For decades, Robert College has maintained close ties with its alumni across the United States. This year, however, the tradition took an exciting new direction. For the first time, the annual U.S. trip expanded to the West Coast, creating new opportunities to ReConnect with graduates, strengthen friendships, and celebrate the enduring spirit of the RC community.
Accompanied by Board Chair Erol Hakanoğlu RC 74 and Head of School Whitman Shepard, the team traveled from San Francisco to Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York City, where alumni of different generations came together to share memories, exchange ideas, and renew lifelong connections.
Each gathering reflected the generosity that has long defined the RC community. The tour began at Dalida Mediterranean in San Francisco, where award-winning chef Sayat Özyılmaz RC 04 welcomed nearly one hundred alumni for an evening of friendship. It continued with a luncheon graciously hosted by Ergün Kırlıkovalı RA 70 at his home in San Juan Capistrano, followed by a dinner hosted by Hüseyin Tığlı RA 71 in San Diego. The journey concluded with the traditional AlumNight at the Penn Club in New York City, where approximately 150 alumni gathered for one of the largest RC events in recent years.
While every gathering had its own unique character, they all shared the same unmistakable RC spirit. Alumni who had not seen one another in years reconnected with old friends, welcomed recent graduates into their local networks, and reaffirmed the lifelong bonds that continue to unite the Robert College family across continents.
Wherever Robert College alumni may call home, the spirit of RC continues to bring them together. This year’s coast-to-coast journey was a reminder that while our community spans thousands of miles, it remains remarkably close-knit.
