoming Weekend, celebrating not only milestone reunions but also the enduring legacy of connection between past and present Foresters.
As Hernquist noted, “I was amazed by the changes to the College, including the campus, the quality of educational opportunities, and the staff's concern for the success of every student, all of which has increased the spirit and pride of being a Forester for both students and alumni.”
