Reuniting Under the Sun: ISB Network Alumni’s 20th Reunion

In 1983, a handful of International School Bangkok (ISB) alumni from various 1970s classes decided they wanted to have a reunion. From these humble beginnings of a hundred or so names and addresses, the US-based ISB Network Alumni Association was born. The very first reunion was hosted in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, in 1984.

Interest in participating in reunions has increased in leaps and bounds over the decades since, and today, there are over 6,000 former ISB students involved with the ISB Network Alumni Association. The Network just hosted its 20th reunion this August in Daytona Beach, Florida, USA, with some 350 ISB alums in attendance. This speaks volumes to the popularity of the Network and the love that these alumni have for ISB and Thailand.

A Community that Remembers

Harold Albert, ISB’s Alumni Coordinator, said, “As a first-time attendee to this event, I marveled at the care and detail that the organizers took in setting up the reunion and how much they attempted to incorporate elements from the ISB they so fondly remember. For example, there was a large room set up with Thai and ISB merchandise for sale that was called “The Shack,” in honor of “The Shack,” that was so popular back in the Soi 15 days. Additionally, they organized a dance and music group that was fittingly called “The Young Internationals,” a mainstay at the school during the 60’s, and 70’s. A band was also put together that played most evenings for the dancing enjoyment of the reunion attendees in a setting that was called “The Teen Club,” another mainstay during the Vietnam era at ISB.”  

Keeping Traditions Alive

One of the most popular athletic activities at ISB ‘back-in-the-day’ was called the “House Games,” a tradition that lives on today. These games were lovingly recreated at this years’ reunion by organizing teams representing the Yellow, Blue, Red and Green Houses that competed in a variety of fun, semi-athletic events. The House Games were the mastermind of the legendary PE Rajendra, and they remain one of the most vivid memories of the ISB alumni from this era. Harold reflected, “It was amazing to see the passion with which these ‘young-at-heart’ alums participated in these events. Congratulations to the Green House for coming away with first place!”

ISB Legends in Attendance

Notably in attendance was Chuck McAndrew, a graduate of International School Bangkok’s very first graduating class in 1957. Chuck had some amazing stories to share about his time in Bangkok. More so, the reunion also saw in attendence the descendants of ISB legend Mr. PE Rajendra. Mr. Albert reminisced on the reunion, “I was able to meet PE Rajendra’s daughter, Angeline Behrend, and her son, David Behrend, PE’s grandson. As a former ISB assistant athletic/activities director, the legendary Mr. Rajendra is one of my heroes, and it was a thrill to meet members of his family. I can’t wait to see them here in Thailand and show them our beautiful gymnasium that is, and will always be called, Rajendra Hall.”

Once A Panther, Always A Panther

The feeling communicated by the expression “Once a Panther, Always a Panther” is one of family and community. That no matter where you go next, you will always be a part of this community. This cannot happen in isolation; it takes a community to embrace one another and consistently connect with each other to continue such a feeling. 

Thank you to our incredible community and our ISB Network Alumni Association for all that you do to bring our alumni together. Thank you to Mr. Paul Griffin, former ISB and SAS photography teacher, and Peppy Doggett (Class of 1968) for documenting this reunion. Extra-special kudos and thanks must go to the amazing leadership team of the ISB Network Alumni Association: 

President Kathy Beaird (class of 1976)

Vice President Suzanne Cano Meeker (1984)

Secretary Jameela “Cricket” Fluker Lanza (1967)

Director of Communications Kate Boslet (1973)

Director of Reunions Teresa Martin (1973)

Director at Large Chris Hunt (1981)

Director at Large David Elder (1969)

Keeper of the Archives JoHanna Ewing (1969)

Director of Technology Rao Verdurumudi (1975).

These individuals went the extra mile to ensure that all of the reunion participants had an amazing experience, and every alum truly feels that once they are a Panther, they will always be a Panther.  

To get connected with our ISB Network Alumni Association, please contact them here.