Alumni from Harrisburg High School’s class of 1991 at their 15th reunion.
Harrisburg High School’s class of 1991 has plans to host a 30th class reunion on Labor Day weekend, to reminisce on years past, but also to assist students of the future.
In addition to reconnecting, alumni will hold a scholarship fundraiser to support graduating seniors’ post-secondary education and technical school pursuits.
The pandemic caused a decrease in college enrollment in the fall of 2020, especially impacting students from low-income and historically underserved populations, said Danielle Hairston, director of registration and social engagement for the Class of 1991 committee. Funds and scholarships that were usually available to students, weren’t anymore, she noted.
“I feel like it’s our responsibility to give back,” Hairston said. “We wanted to really be a part of the solution.”
The funds raised from the reunion will go towards the committee’s new scholarship. They hope to raise at least $10,000 in order to provide 10 students with $1,000 scholarships each. The first round of these would go to the class of 2022. They plan to announce the winners in March.
During the reunion weekend, alumni and community members can participate in a tour of the John Harris Campus, enjoy bowling, a kickball competition and an evening social event.
While the class kept up with reunions during the first 15 years post-graduation, it has been a while since many of them have seen each other now.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how much we’ve changed,” Hairston said. “I’m excited to hear about people’s journeys.”
At an awards and recognition luncheon on the last day of the reunion, the committee will unveil its scholarship with remarks from Dr. H. Major Poteat, who served the Harrisburg School District as a principal, director of secondary education, assistant superintendent and superintendent from 1984-1997.
Hairston said that they plan to continue the scholarship every year going forward, with class reunions every five years.
Not only will they be giving students scholarships, but they will incorporate workshops for parents to learn about financial aid, loans, etc.
They will also be selling alumni swag, including apparel, mugs and other items with all of the proceeds going toward the scholarship fund.
“The committee has been working hard to pull this event off, and we believe that it is about time that we get serious about supporting our village,” said Julianne Adams-Birt, chairperson and former class president for the Class of 1991, in a statement. “It is going to be a weekend to remember.”
To donate towards the Class of 1991’s scholarship efforts, contact them at Harrisburg1991@gmail.com. Register for the reunion weekend, here.
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