91����

Three years ago, only weeks before Covid would upend the world, the men of 91����, New England, inaugurated a new tradition — the Rose Dinner, an opportunity to celebrate and honor the women on campus. Last Saturday night, they continued that tradition by hosting the annual dinner and dance.

Greeters met the ladies as soon as they enter Gould Commons, offering them roses and welcoming them into the front hall. After some light conversation, the doors to the main dining hall were opened and the students filed inside, where they found carefully set tables, with each place sporting an elegant Southwest-style salad.

Head Chaplain Rev. Greg Markey greeted the group with a brief talk about the complementary natures of men and women, often quoting Pope St. John Paul II’s statements about the feminine genius. “The Pope asserted that women, because of their capacity to become mothers, have insights into human nature and human relations that men simply do not possess,” he said. “This evening’s dinner is a recognition that there is a difference between men and women, and that the feminine mystery is something that should be honored by all.”

As the group enjoyed appetizers, the night’s emcee, Ben Domnarski (’23), welcomed all the women, thanking them for their presence and revealing the delicious menu: Monterey chicken, rice pilaf, and grilled mangos. After clearing the plates, a group of black-and-white clad TAC men emerged from the kitchen with the highly anticipated entrée. “I love the grilled mango!” Laura Castillo (’26) exclaimed, much to the agreement of everyone else in the room. A group of men then sang “There is no Rose,” “Ave Maria,” and “The Parting Glass.” For dessert, the hosts served a creamy panna cotta with a raspberry drizzle, much to the delight of all present.

Following the dinner, the group made its way back to the front of Gould Hall for some dancing and communal fun. The floor was full for the rest of the night as couples waltzed around the room, enjoying the evening.

“The food was very well received,” said Chris McCann (’24), the head of food planning for the event. “It was a great team-building experience for the guys, too. It was our pleasure to serve all the ladies.”