Many lives are a reflection of the good that can result when alumni keep their Allegheny connections.
One such story begins in 1959 when Jim Linaberger was a senior, Elsa Held a junior, Bill Smith a sophomore, and Sandi Kenyon a freshman. Jim and Elsa married in 1960, and Sandi and Bill married in 1962. The couples went their separate ways. They worked, raised their families, and together sent three daughters to Allegheny. Those three had happy, successful experiences there.
Bill died in September 2002, and Elsa two months later. Jim and Sandi returned to Allegheny for Reunion Weekend in 2003, each needing to face and deal with some special memories.
Both couples had been loyal supporters of the College. Their memberships in the Timothy Alden Council entitled them to a lovely reception during Reunion. Sandi no sooner walked into the tent when she came face to face with Jim. Since he had been president of his class, head waiter of Brooks Dining Hall, and one of the "Four Fijis" quartet, she immediately recognized him, even after forty-four years. He didn't have a clue who she was!
They chatted for a bit. She sent him a book on grieving. He called to thank her and, after a long chat, asked her out. Sandi panicked. Her children assured her that there were still more chapters in her life's book. She accepted. Both living in Pittsburgh made their courtship (what fun it was!) easy.
Their meeting again was a miracle. They are now happily married and even more committed to Allegheny. They each have endowed scholarships in memory of their late spouses. They intend to always support the Annual Fund and remain members of the Timothy Alden Council.
Sandi and Jim thank Allegheny for launching many happy, successful lives—and matching up quite a few!
