At Penn State Behrend, our alumni events are about more than just dates on a calendar—they’re about creating opportunities to connect. Each gathering, whether on campus or in the community, is a chance to strengthen bonds with fellow alumni, engage with our students, and celebrate the spirit of Behrend together.

From networking receptions and professional conferences to recognition programs that honor the achievements of our community, these events are designed to be meaningful and memorable. They are moments where you can share your story, support the next generation of Penn Staters, and continue to be part of Behrend’s ever-growing legacy.

Sponsored by the Penn State Behrend Alumni Society, Penn State Behrend, and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, here are some of the signature events we look forward to each year:

  • Fall: Football Watching Parties
    Hosted by the Penn State Alumni Association's Lake Erie Chapter and the 12th Street Pub, the watch parties are a fun way to cheer on the Nittany Lions while uniting all Erie-area Penn Staters. Whether you are a Penn State alumni, student, parent, family member, or friend, you are invited to cheer on the Nittany Lions at all home and away games at the 12th Street Pub (4040 West 12th Street, Erie).
     
  • Fall: Penn State Behrend Parents, Families, and Alumni Weekend
    Come home to Penn State Behrend for a weekend of family fun. This annual event includes campus tours, an alumni reception, a family-friendly carnival, a picnic lunch, Midnight Bingo—but earlier, and so much more. behrend.psu.edu/weekend
     
  • Fall: Alumni and Friends Annual Wine Tour
    Sponsored by the Behrend Alumni Society, this event is an Alumni favorite during Parents, Families, and Alumni Weekend. This event enables alumni to network with one another in a casual setting while supporting local businesses.
     
  • Fall: Penn State Behrend All Alumni Distinguished Awards Ceremony
    This NEW event, as part of Parents, Families, and Alumni Weekend, will bring together alumni from every generation for a night of connection, pride, and recognition. The evening will feature our Alumni Award Recipients—outstanding graduates whose impact and leadership reflect the very best of the Behrend community. Whether you're reconnecting with classmates, cheering on fellow alumni, or celebrating your own Behrend story, this night is for you.
     
  • Spring: Graduating Seniors Event
    As our spring graduating class receives diplomas, we welcome them to the Behrend Alumni Society.
     
  • Summer: Pioneer Alumni Reunion
    Penn State Behrend Pioneer Alumni are those who attended Behrend 50 years ago or more. They are invited back each summer for an afternoon on campus as we celebrate them and their legacy. Check back soon for the 2026 date!
     
  • Summer: Penn State Behrend at 8 Great Tuesdays
    Penn State Behrend is gathering bay-side! Enjoy an evening of live music, community spirit, and unshakable Lion Pride at one of Erie’s favorite summer traditions. Whether you're an alumnus, student, future Penn Stater, parent, grandparent, family member, faculty, staff, or friend—all are welcome under the Penn State Behrend tent. Check back soon for 2026 date!
     
  • All Year: Penn State Behrend Alumni Roadshows
    As our team travels, we host Penn State Behrend Alumni Roadshows to share college updates and help connect you with Behrend alumni in your region. 

    Interested in hosting an event in your city? Do you have suggestions for a new event? Please reach out to Laura King Cruz, the director of alumni relations, at [email protected] or 814-898-6345.