The Seattle Bowdoin Send-Off at the Locke Family residence has become a tradition over the years, with a fabulous spread as enticing for the eyes as the appetite. In anticipation of hosting new members of the incoming Class and their families as well as local alumni, Steve ’77, a member of Bowdoin’s Alumni Council, Elaine P’09, ’14, Melissa ’09 and Tim ’14 often start preparing days ahead. This year with eight of the eleven Seattle members of the Class of 2020 attending, the menu reflected a banner turnout.  Smoked salmon and crackers, pork and shrimp spring rolls, Chinese-spice marinated chicken, won tons, sushi, noodles, fresh fruit, salads, edamame, black and white cupcakes, and Elaine’s almond cookies. Polar Bears from across the decades eagerly indulged in the buffet during an evening of fun and connections with a perfect view of the city off the back deck.

A few raindrops drove everyone inside in time for Steve to introduce each of the new students and share a few words about Bowdoin’s past, present and future. An additional highlight of the gathering was honoring long-time Seattle resident and alumnus, Dick Michelson ’58, who in 1973 interviewed Steve as a prospective student, encouraging him to attend ‘a small college in Maine.’  Dick’s efforts over the years in growing the Seattle Bowdoin community have been important to the College and countless young people who have found their way from the Pacific Northwest to Brunswick.

To see photos from the event, check out the 2016 Seattle Send-Off Album.

Thanks to everyone who came and especially the Locke Family!