Sadlers to officiate homecoming parade
This year's Homecoming will be different for Sam Sadler ('64, M.Ed. '71) and Mary Liz Smith Sadler ('65). This trip down Duke of Gloucester Street will be one perhaps of relaxation, remembrance and revelry for Sam, because for the first time in 41 years, he won't be calling the shots. On June 30, Sam retired from the place he has worked for and loved for so long.
Sam's tenure at the College started in 1967 and ended with a ceremony renaming the former University Center in his honor. The new Sadler Center is a testament to Sam's dedication to the College over the years, and one way for the William and Mary community to say thank you to the former vice president of student affairs. Riding in a convertible as the most honored guest in the 2008 Homecoming Parade is another way.
"I found it hard to believe that 41 years, make that 45 if you count my College days, had passed so very quickly," said Sadler. "Perhaps that's a sign that I have had fun in the time that I have spent here."
Sam's reputation with the students has become the stuff of legend, and before his official retirement, they held a rally complete with balloons and banners just to share with him how much of an impact he's had on their time at the College.
"I think I speak for everyone when I say that we will all dearly miss Mr. Sadler," said Nick Faulkner ('08). "He has been a father, administrator and friend to so many of us."
The William and Mary Homecoming Parade will take place on Sat., Oct. 25 starting at 9:30 a.m. The route of this year's parade will start near the corner of Duke of Gloucester Street and Botetourt Street. It will then proceed down Richmond Road past the Alumni House to Brooks Street and ending at William and Mary Hall.
Founded in 1842, the William and Mary Alumni Association is a separately incorporated nonprofit organization that encourages alumni of the College of William and Mary to remain active partners in the life of the university. The Alumni Associations programs nurture friendships, inspire pride and build an appreciation among alumni for William and Mary's long tradition of achievement. For more information about the Alumni Association, visit www.wmalumni.com.
