Written by the WPSD Alumni Association
The Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf Alumni Association (WPSDAA) hosted its 38th Triennial Alumni Reunion on June 19–21, 2026, at the WPSD campus in Edgewood, Pennsylvania. Blessed with beautiful sunny weather throughout most of the weekend, approximately 117 alumni and friends gathered to celebrate friendships, memories, and their shared connection to WPSD.
Alumni came largely from Pennsylvania, while others traveled from as far away as California, New Mexico, Florida, and several other states to attend the reunion. The oldest gentleman in attendance was 89 years old from the Class of 1958, while the oldest lady was 88 years old from the Class of 1957. The youngest attendee was a 9-year-old WPSD 4th-grade student. The Class of 1976 led attendance with 15 classmates present, followed by the Class of 1978 with seven alumni.
Under the leadership of Reunion Chair Steven Fochtman and a dedicated reunion committee, attendees enjoyed a memorable weekend filled with fellowship and activities. Upon arrival at the Alumni Pavilion, alumni were welcomed by Irene Hearn, WPSD ’59, who managed registration check-in. Each attendee received a commemorative leather notebook embossed with the WPSD Alumni Association logo before gathering at the pavilion to socialize and reconnect with old friends.
Friday evening concluded with the first General Meeting, where Alumni President Darrin Majocha and Steven Fochtman welcomed attendees and presented highlights of the Alumni Association’s accomplishments and success stories during the 2023–2026 term. Following the meeting, fellowship continued late into the evening as alumni enjoyed catching up with one another.
Saturday began with a beautifully decorated and delicious continental breakfast generously provided by WPSD. Alumni then gathered in the auditorium for a Town Hall Meeting featuring WPSD Superintendent Kevin McDonough and Executive Director Carrie Rain. They shared updates on school programs and campus improvements, including HVAC upgrades, renovations to the high school wing, and the future replacement of Porterfield Gymnasium.
Alumni had the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with Kevin and Carrie, sharing their thoughts and concerns regarding school projects and other important issues affecting the WPSD community. Before departing, Kevin and Carrie graciously accepted a $1,000 donation from the Alumni Association in support of WPSD’s Playground Project.
The WPSDAA conducted its second General Meeting and held elections for officers and board members for the 2026–2029 term. Elected were President Tony Dumblosky (’99); First Vice President Nicholas Bertone (’17); Second Vice President Isabella DiRenzo (’17); Trustees David Fulmer (’96), Jamie Kitchen (’94), and Brian Mihoerck (E’95); and Members-at-Large Andrea Echavarria (’09), Irene Hearn (’59), Donna Hutchinson (’67), and Craig Kemmerer (’80). The positions of Secretary, Treasurer, and five Members-at-Large remain vacant.
Lunch featured the famous hoagie sandwiches from Triangle Bar & Grill, along with egg salad sandwiches provided by 5-Starr Catering. Alumni then gathered in front of the main building for a group photo before enjoying guided tours around WPSD campus. The afternoon continued with more socializing and reminiscing at the Alumni Pavilion.
Saturday evening’s reception brought everyone together once again. Just before a heavy downpour, alumni gathered in the cafeteria, beautifully decorated in red, white, and blue. Guests enjoyed an outstanding dinner prepared by Cooked Goose Catering Co., featuring roast beef, stuffed chicken breast with gravy, au gratin potatoes, buttered corn, green beans and baby carrots, dinner rolls, and a decorated cake for dessert.
A highlight of the evening was the Alumni Awards Ceremony, presented by Alumni Awards Committee Chair Stephen Rute (’74). Honors were bestowed upon David Fulmer (’96), Alumni Merit Award; Gary Butlin (’74) and George Greco (’19, posthumously), Athletic Hall of Fame; Dr. Harry Lang (’65) and Dr. Harold Mowl, Jr. (’65), Distinguished Alumni Award; and Dr. Eddy Laird (’70), Distinguished Service Award.
As the evening continued, alumni stayed longer, and in true tradition, “Deaf Time” conversations stretched late into the night before everyone departed for home. Many attendees expressed their appreciation for the reunion, offering compliments on the weekend’s activities, organization, and outstanding food.
The Alumni Association extends its sincere appreciation to WPSD for graciously allowing us to use its campus facilities and for its continued support in making this reunion possible. We also thank the many volunteers, committee members, and attendees whose hard work and participation contributed to the success of the event.
We look forward to gathering again in 2029!
