Purple Guard and 50+ Year Reunion

We proudly invite you to the Purple Guard Brunch and Class of 1976 50th Reunion. This event will bring together St. Thomas alumni who have celebrated and are celebrating 50 years since graduating from St. Thomas. During the gathering, members of the Class of 1976 will be inducted into the Purple Guard.
Sept. 26, 2026
University of St. Thomas
St. Paul Campus
Registration Opens: 9 a.m.
Brunch Served: 9:30-10 a.m.
Program: 10-11:30 a.m.
Purple on the Plaza sponsored by Wings Credit Union: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Football Game: Tommies v. San Diego kickoff at 1 p.m.
Different name, same heart
For decades, the St. Thomas Old Guard has honored the tradition, loyalty and lasting contributions of alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. With members noting that "Old Guard” no longer fully captures the essence of this vibrant group, the Alumni Engagement team, in partnership with the Alumni Engagement Board, sought community feedback through surveys, focus groups and discussions to determine a new name.
We are proud to introduce the University of St. Thomas Purple Guard — a name that honors the same enduring spirit of generosity, service and steadfast support that has defined this group for generations. While the name has changed, the heart remains exactly the same: lifelong Tommies who embody a lifetime of leadership and devotion to the mission of St. Thomas.
As stewards of the university’s traditions and enduring spirit, Purple Guard members safeguard the values upon which St. Thomas was founded. Through their gifts of time, talent, testimony, ties and treasure, they strengthen the Tommie community and inspire future generations to lead with purpose, faith and conviction.