Connection Across Generations: Davidson College’s Inaugural Women of Davidson Alumnae Weekend
March 31, 2026
- Author
- Danielle Strickland
There was pickleball, yoga and reflection.
There were deep discussions, vulnerable moments and tears of joy.
There was a gorgeous ocean and perfect weather.
Most importantly, there were Davidson women.
Alumnae from across the decades recently gathered at Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms, South Carolina, for a weekend built around shared interests, new perspectives and personal renewal. The Women of Davidson Alumnae Weekend was designed as a space to connect, share bold ideas and recharge, and by all accounts, it delivered on every promise.
The weekend kicked off Friday with a welcome reception and after party, offering the 130 participants time to meet, catch up and settle in. Several women also took advantage of individual career coaching sessions before the festivities began, offered by Associate Director for Alumni Career Networks Erika Shorty.
Saturday was a jam-packed day, offering a blend of wellness, laughs and deep conversation. Early risers met for sunrise yoga, while others hit the pickleball courts before and after a day of intentional programming. Sessions throughout the day tackled everything from the power of female friendships to navigating imposter syndrome to the art of storytelling for empowerment.
Hats off to all of you. This kind of space is so important, and [the planning team] created something truly special — thoughtful, meaningful and deeply needed.
Session and panel presenters included: Professor Catherine Bagwell, Ann Hayes Browning ’79, Meredith Dean ’80, Suzanne Dixon ’91, Lisa Hasty ’81, Patricia Massey Hoke ’07, Marya Howell ’91, Beth McCaw ’92, Adrienne Simone Miller ’16, Donna Peters ’89, Leigh Rawdon ’95 and Whitney A. White ’08. During lunch, the group participated in “Table for Eight” conversations, mirroring one of the college’s newest programs.
“The programming was excellent and clearly designed with intention,” said Kathleen Golding Boyce ’78. “It created space for real connection and meaningful dialogue.”
The day culminated with a dinner featuring Mary Laura Philpott ’96, nationally bestselling author of Bomb Shelter: Love, Time, and Other Explosives. Her insights on life’s “explosives” and the beauty of the everyday resonated deeply with the crowd. The evening began with a powerful invocation by Kathy Beach ’92 and wrapped up with a meaningful toast offered by Bonnie Revelle ’77 and Julia Conley ’23, representing the earliest and most recent classes in attendance.
“I really appreciated the way the weekend created opportunities for connection across generations — it felt both welcoming and impactful,” shared Katie Gigliotti '08.
As the weekend concluded Sunday with a mindful photo walk facilitated by Kym Motley ’93, interfaith service led by Ellen Crawford True ’71 and farewell brunch with views of the Atlantic, hosted by Carol Connor Willingham ’77, the impact of the gathering was clear. Alumnae left not only with gift bags, photos and not enough sleep, but with a renewed sense of community and appreciation for the place that binds them, Davidson College.
It’s hard to put into words how much this weekend meant. The connections, the conversations and the overall experience were incredibly powerful.
Amy Bryan Reeves '95 added her appreciation: “Thank you for the work you all put into making this weekend so meaningful. It was incredibly well done and left a lasting impression.”
The success of the event serves as a testament to the enduring power of the Davidson network and the magic that happens when Davidson women hold space for one another.
“I would say the Women of Davidson Alumnae Weekend was an idea that became reality, but more than that, it became a dream,” said Deidra Smith, senior director of alumni and family engagement. “It was never just about programming — it was about creating space for something meaningful to unfold. What made it so powerful was the way alumnae showed up, with openness, honesty and a willingness to connect across generations and life stages. Our team had the joy of bringing that space to life — where new connections formed, perspectives shifted, and people rediscovered something in themselves. The fun was only outshined by the purpose. This is the kind of engagement we hope to create — not just moments, but experiences that stay with you long after they’re over.”
In 2023, Davidson College celebrated 50+ Years of Coeducation, and one thing became clear: Davidson women wanted more opportunities to be together. The Women of Davidson Alumnae Weekend proved it’s worth doing again and again. Tentative plans are to build a weekend of this kind every other year, with opportunities to connect in between, like through the Table for Eight programming. Stay tuned for more, and thank you to everyone who joined us at the beach!
