Ravens Reunite for Centennial Kickoff
For one unforgettable weekend, generations of Ravens came together to celebrate a century of memories, friendships and traditions. More than 700 alumni and guests returned to campus for the All-Alumni Reunion Weekend, representing classes from 1950 through 2026. Even a powerful September nor’easter could not dampen the spirit of the occasion, as Ravens traveled from near and far to reconnect, celebrate and show their enduring love for the School. Separated by decades but united by a shared experience, they came together not simply to remember their years at Portsmouth Abbey, but to celebrate the traditions, friendships and sense of belonging that have continued long after graduation. The official kickoff to the Centennial, the weekend felt like both a homecoming and a milestone. It was a celebration of Portsmouth Abbey’s rich history, its vibrant community today and the promise of all that lies ahead.
The celebration began Friday with an alumni golf outing at The Aquidneck Club, giving Ravens an opportunity to reconnect on the course before returning to campus for an evening of school spirit. Despite the rain and wind, the football team took the field and delivered a decisive 28–0 football victory over Groton School. The evening continued with the inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame induction, honoring 11 individuals and one team whose achievements have championed the School’s proud athletic legacy. Following the ceremony, alumni gathered for a lively cookout with music by Jack Devine ’88 and his band, “Knock ‘Em Dead”.
Saturday brought alumni back into the classrooms for a special series of six classes offered across two sessions, rekindling the intellectual curiosity and spirited exchange that defined their years at Portsmouth Abbey. The experience was a powerful reminder that the School’s intellectual tradition remains as vibrant as ever. The Requiem Mass offered a quiet moment of reflection as the community honored classmates who are no longer with us, while a student panel gave alumni a glimpse into life at Portsmouth Abbey today. The conversation revealed how the School has evolved in ways that enrich the student experience, while the values, traditions and sense of community at its heart remain steadfast.
The future of the School was also at the center of the weekend. During a conversation with Head of School Matt Walter, Board Chair Christopher Abbate ’88 P’20 ’23 and Abbot Michael Brunner, O.S.B., alumni engaged in thoughtful discussions about Portsmouth Abbey’s trajectory and the questions facing education today, including artificial intelligence, immigration and the pursuit of excellence.
The weekend continued with the annual New England Lobster and Clambake, Vespers and reunion class photographs, culminating in the Reunion Gala, the weekend’s centerpiece celebration. Attendees were the first to view the Centennial short film, produced by Emmy Award-winning director and producer Ryan Lohuis ’10, founder of Murphy’s Law Productions. The film celebrates the enduring spirit of Portsmouth Abbey through reflections on the School’s formative influence, Benedictine traditions and the lifelong bonds that unite generations of alumni. Phil Moyles ’82 P’22, a member of the Board of Directors, served as master of ceremonies, bringing enthusiasm to the evening as he guided the gala program and helped celebrate a century of Portsmouth Abbey history and community. Following dinner, the inaugural Dom Hugh Diman Society welcomed its first class, honoring 34 faculty members who have taught at Portsmouth Abbey for 25 years or more. The induction recognized their extraordinary dedication and lasting contributions to the School and their students. As the evening turned to celebration, alumni and faculty filled the dance floor, dancing late into the night to tunes from internationally renowned DJ Valentina.
On Sunday, brunch accompanied by live jazz featuring faculty musicians and students brought the weekend to a close. The music was enriched by alumni and guests who joined in to share their own musical talents, creating a memorable finale. Through rain, wind and an unforgettable storm, a record-breaking number of alumni returned to campus to celebrate Portsmouth Abbey’s Centennial, reaffirming that the School’s legacy is defined not only by its traditions, but by the enduring connections that bring generations together.