Thursday, February 13 was a chilly, gray evening in New York City—but inside Kahlo NYC, Buckley alumni found warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable energy of a great reunion. Coming in from the bustling streets, guests were greeted by the soft glow of a twinkling chandelier, exposed brick walls, plush velvet upholstery, and bursts of color from Frida Kahlo-inspired décor. The February chill was quickly forgotten as cheers of welcome filled the air, mingling with the rich aroma of freshly prepared esquites with shaved truffle, gourmet tacos, and other modern Mexican delicacies. The scene was set for an evening of reconnection, storytelling, and Buckley spirit!

Alumni from across the decades gathered for a fantastic night of conversation, catching up, and reminiscing about shared Buckley experiences. The Classes of 2006, 2008, and 2009 turned out in full force, with alumni from the 1980s and 1990s close behind. Longstanding faculty members Roger Persaud, Jennifer Demopoulos, Elizabeth Glennon, and Sue Rodriguez-McLean—along with Dr. Juhel—joined in, sharing laughs and reminiscing with former students. As Mr. Persaud observed, “Having so many alumni from the same class there is great because together they can construct a memory from all their different vantage points. A memory is like a puzzle and they each have their own piece.”

Even those from different years were delighted to rediscover Buckley connections—like Dennis McGivney ’55, Kerry (McGivney) Connolly ’86, and Krissy (McGivney) Roleke ’86, who found themselves in a two-generation Douglaston reunion with Lauren Angelilli ’88 and her brother, Jonathan Angelilli ’95. Now known as an American Ninja Warrior, Jonathan was once the youngest passenger in the neighborhood carpool!

But the night wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was also about looking ahead. Stephanie Long, Director of Communications, provided complimentary professional headshots, a perfect addition to an event that is as much about networking as it is about reuniting. Attendees also got a first look at Buckley Country Day Connect, our new (and free!) alumni networking app, and many signed up on the spot.

For those who had never attended before and weren’t sure what to expect, the night was a revelation. They quickly realized how fun, easygoing, and welcoming it is—and they can’t wait to return next year. So, if you haven’t joined us yet, make 2026 your year to come!

A huge thank you to our gracious hosts, Paula and Fernando Lopez P ’23, ’32, and the entire Kahlo team for their incredible hospitality and for making us feel so at home.

Click here to see photos from the event.

We can’t wait to do it all again next year—until then, we invite you to stay connected, stay involved, and we hope to see you at the next Buckley gathering!