Founder’s Weekend Recap

The Randolph-Macon Academy (R-MA) community recently hosted a campus-wide celebration known as Founder’s Weekend. The event, which took place on Saturday, April 29th, was a resounding success with over 300 members of the Front Royal community and alumni, as well as more than 300 students, employees, and family members in attendance. The day was marked by a plethora of exciting activities, delicious food, and a strong sense of camaraderie.

According to Celeste Brooks, the Director of Public Relations at R-MA, Founder’s Weekend was an opportunity for the R-MA community to connect with the Warren County community. It provided a chance for neighbors to learn more about the Academy, and it also served as a way to express gratitude to the local community for their continuous support throughout the history of the school. One notable example of this support was displayed during the “Great Fire of 1927,” when the people of Front Royal opened their doors and allowed the school to continue operating after the main building on campus burned down.

The day began with The Yellow Jacket 5K, a race organized by Adventure Enablers. Josh Ilnicki, an R-MA student, emerged victorious in the race. Following the race, the highly anticipated teddy bear drop took place, courtesy of the R-MA Flight Department. Spectators watched in awe as the Academy’s Cessna 172 flew low over the treetops and dropped 125 teddy bears onto Riddick Field, much to the delight of the crowd.

Despite a few unexpected torrential downpours and thunderstorms during the early morning, the organizers managed to make last-minute adjustments to ensure the smooth running of the day’s events. By 11 am, when the celebration was set to begin, the sun reappeared, paving the way for a beautiful day filled with excitement.

Throughout the day, there were countless activities that kept attendees of all ages entertained. The cornhole tournament, which attracted over 50 participants, featured divisions for both team and singles play. Children and teenagers had a blast enjoying the various attractions, including a petting zoo, carnival games, an obstacle course, and the exhilarating Zero Shock Stunt Jump.

As hunger struck, attendees had the opportunity to taste delicious food from the array of food trucks provided by The Apple House and Mediterranean Breeze. The enticing aromas wafted through the air as people sampled a variety of cuisines, from classic American fare to Mediterranean specialties.

In addition to the outdoor festivities, there were also indoor activities to enjoy. The R-MA Fine Arts Department showcased an exhibit featuring student artwork, allowing visitors to admire the creative talents of the school’s students. The Chorus, Band, and JROTC Drill Team also gave spectacular performances, further adding to the atmosphere of celebration and pride.

Founder’s Weekend also included a special dedication ceremony for the newly established Heritage Garden. The garden serves as a tribute to the founders of the Academy and features a variety of native plants that highlight the natural beauty of the campus. It serves as a tranquil and reflective space for students, faculty, and visitors to enjoy.

The success of Founder’s Weekend can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the R-MA community. Students, faculty, and staff worked tirelessly to organize and execute the event, ensuring that everyone had an enjoyable experience. Their commitment and dedication were evident in every aspect of the celebration.

Founder’s Weekend was not only a chance for the R-MA community to come together, but it also served as a reminder of the Academy’s rich history and the strong bond it shares with the Front Royal community. It was a day filled with laughter, shared memories, and a sense of pride in being part of the Randolph-Macon Academy family.

As the day drew to a close, and the sun set over the picturesque campus, it was evident that Founder’s Weekend had achieved its goal of fostering a sense of community and appreciation. The event not only celebrated the founders of R-MA, but it also celebrated the vibrant and supportive community that continues to thrive to this day.

Founder’s Weekend will undoubtedly remain a cherished tradition at Randolph-Macon Academy, serving as a reminder of the school’s enduring legacy and the strong bonds that connect the R-MA community. It will continue to be a time for celebration, reflection, and the coming together of past, present, and future members of the Academy.