Reunion 2019

"Returning for Alumni Reunion gave me a chance to reflect and be proud of what I have accomplished since I graduated 10 years ago. Being able to connect with some current students at Reunion allowed me to take everything I learned from my time on campus and share it with those who are on the same college journey. Being comfortable to share my truth and inspire others is the perfect way for me to give back to the New Paltz community; the same community that helped shape who I am today."

- Vixon John ’09 (Journalism), video producer

All-Class Dinner and Lantern Ceremony

The College presented its Heritage and Alumni Awards at the All-Class Awards Dinner and Lantern Ceremony. The event honored Harry K. Bonsu ’90 (Political Science), Vice President of Enrollment Management L. David Eaton and Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Linda Eaton with Heritage Awards for their continued devotion to the ideals of the College. Internationally acclaimed wine educator Kevin Zraly ’74 (Elementary Education) earned the Professional Achievement Award and Mary Elizabeth Bannon ’81 (Theatre Arts) was honored with the Alumni Distinguished Service Award for her contributions of both time and talent to the College.

Class of 1969

Forty-six graduates of the Class of 1969 were inducted into the Lantern Society for their 50^th anniversary year. The celebrated class also won the “Alumni Reunion Class Year Challenge,” which invited alumni to make a gift in honor of their anniversary class year. The group had the greatest number of alumni donors during the giving period and will have a brick added to the Walk of Honor to commemorate its generosity.

Asian Studies Celebrates 50 Years

Emeritus Professor Ronald Knapp’s talk titled “A Half Century of Asia and Asian Studies” celebrated the 50^th Anniversary of the Asian Studies Department and included poster presentations highlighting Study Abroad and various alumni of the program.

“It was wonderfully exhilarating to hear from so many Asian Studies alumni – stretching back over the decades to 1970 – how their experiences at New Paltz shaped both their world view as well as subsequent careers. The Asian Studies Program today is a vibrant one with a core of committed faculty and the Study Abroad opportunities for undergraduate students are but some of several features of this high-quality program.”

- Emeritus Professor Ronald Knapp

Recent Alumni Panel

New this year was the “Recent Alumni Panel” discussion on success after college. The event offered the opportunity for networking among accomplished alumni, a Q&A session and a shared lunch with students. Speakers included Errol Eisner ’06 (Marketing) ’09g (Finance), Vixon Jon ’09 (Journalism), Goldie Harrison ’16 (Digital Media Production) and Missy Graff Ballone ’13g (Metal).

“Our conversation ranged from life after graduation to overcoming fear of failure. This topic means so much to me. We all make mistakes along the way to get to where we are going. Those experiences allow for growth.”

- Missy Graff Ballone ’13g (Metal)

Save the Date

Reunion 2020 will be held on campus Oct. 16-18.