September 2010

Question:

Dear Abbot Pennings,

Is it true that a former Green Bay Packer player was involved in a St. Norbert College Homecoming?

Tressa Boldt ’10

Answer:

My dearest Tressa,

Thank you most kindly for your question. The college enjoys a long-standing, multi-faceted relationship with the Packers, and indeed, a Homecoming connection constitutes one of those facets!

In 1964 offensive lineman Jerry Kramer escorted the lovely Jean Ann Carr ’67, who was sponsored by the Sigma Nu Chi fraternity and was crowned Homecoming Queen.

Now a member of the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Kramer took part in the college’s Homecoming parade that year. The parade was one of several rousing Homecoming traditions of the day. Enthusiastic Green Knights also built a bonfire, held a student pep rally and “snake danced” their way from the West De Pere practice field to the gym for the Homecoming dance.

Homecoming certainly has changed over the years, yet it remains a proud tradition of our fine institution. Perchance I shall see you and all my dear readers at this year's Homecoming on Oct. 22 and 23. On that auspicious weekend, the entire college community will dedicate the new Donald J. Schneider Stadium, raise its voices with rollicking school spirit at the football game, and celebrate until the wee hours with a bountiful buffet and festive music under the tent at the alumni block party.

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.