Spring 2009 Potsdam People by SUNY Potsdam

The Magazine for Alumni and Friends of the State University of New York at Potsdam

Spring 2009 Vol.3 | No.2

P E O P L E

snapshot

Ann Marie K. lewis ’12 & Sharon MatThews Cantwell ’83

Former SUNY Potsdam Women’s Hockey Player Sharon Mathews Cantwell ’83 (r) of Clayton, NY, passes the torch to a new group of skaters ready to carry on Potsdam’s great tradition of hockey. At the Lady Bears’ home opener, she ceremoniously faces off with freshman Ann Marie K. Lewis ’12 of Newmarket, ON, Canada, who majors in childhood education.

spring

Profiles

Sandy McNeil ’62 Her life takes the fast track.

Norm Brooks ’54

From dance gigs to giving back, spreading the lessons of Crane.

Greg Geer ’76 Practice makes professional.

Departments

News & Notes 3 Class Notes 22 In Their Own Words 27 Alumni 28 Reunion Events 29

Blending an archival photo of past students with the faces of current students (from top: Brandon Kelley ’10, Violeta Ayala ’09, Sarah Walroth ’10, Christopher Reksc ’11 Naghena Ghulam ’11 and Lindsey Truax ’09) we celebrate 175 years of Teacher Education at SUNY Potsdam. In 1834, the College (then St. Lawrence Academy) became the first publicly funded education program in New York State and one of the few in the nation to begin it’s long tradition of excellence in teacher preparation. See feature p. 16

Pursuing dreams and allowing others to pursue theirs.

On the cover:

of TeacherExc e l ears l en

Krista A. Fordham ’94

y 75

16 The Roots of Change:

175 Years of Teacher Excellence at SUNY Potsdam

While teaching methods and technology change, the heart of teaching transcends time.

20 Academics vs. Athletics:

How the Two Go Hand-in-Hand

Lessons in the classroom and on the field help students and teachers to be their best.

2009 Is a Year for Milestones SUNYAC Celebrates 50 Years of Sports Excellence.

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Letter From

the president

s p r i n g 2009

s a historian by training, I tend to think about change over the course of time and the importance of commemorating significant dates in the past. While we are currently planning for our upcoming Bicentennial in 2016, there are two very important interim celebrations fast approaching. Now in 2009, our teacher education programs have reached a milestone. Although chartered by New York State in 1816 to offer degrees as St. Lawrence Academy, the College still depended on local North Country support. The state designated it as a center for teacher education in 1834, and in turn supplied state funding and clear recognition of the teacher education program as a center of excellence in the region and throughout the state. From the very first days of its existence, the College has trained dedicated and talented teachers. For 175 years, we have been uniquely chartered by the state for that purpose. Just last year, we hosted a visit by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the most stringent and prestigious of accrediting bodies for education, which granted us an additional five years of accreditation with not a single adverse finding. I have participated in these reviews in four states now and this is the first time that I have ever seen such a glowing external report on a teacher education program. We all are so very proud of our teacher preparation program. Of course, an important component of our teacher education program is the music education program of The Crane School of Music. Here, too, we are approaching an important anniversary. Crane, the oldest music education program in the country, will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2011. Teachers will all report education is more than what goes on in the classroom and, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor and a U. S. Department of Education Title III Grant for $1.6 million, we are significantly enhancing our already stellar programs for student research. This is a perfect blend of grant initiatives and generous donor support that have catapulted SUNY Potsdam into national leadership among public universities in providing unprecedented opportunities for students in undergraduate research. The Title III Grant has allowed us to implement the necessary infrastructure to capitalize on our already highly developed program by creating a new Center for Undergraduate Research under the direction of Dr. Bethany Usher from our Anthropology Department. Faculty and students will be able to draw on Title III funds for travel when they are co-presenting research with students at conferences. In short, this provides us with an extraordinary basis upon which to continue to build our undergraduate research program. If the Title III Grant put the basic structure in place, an anonymous gift of $400,000 to endow the Kilmer Fund has provided the opportunity to expand upon that base. Kilmer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeships will allow students and faculty to collaborate on research projects outside the classroom, providing additional opportunities for students to excel at research, including support for student travel. Undergraduate research opportunities greatly enrich the collegiate experience of our students and provide them with what I like to call a handcrafted education. These recent developments at SUNY Potsdam serve as a wonderful example of how we can use grants and gifts from generous donors to greatly increase the opportunities that we provide for our students. Quite truly, it will transform what is an already important program into a truly exceptional one.

POTSDAM PEOPLE

SPRING 2009

Vol . 3 | No. 2

Potsdam Pe o ple Staf f an d Co ntributo rs Editor Deborah Dudley, Director of Marketing and Communications Sherry (Allen) Paradis ’00, Director of Alumni Relations Write r / Editor Deidre Kelly, Media Relations Manager Elizabeth Tuttle, Communications and Government Relations Coordinator We b M anag er Mindy Thompson, Director of Web Communications Contributors Christa Carroll, Director of The Fund for Potsdam Nancy Griffin ’08 (hon.), Development Officer Boyd Jones ’95, Sports Information Director Jason Ladouceur ’94, Director of Gift Planning Mona Ouimet Vroman ’85, Development Officer Donna Planty, Publications Associate Laurie (Balles) Simpson ’97, Director of Donor Relations Vicki Templeton-Cornell, Vice President for College Advancement D esign & Art Dir e ction Jessica Rood, Director of Publications P H OTO G R A P HY Principal Photography: Kathryn Deuel

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news & notes New Initiatives

Potsdam Garners $1.6M Grant to Enhance Undergrad Research SUNY Potsdam recently was awarded a $1.6 million grant in the extremely competitive Title III Strengthening Institutions Development Grant Program from the United States Department of Education to enhance its undergraduate research initiatives. The funds will be utilized over the course of five years with the goal of increasing the number of seniors who participate in research with a faculty member from 24 percent to as much as 50 percent in some areas. SUNY Potsdam Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. Michael C. Rygel (right) and junior Kyle Ashley examine a fossilized root at the world-famous fossil cliffs found in Joggins, Nova Scotia. Research

CBC Documents Research by Potsdam Prof and Students The research that SUNY Potsdam Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. Michael C. Rygel and three students conducted over the summer was featured as part of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s series “Land and Sea.” The documentary examines the significance of the world-famous fossil cliffs at Joggins, Nova Scotia, being declared a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. Along with Dr. Rygel, juniors Kyle Ashley of Madrid, NY; Erin Sheldon of Mount Vision, NY; and Emily Stephan of Seneca Falls, NY, spent four weeks at the Joggins site measuring and describing the rocks exposed along the coast. After returning to campus, the students

compiled their field notes and measurements to make a detailed graphical portrayal of the rocks that other geologists can use to locate themselves within the succession. “This measured section will serve as a framework that allows us to interpret the depositional environments recorded in the strata,” said Dr. Rygel. “Our measured section represents a framework to which all future discoveries can be referenced. Our work represents the first detailed examination of these rocks.” Dr. Rygel and three more students will return to the Joggins cliffs this summer to continue the research.

New Initiatives

Alcoa and Corning Donate Scanning Electron Microscopes Alcoa and Corning International Company have each donated a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to SUNY Potsdam for use in the College’s science departments. The combined worth of the equipment is more than $125,000. Peggy Barlow, instrument technician at SUNY Potsdam, said the donated SEMs offer capabilities that the College’s

current one does not. The units expand the facilities used in the teaching and research of undergraduate majors in anthropology, archaeology, biology, chemistry, geology and physics in up-to-date methods of material analysis. The instruments allow users to determine the shape of microscopic objects and make an elemental analysis of their chemical composition.

“The SEM has become a central apparatus for researchers in all of our physical and natural sciences, but its expense makes it almost impossible for us to purchase one. Our students and faculty will make excellent use of this instrument for years to come,” said Dr. Galen Pletcher, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at SUNY Potsdam.

“The Title III funding is a significant testament to the current research being conducted on the campus by faculty and students and offers ample evidence of the College’s commitment to promote collaborative learning opportunities that both challenge and engage,” said Dr. Gerald Ratliff, associate vice president of academic affairs and grant project coordinator. Support will include the establishment of an Office of Undergraduate Research at SUNY Potsdam, directed by Dr. Bethany Usher, associate professor. “When we talk about research, we are broadly describing the one-on-one activities in which our faculty are involved,” said Dr. Usher. “Most people picture bench-hard sciences, but at SUNY Potsdam, this includes concerts, field archaeology, dance performances, art exhibits, classroom activities, historical archival work and a myriad of other fascinating opportunities, as well as the classical bench research.”

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news & notes

New fitness center

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College News

Becky’s Place Dedicated

New Student Fitness Center Opened in Lehman Hall

As part of the official dedication of SUNY Potsdam’s Becky’s Place at Pratt Commons, a portrait of Rebecca R. Pratt, a 1997 graduate who passed away in 2001, was unveiled. Located next to Raymond Hall in the space that was formerly The Greenery, Becky’s Place is unlike any other dining area at the College. The new facility includes several types of comfortable seating, a fireplace and wireless access to the Internet. There is an outdoor patio with a large grill, an after-hours coffee bar and a stone hearth oven for pizza and baked pastas. In addition, space for small-group meetings and special events is available to create opportunities for students and faculty to interact on an informal basis.

D’addario

Becky’s Place

Becky’s Place is made possible through the investment of Potsdam Auxiliary and College Educational Services, Inc. (PACES), SUNY Potsdam’s five-year capital plan funds and the generosity of an anonymous donor. Pictured are (l to r) portrait painter Deborah Sapienza of Farmington, SUNY Potsdam President Dr. John F. Schwaller, Becky’s father Gene Pratt of Victor, Becky’s grandmother Grace Parker of Fulton, Becky’s brother Greg Pratt of Victor and Becky’s mother Nancy Pratt of Victor.

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DEVELOPMENT & Awards

Potsdam Presents John D’Addario Jr. a SUNY Honorary Doctorate John D’Addario Jr., the eighth generation of the D’Addario family involved in the musical instrument string business and president of The D’Addario Music Foundation, recently was presented an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from SUNY Potsdam, on behalf of the State University of New York. D’Addario received the award at a music education fundraising gala at Steinway Hall in New York City, featuring performances by Crane School of Music faculty members. “John D’Addario has supported several dozen institutions and organizations all over the world, including SUNY Potsdam, both through the company’s foundation and personally, to make music education and access to music programs a reality for thousands of people,” said Dr. John F. Schwaller, SUNY Potsdam president. “It is a privilege to receive this acknowledgment from such a widely recognized institution of higher learning,” expressed D’Addario. “As a company, D’Addario has strong relations with universities like SUNY that value the impact of fostering the arts and education. This is truly an honor for me both personally and professionally.”

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009 POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

In an age when it’s all too easy to find that excuse not to exercise regularly, SUNY Potsdam is helping its student population to take advantage of a workout solution close to home – right in the residence halls. Potsdam recently opened a new student fitness center in Lehman Hall to encourage resident students to adopt healthy lifestyles by providing an opportunity to exercise close to their dorm rooms. This new center is an addition to the main exercise facility, the Shane T. Shaul Fitness Center, in Maxcy Hall. “I’ve been very impressed by the College’s commitment to the health and well-being of our students. Fitness equipment is a very large investment and it’s nice to see that emphasis placed in this area,” said Tanya Hewitt, director of the fitness centers. DEVELOPMENT & Awards

Gibson Gallery Receives Gift of Warhol Art SUNY Potsdam’s Roland Gibson Gallery recently was enriched with nearly 100 photographs worth more than $130,000 from the Andy Warhol Foundation’s Photographic Legacy program. The Andy Warhol Foundation announced an unprecedented gift of Warhol art to 183 college and university art museums across the United States in late 2007. According to Director of the Gibson Gallery April Vasher-Dean, the gift from the Warhol Foundation has added value, both financial and aesthetic, to SUNY Potsdam’s collection. “This is a contemporary art collection and by adding so many pieces by one of the premiere contemporary artists, its value as a teaching tool has drastically improved,” said Vasher-Dean. “Students will be able to really study the way Warhol worked. This collection will allow them in-depth analysis of the working relationship between artist and subject.”

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news & notes

DEVELOPMENT & Awards

Potsdam Celebrates Its Best Fundraising Year Ever SUNY Potsdam closed the 2007-2008 fiscal year with its best fundraising year in the College’s 192-year history with more than $3.6 million raised. Potsdam’s successes also earned the institution a number of accolades giving the campus national recognition. According to a national report, the “2007 Voluntary Support of Education” by the Council for Aid to Education, SUNY Potsdam ranked: • first in total alumni giving among its SUNY peer group; • second in alumni participation among its SUNY peer group; • 17th in the nation among all reporting master’s degree granting institutions for alumni participation; • first in its SUNY peer group for the number of realized bequests; • third in the entire SUNY system, a total of 64 campuses, for realized bequests, behind only University at Buffalo and SUNY Upstate Medical University; • first in its SUNY peer group in terms of dollars raised per student, nearly 50 percent more than the next-highest SUNY peer; and • third for the size of its endowment in its peer group, even though Potsdam is the smallest of the comprehensive colleges. “This is the second year in a row that we’ve broken our fundraising records. Success of this magnitude is only possible when an institution is fortunate enough to have the sincere commitment and support of its alumni, faculty, staff and community,” said SUNY Potsdam President Dr. John F. Schwaller. “Because of the vision and generous support of so many, SUNY Potsdam is well positioned to provide students an education that is tailored to meet their individual needs and enhance their experience inside and outside of the classroom.”

SUNY Potsdam sophomore Emily Ball, junior Denianne Dow and senior Raymond Rossetti experienced the work of marine biologists this summer as they conducted research in the field at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. Research

Students Explore Marine Biology in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Marine biology may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of SUNY Potsdam, but thanks to the College’s partnership with the University of Southern Mississippi, biology students have the opportunity to spend their summers in the field at its Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. SUNY Potsdam sophomore Emily Ball of Alexandria Bay, NY; junior Denianne Dow of Potsdam, NY; and senior Raymond Rossetti of Carmel, NY, experienced the work of marine biologists under the supervision of Dr. Walter Conley, SUNY Potsdam professor of biology, at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory as part of “Marine Sciences II: Marine Biology,” a four-

week course with a strong field component. Dow spent an additional four weeks at the lab to take “Marine Ecology.” The courses at the research laboratory are handson, placing the students in the field to collect data almost every day, providing Ball, Dow and Rossetti with valuable field experience and basic skills required for marine biology research. SUNY Potsdam is the only college in New York that offers marine biology courses through an affiliate agreement with the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory and has done so since 2004.

Show your pride with a SUNY Potsdam VISA Visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni or call 1-800-853-5576 ext. 8723 to learn more about the SUNY Potsdam Visa card. Show yours off today!

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news & notes College News

College Receives Environmental Stewardship Award Hill & Markes Inc., Amsterdam, NY-based wholesale distributors, recently announced that SUNY Potsdam received its Environmental Stewardship Award. The award recognizes the responsible decisions that SUNY Potsdam has made regarding the products they select (Green Seal® Certified, EPA Registered, LEED Recognized, EcoLogo™, etc.) and the methods they employ to clean that contribute to a sustainable future. College News

Potsdam Home to Five Chinese Students from EarthquakeRavaged Region

Student Spotlight

Fulbright Scholar Gets Down to the Serious Business of Clowning SUNY Potsdam received an added bonus when Associate Professor of Theatre and Dance Kimberley Bouchard served as a Fulbright scholar in Spain. She collaborated with Miguel Cortazar, an actor and teacher, who came to Potsdam as a Fulbright scholar-in-residence training students in the art of comedy and clowning.

The students said having an opportunity to work with Cortazar, who works at the University of the Basque Country and the University of Mondragon, has been an enriching opportunity. They are exploring new areas of theatre and acting and are finding that turning yourself into “The Clown” is more challenging than it looks.

“This opportunity gives our students exposure and training from an internationally acclaimed artist,” said Bouchard. “They will come away from this experience with more skills and deeper knowledge that they can apply to their future work.”

“It is a very difficult process to become an entirely different person,” said junior theatre major David Zwierankin of Pleasant Valley, NY. “We have all learned how to let go of our feeling of self-consciousness and learned several clowning techniques, acrobatics, walks, talks and emotions. Miguel builds so much confidence in each one of us and helps us through every step.”

IRA Charitable Rollover Extended through 2009 The charitable IRA legislation is back for a repeat performance! Don’t miss this second-chance opportunity to make tax-free gifts from your IRA. Owners aged 70.5 or older of traditional or Roth IRAs may “rollover” to public charities, such as Potsdam, up to $100,000 without the distribution being included as taxable income, but allowing the distribution to count toward the annual mandatory withdrawal amount. For more information, visit www.potsdam.edu/advance/giftplan or contact Jason Ladouceur in the Office of College Advancement at (315) 267-2123 or giftplan@potsdam.edu. As you plan your future, invest in Potsdam’s

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

Five college students from the Sichuan Province of western China, the site of a massive earthquake in May 2008, are attending SUNY Potsdam for the 2008-2009 academic year as part of SUNY’s China 150 initiative. SUNY Potsdam is among the 22 SUNY campuses participating in the China 150 program by opening its doors to these students, who come primarily from 40 counties around Wenchuan, the center of the quake. “SUNY Potsdam is thrilled to be able to host these five Chinese students at a time when their country most needs young men and women to come forward and help with the rebuilding process,” said SUNY Potsdam President Dr. John F. Schwaller. “We are confident that the skills they learn and the abilities they strengthen here will go a long way toward helping their country after it was so tragically ravaged by the earthquake. Potsdam’s students will also benefit from these students, as their presence reinforces the desire for our students to become global citizens.”

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news & notes Burke was a captain of Engine 21 of the New York City Fire Department who died in the line of duty when the second tower of the World Trade Center collapsed. The New York Community Trust through its Long Island Community Foundation affiliate has funded the scholarship at SUNY Potsdam through a fund established by Captain Burke’s siblings upon his death.

DEVELOPMENT & Awards

Scholarship Honors FDNY Firefighter Who Died in 9/11 Attacks A SUNY Potsdam scholarship recently was endowed to honor Captain William F. Burke Jr. ’77, who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. The Captain William F. Burke, Jr. Memorial Scholarship will provide financial assistance to SUNY Potsdam students who are from a New York City firefighter (FDNY) family.

Scholarship Golf Classic

College News

SUNY Potsdam Voter Registration Drives Net 300 Forms The efforts of several SUNY Potsdam groups in supporting the voter registration and education programs led to approximately 300 voter registration forms and 350 absentee ballot applications, which totals 15 percent of the campus. Through the collaboration of the Student Government Association, several resident assistants and mentors, the Office

of Student Involvement and Leadership and the Faculty Senate Student Affairs Committee, several voter registration and voter education programs were offered in October. To encourage students to follow through on their plans to vote, SGA and Student Involvement and Leadership sponsored free rides to the polling places in Potsdam and sponsored an Election Night Open House in the Student Union Dining Court for the campus community to celebrate the momentous occasion.

Where Potsdam’s Need Is Greatest Gifts to the College’s Greatest Needs are the most helpful gifts to Potsdam because they strengthen the College’s ability to plan and prepare for the future. Through them, the College will continue to offer a combined educational experience that no other institution can match. Know that even a small gift to the College will have an impact. Your gift works together a collective ef-

Renzi Foodservice of Watertown was the top sponsor of the recent 20th Annual SUNY Potsdam Scholarship Golf Classic at the Potsdam Town & Country Club. Renzi Foodservice has generously sponsored the tournament for five consecutive years, with two Renzi scholars benefitting. Here, a group of Renzi Foodservice golfers is greeted by student scholars on the course. Pictured are (back, l to r) Tim Greene, Wheeler Maynard, Jude Renzi, Dean Johnston, Bernie Clary and George Arnold ’92, (front) Kylie Stenger, Jordan Kidder and Henrique Schembry. Thanks to the support of dozens of sponsors and a field of more than 150 golfers, the tournament raised more than $52,000 for SUNY Potsdam students.

fect. Each one is critical to SUNY Potsdam and has a direct impact on the students’ lives at Potsdam.

https://secure.potsdam.edu/giving

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news & notes

DEVELOPMENT & Awards

Orientation Program Earns Two Awards SUNY Potsdam’s Orientation Program earned two first-place awards in the Media Showcase Awards at the National Orientation Directors Association Conference (NODAC) in Boston. Louise Tyo ’00, director of first year transitions, was recognized for SUNY Potsdam’s Summer 2008 Orientation Guide in the Outstanding Orientation Handbook for Three or More Colors category and nylon string bag students received at orientation in the Outstanding Novelty Item category. The entries are judged on content, style and clarity, practicality and usefulness, graphic design and use of theme. Only those items that have been specifically designed and produced by the institution for their institution’s orientation, retention and transition programs are considered.

SPORTS

Women’s Hockey Makes Its Home Debut To celebrate the return of SUNY Potsdam’s women’s hockey team after 24 years, the Department of Athletics held a ceremonial puck drop commemorating the return of NCAA varsity women’s ice hockey. Pictured are (front, l to r) Dayna Birch of the RIT Tigers, SUNY Potsdam President Dr. John F. Schwaller, Monique Gagne of the Potsdam Bears, (back) former Women’s Hockey Associate Dan Hurley ’54, former Women’s Coach Brian Doran, Women’s Head Coach Jay Green, former Women’s Coach Bill Sloan and Athletic Director Jim Zalacca.

Student Spotlight

475 Students “Make a Difference” with 850 Volunteer Hours

Several SUNY Potsdam students made cards to cheer up children with terminal illnesses through the Make a Child Smile Program during the College’s incredibly successful Make a Difference Week.

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

When SUNY Potsdam and its students say they are committed to making a difference locally, regionally and nationally, they don’t mess around. Approximately 475 students contributed more than 850 hours – the equivalent of more than 35 days – of volunteer work during the College’s “Make a Difference Week.” The number of students volunteering this year showed an increase of more than 300 percent. Nearly 13 percent of the undergraduate student body took part in the endeavor. Dozens of organizations benefited from the students’ work,

including the Potsdam Neighborhood Center, St. Lawrence County NYSARC NEXUS Program, Potsdam Humane Society, Renewal House, CAVA, Make A Wish Foundation, American Cancer Society, Campus Rescue Squad, Make a Child Smile, Potsdam Chamber of Commerce’s Fright Night, Melissa’s Closet, Potsdam Village Clean Up and United Helpers. The students raised a total of $1,300, collected 50 pounds of food, donated more than 60 prom dresses and created 234 cards for terminally ill children and amassed more than 200 clothing items.

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news & notes

The Potsdam women’s soccer team set a school record after recording its 10th win and made their first post-season appearance in school history. They ultimately fell in the semifinal round to SUNYAC rival Brockport Golden Eagles. Lacey Malbeuf of Harrisville, NY, led the women’s soccer team in scoring with 12 goals and eight assists for 32 points.

Golf Finishes Second at ECAC Championship

www.potsdam.edu/ advance/giftplan As you plan your future, invest in Potsdam’s

The Bears had three players finish in the top 10. Benton Sullivan of Massena, NY, came in second with an overall score of 150. Teammates Shane Laurie of Canton, NY, and Brad Shippee of Corinth, NY, both finished in 10th place with a score of 158.

Club

SUNYAC Honors Two Volleyball Players The State University of New York Athletic Conference has chosen two SUNY Potsdam Volleyball players for 2008 honors. Senior outside hitter Sammie Pickering of Tupper Lake, NY, was named to the First Team, and freshman setter Courtney Falconer of Bayshore, NY, was named Rookie of the Year. Pickering finished the regular season with 473 kills and averaged 4.01 per game. She was named Player of the Week in early October for her play at the Hartwick Tournament, where she was named to the All-Tournament Team. Falconer led the team in assists with 914 and averaged 8.31 a game. The Lady Bears advanced to the SUNYAC tournament for the second straight year this season. Potsdam’s regular season record was 20-15 and 5-4 in the SUNYAC.

pickering

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The SUNY Potsdam men’s golf team continued its outstanding play in finishing second at the ECAC Upstate Championship, which was held at the Blue Heron Golf Club in Macedon, NY, in September. A total of nine teams competed in the event.

SulLivan

Freshman defense player Breanna Roy of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, was named to the ECAC West Women’s Hockey Honor Roll after having a hand on all three Potsdam goals in the Bears 3-1 victory over SUNY Oswego.

Malbeuf

Soccer Women Go to ECAC Semi-Finals

falconer

Planning your future?

Roy Named to ECAC West Hockey List

Roy

SPORTS

at SUNY Potsdam is committed to supporting the experience of student athletes by providing alumni, former athletes, businesses, friends and fans, the opportunity to support the Bears in their pursuit of excellence. Donations are dedicated to efforts such as:

Enhancing athletic facilities * Supplementing team equipment needs * Helping support special team trips * Providing technology upgrades

www.potsdam.edu/athletics/bearpride

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profile

’94

K r i s t a Fordham Potsdam

“Potsdam has a top-notch teacher education program, and there was no question as to where I would go.”

tony Brook, NY, is about as far away from Potsdam as you can get within New York state, both geographically and socio-economically. But after a visit to the campus, Krista Fordham ’94 fell in love with the friendly people, like so many other students who choose Potsdam. Now, after 14 years away and establishing an endowed scholarship, she is back at her alma mater as a “non-traditional” student and experiencing what the College has to offer its graduate students. Fordham earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature and then went on to work in the human resources field. “After working in a career in human resources at a great company, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming an elementary school teacher,” she said. “Potsdam has a top-notch teacher education program, and there was no question as to where I would go.” Being an adult student allows Fordham to have a different appreciation of the College. “I know if I have a question, the professors are very accessible, and they are always willing to help,” she said. “I’m sure this was true when I was an undergraduate, but I never took advantage of it.”

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

She still finds everyone very friendly, but the experience has been even more than she expected. “I have learned so much from the program and have created great professional contacts,” Fordham said. Because of the quality of education she received in her undergraduate days and her desire for others to have the same kind of enriching experiences and fun memories (she is particularly fond of her late-night study sessions with friends and the first snowball fight of the year), she created the Krista Fordham ’94 Scholarship in 2005. At the time it was created, Fordham was the youngest donor to endow a scholarship at SUNY Potsdam. The scholarship is awarded each year to a student in the Department of English and Communication who is in good academic standing and demonstrates financial need. “I was very fortunate to have parents who could, and were willing to, pay for my entire undergraduate degree. I know not many people are so lucky, and I wanted to be able to help some of these students achieve their dreams,” Fordham said. “This is also why I have recently increased the amount given for the scholarship.”

English literature major Timothy Shenk Jr. of Philadelphia, NY, was awarded the 2008 scholarship. “The Krista Fordham ’94 Scholarship has given me assurance and motivation that cannot be measured. Being chosen to be the recipient of your scholarship has brightened my present and future,” Shenk wrote to Fordham. “Your scholarship supports my dreams and gives me undeniable proof that effort and good intentions are rewarded.”

’62

San d y McNei l

Potsdam

profile

earning from excellent instructors. Disciplined study and practice. Full concentration. Preparation for fierce competition. Performance

anxiety. Sandra “Sandy” McNeil ’62 isn’t getting set to play her oboe on stage – she’s ready to burn some rubber in one of her five classic cars that she regularly races all over the country. While running a successful Long Island music business with partner and Potsdam alumnus Joseph Rosen ’62, McNeil decided she needed to find a hobby to keep the sometimes-overwhelming details of owning a company at bay. Her first choice was skiing. It was during this pastime she became friends with some people involved in racing. After an invite to come and crew for them, she knew it was something she wanted to do. “It was fun. The people were nice, and they were active,” she recalls. “In racing, you have to totally focus on what you are doing at that precise moment.” It’s now been more than 30 years since she first took the wheel of a Formula Ford car, and McNeil has now turned her interests to vintage race cars from the 1950s and 1960s, the type of cars in which she and her husband and crew chief, Jim, share an interest. While he is a fan of the mechanics and history of the cars, she is into the roar of the engine and shifting of gears when cruising in the driver’s seat. “I found a soul mate who loves vintage race cars, and I love them even more now because I know their history. They don’t just sit in a room. We can see them in motion and hear them. With my music background, hearing a car is as important as seeing it. Hearing the acceleration and engine is thrilling,” she said. McNeil currently owns five vintage race cars that she races regularly: a 1958 Cooper Monaco, 1960 Alfa Romeo SZ, 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, 1963 289 Cobra and 1963 Lotus 23. She loves them all and doesn’t play favorites. “Each one has its individual personality. I love them all. Even though they are different, each is special in its own way,” she said.

As a “fairly serious amateur,” she keeps specific notes about each of her performances, cars and racetracks, which span from Infineon Raceway in Sonoma Valley, CA, to Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, CT, and everywhere in between. The couple is even considering trying their luck on some speedways in Europe. The courses she races are for road racing; that is, they have many turns, elevation changes and straightaways. Depending on the particular track, McNeil can achieve speeds of more than 100 miles per hour but makes a substantial effort not to crash these historic cars. “The car is more important than winning the race.You are racing a significant piece of history,” she noted. McNeil plans to keep making waves in this traditionally men-dominated sport and using the lessons she learned at her alma mater and through her business venture to keep her sharp and grounded.

McNeil’s love of cars and the sport of racing has been chronicled in several

“House in the Hamptons” (June 1982), “Victory Lane” publications, including

(September 1990, October 2003 and

“The New York Times Magazine” (September 2002) and “Classic Motorsports” (January 2004). November 2008),

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profile

’54

No r m B ro o k s Potsdam

orm Brooks ’54 came to Potsdam after he had been deferred from Juilliard. He describes his first visit to Potsdam as being “25 degrees below zero, with 10-foot snow drifts” and thought, “This is God’s Country.” “During the short period of time I was there, I fell in love with the place,” he remembered. Brooks knows the education he received during his time at Potsdam helped him through many challenges in his professional and personal music career. During a visit to see Oberammergau’s Passion Play in 2000, he was called upon to spontaneously perform at Leopoldskron Palace in Salzburg, Austria. Brooks chose to perform de Falla’s “Ritual Fire Dance,” a piece he performed many times at Potsdam. While attending Columbia University Teachers College, Brooks had to take an entrance exam in which he was required to perform on the trumpet, clarinet and violin. Although he had not played the instruments in about 10 years, he memorized the music and performed perfectly. He attributes this to the fact that he was required to learn the instruments at Crane, a requirement that most music schools do not have. “Every time a crisis came up, I don’t care where I was or what I was doing, I could always refer back to The Crane School of Music,” Brooks said. Brooks made a career of passing along the knowledge he gained at Potsdam to new generations of students. As a music teacher, director of music, church choirmaster, accompanist at Carnegie Hall and later as a professor at Manhattanville College, Brooks brought the lessons of Crane to thousands of students. Now, in his retirement in Phoenix, AZ, he continues to reach new students through a four-week class titled “Music in Your Life,” in which he teaches music appreciation. In the 55 years since his graduation, Brooks has remained committed and connected to Potsdam. This connection comes not only from the wisdom he gained and

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009 POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

the way he has passed it on to his students, but also from two key events that have stood out and stayed with him all these years. The first was a performance of St. John’s Passion in which Helen Hosmer recruited Robert Shaw to perform with the Crane Chorus. To say that there was not a dry eye in the house at the end of the performance would be an understatement. The audience was so awestruck, they didn’t even applaud when the performance ended. “It was the most fantastic thing that ever happened in my life, people walked out in total silence,” Brooks said. Second, when he entered Potsdam, Brooks had 25 cents to his name and a mother who was making $2,900 a year with three children in college. To cover the cost of tuition not covered by a grant from his high school, he played dance hall gigs with fellow Crane students. When preparing to graduate, he could not afford to have his picture in the yearbook. His priority was getting his diploma because he knew that it was key to his future success.

As a result of his struggles and the joy he found in performing at Crane, Brooks has set up a provision in his will to have a portion of his estate left to The Crane School of Music. “I decided to give back to Potsdam because of the effect that it had on my life. Primarily to make sure that no one has the difficulties I had and to give them an incentive to stay in school. Out of all of the institutions I attended, Potsdam has always been the one that sticks out the most,” he said. Through the inclusion of the College in his will, Brooks has become a member of the Benjamin F. Raymond Society, which recognizes those who have named the College as a beneficiary in their will or other planned gift. If you believe you qualify for membership, or would like more information, please contact Jason Ladouceur in the Office of College Advancement at (315)267-2123 or giftplan@potsdam.edu

’76

Gre g G e e r Potsdam

profile

Geer’s legacy at Potsdam: • R eceived the 2007 St. Lawrence

Academy Medal in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of professional education

•J oined the School of Education’s Alumni Board, meeting semi-annually with teaching faculty and other education practitioners to share their perspectives on the future of education • I nvolved with the Neil and Marilyn Johnson Scholarship, honoring his coach and mentor

“

nce you are a wrestler, it never really leaves you. It becomes part of your psyche and a part of who you are.” For Greg Geer ’76, a wrestler since the seventh grade, wrestling and the lessons he learned throughout his involvement in athletics have helped shape his outlook on life and given him the tools for a successful career as a school superintendent in the Rochester, NY, area. Geer came to Potsdam to wrestle. He majored in history with the intention of being a teacher and a wrestling coach. Fortunately for Potsdam, but unfortunately for Geer, he wrestled alongside All-American and NCAA National Champion Tony Peraza ’76. Peraza and Geer were in the same weight class and spent their practices wrestling each other. Peraza’s talent often put him over Geer in the lineup. While most athletes would find this frustrating, Geer turned it into a positive. “Everyday I went to practice and wrestled with a National Champion. It really instilled in me the whole idea of perseverance and that sometimes things aren’t going to go your way,” he said. “Greg could have transferred and been a top wrestler at another institution,” former

Wrestling Coach Neil Johnson remembers. “But he stayed at Potsdam. Challenging Tony and getting into the lineup at any weight where his team needed him. Most young men would quit the program in such a situation.” Geer’s goal in life was never to be a professional wrestler; it was to be a teacher and a coach. Over the course of his career as an educator, he has accomplished these goals and attributes much of his success to what he learned at his Potsdam wrestling practices. “Not only did you learn from your coaches, but you learned from each other, and I learned a ton of wrestling at Potsdam. Later, I incorporated the lessons I learned into my coaching, and they have been passed down to kids who are learning from me,” he said. As superintendent, Geer cannot currently coach, but he is an approved volunteer coach for the Byron-Bergen wrestling team. “I go down a couple times a week and work with the kids. I work a lot with the younger kids who are just starting to learn the fundamentals. Every once in a while I will dust off my wrestling shoes and have a little fun. It’s a different way for the kids to see me.”

Wrestling wasn’t the only athletic influence Potsdam had on Geer’s life. He was also one of the founding members of the Potsdam lacrosse team in 1973. Beginning as a club sport, lacrosse became a varsity team by Geer’s senior year in 1976. “I am very proud of the legacy we left with lacrosse,” Greer noted. “I was the captain of the first varsity team, and I actually scored the first goal in Potsdam history.” After 30 years of teaching and coaching at the elementary and high school level, Geer is retiring in July and is hoping to transition to higher education. There is no doubt that he will apply the lessons he has learned from his coaches and teammates at Potsdam to teaching his future students.

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Schedule of Events Check in at Reunion Headquarters Barrington Student Union * Thursday 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. * Friday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. * Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Thursday, July 9

Noon - 2 p.m. Emeriti Picnic At the home of President John F. Schwaller and Mrs. Anne C. Schwaller. Alumni are also invited to attend. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. “Early Bird” Gathering 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wine Tasting Enjoy a relaxing evening sampling and learning about French wine.

Friday, July 10

8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Shane T. Shaul Fitness Center Open

8:30 a.m. - noon Visit The Arts in Canton Discover the North Country’s renowned artwork at the St. Lawrence County Historical Association - featuring an exhibit of Rushton canoes. Afterwards, head to TAUNY (Traditional Arts in Upstate New York) and view their Wall of Fame. 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Breakfast for SUNY Potsdam & Clarkson Couples 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Alumni Bears Welcome Tent and Maxcy Hall Tours 10:00 a.m. - noon Campus Walking Tour

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. North Country School Tales Experience the joy of our past’s one-room schoolhouses and marvel at the tremendous evolution of our North Country education system. Based on the book, Stepping Back in Time, by Judith Liscum ’62.

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. What’s New in Teacher Preparation Today 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Welcome Reception 5 p.m. Class of 1959 Dinner

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Planetarium Show

5 p.m. - 7 p.m. North Country Regional Juried Art Show Opening reception for local artists.

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. The Potsdam Seismic Network and Earthquakes in New York State Seminar

6:30 p.m. Potsdam Family Barbecue and Ice Cream Social

12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Playful Programming: An Introduction to Computer Programming through Simple Computer Games This session will demonstrate how to locate and use the FANG game engine to create a simple computer game from scratch. 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Estate and Will Planning Seminar Learn helpful tips for estate planning, how to best plan for the future and how to create a better will. 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Digital Photo Editing for Beginners This session will offer basic editing tips in Photoshop to make your photos really shine! Bring picture files and questions for this hands-on workshop. 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. The Archives behind the Scenes Take a look at the recent renovations and the “secret” basement archive. 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Class of 1959 Informal Gathering Bring along your memorabilia.

8 p.m. Class of 1984 Get-Together 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. Class of 1999 “Memories Live On” Party at McDuff’s, downtown Potsdam. 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. Double Axel Maxfields, downtown Potsdam.

Saturday, July 11

8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Shane T. Shaul Fitness Center Open 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Bear Walk/Run Annual alumni 5K walk/run and children’s 1-mile run. 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Bear Pride Challenge After the run, gather your team for fun and friendly mini-competitions, including an obstacle course, home run derby, and other events that promise to test your skills…and make you laugh!

Weekend Notes:

Courtesy of Dining Services, all emeriti are invited to attend any campus event for free!

9 a.m. School of Education Alumni Association Annual Meeting and Continental Breakfast Meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. “Meet at Minnie” The Class of 1959 will meet at Minerva Plaza for the class photo. 10 a.m. - noon Campus Walking Tour 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. 50-Year Club Reception All alumni from 1959 and earlier are invited. The Class of 1959 will be officially inducted into the 50-Year Club during a diploma ceremony led by President John F. Schwaller. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 50-Year Club Luncheon All members of the 50-Year Club are invited. 11 a.m. Wild Center Tour with Clarkson University Enjoy Tupper Lake’s Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks. Bus will pick up at 11 a.m. 11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Picnic Lunch at Lehman Park Noon Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon Noon Army ROTC Hall of Fame Induction & Barbecue Stop by the Army ROTC house (49 Elm St.) from 1200-1400 hours for burgers and hot dogs. 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Blast from the Past For those who remember Potsdam “beer blasts,” be sure to stop by. Bring along photos, posters or other memorabilia to share. 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Kayaking and Canoeing at Lehman Park Equipment available.

Child care is available for children of all ages on the Clarkson University campus. For more details, contact the Office of Alumni Relations, (315) 267-2120. Alumni are welcome to participate in any of the weekend’s events… 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. History of Teacher Preparation at SUNY Potsdam Enjoy this walk down memory lane…175 years of State Supported Teacher Education at SUNY Potsdam! 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Choral Reading Frances Coan Roberts ’64 will conduct the Mozart Requiem, accompanied by Hannah Gruber ’03, Asst. Prof. of Keyboard, Crane School of Music. Participants are encouraged to bring their own copies of music. 5 p.m. Class Dinner and Award Presentations Cocktails 5 p.m., Dinner 6 p.m., Awards 7 p.m. Tables will be reserved for your class. Note: Annual Alumni Association business will be conducted, including approval of 2009-2010 trustees and proposed amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws. 8 p.m. Bear Pride Reception Informal gathering for all our former Bears athletes, coaches, alumni, staff and fans. 8 p.m. -10 p.m. Wally Siebel’s All Star Big Band Dance the night away at La Casbah in downtown Potsdam!

Children are welcome at all events, but these are activities they will especially enjoy Athletic alumni are encouraged to celebrate 50 Years of SUNYAC at these activities These events celebrate 175 Years of Teacher Preparation at Potsdam

Ways you can register: • Mail form to Office of Alumni Relations SUNY Potsdam 44 Pierrepont Avenue Potsdam, NY 13676 • Register online at www.potsdam.edu/alumni • Fax form to (315) 267-3172

Please note: There will not be

10 p.m. - 2 a.m. Double Axel Maxfields, downtown Potsdam.

any additional registration brochures mailed to you.

Sunday, July 12

Questions?

9 a.m. - 11 a.m. – Farewell Breakfast

Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (315) 267-2120 or alumni@potsdam.edu.

175years of

Teacher Excellence at SUNY Potsdam

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

by Deborah Dudley

usual, Professor of Geology Dr. Robert Badger was facilitating a lively discussion in his Geology of Our National Parks course and wandering the classroom while students contributed ideas about the big bang theory and deconstructing the universe through geological evidence. The question of the number of planets in our solar system came up. Is it nine or is it eight? It all depends on how you classify Pluto. Somehow they were left with the question, “What do they teach kids in fifth grade these days?” Nobody knew. The class was left to ponder that unanswered question when… “It couldn’t have been more than two minutes later,” Badger explains, “because I wander around the room a lot and I was still in the same spot when Emily Green, a senior, chimed in, ‘They teach eight.’” When Dr. Badger asked her how she magically arrived at that answer, Green replied, “I just texted my fifth-grade cousin, and he asked his teacher. She said eight.”

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“NCATE is the most prestigious and most rigorous of the teacher accrediting bodies, and SUNY Potsdam was one of the first institutions in the state to earn it seven years ago,” Amoriell said. “It shows we have a commitment to preparing the finest educators for the region and the state.” All that may be true, but reflecting on 175 years of a program begs the question, how much has the

1816

St. Lawrence Academy founded

Conrad & hall

State Funded Teacher Education & First Teacher’s Diploma

Julia Crane established the first music teachers curriculum, Crane Normal Institue of Music, Inc.

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

1867

St. Lawrence Academy became State Normal School

He cited a number of issues that could be semester-long discussions in their own right: “Shifts away from meritocracy; change in a system from charity and reading & writing schools with emphasis on the Bible to more universal education philosophies; a more global impact and shifting demographics; the role of university education being more accessible (although at a price); a less

1916

The College’s National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) certification is one indication that SUNY Potsdam has been true to her roots.

“The teacher-student relationship amine the results of the response. is really at the core of any good “In some ways, classit gives students room,” more voice in the “They (teachers) need Dr. Hall classroom,” Dr. Hall remarked. to be scholars, actively said. “It gives every “I think a chance to inquisitive and modeling student primarily choose an answer; teachers it for their students. They however, it doesn’t have to allow them to craft an be role need to be great writers answer.” models in and love reading.” Is the technology so many now taking away a ways. vital part of the exercise of students They need to be scholars, actively composing the words themselves in inquisitive and modeling it for their own unique voices? Have they their students. They need to be lost a vital part of learning in the great writers and love reading. exchange? They have to be someone who doesn’t always have to tell but can “In the end, technology is part of the listen to children’s ideas and work teacher’s toolbox,” Dr. Hall said. “If with them and recognize them as individuals. Someone who models technologies start to interfere with the learning, then we have got to good citizenship. reconsider their usefulness and get back to the basics of the exchanges “One of the challenges today for between teacher and student.” teachers is to be up-to-date with technology. It changes faster than

1869

“One hundred and seventy-five years signifies a very long tradition of teacher education at this institution, and as a result, we are pretty good at it,” said Dr. William Amoriell ’68, dean of the School of Education and Professional Studies, “You know what they say, ‘practice makes perfect.’”

When considering pedagogical changes over the past 175 years, Dr. Dennis Conrad, associate professor of special education, has an entire laundry list of themes to consider, especially in relation to teaching to diversity. After all, he teaches “Diversity and Advocacy” and “Caribbean Studies.” Technology is at the top of the list as a tool to disseminate information and ideas. He also acknowledges the fact there are more women, both as students and as teaching professionals, and greater gender equity, including wages. “There was a time when women teachers were not allowed to work in inclement-weather months,” Dr. Conrad said.

1886

However you interpret the episode, this is one way to illustrate the difference in a classroom of today and one of 175 years ago, when the SUNY Potsdam (then St. Lawrence Academy) School of Education was officially supported by the State of New York with public funding, making it one of the nation’s oldest publicly funded teacher education programs.

classroom changed? Or has it really any school budget cycle,” Dr. Hall said. “Teachers changed at all? just started using PowerIn 1934, chalkboards and maps point and now they have were the technologies applied smart boards. In a way, the in the classroom to disseminate teachers are always being information. Today, it is smart pulled forward. The kids boards, clickers and, in some cases, are the ones who come mobile devices used with or within more technologically out the teacher’s permission, like savvy, and the teacher is in the case of Green and her cousin. playing catch-up.” As technology evolves and transOne example is clicker forms the features and tools in a technology, which allows classroom at a dizzying pace, Dr. each student to have a Lynn Hall, associate professor and remote in the classroom. chair of the Department of Literacy, The teacher can ask a believes there are certain aspects of question and provide teaching that remain the same rea multiple-choice selection of gardless of the number of centuries answers. Each student can respond or electronic devices involved. and the class can immediately ex-

1836

Some people who hear that story are appalled at the fact that both college student and fifth grader were text messaging each other during class. Others are amazed at the immediacy of information literally at our fingertips in the classroom.

Malcom MacVicar is the first president of the Normal School

100th Anniversary of Potsdam

2009

2002

Teacher preparation programs are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)

175-year anniversary of NYS funding for Teacher Education

NYS Teachers College at Potsdam established

authoritarian, more constructivist education; a greater concern for social justice; and the recognition that there is diversity in learning styles even within homogenous groups.” Even though Dr. Conrad can point to numerous ways classrooms have changed over the last 175 years, he notes that what is critical for SUNY Potsdam teacher education candidates is collaborative skills and relationship building. “It will be their positive responsiveness to learner differences and parent, student and inter-, intraprofessional collaboration,” he said. “Yes, literacy and technology will be key ingredients, but these are only means to an end of a more equitable society.”

cholar

So with 175 years of practice, how does SUNY Potsdam maintain excellence in teacher preparation? Dr. Hall believes we have to go back to the beginning. “I think you have to look at how our institution began. What makes us unique is that we have always held strong that the liberal arts, including the fine arts, make a strong educator and a strong teacher,” she said. “We’ve always known that teaching is an art. It is not a science. It incorporates all the facilities of knowledge. We work hard to incorporate all aspects of the campus to enrich the preparation of new teachers. This fosters an understanding of each individual’s diversity in learning that is timeless.”

2003

1998

Teacher Education Student Association founded

A thletes

1942

1948

State University of New York at Potsdam (SUNY Potsdam) established

School of Education becomes School of Education and Professional Studies

Name: Amy Sipher ’94 Major: Psychology Sport: Basketball 1992-1994 Kudos: All-SUNYAC, 1994 SUNYAC East Division Title, 2008 Hall of Fame Current residence: Queensbury, NY Occupation: A dmissions Advisor for Empire State College Current sports: A “cheerleader” for her two children as they participate in football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, gymnastics and swimming Favorite memory: Beating Buffalo State in triple overtime. Potsdam had never beaten them before. What sports taught her: Teamwork Name: Jodie Schoppmann ’06 Major: Music Education and Music Performance Sport: Cross Country, 2002-2006 Kudos: All-SUNYAC, All American, NCAA Woman of the Year, SUNYAC Dolores Bogard Award Current residence: Levittown, NY Occupation: M usic teacher in the Herricks School District Current sports: Coaching running and running on a team Favorite sports memory: Competing in nationals What sports taught her: Focus, attitude and organization Name: Antonio (Tony) Peraza ’76 Major: Biology Sport: Wrestling, 1973-1976 Kudos: All-American, 1976 NCAA National Champion in Division III, 1986 Hall of Fame Current residence: Shoreham, NY Occupation: Chemistry teacher in the Longwood School District Current sports: Head coach for Empire Men’s Open Team & wrestling in nationals (and winning in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005). Favorite Sports Memory: Winning the SUNYAC competition as a freshman and being named MVP and winning at nationals. What sports taught him: w w Perseverance w. p o t s d a m . e d u /p e o p l e 1 9

ACADEMICS VS. ATHLETICS: how the two go hand-in-hand By Deidre Kelly

cademic programs and athletics programs are often viewed as competing factors in the lives of students. What should come first? Students, parents, coaches and educators often have different opinions of how each combines to form a wellrounded individual.

“I’ve always seen coaching as just another class that I was assigned to teach,” Merna said. “A bonus is I had a class (gym) full of eager, motivated students who would be willing to do the extra things needed to give us a chance at success. Some, but not all, showed the same attitude in the classroom. Getting them to see the similar traits needed in both places has been a challenge and very rewarding when it works.”

William Merna ’70 believes the two can go Merna sees the value in education extendhand-in-hand rather than compete. There ing beyond just the classroom or court. are valuable lessons to be learned from Each has a place to teach life lessons that both. And he should know. Merna taught can be carried into one’s future. in the Ogdensburg City School District for 37 “From sports, I’ve learned years, retiring in July attention to detail is all“I’ve always seen 2008, and has been important,” Merna said. “The coaching as just coaching just as long. satisfaction realized from givHe was also a basketing your best effort makes the another class that I ball player for four years hard work and sacrifice worth while attending SUNY was assigned to teach.” it. It’s a great feeling knowing Potsdam as a history there are others you can rely major. To recognize the on and knowing that they feel impact he had – and still has – on his they can count on you. students and players, the Ogdensburg District recently named their gymnasium “In the classroom, I’ve learned not to asin honor of him. sume prior knowledge in your students,” he noted. “Repetition is essential to mastery; it’s essential to create a co-operative, trusting attitude to assist people in reaching their potential. A 100 percent success rate is not attainable. 20

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

You can’t get discouraged and become negative when things don’t work out.” Merna knows his four years at Potsdam and playing basketball under Dr. Lou LaGrand and Jerry Welsh and competing against top-notch players such as Buffalo State’s Randy Smith, who went on to a long NBA career and won an MVP award in the NBA All-Star game, have been influential in his life. “Getting an education that would prepare me to teach and coach has been the foundation of my life, and I thank all those at SUNY Potsdam that helped me along the way,” he said. Merna is part of SUNY Potsdam’s Sports Hall of Fame, as a 1987 inductee. He also was inducted into the New York State Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in March.

2009 is a year for milestones! S U N Y A C c e l e b r a t e s 5 0 Y e a r s o f S p o r t s e x c e l l e nc e

Five decades of athletic and academic excellence

t’s no secret that traveling to Potsdam in the winter can be quite an experience, and before the New York State Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NYSIAC) was formed in 1958 (which later was re-designated the State University of New York Athletic Conference – SUNYAC – in 1963), not many athletic teams wanted to play ball with Potsdam. Throughout the 1950s, collegiate athletic directors from a number of New York State institutions discussed the idea of forming an athletic conference. Originally, the league sought, among other things, to serve as a model for public school athletic organizations and to help strengthen the physical education programs of member institutions. By 1974-75, SUNYAC voted to focus on its role of providing a program of intercollegiate athletic competition among its member schools. The charter members in 1958 included Albany, Brockport, Buffalo State, Cortland, New Paltz, Oneonta, Oswego, Plattsburgh and Potsdam. The following year, Geneseo and Fredonia joined the league. Other eventual members included Binghamton (1973-74), SUNY Buffalo (1978-79) and SUNY Utica/Rome (1991-92), which is currently known as SUNYIT. Today, 10 institutions, excluding Albany, SUNY Buffalo, Binghamton, and SUNYIT, continue to compete in the SUNYAC. Former coach and faculty emeritus Dr. Neil R. Johnson recalls Sam Molnar, one of the founders of SUNYAC’s predecessor and former athletic director, saying, “We need

the conference more than they need us.” Before SUNYAC, it was very difficult to schedule games with other colleges because they didn’t want to make the long trip during the winter months. Dean of Student Affairs Emeritus Daniel Hurley ’54, a varsity baseball player, remembers playing Plattsburgh, Geneseo and Albany, but never Buffalo, New Paltz or Fredonia. Other private institutions that were close to Potsdam weren’t interested in playing the public teacher’s college. “Forming SUNYAC was an excellent move,” said Chip Hunter, former basketball coach. “It brought sanity to the program. Each athletic director didn’t have to try to organize their calendar by phone. There were meetings where they could go and thrash out the SUNYAC schedule.” One of the oldest small college conferences in the nation, SUNYAC embarks upon its sixth decade with the same commitment to athletic and academic excellence that has remained the league’s guiding light since its formation 50 years ago.

Money-Saving Service for SUNY Potsdam Alumni The Alumni Association is proud to continue an alumni program with Liberty Mutual. To learn more about alumni discounts on your auto, home or renters insurance, visit www.libertymutual.com/lm/potsdam or call 1-800-524-9400

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class

notes Wendy Feldstein, Sandy’s widow, and Bob Scheiwiller ’62 share a memory of walking the campus in 1962 with Sandy.

Do You Have a Ring Like This One? To the right is a photo of a Crane School of Music ring that was given to Mary Jebo Hannahs ’43, from her father Harold Jebo ’14, for Christmas during her freshman year at SUNY Potsdam in 1938. The ring is made of rose gold. The initials C.N.I.M are engraved on the inside of the band, which stand for Crane Normal Institute of Music. The ring includes a lair and a Crane bird engraved on the front of the ring. Hannahs gave the ring to her daughter, Katherine Hannahs Whipple, when she entered Crane in 1967. We do not know if there are other such rings in circulation. The College Archives had not been aware of a ring such until Hannahs shared this photo with the College. If you have a Crane ring resembling this one and/or a story to share, please contact Mona Ouimet Vroman ’85 at vromanmo@ potsdam.edu or write SUNY Potsdam, Office of College Advancement, Raymond Hall, 44 Pierrepont Ave., Potsdam, NY 13676.

1950s CLASS OF 1959 50TH REUNION IN 2009

Nan Armstrong Mancuso ’55 was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease nearly five years ago. Since July 2007, she has been a resident of a facility that specializes in caring for AD sufferers called “The Arbors.” Her husband, Chuck, reads items in Potsdam People to her, and many times this triggers thoughts about her days at Potsdam. You are invited to contact her at chasmanc@ earthlink.net or The Arbors of Bedford, 70 Hawthorne Drive, Bedford, NH 03110.

The New York State School Music Association has named SUNY Potsdam Professor and Dean Emeritus Robert Washburn ’49 its 2008 Distinguished Service 22 POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009 22 POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2007

Brooks..

Chahanovich...

CLASS OF 1969 40TH REUNION IN 2009

Harry Brooks ’68; his wife, Susan; and John Simons ’67 met for lunch at the Brooks’ home in Broadalbin, NY, in July.

1960s

1970s

CLASS OF 1964 45TH REUNION IN 2009

Mary Swinden Zanetti ’73 achieved National Board Certification in Adolescent and Young Adult Mathematics in December 2006. She currently is a Candidate Support Provider for teachers working toward National Board Certification. Zanetti published an article in National Conference of Teachers of Mathematics’ Mathematics Teacher in October 2008.

Marcia Heltzer Fenton ’61 returned to teach French in the private school classroom in West Orange, NJ, after an eight-year retirement from public secondary school. Fenton has been the recipient of several awards over the years, including the American Association of French Teachers Award, Governor’s Recognition Award for Outstanding Teaching, Foreign Language in New Jersey Award for outstanding contribution to teaching of foreign language, National Endowment for the Humanities grants for study, Geraldine Dodge Grant for study in Britanny and the District Teacher of the Year Award.

CLASS OF 1974 35TH REUNION IN 2009

A roundtable was held in September 2008 in memory of Saul “Sandy” Feldstein ‘62. The topic was where music business and music education merge.

U.S. Army Reserve Brigadier General Walter B. Chahanovich ’77 (l) and Colonel Thomas Palmatier ’75 pose for a photo at the Change of Command ceremony and concert for The U.S. Army Field Band, which was held at the University of Maryland in September 2007. Chahanovich is an Army Reserve officer and recently took command of the 78th Division (Training Support) in Edison, NJ. He is also a contracts and ethics attorney for the Army and works on Fort George G. Meade in Maryland. Donnalyn Eaton Shuster ’78 was published in the online edition of School Arts Magazine’s November 2008 edition. This magazine serves the needs of K-12 art educators internationally. The article “Everything Old Is New Again” can be accessed at www.schoolarts. com. CLASS OF 1979 30TH REUNION IN 2009

Lilley...

1940s

Award winner. He has dedicated more than 50 years of service in leadership and teaching to SUNY Potsdam, his alma mater. Pictured at the award ceremony are (from left) Beverly (Darnell) Washburn ’63, SUNY Potsdam President John F. Schwaller, Washburn, Crane Dean Alan Solomon and NYSMMA President Susan Weber.

FEldstein...

Ann Murray Scott ’29 recently celebrated her 100th birthday at SUNY Potsdam with family, friends and members of SUNY Potsdam’s School of Education. Scott’s great granddaughter, freshman Alexandria “Lexi” Reagan, is the fourth generation of Scott’s family to attend SUNY Potsdam for education. Together they chatted with SUNY Potsdam President Dr. John F. Schwaller.

Washburn...

SCOTT...

1920s

headquartered in Pulaski, NY. He is pictured here with Dr. Rob Badger (r), chair of the Department of Geology.

William D. Lilley ’74 recently made a presentation titled “So You Want to Be a Geologist” to geology students on campus, which included career advice as well as a discussion of professional ethics and practices. He is principal investigator and president of Ecoinvestigation, Inc.,

Michael Benedict ’79 has finished his new CD, The Next Phase, and it is now available. Keith Patterson ’79 received a Master of Divinity degree from Episcopal Divinity School on May 15, 2008. Patterson also was presented with the Massachusetts Bible Society Award for Excellence.

notes Hassenplug was recently quoted in The Wall Street Journal and numerous other major news organizations in Asia, Europe and the United States about trends in the pharmaceutical industry. Currently, Mark resides near Philadelphia, PA, and continues to travel internationally for his work at Ernst & Young.

The Oneida City Schools Music Department recently hosted their seventh annual Music Teacher’s Conference Day. This year, 65 music educators from the counties of Oneida, Madison, Chenango, Herkimer and Oswego were in attendance.

McCargar

The event was initiated in 2002 by Marjorie Bergdorf Hawthorne ’91, who teaches in the Oneida District and is the director of music. She is assisted in this work by her departmental colleagues Nicholas Anderalli ’92, Heather Pike O’Connell ’93, David Hawthorne ’91, Stephanie Fuller Gwilt ’00, Kathryn Kolarz Dimmel ’02, Melinda Feldmann ’06, Jeff Welcher ’78, Tim Watson ’80, Carol Buza, and Roselle Lynch.

James W. McCargar ’83 recently was named an associate vice president at BaldwinWallace College. In this position, he will help design and implement initiatives supporting the college’s Strategic Plan.

On this occasion, 27 of the 65 teachers participating were Crane School of Music alums. Pictured are (l to r) Anderalli, Joe Perotta, Mary Gurniak Hallatt ’87, Dr. McCoy, Anne Keefe Caton ’76, Shari Lavine O’Connor ’80 & ’85, Dimmel, Feldmann, Joel Servant ’08, Becki Wing Watson ’80 & ’86, Matthew Donaleski ’01, Gretchen Schlicht ’06, Kathy Asher ’01, Michael Fenton ’99 & ’01, Anthony Dangler, Greg Jerome ’04, Watson, Al Ripley ’73, Maryann Clarke House ’86, Robin Carruthers ’93, Margaret Kelsey ’78, Jacqueline Chereshnoski Hobbs ’00, Charity Besaw Dreier ’02 & ’04, O’Connell, Hawthorne, Welcher and Gwilt.

1980s

CLASS OF 1984 25TH REUNION IN 2009

Earlier this year, Mark B. Hassenplug ’83 joined Ernst & Young as a principal and assumed the role of Global Pharmaceutical Sector Markets Leader.

Coppola

Lisa Vroman ’79 (l) and her co-star Brad Little (center) chat with SUNY Potsdam President John F. Schwaller after the summer 2008 Glimmerglass Opera production of Kiss Me, Kate. To view Vroman’s upcoming performances, visit www. lisavroman.com.

Diana Zinnecker Nole ’87 created an endowment at SUNY Potsdam to establish The Diana Zinnecker Nole Internship Scholarship to encourage female students majoring in computer

science, mathematics or the sciences who wish to pursue off-campus internship opportunities that will enrich their educational experience. Nole is currently president of the Digital Capture Solutions Division of Carestream Health, Inc., a Onex affiliate. She is a board officer and vice chair of the not-for-profit agency Hillside Children’s Center in Rochester. She is a member of the Potsdam College Foundation, Inc. Board of Trustees, serving on the Development Committee. CLASS OF 1989 20TH REUNION IN 2009

1990s James S. Rizzo ’91 was made a partner at the law firm of Saunders Kahler, L.L.P., in January 2008. He has been an associate with the firm since June 2006 and was previously corporation counsel (2002-2006) and first assistant corporation counsel (1996-2002) for the city of Rome, NY.

DK brothers David Vroman ’83 (left) and John Panaro ’80 (right) attended Ron Kurtz’s ’80 surprise birthday party for a milestone celebration this summer in Syracuse. They are part of the same DK family line and enjoyed reminiscing about some of their SUNY Potsdam memories.

hassenplug

VROMAN...

Reneé Fleming ’81 was presented with the 2008 Opera News Award for Distinguished Achievement at the Grand Ballroom in The Plaza Hotel.

VROMAN...

This year’s keynote speaker was Crane Music Education faculty member Dr. Peter McCoy. Glen Grigel, Crane’s instrument technician, presented a technical session on the saxophone.

an Army lieutenant colonel in the Medical Service Corps after 26 years of service. Upon retirement, Coppola was presented the prestigious “2008 Army Medical Service Corps Mentor of the Year Award.” Coppola previously received this same award for the 2004-2005 academic year. He is one of only three faculty members in the 58-year history of the graduate school to receive the award twice. Coppola is now an associate professor and program director of Clinical Practice Management at the Texas Tech University Health Science Center.

nole

class

M. Nicholas Coppola ’87 retired in June 2008 as

F. Raymond Agnew ’80 was the keynote speaker for the Dr. Millard Harmon Student Leader Conference at SUNY Potsdam in August. He is currently vice president for philanthropy and community relations for the Glens Falls Hospital and executive vice president of the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation. Previously he was vice president for college advancement at SUNY Potsdam. Ray’s topic was “To Promise, To Fail, To Live, To Rejoice: Leadership as a Life Journey.” Pictured are (l to r) Potsdam President John F. Schwaller; Vice President for Student Affairs Chris Strong Hon. ’02; Agnew; Dr. Millard Harmon of Delmar, benefactor for the program; and Director of Student Involvement and Leadership Ruth Policella.

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CLASS OF 1994 15TH REUNION IN 2009

John Saint Amour ’94 started a group in Washington, D.C., called Arts United Washington that explores collaborative works among dance, theatre and music. It can be found at www. artsuniteddc.org. Maura McNamara ’94 is on sabbatical from the Saratoga Springs City School District, where she has been for 12 years, to pursue a master’s degree in traditional Irish music performance at the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland.

Society. His second book, Lincoln the Inventor, was recently published by SIU Press. Tina M. Heckman ’99 is now the principal of the General Brown JuniorSenior High School in Dexter, NY. She has worked for the district for the past 13 years.

2000s Jim Petercsak Hon. ’03, Crane distinguished teaching professor, presented two sessions at the NYSSMA Conference in Rochester, NY, in December.

CLASS OF 1999 10TH REUNION IN 2009

Jason Emerson’s ’99 first book, The Madness of Mary Lincoln (Southern Illinois University Press, September 2007), was named 2007 Book of the Year by the Illinois State Historical

Last year, a number of SUNY Potsdam theater alumni gathered at a special reunion in honor of Professor Emeritus Clayton Horan (pictured at center). Horan’s family and former students are working to raise funds in his honor to name the fitness center in a new retirement community being constructed in Canton, NY. The facility, part of the United Helpers organization, is slated for completion in the fall of 2009.

CLASS OF 2004 5TH REUNION IN 2009

Ryan Hunt ’04 recently redeployed for his second combat tour to Iraq, where he served as a military advisor to the Iraqi Army. In July, Hunt and his wife will be renewing their vows to celebrate their marriage and the successful completion of his second combat tour to Iraq. HUNT

Jeff Doctor ’95 recently joined the lobbying firm EOP Group as vice president. The firm, based in Washington, D.C., focuses on issues related to energy, the environment, the treasury and Native Americans. He and his wife, Allyson, live in Marvin, NC, with their daughter, Chloe.

Scott Bacon ’97 with his wife, Andrea, moved to Germany in 2003, where Scott worked for and served as marketing/sales manager, shop manager and quality end control, for an emerging international French horn maker. In 2006, they moved back to the United States and founded Siegfried’s Call, www.siegfriedscall.com, a business that focuses on importing high-performance brass instruments manufactured by master craftsmen in Germany. In the spring of 2008, the couple was proud to sponsor the reception after a Canadian Brass Concert during the Potsdam Brass Quintet Reunion Weekend.

Justin Hall ’06 started and developed the small animal care program at Jefferson-Lewis BOCES. Students learn basic animal care skills along with anatomy and parasitology.

Kim Peavey Hunter ’89 and husband, Frank, bought a 53-acre farm in Southwestern New Hampshire called Hillside Springs Farm in 2002, where they work with draft horses to provide organic vegetables to 60 local families through a Community Supported Agriculture program. In 2007, the farm received a $5,000 Small Business Development Grant from the National Association for the Self-Employed. Peavey and Hunter were subsequently chosen from 34 grant recipients nationwide to receive a $30,000 Award for Small Business Excellence and Community Contribution. The farm’s Web site is www.hillsidespringsfarm.com.

POTSDAM PEOPLE SPR I NG 2009

Kaitlyn Beachner ’08 took a new job in the sales department with an international company that is one of America’s top payroll services, Paychex, in Rochester, NY.

Stay in Touch! Your alumni association wants to know what you’ve been up to! Visit us at www.potsdam.edu/alumni

notes

Potsdam People

Marriages Richard A. DaBiere Jr. ’94 married Jennifer L. Smith on July 11, 2008. They reside in Tribes Hill, NY. Robert Stewart ’95 married Angela Smith in April 2006. They live in Fort Mill, SC. Scott Bacon ’97 married Andrea Sculco on July 3, 2005. They currently reside in Beacon, NY.

Potsdam People

Nora Maroun Akiki ’54, Nov. 19, 2008.

Elizabeth A. Majak ’82, July 2008.

Josie Chilton Treggett ’31, Aug. 17, 2008.

Orpha Jones Curry ’54, Nov. 14, 2007.

Jeane Lucille Beesley ’83, May 23, 2008.

Ida H. Degouffe Golden ’34, August 2008.

Ernie Tolman ’58, 2008.

Barbara Gokey Perkins ’84, May 6, 2008.

Memoriam

Janice F. Fraser Moore ’35, August 2008. Aileen E. Byrns Brown ’36, September 2008. Sarah E. Cooke Mack ’36, June 2008. Lucille H. Hewlett Segar ’37, August 2008. Ruth C. Marsh Todd ’38, July 16, 2008. Shirley W. Weigel Simmons ’40, June 12, 2008. Richard D. Sparks ’47, Aug. 20, 2008. Gladys A. Sunday Weidman ’49, May 25, 2008. Anna M. Vaccaro Whalen ’53, Aug. 26, 2008.

James J. Hopkins ’60, May 24, 2008. Robert Robarge ’61, July 2008. Linetta Miller Shumanski ’61, Oct. 5, 2008. Donald M. Morgan ’63, July 1, 2008.

William Cecil Knott ’87, English professor emeritus, Oct. 24, 2008. John R. Wisner ’87, June 4, 2008. Michael A. Marcoux ’90, Oct. 17, 2008. Michael Carroll ’93, 2008.

Linda A. Gregory Wagner ’69, May 7, 2008. Edward J. LaPointe ’71, July 18, 2008 Patricia A. McCaffrey Casper ’74, Jan. 8, 2008. Frances M. Dixson ’76, September 2008. Kathleen G. Guzior Hall ’78, April 30, 2008. John T. “J.T.” Smith ’79, June 12, 2008.

Chester Chotkowski, Potsdam stationary engineer, September 2008. Gerald M. Hess, Potsdam maintenance worker, July 2008. Max A. Wilcox, Potsdam general mechanic, September 2008.

Aaron Fuller ’97 married Sarah Ann Farney on May 31, 2008. They reside in Carthage, NY. Jennifer Tanzini ’97/’01 married Ron Ostrander Jr. on July 12, 2008. They currently reside in Endicott, NY.

Brianne Mandryck ’05 married Rodney J. Willson on June 30, 2008. They reside in Lee Center, NY. Laura Ramirez ’06 married Timothy Mann ’07. They currently reside in Bryan, TX. Brittany A. Leroux Barre ’07 and Ryan L. Matice married on Aug. 2, 2008. They reside in Gouverneur, NY. John Burmeister ’07 and Julie Taylor Burmeister ’07 were married on Aug. 16, 2008.

Pascalides...

Nantucket is a popular spot for SUNY Potsdam alumni to work during the summer. While vacationing there in August, the Vromans met up with a group of DK alumni working on the island for the summer. Pictured are (l to r) Mona Ouimet Vroman ’85, Tim Reinhardt ’08, David Vroman ’85, Tom Crawford ’05, Mike Hawkins ’08 and Andrew Mulvaney (Clarkson ’09).

Bethany A. Cunningham ’05 married Ryan H. Cunningham on July 19, 2008. They reside in Mount Laurel, NJ.

Mandryck...

class

Speros Pascalides ’02 and Justine Herman ’02 were married at Le Chambord in Hopewell Junction, NY, on June 15, 2008. Both work in the field of educational assessment. She is a project manager at Questar Assessment, Inc., and he works in research and development at Educational Testing Service as a statistical analyst. James D. Furgison ’03 married Shannon M. Thornhill ’03 on June 28, 2008. They reside in Alexandria Bay, NY. Megan Lianne White ’03 married Michael Macaulay on Aug. 11, 2008. Crystal A. Williams ’04 married Andrew J. Bruyere on May 31, 2008. They reside in Ogdensburg, NY. w w w. p o t s d a m . e d u /p e o p l e

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notes

Potsdam People

Bring Class to your Class – Donate Today!

Alex Herzog ’91 and his wife, Shawn, announced the birth of their second child, daughter Aubree Seneca, on May 7, 2007.

Remember all the things that you loved about Potsdam? Make them a possibility for future generations. Our gifts will help sculpt the memories of future Potsdam graduates. Whether or not you’re able to attend Reunion this summer, show your class pride by contributing to your class gift, presented in July! All gifts received by June 30 will count!

Lester

Births

Katie (Wahl) Lester ’95 and husband, Matthew, had a baby boy, Noah James, on July 14, 2008.

Tom Beeles ’94 and his wife, Stacy Roth Beeles ’96, welcomed their second child, Colton David, to the family on Aug. 27, 2008. He joins sister Leah, age 3.

Timothy Groth ’97 and Jennifer Rohner Groth ’99 celebrated the birth of their son, Timothy Charles Groth Jr., on Aug. 12, 2008.

DeVoe

Robert Stewart ’95 and wife, Angela, welcomed their first child, Ann Veigh Stewart, on June 4, 2007.

Groth

Beeles

Joseph Laquidara ’96 and wife, Rebecca Keech ’96, welcomed their second child, Lincoln Joseph, on Sept. 23, 2008.

Melissa Jones DeVoe ’01 and husband Denny welcomed their first child, Dylan John, on Oct. 18, 2007.

Reunion 2009 Class Committee Members are Thomas Aceto ’59, Patricia Dvorak ’59, Mary (Carr) Melkonian ’59, William Mercer ’59, Bob Duda ’69, Anne (Lackens) Guba ’69, Anita Mance ’69, William Thornton ’74, Scott Verity ’74, Peter Brouwer ’79, Phil Shatraw ’79, Haden Land ’84, Bill Edwards ’89, Rebecca (Cormier) Jeffreys ’89, Krista Fordham ’94, Jason Ladouceur ’94, Amy Kellogg ’99, Owen Herne ’99, and Lisa Manchester Herne ’99.

receive potsdam news online Alma Matters is SUNY Potsdam’s monthly electronic newsletter for alumni and friends. Visit www.potsdam.edu/ alum/newsletter to check it out! Potsdam People is online! Save money and trees by opting to receive this magazine electronically. E-mail alumni@potsdam.edu

Class Notes include those submissions received as of December 2008. Those received after that date will be included in the fall 2009 issue due June 30, 2009.

Katie Wahl Lester ’95 married Matthew Lester on April 14, 2007. They reside in New Rochelle, NY.

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alumni

opportunities

Calendar of Events For a complete listing of events and registration information, visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni New York City Chapter Alumni Gathering 3.23.09 TAI • New York, NY

CIS Alumni Board of Advisors Meeting 4.4.09 Potsdam, NY

SUNY Potsdam Job Fair for Students & Alumni

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School of Education Alumni Board of Advisors Meeting 4.18.09 Potsdam, NY

Potsdam Hits the Road...

Potsdam alumni events are held throughout the year, on and off campus. Allen Schoer ’71 and Ellen Hughey Reynolds ’76 supported an alumni gathering in New York City in March 2008. Schoer hosted the event at his business, TAI, while Reynolds provided sponsorship. SCHOER & HUG HEY-REYNOLDS

Washington, D.C. Chapter Alumni Happy Hour 4.24.09 O’Malley’s Sports Pub • Arlington, VA

Potsdam College Foundation Board Meeting Alumni Association Board of Trustees Meeting 5.2.09 Potsdam, NY

SUNY Potsdam Commencement Weekend 5.15-17.09 Potsdam, NY

Albany Chapter Hosts Double Axel May 29, 2009 Colonie, NY

Strawberry Picking in New England June 27, 2009 Weston, MA

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e Pre ership reStuden udents, rep om the lead nts. SGA Vic to benefit fr who spoke to participa ullen was one of 70 st was sponsored ’78 (right), lbin, NY, Danielle McMroups. The conference a from Broad articipating student g p . 3 3 g n ti n se i Association S P R I N G 2 0by 0 9the Alumn in part

Ordinary Days (musical)… at the Adirondack Theatre Festival June 27, 2009 Glens Falls, NY

Reunion Weekend 2009 7.9-12.09 Potsdam, NY

reunion

special

July 9-12

175 Years of Publicly Funded Teacher Preparation Join us for a weekend celebrating Potsdam’s leadership in this very important field. From the St. Lawrence Academy to today’s School of Education and Professional Studies, Potsdam still prepares the very best!

The Bears Are Back in Town! Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the SUNY Athletic Conference with an Athletic Reunion this summer! Contact your teammates and plan to meet in Potsdam for a weekend packed with events - many geared just for you and your family.

Summer Festival As you plan your visit, don’t forget all that downtown Potsdam has to offer during Reunion Weekend. From a craft fair and antique car show to sidewalk sales and live music each night, you’ll want to be sure and fit in a walk down memory lane… or should we say Market Street!

www.potsdam.edu/alumni w w w. p o t s d a m . e d u /p e o p l e

44 Pierrepont Avenue Potsdam, NY 13676 www.potsdam.edu/people

Congrats! Help us honor the deserving recipients of this year’s Alumni Association Awards, as well as the 2009 Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class. Join us in Potsdam this July as we honor these talented alumni and friends! Award Recipients: Helen M. Hosmer Excellence in Music Teaching Award: Toni (Grieco) Zygodlo ’73 Rising Star Award: Ohen Herne ’99 Honorary Lifetime Membership: Lawrence “Larry” Leashomb Galen Pletcher,Jane Russell Minerva Award: David Dik ’82, Haden Land ’84 Hall of Fame Inductees: Brian Austin ’01 (Men’s Lacrosse) Jack Bissetta ’79 (Men’s Basketball) Tom Carvotta ’77 (Men’s Swimming) Mike Spencer ’79 (Men’s Swimming)