In 1962, gas cost a mere 28 cents per gallon, John Glenn became the first American to orbit Earth during the Friendship 7 orbit and The Beatles were shockingly turned down by Decca Records. This special year also marked the graduation of the Class of 1962 from Germantown Academy.

On April 27, in honor of their 50th reunion, members of the Class of ’62 traveled to Fort Washington where they had the opportunity to reconnect with friends and classmates while spending the Day on Campus to experience GA today.

The men were welcomed back with a reception at the Goodman House featuring a presentation by Head of School James Connor 1760. Following Mr. Connor’s remarks, the members of the Class reminisced about their schoolboy days with current senior class Academy Club members. They talked about constructing an Eiffel Tower and creating candles out of beakers for prom, favorite teachers, morning chapel, the navy blue blazer that was an integral part of the dress code, and boldly skipping school only to get caught by their Headmaster! They also reflected on the important role so many faculty played in their GA experience, a sentiment shared by the members of the Class of 2012.

Later that morning, the Alumni moved to the McNeil Upper School where they had the opportunity to attend one of three classes including; World History I with Bob Moyer, Spanish 2 with Carol Ayers and Algebra 2 with Chris Nelson. The alums were impressed with the class participation, ability of the faculty to motivate their students and the obvious enthusiasm for learning.

The Class of 1962 then met their pen pals from the Class of 2022, a highlight and much anticipated portion of the day’s festivities.  After formally shaking hands, which the second graders have been practicing all year long, members of the Class of ’62 answered some questions from their curious Lower School counterparts. The group discussed topics ranging from favorite subject and pet to current profession. After being asked if they knew the words to the Alma Mater, the Alumni broke out into song, proving that they do in fact remember all the words to the school’s song. For their performance, they were treated to a resounding round of applause from their new friends.

The members of the Class of ’62 closed their Day on Campus with their official induction into the Old Guard at the annual luncheon. They join an esteemed and well respected group of Alumni. Congratulations!

“Hearing the exciting news about GA’s ongoing plans, interacting with the kids, especially the 2nd graders, and realizing that relationships do change after 50 years all made for a positive experience,” said John “Hench” Murray ’62.