Alumni explored the work of TC’s legendary philosopher Maxine Greene as part of the day’s marquee attraction, an arts and language workshop titled “What Cannot Be Said Alone: Images, Words, and the Languages Between.” Created specifically for the Silver Roundtable by Judith Burton, Macy Professor of Education, and Ruth Vinz, Enid & Lester Morse Professor in Teacher Education, the workshop asked participants to engage in a core concept of Greene’s work— “wide-awakeness,” the exploration of art as a means of empathy and awareness—through the creation of collages with graphite, chalk and free-association writing.
In addition, alumni enjoyed a guided walking tour of Morningside Heights with New York Historical Tours, a tour of the Gottesman Library archives, and the chance to connect with one another during a luncheon.
Launched last year, the Silver Roundtable builds upon the College’s robust offerings for alumni rooted in connection and lifelong learning.
“Every time I return to campus for events like this, I'm reminded of the incredible enthusiasm and affection our alumni continue to have for TC and for one another,” said Jane Elizabeth Brown (M.A. ’10), President of TC’s Alumni Council and a member of the Silver Roundtable planning committee. “We created the Silver Roundtable to help alumni stay connected, both to TC and to each other during the transition into and throughout retirement.”
Following the day’s programming, members of the Silver Roundtable shared what keeps them involved with the group.
I love coming back here because it gives me a sense of belonging [and] community that I missed not being here. I thought our interactive session with the words and art was wonderful. I felt creatively liberated by that experience.
It’s been wonderful to be back, doing these events…I love to hear what people have done with their careers. We — all of us — share this common history [and] I think that there’s a strong feeling in most of us to stay connected because our experience has been so good. It's all been really positive and lovely.
TC was a big part of my life and I’m glad to be a part of the [community]. My husband and I both feel that TC has a lot to offer. This is my first time with [the Silver Roundtable] and I’m looking forward to future events.
TC was vital in my career. … and [being part of the Silver Roundtable] has been very good, because we [can often] crawl off into our little niche somewhere and never come out. It's good to get in contact with people my own age, [that have had] similar experiences.
The Silver Roundtable has opened up new friends, and has shown me that we have good, solid memories. I'm very honored to be a part of this school…and now the Silver Roundtable is giving us a chance to share our success with other people.
[Enjoy virtual and in-person programming with TC’s Silver Roundtable by sharing your interest here.]