From first-year to fifty years
The summer of 1966 was momentous for Ron Kopita ’66 (Secondary Education, Social Studies) and Pearl (Rosen) Kopita ’66 (Elementary Education). The two graduated from SUNY New Paltz that June, and were married in August.
“We met at a lecture in Old Main as first-year students,” said Pearl. “We spent the next four years dating and took a leap of faith after graduation to say our vows. We moved to Michigan to follow Ron’s career path and start a family.” A half century has passed since that late summer day, and the Kopitas have no regrets. “Pearl is my constant support system and biggest fan,” said Ron of his wife’s sacrifice and the family’s frequent moves because of his career in higher education. “She embraced the momentum of my career while pursuing her own success as a fellow educator and principal.”
After graduating from New Paltz, Ron earned his master’s degree from Michigan State University and his Ph.D from the University of Michigan. Pearl earned her master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and an Ed.D. degree from Tri-College University in Moorhead, Minn.
Certified to teach in seven different states, Pearl worked in education for 39 years. She was steadfast in her support of her husband and consequently the couple and their two children were able to experience life all across the United States.
“The fact that Ron and I grew up together had a huge impact on our ability to stay connected, to stay in love and stay married,” said Pearl. “We took a chance on each other and plunged ahead. Those formative years played in a major role in solidifying the foundation of our marriage.”
Ron’s extensive career path included his time as vice president for Campus Life and University Relations at Wichita State University (WSU) from 1999 until his retirement in 2009.
Under Ron’s influence, WSU created the annual fall convocation, a tradition that didn’t exist before his arrival. Ron helped upgrade and revitalize financial-aid operations, increase scholarships and improve campus technology.
Leaving his position at WSU marked the end of his 43-year career in higher education during which he received a number of awards, including Alumnus of the Year from SUNY New Paltz in 1994.
Now retired and living in Texas, the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends in August and they returned to the College in October to commemorate their 50th reunion with former classmates.
"Fifty years is a milestone that not everyone can achieve," said Ron.
