Celebrating Black alumni, legacy, and community at Rice University
The ARUBA Weekend
Association of Rice University Black Alumni (ARUBA) presents
“The ARUBA Weekend”
April 16-19, 2026
Save the date and Spread the word!
All alumni are invited to return to campus for The ARUBA Weekend.
Join us for the inaugural ARUBA Weekend (“The Weekend”) as we reconnect for an inspiring multi-day experience full of endless Owl pride. The event will be coupled with our 60th celebration of Black Student life at Rice and promises to be historic, deeply meaningful, and exciting.
The Weekend is more than just a reunion; it is an intentional effort to strengthen ties among alumni, highlight shared legacies, and reaffirm commitments to the future of Rice.
A preview of The ARUBA Weekend:
- Thursday, April 16th: Welcome & Kickoff, with a reception hosted by President DesRoches
- Friday, April 17th: Legacy & Engagement, including the President’s Town Hall; Legacy Luncheon; Golf Tournament; Career Development and Leadership panels; Networking Mixer
- Saturday, April 18th: Service & Celebration, including community service; culture immersion; and Blueprint for Excellence Gala commemorating 60 years of undergraduate life at Rice at The Westin Houston Medical Center/ Museum District.”
- Sunday, April 19th: Fellowship & Farewell, optional post Weekend gatherings including church service at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and brunch
Registration will open in early 2026. For questions, please contact info@arubaweekend.com
WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW….
- Complete the Interest Form… to give input, get involved, and stay connected with the event.
- Make your travel arrangements!!
- Take advantage of the discounted ARUBA lodging rate and book your stay at the Westin Houston Medical Center / Museum District
- The Call for nominations for Saturday’s Blueprint for Excellence Gala is now open. Review the awards and criteria, and submit your nominations!
Make your travel arrangements! Take advantage of the discounted ARUBA lodging rate and book your stay at the Westin Houston Medical Center / Museum District
Stay Tuned for Registration Details
Interested? Let’s Stay Connected!!!
Help us shape a powerful and inspiring agenda. We want to hear from you! The Steering Committee is gathering input to make “The Weekend” and our Blueprint of Excellence 60th Anniversary Gala and Awards Celebration a truly historic success.
Complete the Interest form TODAY.
https://survey.zohopublic.com/zs/FbDAEp
