Frank Calfo, MBA ‘68, reflects on his reunion experience and the importance of giving back
After a 50-year absence, I finally returned to the campus of Case Western Reserve University in October of 2018. The occasion was my 50th reunion which I was determined to attend in order to pay homage to the university that had done so much for me.
As I was touring the campus, I quickly realized how much I had missed by not attending my earlier reunions. The campus had grown to the point where I did not recognize much of it. I was, however, delighted to see that a few of the buildings that go back to my era had been preserved in the Historic District. I was previously aware that the building where I attended all of my classes (Baker Building) no longer exists. It was my goal to try and find the lot where I had so many wonderful memories, but I did not know how to find it. With the help of one of the university employees, I was able to do that. I suspect that she was not familiar with that building, but that did not deter her from helping me. She was kind enough to do the necessary research that enabled me to find the lot and stand there and ponder over my past experiences.
Speaking of buildings, a must see is the Peter B. Lewis Building which is the home of the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. I have never seen a building that was twisted, shaped and bent in such a way. It developed into a wonderful piece of art, and had function on top of all of that. Following my tour of the building, I had the opportunity to attend a lecture by Fred Collopy that discussed the construction challenges of the building, and it was an awesome discussion.
I would be remiss if I did not mention how well I was received by a number of senior administrative officials of the business school, including Dean Manoj Malhotra. They were so kind and helpful that I told one of them that I was made to feel like a celebrity. Although they were strangers when we first met, I left the school having acquired some newly-found friends that I hope to see at my next reunion. At the Homecoming Luncheon, I was privileged to sit next to Dean Malhotra who explained to me his vision for the business school. Being an astute business person, he also mentioned to me the importance of financial support from the alumni when he commented that “every dollar counts”.
Although I could not mention all of them, there was a myriad of other lectures and activities that would appeal to the needs of anyone in attendance.
In closing, I would like to stress the importance of keeping in touch with your school. I think that is best done by participating in the class reunions and financially supporting the school in a way that is meaningful to you, because I agree with the Dean -- every dollar does count! Believe me when I speak from experience, our contributions are well utilized and appreciated by the school.