Dawson’s first-ever Homecoming is almost here!

We brought your questions to Dawson’s Homecoming organizing team: Megan Ainscow (Class of 2004, Liberal Arts), Carey-Ann Pawsey (Class of 1990, Social Science), and Christine Layne (Class of 2015, Laboratory Technology- Analytical Chemistry).

Q: Who is coming to Homecoming?

A: As of Sept. 13, about 800 people have sent an RSVP to Dawson’s Homecoming 5 à 7 and another 800 have indicated that they are going or interested on the Facebook event page.

We know that retired and current teachers, graduates and current and retired employees are planning to attend.

Q: What do I need to do to attend Homecoming?

A: It is free and you don’t need to reserve!

Just show up at Dawson College on Saturday, Sept. 23! Welcome Tables open at 11:30 AM (at the Atwater Metro Tunnel and 4001 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W. entrances). There is a whole afternoon of programming that concludes with a 5 à 7 reception. You can come for the whole afternoon or evening or just the event(s) that interest you. See program here

Q: Why should I attend Homecoming?

A: Dawson is throwing a party for you for free! We are celebrating our graduates and community. You will have a chance to reconnect with Dawson friends, graduates, teachers and staff (current and retired) and enjoy a great program of events and activities. You can check out the program and come for the whole afternoon or just to the events that interest you.

Plus, those who attend get a chance to win fabulous door prizes!
Fabulous door prizes include two BOX SEATS to Cirque du Soleil’s CRYSTAL on Thursday, Dec. 28 at 7:30 PM at the Bell Centre; and four tickets to CF Montreal VS. Houston Dynamo FC on Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 7:30 PM at the Saputo Stadium at the Olympic Park.

Q: What if there is bad weather on Sept. 23, the date of Homecoming?

A: Homecoming is taking place rain or shine. Since there are less activities on site on the weekend, there will be space to hold all activities indoors if necessary.

Q: Where is Homecoming?

A: At Dawson College’s main campus. Upon arrival, check in at one of two Welcome Tables: the Atwater Metro Tunnel and 4001 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W. entrances. Lunch will take place outdoors on the Atwater Avenue side of the campus. Program Reunions will be all over the campus and you will be instructed where to go at check-in time. Basketball games will be in the Tony Proudfoot Gym; enter via PARC entrance near the Atwater Metro Tunnel. The 5 à 7 Reception will be in the 3C. 1 Courtyard (Atwater side).

Q: How can I help get the word out about Homecoming?

A: You can invite Dawson connections on Facebook by hitting the invite button on the Facebook event page. You can also reach out to your Dawson friends and contacts and invite them to meet you there. You may wish to include the Homecoming webpage in your invitation.

Q: Can I bring people with me?

A: You are welcome to bring a partner, a friend, your children.

Q: What can kids do at Homecoming?

A: Kids can enjoy a kid’s meal lunch (10 years old and under), join games and activities, take a tour of our Living Campus, try out the rock climbing wall, play video games created by Dawson students, watch one or two Dawson Blues basketball games. The only thing not for kids is the 5 à 7 cocktail reception. For parents who would otherwise not be able to attend, the kids are welcome there too. Please note that there is no babysitting service available.

Q: How can I save money on lunch?

A: Get your lunch pre-order in by Sunday, Sept. 17 to save money and time.

Q: Why should I RSVP for the 5 à 7 Cocktail Reception?

A: Limited spots available; first-come, first-served. Those who RSVP to the 5 à 7 and their “plus one” will receive a free drink to enjoy at the reception. RSVP to the cocktail here