Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, has always been a place of deep connections, history, and personal milestones for me. As a proud Penn alum, returning for Homecoming was both a celebration and a reconnection—with the city, lifelong friends, and a community that continues to inspire. Staying at The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, made the experience even more special. Once the Four Seasons and now a reimagined tribute to Philly’s rich heritage, The Logan reflects the city’s artistic and cultural soul with its curated art collection and modern yet timeless design.
Lately, I’ve been choosing hotels with pools because I love to swim—it’s my favorite way to start (and reset) my day. The Logan’s fantastic saltwater pool was pure bliss, and I made sure to swim every single day!
This trip was filled with unforgettable moments. My Penn Class of 1989 won several Alumni Awards (so proud!), I had a creative and inspiring art date with my friend Joanne Fink, and I attended the Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball—an incredible evening dedicated to supporting and uplifting those affected by breast cancer. But one of the biggest highlights? Going back to the Penn Bookstore to visit my memoir! I loved my book event there, speaking about Brave-ish, and to see my book on the shelves alongside other alumni authors—truly a full-circle moment that I’ll always treasure.
From cherished memories on campus to new experiences in the heart of the city, this visit was a beautiful reminder of the connections that endure and the power of community—made even more special by a hotel that honors Philadelphia’s past while celebrating its future.
I love ❤️ The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection Philadelphia
Philadelphia holds a special place in my heart, and this trip was unforgettable—thanks in large part to my incredible stay at The Logan Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. This hotel is a love letter to Philly’s history and culture, with its curated art collection showcasing the city’s creative spirit and a design that perfectly blends modern luxury with local charm.
My King 1-Bedroom Suite with a balcony was amazing, offering stunning city views and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Philly. And the saltwater pool? Pure bliss—I swam every single day!
Hilton’s Curio Collection specializes in unique, locally inspired stays, and The Logan stands out in every way. From its ideal location near Philly’s iconic landmarks to its warm and welcoming service, it’s the perfect place to experience the city.
This trip was filled with highlights: an art date with Joannie Fink, celebrating at the Penn Alumni Awards, spotting my memoir Brave-ish at the Penn Bookstore, and enjoying the LBBC Butterfly Ball.
Philadelphia, Penn, and Hilton made this visit unforgettable—especially The Logan Hotel. It’s a true treasure where history and heart come together. #CurioCollection #HiltonHonors #PhillyLove #Homecoming
Loved being back on campus at the University of Pennsylvania this weekend!
Loved being back on campus at the University of Pennsylvania this weekend! It was an absolute thrill to visit the Penn Bookstore and see Brave-ish on their shelves! I loved my book event on campus. Homecoming weekend was packed with unforgettable experiences. Huge congratulations to my amazing Class of 1989 on our three awards! From attending the inspiring LBBC Butterfly Ball to an art lesson with the extraordinary Joanne Fink, lunch with Ellie, and a campus stroll with Alison and Geoffrey, every moment was meaningful. As a travel journalist, I’ve explored the world, but there’s something so grounding and special about returning to the places that shaped you. Philly, with its rich history and vibrant energy, holds a special place in my heart.
Class of ’89: Shining Bright at the 89th Alumni Awards Celebration
Homecoming Weekend 2024 began as the Class of 1989 took center stage during the 89th annual Alumni Awards celebration—a perfect match for our incredible class!
**A highlight of the evening? A photo with President Jameson during the Cocktail Reception, just before the awards were presented by David Blatte, President of the Alumni Class Leadership Council.
**The Gala was expertly hosted by Michael Barrett ENG’89, President of Penn Alumni, adding even more 1989 pride to the event.
Here’s why we’re beaming with pride:
- We brought home THREE major class awards:
- For the third time, we earned the Class Award of Merit, solidifying our legacy as one of Penn’s most outstanding classes.
- We received the Class of 1917 Award for philanthropy, a first for us—a true testament to the spirit of giving in the Class of ’89.
- The ACLC President’s Cup for breaking the 35th Reunion attendance record with an incredible 392 classmates and guests—a record-breaking 11% increase!
- Ramanan Raghavendran ENG’89, W’89, Chair of the Penn Board of Trustees, was also part of the celebration. A triple Quaker, Ramanan graduated from Engineering and Wharton in 1989 and earned another degree from LPS in 2015. He’s been a leader at Penn for years, serving as the School of Arts and Sciences Board of Advisors Chair since 2012.
The laughs didn’t stop here: During his speech, the Young Alumni Award of Merit recipient jokingly declared himself part of our class, saying, “I was born in 1989!”
Endless gratitude to our phenomenal 35th Reunion Committee, led by Julia Pirkey Stone, and to class presidents Mike Karz and Lolita Jackson. Your dedication made these achievements possible and brought our class together in such a meaningful way!
What made this moment even sweeter? It was the 89th year of the awards celebration—proof that the Class of ’89 was destined to shine.
The Class of ’89 continues to lead, inspire, and make history. Here’s to us and the incredible legacy we’re building together!
Closing the Awards Gala on a High Note!
As the evening came to a close at the 89th Annual Alumni Awards Gala, the Penn Glee Club took the stage, singing a spirited rendition of “Hurrah, Hurrah, Pennsylvania!” Their performance wasn’t just music—it was history in harmony.
Founded in 1862, the Glee Club has been an iconic part of Penn tradition for over 160 years, and today, it proudly stands as a co-ed ensemble, representing the vibrant and inclusive spirit of our university.
Hearing this timeless song performed by such talented students was the perfect way to celebrate the incredible achievements of our alumni community. It reminded us all how special it is to come together, honor our shared legacy, and be recognized for our contributions to Penn and beyond.
Hurrah, hurrah, Pennsylvania! Here’s to the joy of being part of this extraordinary alumni family. #HomecomingWeekend #AlumniAwards #QuakerPride #penn #pennalumni #PennGleeClub
Honoring Connection at the 2024 Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball
Honoring Connection at the 2024 Living Beyond Breast Cancer Butterfly Ball
Living Beyond Breast Cancer continues to empower individuals—especially young women—by offering resources, respect-centered care, and a vibrant community of support.
Last night, the 2024 Butterfly Ball we proudly honored:
Gregory D. Garber, MSW, LCSW, with the Founders Award
Anna Crollman and Jamie LaScala, with the Donna Noce Colaco Going Beyond Award
The life and legacy of Nancy Herard-Marshall, LCAT, BC-DMT
The evening was a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, compassion, and togetherness, as we raised critical funds to support this meaningful mission. Thank you to everyone who made the night so special!
Had the absolute honor of spending time with the extraordinary artist Joanne Fink!
I was fortunate enough to visit her studio in Philly and have an inspiring art lesson that was all about LIGHT, love, and creativity. Joanne’s art and career span decades, and her work has touched countless lives through its ability to heal, inspire, and transform. Had the absolute honor of spending time with the extraordinary artist Joanne Fink!
Her coloring books are a testament to her mission to bring joy and comfort to people of all ages, and her career is a shining example of how art can truly make the world a better place. Joanne and I discovered we’re both Penn alums—what a small world! We connected through our books—Brave-ish and her beautiful creations—and bonded over our shared passion for storytelling, art, and finding meaning through creativity.
It was such a gift to learn from Joanne, hear about her journey, and spend time with someone whose heart and talent are as vibrant as her art. Truly one of the highlights of my time in Philly.
My BRAVE-ish book event at the Penn Bookstore
More of my PENN and PHILLY stories:
BRAVE-ish at Penn Bookstore Nov 10, 2023
Meet me in PHILLY for LOVE and HISTORY Dec 2022
PENN TRAVEL TALK: Join us Nov 7, 2022
PennClubLA Summer Events in Los Angeles 2022
Penn Homecoming 2021 at AKA Rittenhouse Square
Taking Flat Ben, the Penn Quaker, out on the town! 2020
Power of Penn Women Podcast: “Try, try again” June 2020
Frankly Penn: Penn Quaker filming in Puerto Rico with #RBQuests 2014
