Miami Alumni celebrate 60 years of connection at benefit wine tasting for the Performing Arts Series
Miami Alumni celebrate 60 years of connection at benefit wine tasting for the Performing Arts Series
The Performing Arts Series hosted “A Summer Swirl with Jack Keegan Wine Tasting Fundraiser” in collaboration with Miami University’s Alumni Weekend. The wildly successful event stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of community among the prestigious university’s alumni, with 60 years of graduates in attendance.
The event, chaired by Jack Keegan HA’06 and sponsored by Missy Brooks Friede, ‘90, raised over $11,000 to support the Performing Arts Series. The much-needed funds will be used to support unique and transformative experiences between students and the renowned performers they bring to campus.
Among the noteworthy donations was wine from Jim Law '78, often celebrated as the Father of Virginia Wine Country. The tasting also honored the memory of Taylor Sutton '15, with contributions from Kerry and Susan Sutton. Sue Maxfield '63, a proud Western alumnae, continued her tradition of supporting the tasting. Jim Bonaminio '71 donated wines through his renowned store, Jungle Jims and now wife Joanie (Noble) Bonaminio '74 attended with her sorority sisters. Additional donations came from Fran Kysela '80 of Kysela Imports, Jessica Hague '00 of Frogs Leap, and Eric Donaldson '05 of LVVR Cellars.
Coordinated by Keegan, known among the Miami community for teaching the university’s most popular course the “Wines Class”, the event not only featured a remarkable selection of wines, but also showcased alumni volunteers who generously offered their time to pour the wines and ensure the success of the evening. Notably, Viktor Barricklow '15 traveled from New Zealand to volunteer, and Blake Boyd ‘20, who arrived with his bride just a day after their wedding to join in the festivities. One alumna even traveled all the way from Montana specifically to meet Keegan, sharing her admiration, "Jack is a rock star, and I can’t go back to my friends without a picture with him!"
Well over half of the ticket buyers were Miami alumni, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and support for the university. The gathering raised more than $11,000 for Miami University, underscoring the commitment of alumni to give back to their alma mater.
This festive occasion not only celebrated the love of fine wines but also forged lasting connections and memories, embodying the dedication of Miami alumni who continue to strengthen their ties to the university and each other.
“The 34th Performing Arts Benefit Wine Tasting was an alumni event at its finest,” Keegan said. “It is due to the efforts of many Miami alumni who pulled their resources and product to make the afternoon a success. Beyond its pride of place at Alumni Weekend, in great measure it was an event put on by Miami Alumni and that is to be celebrated as they give back to their Alma Mater.”
