Maya McFadden File Photo
Then-sophomores Charlotte Herzog, Alma Barjamovic, and Maya Harpaz-Levi at the start of the 2023 school year.
Every single person who ever attended Wilbur Cross will be there.
Well, that’s the idea anyhow.
For the first time ever, alumni from every generation of Wilbur Cross will be gathering for the ultimate reunion.
On Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., the school is opening the doors for the “Reunion in the Halls.” It’s free and it’s open to everyone — graduates of all years, all ages, and all generations. In truth, this is more than just a reunion or a chance to relive some old memories; it’s a moment to reaffirm our commitment to the city’s largest high school, even as the very idea of public education teeters on the brink.
What’s on the agenda? It’s going to be a party and there will be something for everyone. Get ready to do some world-class eating because our award-winning culinary team, led by Chef Bradshaw, will be providing free snacks and appetizers for everyone in attendance. To top it off, we’ll be screening a special PBS documentary about the team and its successful bid to win the national championship. If you’ve ever tasted their savory creations, your mouth is probably already watering.
You’ll also meet our current Cross principal, Matt Brown, who was named Outstanding High School Principal of 2024 by the Connecticut PTA. The Wilbur Cross band will be performing, under the leadership of the great Eric Teichman. We’ll also have a special library of year books, dating back over 100 years, giving everyone a chance to leaf through the school’s storied history.
Some of Cross’ most beloved teachers — those who have shaped generations of students — will be on hand to greet visitors. Class of ‘78? Don’t worry — you’ll still have a chance to catch up with that teacher who changed your life (or, you know, busted you for smoking, in that dark nook behind the stairwell). Yeah, that spot is still there. Waiting for you.
For those of you who want to show off your Governor pride, we’ll have plenty of Wilbur Cross swag available for purchase. You’ll also have the chance to walk through the hallways, the cafeteria, the classrooms, or those steps where you stole a first kiss or boldly summoned the courage to invite that special someone to the prom.
For all you former jocks, the Wilbur Cross Hall of Fame will be on display, showcasing legends from the past. But this event isn’t just about looking back; you’ll also have the chance to meet current team captains and compare notes.
I personally never went to Wilbur Cross, but it has come to feel like home in so many ways. I’m the proud parent of two students there, and I’m also honored to be president of the Wilbur Cross PTSA. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this school has shaped my kids, making them true citizens of this city.
What makes this event so unique is the opportunity to connect across generations. My kids and their friends, for example, will have a chance to meet the alumni who came before them and hear their stories. And that’s the idea. The goal is to forge connections across time — linked by the idea of what this school was, what it is, and what it should be.
As much as this is a celebration, it’s also a timely reminder of why community matters more than ever. As we face challenges in education — where discussions about defunding public schools and even eliminating the Department of Education are on the table — there’s never been a more crucial time to come together. We need to remember who we are and what we stand for. Wilbur Cross is more than a school, it’s the very backbone of New Haven. If the American dream still lives – if its promise still empowers our city’s residents – then that dream lives and breathes in these hallways. Your hallways. So, whether it’s been a year or several decades since you’ve been back, this is your chance to come home. The doors are open. We’ll be expecting you.