From the Nominator

"Mobilizing the McGill University community to ensure a safe return to in-person academic and research activities in fall 2021 forced us to place a hold on all other campus events, despite being in the midst of our bicentennial anniversary. The decision to conduct reunion activities virtually for a second year, while difficult, was inevitable. With lessons learned from virtual reunion in 2020, Bicentennial At-Home Homecoming was re-imagined as a robust, special edition online event held from September 29-October 2, 2021.  

The virtual program was designed to capture the spirit of a traditional homecoming with the essence of a forward-looking McGill on the cusp of its Third Century. The celebration was distinctive because it staged intergenerational conversations, which were elevated by studio productions of both live and pre-recorded sessions. Highlights of this signature online reunion weekend included the delivery of multidisciplinary content featuring conversations between current students, alumni, faculty experts, and university dignitaries, thought-provoking sessions delivered by McGill Alumni Association affiliate and constituent groups, and one particularly dynamic 50th Golden Jubilee Reunion. 

Despite the onset of virtual event fatigue--coupled with the knowledge that our global viewership would be less “captive” as different parts of the world began to reopen--Bicentennial At-Home Homecoming 2021 saw unique registrations increase by 69% over 2020, with representation from 53 countries over 51 in 2020. Usually the in-person domain of pentad reunion-goers, virtual reunion attracted participants across all age groups, including at least one centenarian!"

From the Judges

This online reunion weekend in McGill’s bicentennial year was highly engaging. It featured strong design and creative activities, and showcased a broad range of expertise and experience from students, alumni, faculty, and university leaders. The judges were particularly impressed by the numbers engaged--nearly 6,000 unique registrants--and we loved the party pack, including origami martlet and virtual backgrounds. Several judges commented on the ‘Made By McGill’ stories, which was a call to action. It was a fresh way to celebrate the impact of alumni and support the campaign.