Mary Ellen Brown Picnic

Sunday, September 23, 2007

Mary Ellen Brown led the IC’s English conversation group for 10 years during the 1990s. After she passed away, her family established an annual picnic to honor her memory and her good works at the IC with U.Va.’s international population.

Every fall, international students, scholars, individuals involved in international education at U.Va., and their families are invited to experience local hospitality and tradition with Mary Ellen’s family at their lovely Albemarle County farm, High Mowing Farms.  Many of Mary Ellen’s English students had the pleasure of coming to the farm during her time as English conversation leader. Her family hopes that current international students and guests find this a pleasant outing, where they can get to know many others from around the world and feel something of the local customs as well. 

Comments from past participants:

We enjoyed the food and pretty views of the fall. The walk through the trail was very beautiful.

We had a very nice experience.  The farm was beautiful, the hosts were very friendly, and the food was great.

We spent a wonderful afternoon and loved to talk with the Browns. As international students, meeting them in their property was a great opportunity to experience Virginia outside of UVA.  I think this gathering is a great homage to Mrs. Mary Ellen Brown whom I would have loved to meet.  These events make us feel good in this country and are warm memories we will keep of our time in the US.

My kids and I enjoyed very much on Sunday in the Brown's Farm, and we were so lucky to have a beautiful afternoon, in the beautiful place, to enjoy the beautiful season! I'm so grateful that Mr. Brown and his family prepared so many delicious food for us to eat, and even to take away! 

For more information about this year's picnic go to the IC's Activity Calendar.