Wings Up

Last weekend, I took our tagline “Wings Up!” literally and hopped on a plane to the Jersey Shore! After a detour to LaGuardia Airport, I was off on a planes, trains, and automobiles adventure to attend the second annual UC Alumni Gathering at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, NJ.

As I walked into Monmouth Park on Saturday, I could feel the nostalgia of the racetrack. It was old-school and well-loved, full of tradition and history – a perfect setting for a group of college mates to sit around and talk about the good ol’ days.

Jon Block (’79) served as our local host and spent weeks reaching out to alumni in the surrounding area, spreading the word about the event and the success of last year’s inaugural gathering. We were expecting 65 guests!

Despite the cold winds and threat of rain (which eventually arrived), Golden Eagles flocked to the event.

Our maroon and gold flags were flying, the playlist was just right, hot dogs were on the grill, and subs—courtesy of local favorite Jersey Mike’s—were being shared.

Bill Greenblum (’68), who helped plan the event, took charge of the alumni 50/50 raffle, while guests headed to the windows to place their bets on the races.

Spanning nearly 40 years, the group included graduates from the Class of 1964 through 1990—and 2006 if you include me! There’s something truly special about coming together and saying, “I’m a Golden Eagle, too.” No matter the year on your diploma, being part of this community connects us across generations.

I enjoyed hearing stories about campus love that blossomed into 50 years of marriage, tales from the rowers, basketball and soccer memories, and—though I tried—no fraternity or sorority secrets were spilled!

While it was fun reminiscing, I also enjoyed answering questions about how campus has changed over the years—what it looks and feels like today, bringing a little bit of Charleston to the setting.

Stella Cooksey was mentioned more than anyone else, friends embraced after a forty-year absence, and many promised to be in Charleston this September for Homecoming.

I’m back home safe without trading in my southern twang for the fast-talking charm of a Jersey accent that I now want so badly. “Caw-fee” just sounds so much cooler than “Coffee”. I also now have a couple of assignments to track down specific photos and videos and learn the story behind a certain jersey of one Mr. Jerry Moore. I’m on it and will report back shortly, Ed Sarluca, I promise!

It’s always a great day to be a Golden Eagle, but May 31, 2025, was extra special, and I’ve got the pictures to prove it! Be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages to see more from the trip—and maybe spot someone you know who joined the fun.