Alumni Reunion and Networking Weekend

March 7 – March 9, 2025

About the Reunion

Jackie Robinson Foundation Alumni Association’s (JRFAA) Reunion and Networking Weekend (Reunion) is three days of professional developmental and life skills plenaries, career exploration sessions, and networking opportunities with peers from a variety of industry sectors.

Attracting nearly 150 participants annually, the event has featured leading voices in the areas of finance, politics, technology and civic engagement including: BitMex founder Arthur Hayes, academic and author Marc Lamont Hill, musician Michael Muse, congresswoman Lauren Underwood and researcher Deborah Wafer.

The Reunion will take place in New York City at One Hudson Square (75 Varick Street) home of the Jackie Robinson Foundation and Museum. On Saturday afternoon, attendees will travel by bus to New Brunswick, NJ to participate in the Scholars Recognition Dinner.

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Empowered Leaders, Breaking Barriers

Inspired by the indelible legacy of our namesake Jackie Robinson, the 2025 Alumni Reunion & Networking Conference, “Empowered Leaders, Breaking Barriers,” will provide a platform for networking, professional development, and shared experiences, while celebrating the legacy and achievements of our community.

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Registration Fees

  • JRF Alumni
    • Classes of 1978 to 2022: $400
    • Class of 2023 (20% off): $320
    • Class of 2024 (30% off): $280
  • Guests of JRF Alumni: $400
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Hotel Accomodations

JRF is holding a room block at the Marriott Courtyard located at 181 Varick Street (on Varick between King and Charleton Streets), six short blocks from the reunion meeting space at One Hudson Square (75 Varick Street). Room rates start at $249/night plus taxes and fees and must be booked by Friday, February 7, 2025.

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marriott courtyard soho

Additional Information

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Conference Schedule

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Friday, March 7, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Welcome Reception

Spend the evening reconnecting with peers at the New York City Football Club's Stadium Experience Center! The experience features features visuals, videos, models and renderings of the football (soccer) stadium which is set to open in 2027.
Location: 600 Third Avenue, 17th floor (between 39th & 40th Streets)
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Friday, March 7, 2025 10:00pm

Late Night

Embrace the chance to explore New York City night life with other JRF alumni. Hang out in the Times Square area after the Welcome Reception or head back to SoHo or the adjoining Greenwich Village neighborhoods near the hotel to enjoy the scene there.
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Saturday, March 8, 2025 8:00am - 10:00am

Reunion Check-In and Breakfast

Grab you Reunion credentials along with your swag bag and enjoy a scrumptious breakfast.
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Saturday, March 8, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am

Kick-Off and State of JRF&M

Get the latest updates on the Foundation's programs and learn about its new initatives.
gonsalves gregg

Gregg A. Gonsalves ’89

Della Britton

Jackie Robinson Foundation
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Ivo Philbert

Jackie Robinson Foundation
sandwich generation
Saturday, March 8, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am

The Realities of the Sandwich Generation

Dive into a discussion about the unique challenges faced by members of the “Sandwich Generation” - those caring for aging parents while supporting their own children. Explore the emotional, financial, and logistical pressures that come with juggling multiple caregiving roles, all while managing personal and professional responsibilities. Through real-life stories, practical tips, and expert insights, this session will provide tools to navigate this complex phase of life, prioritize self-care, and create sustainable support systems. Whether you are living this experience or preparing for it, this presentation offers guidance to thrive amidst the challenges.
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Alicia Wallace ’05

AARP
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Din E. Tolbert ’04

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Saturday, March 8, 2025 11:45am - 12:30pm

Leadership and Public Service: A fireside chat with Brian Nelson

What does it truly mean to lead in the public sphere? Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Brian Nelson, a distinguished leader who has dedicated his career to serving the community. We’ll explore the unique challenges and rewards of public service, discussing the importance of ethical leadership, innovative problem-solving, and building trust with the people you serve. This is an opportunity to gain valuable insights, be inspired by a remarkable career, and discover how you can make a difference in your own community. Bring your questions and be ready to engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the future of leadership and public service.
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Brian Nelson ’00

Harris for President
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Chanel Cathey ’08

CJC Insights
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Saturday, March 8, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm

Networking Lunch

Spend a relaxed, informal lunch break networking with fellow alumni over a robust meal.
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Saturday, March 8, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm

Empowered Leaders Panel

Alumni from diverse industries and backgrounds who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for effective leadership. Panelists will provide valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges, building authentic connections, and driving meaningful impact in their respective fields. The discussion is designed to inspire and equip attendees with actionable takeaways to enhance their leadership skills and empower others in their personal and professional lives.
Panelists
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Yolanda Lyle ’94

Pfizer, Inc.
kevin tolson

Kevin Tolson ’10

Unilever, N.A.
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Nichol Whiteman ’98

Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation
jamari selders

Jamari Selders ’18

PlayStation
private event: jackie robinson foundation 2018 mentoring & leadership conference saturday, march 3
Saturday, March 8, 2025 5:45pm - 6:45pm

Alumni/Class of 2025 Networking Reception

The reception continues the tradition of JRF alumni welcoming the members of the graduating class into the Alumni Association. The reception affords Scholars the opportunity to practice their professional networking social skills and allows alumni the chance engage with the lnext generation of young leaders.
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Saturday, March 8, 2025 7:00pm - 9:30pm

Scholar Recognition and Awards Dinner

JRF Scholars are not only excelling academically, they are also making significant changes and impacting lives in their communities. The Scholar Awards Ceremony & Dinner honors individuals for their outstanding academic achievements, exemplary civic engagement, and unwavering commitment as ambassadors of Jackie Robinson’s legacy.
soho nightlife
Saturday, March 8, 2025 10:30pm

Late Night

Check out some of New York's hottest nightspots within walking distance of the Marriott.
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Sunday, March 9, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am

Continental Breakfast

Mark the return of Daylight Savings Time with a strong cup of coffee and a hearty continental breakfast.
entrepreneur
Sunday, March 9, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am

The Realities of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, requiring resilience, adaptability, and a strategic mindset. This dynamic panel brings together seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders to explore the realities of building and sustaining a business. From navigating setbacks and pivoting in the face of adversity to celebrating successes and scaling effectively, the discussion will provide actionable insights and personal anecdotes. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on staying motivated, maintaining focus, and embracing uncertainty as part of the entrepreneurial experience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this session offers essential tools and inspiration for thriving through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Panelists
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Danielle Toussaint ’99

Purple Haus
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Candace Walker ’06

The Vibrary
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Sunday, March 9, 2025 11:15am - 1:15pm

Family Session

Family Session is an original program element of the Networking Weekend. Started in 1979 in Rachel Robinson's living room, participants were invited to sit in a circle and share experiences as freely and openly as possible. This exercise was conceived of as an opportunity for individuals to get to know each other, and benefit from learning a wide variety of coping and problem solving skills in the context of a supportive extended family group. Led by a facilitator, the sessions celebrate the achievements of participants; explores developmental and political problems; and provides empathy and consultation as needed.
Facilitator

Martin L. Edelman