Back to Where it All Began 

I had the honor of attending the wedding of a Feinberg classmate’s daughter this past weekend. The ceremony was attended by two other classmates, who, like me, had surnames which were at the end of the alphabet. Why does this matter, you might be asking. In the days of old, laboratory assignments were given alphabetically, so you studied anatomy, mastered pathophysiology, and took exams in the lab alongside the same group of people for the first two years. Naturally, one could become quite annoyed if those in your section were not compatible with you, but quite often, there emerged great conviviality and connection (For example, the two classmates previously mentioned were later married.). Being together for the wedding events sent us all tumbling down memory lane, gayfully recalling moments we shared in what was, truly, a challenging time in our lives.  

The best part of serving as your Medical Alumni Association Board president is getting to hear your stories and recollections. So many of the stories I hear from our alumni harken back to the shared experiences we carry with us from our medical school days: memorable professors, quirky classmates, favorite restaurants, games played in the public park across from the school, “In Vivo” performances, watching the Chicago Air and Water Show from the roof of Lake Shore Center, and so many more. They are a fabric which connects us to one another, and to Feinberg.  

So many of the stories I hear from our alumni harken back to the shared experiences we carry with us from our medical school days.

Darren Wethers, ‘88 MD, CPE, FACP

Two years ago, we recorded our first episode of the Northwestern Intersections podcast during Alumni Weekend. Last year, during Alumni Weekend, we recorded the podcast in front of an audience rather than in a studio, calling the episode “Live from Feinberg Alumni Weekend,” and it was a tremendous success. This year and in subsequent years, we would love to capture memories from more of you, whether a recent graduate or Half Century Club member. You hold a treasure trove of experiences which bind you to the Feinberg community and to one another.

This year, Alumni Weekend will be held May 1-2, 2026, with events on and around Northwestern University’s Chicago campus. As always, this presents an opportune time for alumni to reconnect with former classmates, learn about the medical school’s latest developments and achievements, and reminisce about their medical school experiences. In addition to mingling with old classmates and current Feinberg students, attendees will be treated to an exciting lineup of activities ranging from educational forums, campus tours, Tea at the Drake, Conversations with the Dean, a luncheon that focuses on mentoring as well as a scholarship luncheon with current Feinberg students, and more. And, for those interested in participating in another Feinberg-focused installment of the Northwestern Intersections podcast, you are welcome to reach out to the Feinberg Alumni Relations team to learn more. So, whether you are looking to reunite with members of your class or just want to see what’s new at Feinberg, we look forward to you joining us in May.