Once again this year the newest class of Rhodes Scholars are scheduled to gather in Washington, D.C. for the annual Bon Voyage Weekend hosted by AARS.  The BVW will kick-off with an orientation session for new Scholars at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2008, at the Jury's Hotel in Washington D.C. and will concludes with the annual BVW Departure Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at the Cosmos Club.

The Bon Voyage Weekend offers the opportunity for the new class to get to know one another before they reach Oxford and are spread across colleges and departments, and to connect with scholars of years past.  Iin keeping with a long-standing tradition, U.S. Scholars will be joined by new scholars from several international Scholars. 

The Bon Voyage Weekend is made possible though the generosity of AARS members and volunteers. 

Program Highlights: 

Local Rhodes Scholar women have for several years hosted a breakfast for the women of each Rhodes class, offering an opportunity to discuss women’s issues at Oxford.

Recent Rhodes Scholar returnees from Oxford as well as some in residence will join the Class of 2008 to offer some practical, candid advice about the transition to Oxford.

The Rhodes Class of 1998 is having their 10^th year reunion coinciding with BVW, offering an opportunity to share their experiences of Oxford.

Several Rhodes Scholars involved in U.S. politics, human rights, and public advocacy will share their perspectives in panel discussions with the Class of 2008.

Traditionally, the British Embassy has joined AARS in greeting the departing Rhodes Scholars and this year, Dominick Chilcott, the Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, will host the Class of 2008 at his home.

Senator Richard Lugar (Indiana & Pembroke ‘54) and former Senator Paul Sarbanes (Maryland & Balliol ‘54) will host a breakfast at the U.S. Capitol – a tradition they have continued ever since the BVW located itself in Washington, D.C.

For several years, Justice David Souter (New Hampshire & Magdalen ‘61) has shared his perspective on the role of the Supreme Court in a frank conversation, moderated by A.E. Dick Howard (Virginia & Christ Church ‘58).

A Departure Luncheon will be held at the Cosmos Club on Wednesday, prior to the scholars’ flight to England.  New York Times columnist and AARS Board Member Nicholas Kristof (Oregon and Magdalen '81) will be the keynote speaker.

Local area Rhodes Scholars also will host the Class of 2008 at their homes and in restaurants throughout the week, including full group gatherings hosted by Lissa Muscatine (California and Wadham ‘77) and American Secretary Elliot Gerson (Connecticut and Magdalen ‘74).