Les “Retrouvailles”
Avignon Center Reunion celebrating 35 years
May 10-12, 2007

A select group of former students came back for this first ever reunion at Avignon and in many cases, it was their first return to the IAU in general since their days as a student. Alumni from the classes of 1971-72, prior to the move into the Chapelle Saint-Antoine and their spouses,  former students from 1974-75, from 1975-1976, 1976-1977, 1986-87 and 2001-2002 as well as former Directrices: Monique Benesvi and Hilligje Van’t Land. Present day staff: Gisèle Gay, a long standing member of the Centre d’Avignon staff (27+ years), Barbara Manas and Sylvie Rockmore, current Directrice  were in charge.  Paul Schwartz, Dean of Academic Affairs and Director of the Aix Center was also present on the opening day.

Festivities included: a conference on the Chapel and on the order it belonged to. Luncheon. Visit to the former location of the IAU, prior to the Chapel (Palais du Roure). A day in the Gigondas vineyards followed by a dinner cruise and dance on the Rhône were the events of the second day.

Alums came from the States as well as from France. Gisèle had her yearbooks ready and it was incredible to see old pictures and compare with the present. We all agreed the present was “younger “ looking!

Pictures will be available shortly. If you have any to add, please send them to: avignon@iaufrance.org

Next Reunion at the Avignon Center in 5 years. Be ready! We would like even more former students to come back now that we have enjoyed this first event so much.

If you aren't sure whether your current email address is in our system, please contact Barbara Manas.

Also feel free to read the latest Avignon newsletter September 2006.