The University of Miami Alumni Association’s “Sprint to Our Centennial” tour reached its final stop in Chicago on April 1, capping off a dynamic multi-city celebration ahead of the University’s 100th anniversary on April 8. More than 150 alumni, friends, and fellow Canes gathered for an evening of conversation, reflection, and connection.
The event featured Patricia A. Whitely, Ed.D. ’94, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement, and included a lively fireside chat between Paul A. Pavlou, dean of the Miami Herbert Business School, and Dan Radakovich, M.B.A. ’82, vice president and director of athletics. The conversation was moderated by former Hurricanes and Chicago Bears star Greg Olsen, B.A. ’07.
“The Sprint to Our Centennial has truly been a special event series,” said Whitely. “This started as a way for alumni, parents, and friends of the U to collectively reflect on our past 100 years. As we moved from city to city, we were able to share stories and recognize the ways that our impacts not only supported the past 100 years but also will contribute to our future. It was so rewarding to spend time with our alumni and share the changes on campus.”
From Tampa to Chicago, the tour brought the U’s centennial spirit to communities across the country. In total, the University hosted events in eight cities—Tampa, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Broward/Palm Beach, and Chicago.
“The Sprint to Our Centennial tour was a special opportunity to bring together our loyal Canes who have supported us through the years and connect with so many new people,” said Erica Arroyo, B.S.C. ’03, M.A.L.S. ’08, associate vice president for engagement. “To celebrate our shared legacy and envision the future together with such enthusiasm, engagement, and UM pride reaffirmed the strength of our Canes network.”
With the tour complete, all eyes now turn to April 8, when Canes around the country will come together to mark the University’s 100th birthday—a celebration of the past century and the start of a new chapter for the U.
Check out photos from the Chicago event below.
