Chicago Convention planned for Feb. 29-March 1

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will feature staff, students and faculty from Saint Mary’s – along with notable SMU alumni from the Chicago area – during its upcoming Chicago convention for prospective students and alumni.

The third “SMU Convention – Chicago” will bring more than 100 Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and current students to the Westin Chicago Northwest Hotel in Itasca. Prospective students, families and alumni will be treated to activities and demonstrations, lunch and a keynote speaker, entertainment, and information booths that showcase the university.

Convention-goers will meet with professors, coaches and admission staff, sample a variety of refreshments, enjoy a live musical performance, and take their chances with games and giveaways.

A special pre-convention reception Friday, Feb. 29, from 7 to 11 p.m. is reserved for alumni to socialize, meet with Saint Mary’s faculty and staff, and enjoy a silent auction.

Saturday, March 1, the convention opens at 9 a.m. with exhibitor booths and displays. A free convention luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., hosted by Walter ’81, Tim ’85, and Mark ’86 Smithe of Walter E. Smithe Furniture Company, featuring a keynote speech from John McDonough ’75, president of the Chicago Blackhawks.

From 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, fun and educational breakout sessions will be offered by faculty, staff and noted alumni. From 11 to 11:45 a.m., the Oldie Moldie All-Stars will perform hits from the ’50s and ’60s. The convention adjourns at 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Meg Richtman, convention coordinator, Ext. 1499, or go online to www.smumn.edu/convention.