A new tradition at BC is “First Flight.” This is when the freshman class gathers on Linden Lane and marches together to Conte Forum where they attend First Year Convocation. At convocation, they hear an address by the author of the book the class had been instructed to read over the summer.

First Flight is also when the Golden Eagles of that year first officially “take wing.” Earlier this month, September 7, a small but enthusiastic group of Golden Eagles, members of our class, gathered on Linden Lane, too. It was their pleasant task to lead the First Flight procession.

With Jim Galiano (hidden) holding the Alumni Association banner, Golden Eagles begin the First Flight procession. Peter Cooper, at left, holds the flame that represents the Ignatian exhortation “Go, set the world aflame!” (Photo by Lee Pellegrini, University Communications)

Setting up for the procession. (Photo by Lee Pellegrini, University Communications)

The theme of the event are the words Ignatius Loyola said to Francis Xavier who was carrying the message of the Gospel to Asia: “Ite, inflammate omnia!” “Go, set the world aflame!” At First Flight, faculty members and administrators charge new students to receive heartily the gift of education and bring it throughout the world.

The book assigned this year was A Backpack, A Bear, and Eight Crates of Vodka. The author is Lev Golinkin ’04, an immigrant from Ukraine whose family came to the United State to escape the threat of pogroms because of their Jewish faith. The book is a memoir of his refugee experience and its effects on him, his family, and his faith.

Golden Eagles (and some spouses) at First Flight 2017 (L-R): Anne Wilayto Bishop ’68, Ken Hamberg ’68, Richard Burns ’68, Nancy Needham Burns, James Galiano ’68, Peter Cooper ’68, Sharon Silva Bartley ’68, Geraldine Driscoll Cameron ’68, Bob Cameron MBA’94. (Photo by Lee Pellegrini, University Communications)