Saint Mary’s University to bring fun and info to Chicago Convention, Feb. 29 - March 1

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Chicago Convention Feb. 29-March 1 will feature well-known alumni including John McDonough ’75, president of the Chicago Blackhawks; and Walter ’81, Tim ’85, and Mark ’86 Smithe — famous in the Chicagoland area for starring in their corny but catchy television commercials for Walter E. Smithe Furniture company.

The third “SMU Convention – Chicago” will bring more than 100 Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and current students to the Westin Chicago Northwest Hotel in Itasca. Prospective students, families and alumni will be treated to activities, demonstrations, food, entertainment, and information booths that showcase the university.

Convention-goers meet with professors, coaches and admission staff; enjoy a live musical performance; and take their chances with games and giveaways.

A special pre-convention reception Friday, Feb. 29, from 7 to 11 p.m. is reserved for alumni to socialize, meet with Saint Mary’s faculty and staff, and enjoy a silent auction.

Saturday, March 1, the convention opens at 9 a.m. with exhibitor booths and displays. A free convention luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., hosted by the Smithes, and featuring a keynote speech from McDonough.

From 10 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, fun and educational breakout sessions will be offered by faculty, staff and noted alumni. From 11 to 11:45 a.m., the Oldie Moldie All-Stars — a band mainly composed of SMU students — will perform hits from the '50s and '60s. The convention adjourns at 4 p.m.

All events are free. High school students, families and guidance counselors, and alumni should pre-register by contacting Meg Richtman, convention coordinator, at 800-635-5987, Ext. 1499, or online at www.smumn.edu/convention.
The Westin Chicago Northwest is located at I-290 and Thorndale Avenue in Itasca.