July 2008

Question:

Dear Abbot Pennings,

I have heard that an elephant participated in a particular St. Norbert Homecoming parade. Did this really happen, and if so, when?

Kate Geenen ’89

Answer:

Thanks for your question, Kate. I had to do some investigating to find an answer to your most interesting inquiry!

In reviewing old yearbooks and recalling Homecoming memories, I happened to come across a picture from the St. Norbert College Homecoming celebrations of 1963. To my amazement I discovered that not only one but two elephants did indeed participate in the parade that year. What a sight that must have been! I’m sure many of my readers recall seeing these splendid creatures strolling along the streets of De Pere.

Many fine memories are created during Homecoming. How enjoyable it is to reminisce with one another! I hope that you and other alumni will take time to come back home for Reunion/Homecoming (Oct. 17-19) this year. And how I’d love for alumni to come back and pay me a visit. I’m still sitting proudly outside the Abbot Pennings Hall of Fine Arts, admiring this most beautiful campus.

Responses to “Ask the Abbot” questions are penned by St. Norbert College staff in the name of Abbot Bernard Pennings, O.Praem., who founded St. Norbert College in 1898.