17th Mount Holyoke European Alumnae Symposium
The event will offer participants an exciting opportunity for social and intellectual interaction with Mount Holyoke alums and students from all over the world, as well as the chance to meet President Danielle R. Holley. Home to a wide array of museums, theatres and other cultural institutions, the city of Munich sets the stage for an engaging discussion on the question of cultural freedom then and now, both locally and globally.
When & Where
The arts and socio-political change: A powerful interplay at the heart of democracy
17th Mount Holyoke European Alumnae Symposium
Katholische Akademie Bayern (KAB), Munich, Germany
November 1-3, 2024
Munich is easy to reach by plane and train from all European cities, offering accommodation options for all budgets.
Learn more about the venue and accommodation options
Theme & Program
Why are the arts in their many forms (fine arts, photography, literature, film, music, theatre, architecture, among others) so important? Time and time again, we observe how they can be threatened or used by dictatorships, fundamentalism and other movements such as cancel culture and identity politics. Democracy hinges on preserving freedom of expression through traditional and innovative means and giving society a voice in defining culture. Through keynote sessions and interactive discussions, we will explore how the arts can generate dialogue, raise awareness of issues and drive change in the way we see the world.
The main events will take place at the Katholische Akademie Bayern (KAB), which warmly welcomes all denominations. It is located along the Englische Garten of Munich, just a short walk from public transportation.
Next to enticing plenary sessions, a Barcamp, and informal workshops, the Symposium program will include optional tours and activities in Munich and plenty of time for socializing. On Saturday evening we will celebrate our unique bond and friendship with a festive dinner and a benefit silent auction, which will feature products and services offered by attending alums.
Learn more about our exciting program here!
Registration & Cost
Registration opened on July 1 2024. Early bird registration will be rewarded: the first, fifth, 10th, and 20th alums who complete registration will win a very special German treat, to be picked up in person in Munich in November! Members of the European Alumnae Council and alums residing in Germany are not eligible.
- Standard fee for alums, guests and Mount Holyoke College staff: 270 EUR (290 USD)
- Discounted fee for recent alums (graduates from 2015-2024): 160 EUR (170 USD)
Financial assistance for participants may be available upon request to the Chair of the MHEAC. Learn more here.
Whether you are a symposium veteran or a potential newcomer, make plans to join us for this special weekend! Learn more…
- Symposium Program and Optional Events
- Symposium Speakers
- Accommodation Details
- Financial Assistance & Awards
- How to Register
See you in November!
Catherine Jourdan ‘95
On behalf of The Mount Holyoke Alumnae Group of Germany
For more information: mhc.munich.2024@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram: @mhc.european.alumnae.council
Use & follow #mhcmunich2024