As summer came to a close the Dudley Kiniya Alumni Association (DKAA)  welcomed over 200 alumni, with laughter echoing across the lake and generations of brotherhood converging on the familiar shores of Lake Champlain, the 2026 DKAA Reunion Weekend proved once again why our traditions stand the test of time.

The community gathered at Camp Dudley to celebrate 142 years of camp traditions. Highlights included open program areas like the Giant Swing and climbing wall, evenings shared on Witherbee porch, a Sunday Chapel service led by John Ulin, and a moving Hymn Sing featuring three pianists, strong Dudley and Kiniya voices, and a final 6 incorporating both of our camps final hymns. Additional weekend events featured a dedicated Saturday afternoon ceremony for the Mulligan Tennis Court Dedication and a special Friday afternoon “Beers and Brats” gathering hosted by Ben and Pam Nelson at the Nelson Cottages to honor pioneer #10064 Ekki Albrecht and welcome former German exchange participants.

This year introduced “Champ Camp” for younger children (ages 7 and up, along with a tot group), designed as a mini-Camp Dudley and Kiniya experience. Parents pre-registered with t-shirt sizes and age groups, and the children participated in organized morning rotations, cabin-style lunches, and afternoon campus activities. While the kids were getting a snapshot of camp, parents were able to go and enjoy camp with their old friends around campus.  A special shoutout goes to the dedicated Dudley and Kiniya Leaders whose energy and care helped make the experience for the Champ campers truly feel like a genuine taste of camp. Alumni noted it was a powerful recruiting tool for prospective families and camp-curious parents.

Dr. John Brust (#7446) was honored as the 2026 Person of the Year. He was recognized for his extraordinary lifetime contributions to the camp community as a camper, doctor, board member, philanthropist, and steward. A gifted writer, composer, and performer, John helped create and produce iconic theatrical traditions during the 1950s, writing shows like The Waffle of Bengal Kyaim and composing original music such as Uranium and songs for Canterella. Outside of camp, he had a distinguished career as a renowned neurologist in New York City, serving patients for decades, authoring medical textbooks, and retiring at age 89 with emeritus status from Columbia University. Tributes were shared by community members including Don Stevenson, Charlie Johnson, and Brian Mahoney, celebrating his compassionate and humble legacy.

Though the reunion has ended and quiet settles over the grounds until next summer, the bonds renewed and memories made along the shores of Lake Champlain will carry far beyond this weekend. The laughter, stories, and shared traditions reaffirm the deep strength of our community across generations. As everyone returns home, anticipation is already building for the next time the gates open and the Camp Dudley family gathers once again, ensuring that this spirit remains as vibrant and unwavering as ever.