I look back with a mix of emotions: sadness for the people who are gone, nostalgia for times that have passed, but immense gratitude for the wonderful opportunities that came my way.

Dick Van Patten, Actor

Dear Friends and Classmates of '74

Over the years, I've been asked what it was like to grow up in Puerto Rico.  My short answer speaks of the beauty of the island, about the way my world was shaped as a result of living in a different culture with many ethnicities, about learning a different language, and of course, about la comida Borinqueña.

Invariably however, I tell my questioner about my experience of attending Robinson School.  I share about being in a school which provided me an education that surpassed that which I would have received had I remained Stateside.  I share about the rich history of the school and how it was established by the Methodist Missionary Church, but where now students of all faiths attend.  And I let it be known that there were few other schools where I could know the names of the 1st Graders and party with upper classmen

The latter is what I cherish most.

It may be an arrogant statement to say that the lifelong friendships we built is unique  If so, I'm guilty as charged. Yet, as it is said that evidence demands a verdict, I offer that after 50 years since our graduation, the majority of our classmates (and those who left Robinson prior to graduation) have continued to maintain close relationships.  In contrast, I only have to look at the handful of close friends with whom my wife keeps out of her graduating class of well over 500 students.

When I had the privilege to address those of you who attended the Classmates of '74 Reunion in 2014, I expressed how blessed I was to be with each of you and as you may remember, did so while doing a poor job of holding back some tears  Sentimental?  Nostalgic?  Maybe so, but I venture to believe there is some of the same in each of you, as well.

I close with the following: Let's agree to stay connected with one another, recounting stories of the past and celebrate the friendships of the present.

Su Presidente por Vida

Edward (Eddie) Yacknin