Hero McArthur sisters pass the Alumni Association torch

Ruth (McArthur) Bessey enjoys a quiet moment at the 123rd annual Alumni Association Banquet, 2019. Photo credit Judy Williams.

by Mary Lou Clifton

Why has the Stockbridge Alumni Association been able to host an alumni banquet for 123 years when so many other long-time organizations and clubs have folded over the years? Answer: For more years than anyone can recall, two hard-working and dedicated sisters have successfully organized and promoted this annual event. Now, Mary McArthur and Ruth McArthur Bessey are passing the torch to the capable hands of a committee of alumni advocates.

When asked what gave the two the determination to work year after year to keep the  tradition alive, they cite a love for their Alma Mater, joy of seeing classmates reunite, and affection for those no longer able to spearhead the event.

According to newly appointed member Chris Beihn, the alumni committee has a lot of work to do to fill the shoes of the McArthur sisters. “Because of Ruth’s record keeping and advice when meeting with the us this year, it made it easy for the new committee to take over.”

Ruth Bessey during a spring planning session 2017. She and sister Mary McArthur bear much of the credit for past years of the ongoing alumni banquet, successfully completing its 123rd annual production in June 2019.

Mary McArthur (shown at a spring planning session, 2017) and sister Ruth Bessey have spearheaded the Alumni Association’s planning of its annual banquet.

The 2019 Alumni Committee have a reason to smile after pulling off a successful event. Committee members are Christine Esch (Class of ’82), Chita Moeckel Kunzelman (’65), Betsy Moeckel Lewis (’84), seated: Mary Lou Shellenbarger (’65), and Ruth McArthur Bessey (’54). Sue Wireman (’66) and Mary McArthur not pictured.