Save the date for June 21, 2025, Alumni Banquet

Tables in the commons are always elegantly arranged for the banquet. Mirror file photo, courtesy of Colleen Kemner.

by Marsha Chartrand

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Manchester Alumni Banquet, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Manchester Jr/Sr High School Commons. The banquet social hour kicks off at 5pm, with dinner at 6:30pm, followed immediately by the program. This year, attendees will hear responses from the classes celebrating special years, especially the graduating class of 1975, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Invitations will be mailed soon. The Alumni Association hopes to see all alumni and this year’s graduates at the banquet.

1937 alumnus Howard Parr (now deceased) gave these comments to Susan Fielder in 2018, who asked if he had advice for that year’s MHS graduates. His words are as fresh today as they were seven years ago: “The opportunities are limitless; the challenge is convincing young men and women to recognize the possibilities. Current grads are likely to have three to four vocations — not just jobs, but vocations. Some will pursue college degrees, but success is also available to those seeking needed vocational careers. Everyone is important and talented at something. You just need to join in and become part of the process.”

Manchester alumni have established a unique tradition of providing donations to fund annual scholarship awards. These are presented to several MHS graduating seniors during the banquet. The Scholarship Fund has proven to be an excellent way for MHS alumni to invest in Manchester youth, whether it is a general donation, memorial, or honorarium. Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to: MHS Alumni Association, P.O. Box 254, Manchester, Michigan 48158. Please make check payable to MHS Alumni Association.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.