For one autumn day each year, Robert College becomes more than a campus: it becomes home once again.
Homecoming welcomed more than five hundred alumni back to Gould Hall Steps, with graduates returning from across Türkiye and around the world to reconnect with classmates, teachers, and the place where so many lifelong friendships began. This year’s theme, ReConnect, resonated throughout the day, reminding everyone that while years may pass, the bonds formed at Robert College remain remarkably strong.
The campus was alive with activity from morning until evening. The Class of RC 75 celebrated its Golden Reunion, marking 50 years since graduation, while current and former Student Council members came together to celebrate the SC’s 100th anniversary. Berker Fellows reunited to reconnect and look ahead, members of the Class of RC 20 received the time capsules they had created as Prep students, and families enjoyed children’s activities and live music by Grup Mercimek in the Forum.
One of the day’s most anticipated traditions, the Dave Phillips Memorial Basketball Game, once again brought alumni back onto the court. Nearly 60 players took part, cheered on by classmates, families, and friends, in a celebration of camaraderie that honored the enduring legacy of Coach Dave Phillips. Later, during the Assembly, Head of School Whitman Shepard introduced a moving AIgenerated tribute created by Cenk Gümüşcüoğlu RC 97, bringing cherished photographs of Coach Phillips to life and creating one of the day’s most memorable moments.
The Assembly also looked toward the future. Alumni were introduced to the newly launched digital RCQ, recognized the contributions of the RCQ Editorial Board, celebrated the Student Council’s centennial and the Berker Fellows, and heard reflections from Whitman Shepard on Robert College’s reputation, resilience, and the importance of remaining connected to one another and to the school.
Behind every Homecoming tradition stands an extraordinary community effort. Faculty, staff, students, alumni volunteers, the Student Council, and countless members of the Robert College community worked together to welcome hundreds of alumni back to campus and ensure that every detail reflected the warmth and spirit of RC.
As the day drew to a close, one thing was clear. Homecoming is much more than an annual reunion. It is a celebration of a community that continues to grow stronger with every generation and a reminder that no matter where life leads, Robert College will always be a place to come home to.
