Four Decades of Pride: DGALA Celebrates 40 Years at Dartmouth
A weekend of joy, remembrance, and community
More than 200 alumni, students, and friends gathered from July 25-27 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of DGALA, Dartmouth’s LGBTQIA+ alumni association. The milestone reunion overflowed with laughter, connection, and reflection.
From the DGALA tent adorned with rainbow banners to spirited performances in Collis Common Ground, the weekend pulsed with energy, pride, and belonging. For many, it was a chance to return to campus as their full, authentic selves—something they weren’t always able to do while navigating their identities as students at Dartmouth.
“Some of us returned to Hanover for the DGALA 40th reunion feeling more confident—standing taller, more proud to be out, and excited to reconnect with others who had also navigated the challenges of coming out or exploring their sexual identity at Dartmouth," said Keli’i Opulauoho ’96. “Some of us felt a little gayer—thanks to all the rainbow swag, lanyards, and flags decorating our tent and dorm, and the DGALA 40 banners wrapped around the Green. I know for me, I felt truly seen. If there was ever a moment for Dartmouth and DGALA to throw a fabulous 40th anniversary celebration of the queer community—this was it. A beautiful, rainbow-filled moment to remember.”
“Planning DGALA's 40th anniversary celebration took a full year,” said Christine Costello, senior project manager for Alumni Relations. “Alumni Relations, in partnership with the DGALA planning committee, met monthly to design a meaningful weekend that welcomed DGALA members back to campus—honoring the past and celebrating the future together.”
Reconnecting and Reflecting
The weekend’s events blended celebration with reflection, offering space for learning, reconnection, and plenty of nostalgic Dartmouth fun. Alumni were welcomed with a reception under the DGALA tent, followed by an ice cream social at Triangle House, where they mingled with current students.
Reunion goers also attended several talks, including “Queer Then and Now,” with remarks by Val Werner ’20, followed by a Pride artwork dedication by Jamal Brown '08. Dartmouth Chief Health and Wellness Officer Dr. Estevan Garcia moderated a panel discussion about building and maintaining community at Dartmouth and beyond.
The weekend also included a heartfelt celebration of life service at Rollins Chapel, honoring LGBTQIA+ members of the Dartmouth community who have passed. Special recognition was given to the late Professor Peter Saccio, a celebrated Shakespearean scholar and early faculty DGALA supporter. Attendees offered Shakespearean readings in his memory, paying tribute to his advocacy and impact.
Standing Ovations at Collis
One of the weekend’s highlights was a lively variety showcase at Collis Common Ground, emceed by DGALA member Kamil Walji ’03. The evening kicked off with a comedy set from Gretchen McNeely ’92, followed by a headline performance from comedian Jaye McBride. After the laughter came cheers, as students and alumni from Dartmouth’s drag group, House of Lewan—founded by Jaime Aranzabal ’24, who performs as La Paloma—took the stage. The performers brought high energy and bold performances, earning loud cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd.
Honoring Leaders and Legacy
Saturday’s traditional New England lobster bake dinner in the Rocky Courtyard featured remarks from Vice President for Alumni Relations Cheryl Bascomb '82 and DGALA President Erik Ochsner '93, with a toast delivered by Dartmouth President Sian Leah Beilock '76a.
“You have helped shape this College—not just in your time as students, but in all the years that followed,” said Bascomb. “You helped create the incredibly critical asset that is Triangle House. You’ve been there for students both emotionally and financially when even their families were unsupportive. In doing so, you’ve modeled how alumni can show up and support their communities and students. You’ve advocated when no one asked you to. You’ve mentored and uplifted queer students at critical times in their lives and careers. You were the call answered. The door opened. The lifeline offered. And we don’t take that for granted.”
When addressing the crowd, DGALA President Erik Ochsner added a note of optimism and purpose:
“We still have our work cut out for us to be ambassadors of truth and caring. Love will always win—and hate requires so much work and drama.”
Reunion Spirit and Rainbow Gear
The DGALA 40th anniversary reunion was more than a party—it was a powerful testament to community, legacy, and the freedom to show up fully. Whether reconnecting with longtime friends or building new bonds, attendees left feeling hopeful, inspired, and deeply connected.
For those who couldn’t attend—or for anyone who wants a keepsake—the DGALA40 online shop is open through Sunday, August 10 at tinyurl.com/dgala40. With t-shirts, tanks, sweatshirts, and sweatpants in Unisex/Men’s, Women’s, and Youth/Toddler sizes, all orders include free shipping and will ship by the end of August. Questions about your rainbow gear? Email merch@dgala.org.
