Have you met … Loretta Patterson?
29 November 2022
The class of 1962 celebrated their 60th anniversary.
As the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation alumni gathered for U of A Days on Sept. 23, the Class of 1962 also celebrated a special milestone — their 60th graduation anniversary — with a special lunch.
We recently had the exciting opportunity to catch up with class organizer Loretta Patterson (BPE, ’62), who shared her experience and memories of being both a class organizer and alumna of the University of Alberta in this special Q & A.
What have you been up to since graduation?
After graduation in 1962, I taught physical education, science and math at St. Mary’s High School in Edmonton. This was followed by my marriage, raising three daughters and a son. I also attended the University of Oregon in 1976-77 and completed a master of science in curriculum. After my husband passed away in 1994, I taught Grade 3 at the International School of Beijing in China for eight years. Upon my return to St. Albert, I continued to do synchronized (artistic) swimming, competing in solo, duet and team routines at the national and International Masters level. I have won gold, silver and bronze in these events.
What is your favourite memory from the U of A?
We were a small faculty of about 30 students and we took all our physical education classes together for three years, so we were able to make lasting friendships. I competed for the U of A for four years in two sports — speed swimming and artistic swimming. These make lasting memories!!
What advice would you give to current students?
Aim high and don’t let the number of years of study determine your path!
What makes the Class of 1962 memorable?
The friendships we formed.
What inspired you to organize a class reunion?
It was important for our class to get together and celebrate our 60th graduation year while we still can, because some sadly are no longer here and others were too sick to come.
Would you recommend other classes organize similar class reunions?
I would like to organize our reunion next year. I would recommend other classes organize reunions. The U of A is very helpful and it is very rewarding!!
What was your favourite memory from the reunion?
It was interesting to hear what my classmates did after their degree. Some stayed in sports, others took a different path and became an ESL teacher, hematologist, organic farmer, librarian or worked with Junior Achievement. Most went on to higher degrees.
Interested in reconnecting with your former classmates and celebrating a graduation milestone in 2023? The Office of Alumni Relations offers support and information to class organizers; see here (https://www.ualberta.ca/