As President Amy Storey sets a course for the future, growing stronger doesn’t necessarily mean getting bigger. PG. 10
AIMING HIGHER
Keuka College’s popular new Honors Program challenges high-performing students to challenge themselves.
KEUKA COLLEGE ALUMNI MAGAZINE
COLLEGE PRESIDENT
Amy Storey
PUBLISHER
Pete Bekisz ’12
Vice President for Enrollment
Management, Marketing, and Technology
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kevin Frisch
Director of Communications and Media Relations
MANAGING EDITOR
Tammy Swales
Associate Vice President for Marketing and Communications
ART DIRECTION
John Taney
Jared VanOuse
CONTRIBUTORS
Harley Carter ’17
Stuart Carmichael-Green ’16 M’20
Jimmy Habecker
Evan Williams
SMART START
Keuka College’s new Honors Program is boosting highachieving first-year students and drawing a lot of interest from new applicants.
LUNAR LEARNERS
The name of every Keuka College graduate will soon join Neil Armstrong’s footprints on the surface of the moon.
CHANGING LANES
VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT
Rich Basler, CAP®, CFRE
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE
PRESIDENT
C. Sechrist ’86
After 40 years with Corning, Inc. – a career that began with a Field Period® placement – Dawn Burrell ’86 has taken the wheel at Watkins Glen International. pg.
PICKLEBALL POWERHOUSE
Chris Patrick ’08 combines his passion for sports and his legal expertise to excel as deputy commissioner and general counsel of the Professional Pickleball Association.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Having surpassed the seven-year milestone of my tenure as Keuka College president, I’m struck by the incredible momentum we continue to build – both on campus and beyond. Our College is thriving, with new academic initiatives, sustained enrollment, and an ever-growing network of alumni making a difference in the world.
That progress is prevalent in this edition of Keuka College Magazine. You’ll read about students whose curiosity, drive, and heart impress and inspire. Their journeys, including those of our newest class, speak to the powerful sense of purpose that defines the Keuka College experience.
You’ll also learn how we’re building for the future. From academic innovation to new wellness initiatives, we remain focused on creating an environment that supports every aspect of student success. Whether it’s the launch of our dynamic new Honors Program, our deepening commitment to student health and wellbeing, or new partnerships like our agreement with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine for aspiring physicians, our aim is clear: to prepare students for meaningful, successful lives and careers.
This commitment extends beyond the classroom. Through service projects like The Wall That Heals, through studentathletes who lead both on and off the field, and through experiential learning opportunities like contributing to a first-of-its-kind academic college textbook, we are shaping citizens who understand the value of community, leadership, and resilience.
You’ll also meet alumni who embody those very values – leaders and change-makers influencing industries and lives across the nation. Their stories remind us that a Keuka College education doesn’t end at graduation; it’s a lifelong foundation for impact.
Also in this issue, we share Keuka College’s 2024 Annual Report, which provides financial information for the College’s 2023–24 fiscal year (July 1, 2023–June 30, 2024). You’ll note that the College once again finished the fiscal year with a surplus, the sixth straight year we’ve done so.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support continues to make everything we do possible. I am grateful to walk this path with you.
THE SHIP AND RIGHT-SIZING FOR THE FUTURE Righting
President Amy Storey has charted a course for student success and fiscal solvency since being named Keuka College’s leader. Her work has just begun.
President Amy Storey doesn’t know what challenges lie ahead for Keuka College; she only knows the College is ready for them.
That’s a big change from 2018, when she became the president of an institution she saw beset by fiscal peril, including annual budget deficits and an aging infrastructure.
“I was concerned that the College was heading into very serious financial distress,” she recalled. “So I’m happy that we acted early and decisively to make sure we were able to weather that storm. Now I’m able to focus more on the positive elements of our development. I’m thinking, ‘What’s next for Keuka College?’”
President Amy Storey’s leadership style has long been grounded in engagement, from one-on-one meetings with educational and public policy leaders to College-wide programs and special events. like the student-planned Wolf Madness.
THE BACK STORY WHY KEUKA COLLEGE’S WOLVES DON’T RUN IN A PACK
Kacey the Wolf celebrated his 10th birthday last year. The Keuka College mascot came into being in 2014 as part of a rebranding that saw the College’s athletic teams become the Wolves and the College itself adopt the catch-all moniker the Wolfpack.
Kacey has become a familiar presence, and the Wolves have cemented their place in Division III competition. But whatever happened to Wolfpack?
North Carolina State University happened.
The NCAA powerhouse also went by the nickname Wolfpack, and it was not inclined to share. In fact, the university threatened legal action if Keuka College didn’t do a Wolfpack backtrack.
The College attempted to negotiate, pointing out that it was unlikely anyone would confuse the 38,000-student behemoth in downtown Raleigh with a tiny private college tucked into the Finger Lakes. Nothing doing, said the deep-pocketed university.
“NC State may be willing to spend their monetary resources on legal challenges,” said then-College President Dr. Jorge Díaz-Herrera. “Keuka College is not.”
The “pack” was sent packing and Keuka College’s Wolves have enjoyed more than a decade of athletic and academic success.
GROWTH WITHOUT EXPANSION
President Storey’s vision for Keuka College’s future is not one of sprawling campuses or ballooning enrollment numbers. Instead, it centers on adaptability, relevance, and wellness.
“Growth for Keuka College doesn’t mean building buildings or expanding enrollment,” she explained. “It means changing so the academic programs we offer aren’t static – so we’re delivering an education that’s relevant for our students.”
This commitment to relevance has shaped one of the College’s most innovative initiatives: a focus on wellness. Born partly out of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative seeks to address not just physical health but also emotional well-being and community support.
“The pandemic taught us how important it is to prioritize our well-being,” President Storey said. “We want to give people the tools to live healthier, fuller lives.”
The wellness effort also reflects Keuka College’s strategic response to regional challenges, such as a shortage of healthcare professionals and an aging population. Rather than solely preparing students for traditional healthcare roles, the College aims to improve overall community wellness through education and outreach.
LEADERSHIP THROUGH LISTENING
President Storey’s leadership style is grounded in engagement. Whether it’s interacting with alumni, students, faculty, or local business leaders, she values diverse perspectives and thoughtful decision-making.
“The way we’ve operated over the last six years is by listening – really listening – and then acting cautiously but with urgency,” she said.
The results speak for themselves: At a time when financial shortfalls have forced several upstate New York colleges to close their doors, Keuka College has posted six straight budget surpluses and is nearing completion of an aggressive and long-overdue series of infrastructure improvements financed without any new debt.
President Storey acknowledges the ongoing challenges higher education faces, from declining enrollment due to demographic changes to an erosion of public
trust in institutions. But despite these pressures, she remains optimistic.
“I know that there are some people who question the value of a college degree,” she said. “I’m not one of them. I’m somebody who looks at the data and understands that your earning potential as somebody with a bachelor’s degree is significantly higher. A college education is the fastest, best way to make sure that you set yourself up for success.”
INSPIRING WOMEN LEADERS
Since women represent fewer than a third of college presidents, President Storey takes her position as a mentor and role model for young women seriously. She believes that representation in leadership matters and that it can inspire others to pursue ambitious goals.
“Women bring unique strengths to leadership, particularly in collaboration and resilience,” she said.
President Storey regularly engages with the College’s students, encouraging them to embrace their potential, build confidence, and prepare for leadership in their own fields.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see young people realize they can be a force for change in whatever they choose to do,” she added. “Our students need to see women in leadership roles. And they need to understand that, with hard work, they can accomplish whatever it is they set their hearts on.”
Her success in championing leadership opportunities for women was celebrated by the Greater Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, which named her a regional finalist for its 2025 ATHENA Award.
A PERSONAL CONNECTION TO WELLNESS
President Storey’s emphasis on wellness springs from a personal journey. April 2025 marked five years since she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her experience has reinforced her belief in the importance of equipping people with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives.
“The more information we can provide,” she said, “the better off we’ll all be.”
Balancing her demanding role with her own well-being has been a learning process.
“I love this Keuka College, and I was willing to burn myself to the ground to make it better,” she said. “But now I’m doing it in a way that also protects my health. That was a hard lesson to learn.”
THINKING BIG SMALL
As she looks to the future, President Storey is focused on ensuring that Keuka College remains resilient as higher education faces an uncertain landscape. That will mean continuing to embrace the College’s identity of being “small on purpose.”
“As we move forward, I’m focusing my attention on how we can operate as an organization with fewer residential students,” she said. “We’re more flexible than we were when I first took office.
We have online programs, adult programs, and graduate programs that won’t be subject to the same demographic cliff. But we still have to make sure that the educational experience of our residential students is robust and that we’re utilizing our footprint effectively. I think that’s the work of the next five years.”
‘‘
“I’m somebody whose life was transformed by education. I truly enjoy learning new things, and I think most people feel the same way. When we learn something new, it’s a great moment. There’s a reason we call it an ‘aha’ moment. It’s because people’s faces light up. I believe this country will return to valuing learning and the opportunities it provides.”
FOR US, IT’S PERSONAL
Keuka College’s small size and individualized attention attract the largest incoming class in years.
Katelyn “Kate” Sainsbury of Syracuse said it was the close-knit community.
Long Islander Karla Pabon was attracted by the Field Period® opportunities.
Khadeeja Reed, from the Rochester suburb of Webster, pointed to the small class sizes.
For members of the incoming Class of 2024, there were nearly as many reasons for attending Keuka College as there were students themselves.
Kate, Karla, and Khadeeja joined some 350 firstyear and transfer students last fall as part of Keuka College’s largest incoming class in recent memory.
The uptick in enrollment reflects the College’s myriad offerings – from a passionate, dedicated faculty to a world of experiential-learning opportunities to a picturesque lakeside campus.
“I chose to go to Keuka based on the smaller class sizes, the beautiful campus, and the great attitudes of the staff,” said Writing & Communication Arts and Visual Communication Design double major Christiana Curtis of Rensselaer, N.Y.
The surge in students comes at a time when many colleges and universities are struggling to maintain enrollment rates. Several upstate New York schools have even closed.
Unlike some of those schools, Keuka College is able to capitalize on its small size during the enrollment process by providing personalized attention and support. That was never more important than when a glitch in the rollout of the new Free Application for
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms last year delayed and, in many cases, threatened to derail student applications.
“The FAFSA process was difficult and took a huge amount of time,” said Criminology & Criminal Justice major Gianna Spartano of Marcy, N.Y. “But if I had any questions, I knew I could call Keuka. They were extremely helpful. It was awesome being able to contact people for help that actually answer the phone.”
“Keuka did a fantastic job of helping my family and me navigate FAFSA, scholarships, and financial aid,” agreed Kate, a Health Sciences major. “I was able to have meetings with the staff to help my family and me understand how to make Keuka affordable. Keuka was also the first college to send my financial aid package.”
Those financial aid packages are another big reason Keuka College continues to win over students. Every student receives financial assistance and, depending on academic achievement, scholarships over four years can top $100,000.
“Financial aid was a huge factor in my decision,” said Fiona Duffy, a Criminology & Criminal Justice major from Washingtonville, N.Y. “I had almost been expecting to pay $40,000 to $50,000 a year at most schools, but with Keuka, I was able to cut that down to less than half.”
The big, new incoming class spent a successful first year on campus, as the attributes that attracted them to Keuka Park are now supporting them.
“I feel like the possibilities are endless at Keuka College,” said Khadeeja, a Health Sciences major. “I’m excited for this new chapter in my life.”
Kyleigh Ulrich, from Grand Island, N.Y., an Occupational Therapy major, said she chose Keuka College because of how small and intimate it is: “I love that I won’t be just a number, but a name.”
Katelyn “Kate” Sainsbury of Syracuse, who’s studying Health Sciences, said it was the close-knit community feel that attracted her to Keuka College: “When I arrived on campus for the first time, I got the immediate feel of the connectivity on campus.”
“The Field Period Program was the deciding factor for me because it will give me an opportunity to explore my interests and get experience in my field before graduating.”
Health Sciences major Khadeeja Reed of Webster, N.Y., said the academic opportunities the College offers tipped the scales for her:
Gianna Spartano, a Criminology & Criminal Justice major from Marcy, N.Y., said there were several reasons for her decision to enroll: “I chose Keuka College because of the beautiful environment, opportunities, and positive atmosphere.”
HEALTHY CROWDS
• A Community Health Center: Plans are underway to develop a public-facing health center in Keuka Commons, providing access to essential health services while offering handson learning opportunities for students.
• Expanded campus access: Renovated lakeside apartments will be available for public use when the College is not in session.
It may have been the middle of summer, but Keuka College buzzed with the activity of a busy semester. Lecturers spoke to eager learners, small groups explored the campus, and the Geiser Dining Commons was alive with conversation.
The occasion? Keuka College’s inaugural Wellness Weekend at the Lake, a three-day celebration of healthy living that drew nearly 200 participants –many of whom left inspired by both the programming and the College itself.
“The mission and vision spoke to me,” said attendee Kristen Farrington of Victor, N.Y. “The aim is to equip you with new strategies to enhance your life. It’s not just about eating, it’s everything. … Plus, the campus and the setting are absolutely stunning.”
A VISION FOR REGIONAL WELLNESS
As Keuka College works to establish itself as a regional hub for wellness, Wellness Weekend is just one example of how the institution is embracing its natural resources to promote healthier lifestyles. From informative presentations to outdoor recreational opportunities, the initiative reflects a broader goal: to strengthen both community well-being and the College’s long-term sustainability.
“We’re facing an aging population and a shortage of healthcare professionals,” said Keuka College President Amy Storey “We can train only so many nurses each year, so our greatest opportunity to make an impact is by helping individuals stay out of the doctor’s office and the hospital. By defining wellness as broadly as possible and opening our campus to larger populations, we can influence the well-being of our entire region.”
INVESTING IN HEALTH AND WELLNESS
The College has already made significant investments to advance this mission, with several key initiatives taking shape:
• State-of-the-art nursing facilities: The soon-tobe-completed Primary Care/Health Assessment Suite in the College’s Nursing Lab features advanced medical equipment, made possible in part by anonymous donations honoring alumna Mary Ikeda Chin ’50 and Bing L. Chin
• New academic programs: The College has introduced a Master of Science in Leadership and an online/hybrid Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program, along with relaunching its RN to BSN program.
• Dedicated wellness space: An existing campus structure is being repurposed as a wellnessfocused event venue.
BENEFITS ABOUND
These initiatives will have a far-reaching impact:
Public wellness programs will support healthier communities while reinforcing healthy habits among students.
The Community Health Center will offer hands-on clinical experience for Nursing, Social Work, and Occupational Therapy students.
Making campus facilities available to the public ensures optimal use of resources including the College’s stunning lakefront and hiking trails.
Expanding wellness services could provide alternative uses for campus buildings as enrollment shifts.
“As the enrollment cliff approaches, we need to adapt,” said President Storey in reference to the steep drop in high school graduates due to lower birth rates that all colleges will soon face. “We don’t know what Keuka College is going to look like in five years, but if we are a smaller institution, we may use certain facilities for public wellness initiatives. It all depends on our future size.”
That flexibility is key to ensuring that Keuka College continues to thrive – both as a place of learning and as a regional leader in wellness.
WELLNESS WEEKEND TO RETURN IN JULY
Keuka College’s “Wellness Weekend at the Lake,” to be held July 11–13, 2025, will feature a diverse range of educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and interactive panel discussions that will instruct and inspire attendees seeking to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Chef AJ, left, was a big hit. She was assisted at her cooking demonstrations by Keuka College Assistant Director of Event Operations Michael Piccone.
The College’s inaugural Wellness Weekend event drew nearly 200 healthminded participants to campus.
HONORS PROGRAM
DOING THE HONORS!
Keuka College’s new Honors Program soars past expectations.
If Keuka College’s new Honors Program had a theme song, it might sound very much like the showstopper in the musical Wicked: “Popular! This program is pop-u-lar!”
“The most pressing question we had before the program started was, ‘Do you think you can get the enrollment you’re targeting?’” said Program Director Dr. Sekai Turner “Not only did we get it, we exceeded it.”
By a long shot!
The program, designed for high-achieving first-year students, launched in Fall 2024 with a target of no more than 20 students. Better-than-expected student interest prompted the College to expand openings to 30.
“It was exciting,” said Dr. Turner. “But everything we did was in preparation for 20 students. So we had to hustle.”
The “we” was the program’s on-campus advisory committee, and all that hustle paid off. The Honors Program students completed the first semester with a combined grade-point average of 3.75.
BEYOND ACADEMICS: A HOLISTIC EXPERIENCE
The Honors Program was designed not just to challenge high-performing students academically but to provide them with unique, enriching experiences. Specialized interdisciplinary courses are paired with panel discussions, mentor-mentee faculty lunches, and off-campus visits that expose students to professional and graduate school opportunities.
One such visit took students to Cornell University, where they explored graduate programs and career pathways tailored to their interests.
Some questioned whether first-year students should be thinking about graduate school so soon. But Dr. Turner knew better.
“These were students who applied to an honors program and in those application essays, many of them talked about their four-, five-, and six-year plans,” she said. “They already know it’s part of their future.”
That visit proved particularly inspiring when students met Keuka College alumna Aliyah N. Brewer ’23, a second-year doctoral student in Cornell’s Graduate Field of Plant Breeding. Aliyah shared her journey –from a financially challenged undergrad to an Ivy League doctoral candidate – and how Keuka College played a pivotal role in her success.
“I knew I could do it,” she told students, “because I had people at Keuka College who showed me I could do it. ... Now I want to be that person for you.”
At the end of her presentation, Aliyah put up a final slide with her email and phone number, telling students, “Contact me anytime.”
BUILDING A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY
Connections like these are what make the Honors Program special, said Kyleigh Ulrich an Occupational Therapy major from the Buffalo area.
“The College is already small, so you build close relationships with professors,” she said. “But the extra connections you get with the Honors Program? They’re just over the top. Amazing. I love it so much!”
That sense of community is strengthened by the program’s Living Learning Community, where most Honors students reside together on the third floor of
Saunders Hall. The setup fosters strong friendships and collaborative learning, making their academic journey even more rewarding.
“The students are very passionate,” said Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy Dr. Beth Jordan, one of the program mentors. “I’ve seen growth in them already in terms of competence levels, leadership skills, and advocating for themselves.”
Speaking of growth, with nearly 90 applications submitted for just 30 spots in the 2025–26 cohort, the Honors Program is poised for another recordbreaking year.
Kyleigh and her fellow first-year Honors students are ready to welcome the next class.
“I’m looking forward to it,” she said. “I’m very excited for the program!”
Keuka College’s Honors Program is overseen by an on-campus advisory committee:
Keely Cutts Registrar
Sharon Dawes Associate Director of Enrollment Operations
Dr. Dominique Derminio Assistant Professor of Biology
Erica Doherty
Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Laura Dulski
Assistant Dean of Student Life
Carrie Kehoe
Assistant Professor of Visual Communication Design
Dr. Heather Maldonado
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dr. Elizabeth Russo
Professor of Nursing/ Program Director
Dr. Malia Spofford Xavier Associate Provost/ Professor of Spanish and International Studies
Dr. Sekai Turner Honors Program Director/ Associate Professor of Social Work
AROUND CAMPUS
LIFTOFF!
The names of more than 17,000 Keuka College alumni are on their way to the moon.
HEALING HANDS
Keuka College students help install an emotional monument to Vietnam War veterans.
COMMENCEMENT
More than 350 graduates walked the stage during the biggest day on the College calendar.
NEW FACES
The College’s faculty and administration have welcomed a number of new members.
FACULTY FOCUS
Whether presenting at conferences or publishing professional articles, Keuka College’s faculty thrive.
PARTNERSHIPS
The fire pit at Point Neamo is just one of many unique offerings that Keuka College students enjoy around campus.
FIRST LADIES FIRST Keuka College students help shape a first-of-itskind academic textbook.
The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine welcomes Keuka College’s pre-med students.
AROUND CAMPUS
The names of more than 17,000 Keuka College graduates are on their way to the lunar surface.
Thanks to an anonymous donor, Keuka College secured a small sliver of payload aboard Astrobotic Technology’s Griffin Mission 1 – a spacecraft bound for the moon.
Alongside scientific payloads from NASA and the European Space Agency, there’s just enough room for a list of the College’s 17,000-plus alumni, along with a greeting from College President Amy Storey, to any human or extraterrestrial explorer who might find it: That greeting reads:
“In 1890, Keuka College was founded to bring strength to our nation and help to humanity through innovative and experiential learning guided by the liberal arts tradition. Today, we honor the soaring aspirations and achievements of our alumni, whose names are recorded here, and whose legacies continue to inspire new generations of scholars and global citizens to set their sights ever higher.”
The planned landing site, near the moon’s south pole, is an unexplored frontier, and scientists think there might be pure ice hidden within its shadowed craters. That could make it an ideal site for a future lunar base powered by solar energy. For the time being, it will serve as the site of a miniature time capsule preserving Keuka College’s alumni rolls and select other cultural artifacts from Earth.
“We’re thrilled to have the support of Keuka College and the broader academic community in this historic mission to help push the boundaries of exploration,” said Alivia Chapla, Astrobotic’s director of Marketing and Communications. “Griffin Mission 1 isn’t just about reaching the moon – it’s about inspiring people to dream bigger and go farther.”
The Griffin spacecraft is due for launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida, later this year.
HEALING HANDS
Keuka College HEOP Students Help Bring Vietnam Memorial to Life
Keuka College’s Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) students played a vital role in the installation of The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, in Penn Yan. The wall, which includes more than 58,000 names of fallen service members, brought history and emotion to life for these students.
“It was definitely hard work, but I liked that everyone came together to help,” said Lexoni Russo a first-year Nursing major. Lexoni joined 20 HEOP students and mentors alongside community volunteers to transform Penn Yan Fireman’s Field into a temporary memorial.
For many, the project was deeply personal. Early Childhood Education major Bri Wickline reflected on her grandfathers’ service in Vietnam. Drew Williams a Criminology & Criminal Justice major, gained new insight into the war through stories shared by local Vietnam veteran Herbie Snyder.
First-year Biology major Madalynn LeClair experienced an emotional connection while carrying a panel bearing the name of PFC William George LeClair, a relative killed in combat in 1969.
“It was a really emotional thing, but also empowering to help others through this process,” she said.
The students’ involvement extended beyond physical labor, providing opportunities to learn Vietnam-era history and connect with veterans. “It’s not just about healing the veterans,” Snyder said. “It’s about healing everyone.”
HEOP students’ work with the memorial is part of a broader summer program that includes academic and community-focused activities. The program strengthens their connection to history, one another, and the community.
Keuka College’s HEOP students did some heavy lifting in helping to install a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
KEUKA COLLEGE CELEBRATES RESILIENCE AND CONNECTION AT 115TH COMMENCEMENT
Keuka College’s 115th Commencement on May 18, 2024, celebrated the resilience of more than 350 graduates who began their educational journey during the pandemic.
Student speakers Emily Remillard ’24 and Rosabella Venera Francis ’24 reflected on overcoming challenges through the connections and support they found at the College. President Amy Storey encouraged graduates to continue building meaningful relationships and reminded them of the College’s enduring support.
The ceremony honored longtime trustee Donald Wertman with the College’s highest honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, and recognized Nicole Lindsay a DRIVE program Award of Higher Education recipient.
Cheered on by 2,000 family members and friends, the Class of 2024 marked a milestone of perseverance and unity.
KEUKA COLLEGE, LECOM TEAM UP FOR EARLY MEDICAL
SCHOOL ADMISSION
The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Joins Keuka College’s Growing List of Partner Programs
Keuka College has partnered with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) to create an early acceptance program for aspiring healthcare professionals. The agreement allows students to secure a spot in one of LECOM’s prestigious medical programs while completing their undergraduate studies.
“This partnership solidifies our students’ educational paths with one of the premier medical schools in the country,” said Keuka College President Amy Storey. “The result will be more well-trained medical professionals in a region where healthcare needs are underserved.”
LECOM offers degrees in Osteopathic Medicine, Podiatric Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dental Medicine. Students in the program gain early access to clinical experiences and can bypass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) if they meet academic standards.
LECOM joins a list of some dozen partner colleges and universities, through which Keuka College students streamline their educations.
Dr. Michael Greger, a New York Times bestselling author and renowned nutrition expert, delivered Keuka College’s 34th annual Carl and Fanny Fribolin Lecture. Speaking to an audience of 500, he discussed strategies to slow aging and improve longevity through plant-based diets, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Highlighting findings from his book How Not to Age Dr. Greger emphasized that genetics account for only 25% of lifespan variability, leaving lifestyle as a key factor. His visit aligns with the College’s wellness initiatives, which promote healthier communities through wellness education and programming.
hat started as a student-led initiative has grown into a cherished tradition. Keuka College and the Yates County Chamber of Commerce passed a milestone in spring 2024, marking the 25th anniversary of Celebrate Service… Celebrate Yates (CSCY), a communitywide day of service dedicated to strengthening the bonds between the College and its neighbors.
Since its inception, CSCY has embodied the spirit of volunteerism, with students, faculty, staff, and local residents coming together to support nonprofits, parks, churches, and other organizations. The
milestone event saw nearly 200 volunteers of all ages participating at work sites, engaging in activities such as painting, planting, and trail maintenance.
“Thank you for being here today and for your service to this important event,” Keuka College President Amy Storey told volunteers during the kickoff ceremony.
“It’s a significant milestone that celebrates our ongoing commitment to serving and improving the local community,” added Kathy Waye Keuka College’s director of Field Period® Program.
NEW FACES
The following are either new to the Keuka College administration and faculty, or are occupying new roles:
ADMINISTRATION FACULTY
DR. HEATHER MALDONADO
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
DR. ELIZABETH LAMBERT
Vice President for Student Development
BRIAN McDONALD
Vice President for Finance and Administration
RICH BASLER
Vice President for Advancement
JONATHAN ARCHEY
Associate Vice President for Advancement
ANNIE STULL, ’20 M’22
Chief of Staff to the President
KEELY CUTTS
Registrar
DR. GABRIE’L ATCHISON
Coordinator of Community and Belonging
DR. GORDON BROWN
Assistant Professor of Adolescent Education
JESSICA CHAPMAN ’18 M’19
Instructor of Occupational Therapy and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
LAURA COPLAI
Visiting Assistant Professor of Business Administration
DR. ANNMARIE FLANAGAN ’85
Assistant Professor of Nursing
JANICE GAUB
Visiting Assistant Professor of Marketing
ONALEE HENDRICKSON
Instructor of Nursing and Nursing Simulation Lab Coordinator
TRACY LEET
Assistant Professor of Social Work
JENNIFER WARD-SHULTZ
Visiting Assistant Professor of ASL-English Interpreting
KFACULTY FOCUS
euka College’s faculty aren’t just expert educators, they’re lifelong learners who contribute to their areas of expertise with enthusiasm and distinction. They’re able to bring real-world experience into their classrooms because they engage in academic excellence at the highest levels. Below are just a few of the achievements amassed by Keuka College faculty members in the past year:
Several Keuka College faculty members, joined by members of the staff, presented a symposium titled “Place, Peace, and Keuka College” during the Intercultural Competency Conference hosted by the University of Arizona. This virtual event featured five different papers prepared and presented by faculty and staff, including Dr. Malia Spofford Xavier, Eric Detar, Tim White, Kathy Waye, and Steve Kapica.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Heather Maldonado, Associate Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Carol Lugg, and Assistant Director of Academic Success Initiatives Angie Champagne M’20 published an article, “Changing institutional culture to change student outcomes: Grant funding, change management, and student success at small institutions,” on the Wiley Online Library System.
The following faculty members completed the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) Effective Teaching Practice Framework Course, which is designed to help educators improve their teaching and elevate student success:
Catherine Agar
Dr. Kristen Bacon
Dr. Michele Bennett ’05 M’06
Denise Chambers
Dr. Dominique Derminio ’11
Dr. Andrew Geragotelis
Dr. William Hopkins
Dr. Beth Jordan
Megan Lawson-Clark
Gylla MacGregor
Cathy Reed
Mike Smith
Craig Stevenson
Dr. Susan Strickland
Dr. Sekai Turner
Vice President for Student Development Dr. Liz Lambert and Associate Provost Dr. Malia Spofford Xavier were among 19 national educators recognized as Higher Education Data Sharing (HEDS) Consortium’s Student Success Champions of 2025 for successfully applying the HEDS to develop a Second Year Experience program at Keuka College.
Professor of History Dr. Christopher Leahy’s book chapter “The President without a Party: John Tyler’s Address upon Assuming the Office of President of the United States,” was published in My Fellow Americans: Presidents and Their Inaugural Addresses, edited by Yuvraj Singh. (New York: Oxford University Press).
Assistant Professor of Visual Communication Design Carrie Kehoe’s art piece “Self Reflected, 01” was accepted into two juried art shows: 69th RochesterFinger Lakes Exhibition, Memorial Art Gallery, Rochester, NY and Small Works Juried Show, Main Street Arts Gallery, Clifton Springs, NY.
Professor of English Jennie Joiner gave two presentations at the Faulkner & Yoknapatawpha Conference: Anniversaries in Oxford, Miss.: “Teaching and Learning Faulkner in the Digital Age” with Johannes Burgers and Erin Penner, and “Teaching Faulkner” with Brian McDonald.
Dr. Tiffany Coyle, Dr. Klaudia Lorinczova, and Dr. Kara Roop-Miheretu presented It takes a village: Shifting learning from a college classroom to a publicschool classroom at the New York State Association of Teacher Educators & New York State Association of Colleges for Teacher Education Annual Conference in Saratoga Springs, NY.
AROUND CAMPUS
A KEUKA COLLEGE FIRST: STUDENTS HELP SHAPE HISTORIC FIRST LADIES TEXTBOOK
Acollege textbook devoted exclusively to U.S. first ladies is now available – and Keuka College students helped get it into classrooms.
The book, U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies, examines the societal, political, and diplomatic roles of first ladies throughout American history. It was co-authored by Anita B. McBride, former chief of staff to First Lady Laura Bush and a former Keuka College Fribolin lecturer.
Prior to publication, Keuka College Professor of History Dr. Christopher Leahy integrated a customized version of the book into his U.S. History to 1877 course, covering first ladies from 1789 to 1865. His students spent a week analyzing the text and its arguments.
“My students loved the book,” said Dr. Leahy. “They told me they had never learned about any of what was covered.”
Student HannahElise Morett said she found the experience eye-opening.
“The book helped me understand how women were important but not seen,” she said. “It was almost like they were the secret weapons.”
The textbook acknowledges Keuka College’s contributions, thanking Dr. Leahy’s class for their feedback. For HannahElise, the project underscored the need for more research on influential women.
“I think more works like this should be published,” she said.
ATHLETICS KEUKA COLLEGE
PERFORMANCE 360: A new program focuses on fitness, leadership, and mental well-being. DR. ARTHUR F. KIRK, JR. ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME Three new members grace the hall.
Veteran White House advisor Anita B. McBride got a little help from her friends at Keuka College in completing a book she co-wrote on U.S. first ladies and human rights. She’s shown visiting with students during a 2022 visit to the College.
TOPS IN THE NATION
Keuka College’s Softball Team Led the Nation in Combined GPA.
The Keuka College Softball team proved that its excellence extends far beyond the diamond, achieving the highest grade-point average among all 406 NCAA Division III teams in the country for the 2023–24 academic year.
The National Fastpitch Coaches Association announced that the Wolves earned a team GPA of 3.822, edging out Wheaton College of Massachusetts, which posted a 3.77. To add to this accomplishment, every player on the Keuka College roster received NFCA Scholar-Athlete honors, a distinction that highlights their academic prowess.
“This is an incredible honor and a testament to the hard work our student-athletes put in, not just on the
softball field but, more importantly, in the classroom,” said Head Coach Jamie Burke.
The team’s academic success is unparalleled within the Empire 8 Conference, where their 3.84 GPA during the spring semester was the highest of any team in any sport. Eight of the team’s 11 players earned Empire 8 President’s List honors for achieving a semester GPA of 3.75 or higher.
“Balancing the rigorous demands of being a studentathlete is no small feat,” said Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Jon Accardi M’09 “The success of this team is a shining example of what can be achieved with discipline, determination, and support.”
CLASS OF 2024 JOINS THE DR. ARTHUR F. KIRK, JR. ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
Three new members enter the hall.
Elevating Keuka College athletes beyond the game, a new program focuses on fitness, leadership, and mental well-being.
Keuka College’s Department of Athletics is piloting a dynamic new program to better prepare athletes to succeed both on and off the field.
Called Performance 360, the program prioritizes personal and mental well-being, physical fitness, and leadership skills to position student-athletes to excel in all aspects of their performance: physical, mental, and professional.
“Performance 360 is about more than just building stronger athletes,” said Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Jon Accardi M’09, who spearheaded the program. “We’re giving students the tools they need to perform at their best both on the field and long after they leave Keuka College.”
Assisting in guiding the program will be Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Ryan Johnson and Head Women’s Volleyball Coach and Leadership Programming Coordinator Rachel Fiser Ryan will use his expertise in physical conditioning and instilling healthy-living skills to cover the physical fitness aspect of the program. Rachel, who helps coordinate various leadership programs directed at developing well-rounded studentathletes and leaders, will oversee the program’s leadership aspects.
The final tenet of Performance 360 is personal and mental well-being. In this area, the College will build on existing – and considerable – resources:
All of the College’s coaches are certified in Mental Health First Aid.
A Health and Counseling Center on campus offers a variety of resources.
Keuka College has a Mental Health and Wellness Coordinator who hosts pop-in sessions and works with teams on how to manage the challenges of being a collegiate student-athlete while finding a balance between school, life, and sport.
Dr. Nicole Zahtilla Zell ’07 Women’s Volleyball
Jessica Bandrowski Smith ’14 Women’s Basketball and Women’s Soccer Austin Gerber ’15 Men’s Soccer
ALUMNI PROFILES
ALUMNI PROFILES
DRIVEN
The years Dawn Burlew ’86 spent at Keuka College paved the way for a lifetime of community service and leadership at Watkins Glen International.
Dawn Burlew’s journey to becoming the first woman president of Watkins Glen International is a story of commitment, passion, and a fullcircle moment that began at Keuka College.
The 1986 alumna is at the wheel of one of the most iconic racetracks in the country, overseeing everything from operations to ticketing, sales, and community partnerships. But her path to success can be traced back to an experience during her time at Keuka College – her first Field Period® internship, at Corning Inc.
“I lived on campus only one semester because I literally started at Corning in December,” she recalled, citing her Field Period in the technology company’s corporate communications department – which, ironically, worked with the racetrack. “Corning asked me to stay on and I said, ‘I can’t. I want my degree.’ And they said, ‘Fine, figure it out.’”
She did. It took a year’s worth of daily round trips between Keuka College, Corning, and her native Horseheads, but she kept the job and completed her Management degree.
“It was well worth it,” she said. “I learned a lot and had a lot of windshield miles.”
Forty years later, windshield miles are still a big part of her job, but they’re being racked up by professional drivers at the NASCAR-owned track while Dawn attends to just about everything else.
‘WATKINS GLEN IS FOR EVERYONE’
The Glen, as it is known, hosts a variety of activities in addition to the popular NASCAR Cup Series, Grand Prix Challenge, and other summer racing events. From April through November, the facility operates seven days a week, offering car shows, concerts, charity walks, a wine festival, and the popular Drive the Glen experience that invites fans to steer their own vehicle around the 3.45-mile Grand Prix circuit, accompanied by a WGI pace car.
“I want people to see that Watkins Glen is for everyone,” Dawn said.
Her leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in the values she developed at Keuka College: hard work,
adaptability, and perseverance. “One of the things Keuka taught me is that nothing is out of reach if you really put your mind to it,” she said.
DEEP ROOTS
Dawn has devoted her life to community in western New York – and Keuka College played a big part in her ability to do so.
“I actually live about a half a mile from where I grew up; I’ve stayed here my whole life,” she said. “And I’ll tell you the thing that kept me here – the reason I stayed – is because of my Field Period at Corning. By staying with Corning, I was able to stay in the area and just grow and be a contributor in the community. And that’s really what I wanted to do, is make a difference in my community.”
That includes the Keuka College community, where Dawn has taken on Field Period interns of her own over the years. Today, she works closely with fellow Keuka College alumna Mackenzie Peterson ’20, the events manager at Watkins Glen International.
Despite breaking barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Dawn said she has never felt out of place.
“At Corning, there were no lines,” she said. “It was about what you brought to the table. And in NASCAR, it’s the same.”
Of course, boundary-breaking isn’t new for Dawn. She’s more than 14 years into her role as the first woman supervisor of Erin, Chemung County.
With a passion for motorsports, a deep connection to her community, and a foundation built at Keuka College, Dawn is ready to steer Watkins Glen International into an exciting new era.
As she begins her second year leading the track, Dawn agreed her career has, in a way, come full circle since her Field Period.
“When I started my Field Period on the Corning communications team, we were supporting the track,” she said. “And now I’m sitting here. I could have never planned this.”
LEADING THE PICKLEBALL BOOM
As Deputy Commissioner and General Counsel of the Professional Pickleball Association, Chris oversees contracts, tournaments, players, sponsorships, HR, merchandising – the list goes on. The PPA also operates Pickleball Central, a leading online retailer for pickleball equipment, apparel, and accessories.
The association is growing just as fast as the sport itself.
“I was the 17th hire at the time I came on board,” Chris said of his March 2022 leap from managing partner of a sports law group to the PPA. “We now have over 250.”
Chris Patrick arrived at Keuka College in 2007 from his home in California with a clear vision for his future.
“My goal was to become a high school teacher and coach basketball,” said Chris, a Political Science and History major who played basketball for the Wolves.
But a transformative Field Period® internship with Penn Yan-based attorney Donald A. Schneider sent his career aspirations on a whole new trajectory.
“I thought I was going to hate it, but I absolutely loved it,” Chris recalled. “I loved the law.”
That discovery was the beginning of an impressive career. Now, 18 years and three college degrees later, the 2008 Keuka College graduate has combined his passion for sports and his legal expertise to excel in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports industries.
basketball during his time as a student at Keuka College.
That growth aligns with pickleball’s explosive popularity. The Sports and Fitness Industry Association reports a 158% increase in participation over the past three years, with an estimated 36.5 million Americans picking up pickleball paddles. The sport’s easy-to-learn rules and low physical impact have attracted pickleballers from ages 9 to 90. Chris himself discovered the sport in 2019 when a group of older enthusiasts had commandeered the basketball court he planned to use. Intrigued, he gave it a try – and was hooked.
Today, pickleball boasts national tours, big-money player contracts (some professionals earn in the seven figures), celebrity-attracting tournaments like November’s Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships in Dallas, and national TV coverage on NBC, CBS, and Fox.
“Pickleball is as fun to watch as it is to play,” Chris said.
Chris’s connection to the sport isn’t limited to his PPA duties. He’s the general manager of his own team, the Las Vegas Night Owls, and is a skilled player with multiple tournament trophies to his name.
His success stems from a combination of his legal acumen and lessons learned at Keuka College, where he served as an assistant coach for the Men’s Basketball team.
“Keuka College taught me about the importance of being well rounded, showing up, being ready, working in groups, researching a project,” he said. “And it provided great opportunities through Field Period.”
The impact Chris has made doesn’t surprise Donald Schnieder, the attorney who helped launch Chris’s legal career.
“He was very good,” Donald said of Chris’s internship. “He’s done very well and I’m very pleased for him. He deserves it.”
From curious courtside observer to center-stage mover and shaker in the world of pickleball, Chris Patrick has carved a unique path that blends his love of sports and law – a journey that began with a leap of faith during his time at Keuka College.
A PICKLEBALL PRIMER
Pickleball, for the uninitiated, is best described as a mix of tennis and Ping-Pong. Played either as singles or doubles, it takes place on a court the size of a badminton court, using solid paddles and a hard plastic ball. The game was invented in 1965 by three Seattle-area dads looking to entertain their kids during summer vacation.
Chris Patrick ’08 blends his passions to help shape the fastest-growing sport in America.
ALUMNI PROFILES
Chris Patrick played both tennis and
Photos courtesy of the Professional Pickleball Association.
PA
EAGLE RIVER, AK SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT
CORNING, NY
LIVERPOOL, NY
LAFAYETTE, NY
FARMINGTON, CT
ROCHESTER, NY WASHINGTON, DC
KC alums from across the country celebrate during a nationwide online reunion.
What do you call it when Keuka College alumni from around the country gather for regional get-togethers on the same day?
The KC Mega Meet-up – and the first one was held with participation from sea to shining sea.
“The idea for the Mega Meet-up originated with Sarah Richardson ’05, a member of the Alumni Association Executive Council,”
said Associate Director of Alumni Relations Laurie Adams ’83. “Sarah mentioned how cool it would be if alumni met up in different places all around the country on the same day. She even coined the name!” KC alums from all over the country checked in via the College’s Alumni Facebook page, sharing photos and memories. The event was so popular, a second virtual reunion is planned for this fall.
To join Keuka College’s 2025 Mega Meet-up, planned for October 18 and 19, contact alumni@keuka.edu.
They Do
Green & Gold Celebration Weekend isn’t the only joyful event that lures Keuka College alumni back to campus. Hundreds of graduates have returned over the years to exchange vows in the College’s spacious Norton Chapel. The popularity is such that The Atlantic magazine even profiled the College’s secret identity as a wedding destination a few years back.
“It’s such a beautiful place,” said Karen Pike-Roberts ’80 in recalling her campus wedding (just before Senior Week, which she used to honeymoon with her husband, George, in Cape Cod). Her bridesmaid (and roommate) Laurie Downie sang to the accompaniment of her fiancée, Mark, on piano. “It was a lovely event; a lovely memory.”
More recently, a pair of 1997 alums tied the knot after becoming reacquainted in recent years.
For
many Keuka College couples, Commencement isn’t the last big event celebrated on campus.
Antoine Hyman ’97 and Denise Bonney ’97 met in the fall of 1993 when they were both first-year students at Keuka College. They became good friends throughout their college years but took different paths upon graduation. Fast-forward 25 years and their paths again crossed.
“In this new chapter they were able to grow closer and realize how their friendship began to grow to a true love,” they wrote on their wedding website.
The result: A Norton Chapel wedding last August.
JOIN THE WEDDING MARCH
Keuka College and Norton Chapel have been the backdrop for matrimonial memories for some 60 years. If you or your family want to share in the experience, visit keuka.edu/weddings.
HYMAN-BONNEY
It was a wedding more than 30 years in the making as Political Science major Antoine Hyman and mathematics major Denise Bonney, 1997 Keuka College graduates who first met on campus in 1993, said their vows in Norton Chapel in August 2024.
Below are a few more wedding memories shared with the College via social media:
McCORMICK-MUSSAW
Another Keuka Wedding Post incoming! I was married at the chapel on July 12, 1980. I graduated in ’78, and two classmates, Colleen Colbert Saxton and Patty McCabe, were my bridesmaids. It was a beautiful summer day, a beautiful location, and Don and I are still going strong after all these years! –Connie McCormick Mussaw
CORRINE LOCKHART
People are sharing their wedding pics at Keuka College, so thought I’d share some of mine. I didn’t get married at the chapel but took my pictures on campus.
–Corrine Lockhart
PIKE-ROBERTS
Talk about a trip down memory lane! Your recent wedding photos made me want to look at mine again – married in Norton Chapel May 24, 1980, the Saturday before Senior Week, which I took for my honeymoon to Cape Cod! My bridesmaids were my roommate Laurie Downie, and dear friends Lois Decker and Colleen Schiedel, class of ’80, all of us. I am still good friends with all three, though don’t see them much these days, and our last reunion was canceled because of Covid. Laurie sang my songs, with her fiancé Mark playing piano – such a beautiful place, event, and memory. –Karen Pike-Roberts
2024 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AWARD WINNERS
Keuka College’s Alumni Association annually recognizes accomplished graduates. The recipients bring distinction to the College – and themselves – through outstanding personal and professional achievement.
During the College’s annual Green & Gold Celebration Weekend last September, four alumni were recognized for their commitment and dedication to their communities and their alma mater.
Professional Achievement Award: Dr. Daniel Riggs ’02
Daniel has made significant contributions to the field of environmental health science. His research focuses on understanding the impacts of environmental exposures on cardiovascular disease, particularly their connection to heart attacks. Daniel also is an active and supportive member of the Keuka College community, hosting Field Period® students, participating in class activities, and attending alumni and regional events.
Eleanor Judd Wilkes ’35 Service to Keuka Award: Dr. BettyLou Koffel ’74
A consistent supporter of the College since graduation, BettyLou has contributed to every notable College campaign and assists students by arranging Field Period
internships. Along with her husband, Philip Moyer, she established the Dr. BettyLou Koffel Film Series in 2022. She served for 15 years as a College trustee and is now a trustee emerita.
Effective Use of Retirement Award: Sue Ellen Bordwell ’67
Sue Ellen contributes to several community and advocacy initiatives, including housing mentorship for asylum seekers and co-facilitating a support group for local caretakers. Her commitment to social justice is evident through her work with the Maine Unitarian Universalist State Advocacy Network, where she helped create a statewide democracy advocacy team and played a pivotal role in promoting voter engagement.
Graduate of the Last Decade Award: Shadayvia Wallace ’15
Shadayvia has excelled as the inaugural Program Director of the MLK Scholarship and First-Generation Programs at Ithaca College. Through presentations, including at Keuka College, she focuses on the importance of mentorship, identity, and inclusion in education. Shadayvia participates in Keuka College activities, regional alumni events, and Field Period mentoring, and is an active member of the Alumni Association Executive Council.
RELIVE YOUR KEUKA COLLEGE DAYS
How long as has it been since you spent the night on Keuka College’s beautiful campus?
Now you can relive your college days by renting one of two campus buildings: the Allardice House and Allen House. Both have been remodeled as cozy residential spaces with kitchens, dining areas, on-site parking, AC, and numerous bedrooms (three in Allen House; five in the Alumni Center) – making them perfect for mini-reunions!
You can also rent rooms in our residence halls.
For information, contact the College’s Client & Conference Services office at: (315) 279-5289 or conferences@keuka.edu.
1950s
Carol Ann Patterson Boyles-Jernigan ’53 celebrated the publication of her third book, Flying High in the Sky It’s available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It is a story about Class of ’53 alumna Marie McGrath’s life as an airline stewardess on Pan Am Flight 7 and the crash that ended her life.
1960s
Sue Ellen Bordwell ’67 visited Kathy Sims Ginett ’67 in Pennsylvania in fall 2023.
Classmates Kathy Sims Ginett ’67, Joannie Lusink LeRoy ’67, Susan Sheffield ’67, and Susie Lusink Yarnall ’67 gathered at Kathy’s home as Joannie and Susie traveled to Florida.
Chris Allgeier ’69 and Debbie Bartell ’74 hold a mini-reunion every Wednesday for Bible class at the Delmar (N.Y.) Reformed Church. With no coordination, they both showed up recently in KC swag. And both were in their correct team colors!
Marja Persson Fahl ’67: gathered her entire family (three children, Axel, Ida, and Kerstin, with spouses Christian and Hedvig, and four grandsons, Elliot, Ludwig, Wilhelm, and Bo) together in her garden to celebrate her and her husband’s golden wedding anniversary in July.
1970s
Marguerite “Mic” Cahn Durbin ’74 continues to enjoy retirement and the opportunities to travel. All 11 members of her family took part in their first “all family” vacation and a trip to Israel with their church. Time spent with their five “grands” is a special blessing! They added Agnes in March 2024. Three more were due by the end of 2024. “We are blessed!” Mic says.
Deb Carstens Iglesias ’74 and her husband celebrated 50 years of marriage with a road trip to California. They visited the Old Sacramento Underground Tour, Sutter Creek, the Sequoia National Forest, Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, and Yosemite National Park. She said it was incredible!
Joanne LeMoyne DeLorm ’75 celebrated the recent arrival of her sixth grandchild. She was able to be present at the home water birth! There are now two granddaughters and four grandsons! Five of them live within two hours of Joanne! “So lucky,” she says.
Megann Whitbeck Robertson ’75 is currently president of FOBBAZ (Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Z), a rescue and rehab facility. She’s best friends with some cool animals like black bears, a grizzly group, some wolves, raccoons, and eagles. Her group provides support for the zoo in medical endeavors, public education, and fundraising.
Susan Rechteger-Craw ’77 and her wife, Laurie, left Las Vegas in May 2024 and moved to Gig Harbor, Wash. They have clear views of gorgeous sunrises over Puget Sound.
Dr. Carrie Klinge ’79 is one of more than 100 University of Louisville researchers who are among the top 2% most cited in the world, according to a list compiled by Stanford University and Elsevier. Carrie is a professor at the University of Louisville.
1980s
The Class of 1982 had an impromptu meeting on Wednesday, October 23, in Penn Yan. Pictured from left are Wendy “Tillie” Wheaton Means, Juliann Tucci Mason, MaryLouise Delio Bisig, and Barbara Webster.
1990s
Gloria Moore Dancause ’90 has signed on as an extra/ background with three film casting companies. Her IMDb page is Gloria J. Dancause. She also manages the family business, Dancause and Sons Inc. Heating and Air Conditioning, and sits on the Board of Trustees for the Ontario County Historical Museum.
Michelle Sheehan Keeler ’98 was awarded the Golden Apple Award for her dedication as a teacher at Hugh W. Gregg Elementary School in Corning, N.Y.
2000s
Melinda Scego Marquart ’02 was honored as a New York State Senate “Woman of Distinction.” She was sworn in as Seneca County’s first female undersheriff in early 2024.
Elizabeth Mance Duxbury ’03, DNP, RN, CNS, CCRN, ACNS-BC, joined the American Association of CriticalCare Nurses (AACN) as a Clinical Practice Specialist, Strategic Advocacy (Advocacy Specialist).
Heather Snow Kwitschau ’03 has been named a 2024 Top 25 Up-n-Coming ProAdvisor by Insightful Accountant, the leading news and information source written specifically for small business advisors. This list recognizes the leading emerging consultants who have embraced the ProAdvisor program and have leveraged it to serve their clients better and grow their own businesses. “I am grateful to be recognized this way,” said Heather. “My team and I love working with amazing nonprofits, and being recognized and awarded for this work by my esteemed peers in the accounting profession is especially meaningful.”
Kristen Harter ’04 received the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award on November 8 at the 38th Annual ATHENA Leadership Awards Dinner. Kristen is event coordinator at Nolan’s on Canandaigua Lake/ Canandaigua Country Club. The ATHENA Leadership Awards, first hosted in Canandaigua in 1985, have grown to be one of
Ontario County’s largest awards events. Nominees for ATHENA exemplify the highest level of professional excellence and exceptional leadership. (Photo courtesy of and with permission from Ontario County Chamber of Commerce.)
2010s
Dr. Matt Connell ’10 completed his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Instructional Design and Performance Technology at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kans. Dr. Connell also holds a master’s degree from Emporia State University and a bachelor’s degree from Keuka College. He currently serves as the director of the Instructional Design Center at Eastern Kentucky University, based in Richmond, Ky., while working remotely from his home in Larned, Kans.
Craig Pittinger ’10 received an award from the Florida Department of Health for their work and rescue efforts in the Volusia County Special Needs Shelter during Hurricane Ian.
Myra Appling Henry ’11 M’13 is the President and CEO of YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County and was chosen to represent Rochester at the White House in December 2023 to participate in “Communities in Action: Building a Better New York,” an initiative started by the Biden-Harris administration.
Sierra Lynch ’14 will complete her Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology in August 2024. She has already accepted a job as a staff psychologist on an inpatient unit at Capital District Psychiatric Center in Albany, N.Y.
2020s
Elizabeth Piedmont ’21 worked on developing large molecules that would stop or slow the formation of protein plaques that are associated with Alzheimer’s. She co-authored an article on her research that was published in a journal by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2024.
IN MEMORIAM
Former Women’s Field Hockey team members returned to campus for the first Keuka College Alumni Field Hockey Game on April 28.
Attendees included Rielly Albee ’21, Makaela Mills ’23, Lexi Appleby ’21, Emily Reynolds ’22, Shelby Lamb ’20 M’21, Laura Ramsey ’22 M’23, Skylar Gilmore, Alyssa Orsino ’19, Michaela Marrero ’21, Taylor Lessard ’20, Nicole Wilson ’21, Emily Stallone ’22, and Alysa Maddaleno DelVecchio ’20.
Former Men’s Lacrosse team members returned on October 26 to play in an alumni lacrosse game, meet with the current team, and attend a gathering at the Young Lion Brewing Company.
Attendees included Eric Saltrelli ’16, Matthew Mahalick ’17, Isaiah Nalls ’15, Kyle Ackart ’14, Derek Pfeiffer ’16, Gino Marcello ’12, Nick Judge ’14, Jake Hinshaw ’18, Robert Hill ’12, Kyle Andrake ’18, Brandon MacDonnell’23, Matt Jerman ’24, Justin Pecori ’08, Drew Kunda ’09, Christopher Sullivan ’09, and JJ Voigt ’16.
ALUMNI MARRIAGES
Lauren Esposito Gold ’15 shared a photo of her Keuka College family from her wedding in October 2023. Pictured are Jake Latini ’15, Jake Banas ’15 Lauren Esposito Gold ’15, Elizabeth Vinette Ferguson ’13 M’14 Justin Ferguson ’13 Zip Nguyen ’15 Brandon Jones ’15, Mackenzie Ellis Clark ’15, and Sini Ngobese ’15
“An extraordinary person.” – “A delightful woman.” – “A symbol of Keuka College.”
The tributes poured in from colleagues, classmates, and friends upon the announcement that Katherene “Kay” Tuttle Meisch ’58 passed away at age 87 on Aug. 1, 2024.
There are few members of the College community whose lives Kay didn’t touch in her six decades as an alumna, trustee, benefactor, and loyal supporter of the College.
“Anyone who knew Kay personally knows how passionate and dedicated she was to the causes she supported, and that included Keuka College,” said College President Amy Storey. “Her spirit was personally inspiring to me, as she was the personification of our shared values.”
Kay’s contributions to the College were many: She served on the Board of Trustees for nearly 30 years. She was also active on the College’s Ball Hall Campaign Cabinet, the Alumni Association Executive Council, the Keuka Fund National Committee,
and the President’s Circle Committee. In recent years, Kay was also honored by her peers to become a Trustee Emerita and earned a Doctor of Humane Letters – the College’s highest honor. She was also a recipient of the Eleanor Judd Wilkes ’35 Service to Keuka College Award and the Norton-Blyley Presidential Medallion.
Her interests extended well beyond the College campus, resulting in support for numerous organizations across the state dedicated to education, public service, and the arts. She and her husband, John, were also supportive of his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University, where they were honored together with honorary degrees in 2018.
“We are all so thankful for her guidance, efforts, and wisdom,” said Trustee Emerita Melissa Brown, who served with Kay on the Board of Trustees. “Keuka College has lost a tremendous friend.”
Emily Good Sansone ’17 M’18 married Joseph Sansone on Aug. 5, 2023, in Lockport, N.Y. Two really great friends from Keuka, Maria Sisto Gorman ’17 and Amanda Northrop ’17, stood by her side!
GEORGE W. HAMLIN IV | EMERITUS
TRUSTEE
Longtime banker and Trustee Emeritus George W. Hamlin IV passed away on Oct. 24, 2024, at the age of 83. A Vietnam veteran who flew more than 100 combat missions with the U.S. Air Force, Mr. Hamlin assumed leadership of Canandaigua National Bank & Trust Co. in 1979 and oversaw the institution for 45 years as president and CEO. He served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 1986 to 1995 and 1996 to 1999.
Ashley Knapp Fazio ’20 and her new husband, James, got married on Nov. 2, 2024, in Clifton Springs, N.Y., Surrounded by family and friends, they enjoyed a short ceremony with lots of dancing and love. Ashley said they are truly lucky to be enjoying such a time, as her husband’s father, Jim, underwent a kidney transplant a little more than two weeks before the ceremony but was able to attend under some safety restrictions. James and Ashley postponed their honeymoon in Orlando, Fla., and instead enjoyed a weekend getaway to Cleveland to see family.
Abigail Wood Rahrle ’20 M’21 recently got married and reunited with Madison Bell Cass ’21 M’22, Sophia Sheldon ’20 M’21 Jordin Shepard ’19, Olivia Krom ’21, Bethany Pendl ’20 M’21, and Sara Beresovoy ’21 M’22
WHO REPRESENTS YOU?
Keuka College’s Alumni Association helps graduates stay connected to the College and their former classmates. Its Executive Council represents alumni from different areas, while regional chapters bring together alums in specific areas. To see who your Alumni Association Executive Council representatives are, to learn about regional charters, or to start a new chapter, email alumni@keuka.edu.
ATTENTION ALUMNI!
Keuka College sends out updates and communications via email, so please be sure your contact information is up to date by logging on to the alumni page of the College’s website at keuka.edu/alumni. And be sure to watch our alumni events page on the website (keuka.edu/alumni/events) for announcements about alumni events throughout the year. If you’re interested in organizing an alumni event in your area, contact the Office of Advancement email address above.
JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP!
If you’re not part of the official Keuka College Alumni Facebook group, you’re missing out on loads of fun information and interactions. Catch up with old friends, make new ones, share updates and photos, and stay connected to your Keuka College Alumni family! Visit: www.facebook.com/groups/kcalumni
IN MEMORIAM
Jean Otto MacIntosh ’41, Nov. 3, 2024
Martha Henderson ’42, Jan. 3, 2024
Floris A. Lent ’43, April 30, 2024
*Marjorie Jennings Rice ’45, Aug. 5, 2022
Patricia Stainton Neer ’46, Jan. 4, 2023
*Marian Wilferth Hawn ’46, March 27, 2022
Ruth Gorham Richner ’46, June 8, 2024
Rosemarie Tubito ’47, Oct. 10, 2023
Coreen Pryor Hallenbeck ’47, Oct. 30, 2023
Gladys Frances Rogers ’48, Feb. 29, 2024
Eileen Edick McInture ’48, Feb. 21, 2024
Cynthia McMullen Fox ’49, 2023
Janice Mosher White ’51, Jan. 6, 2024
William Y. Au, honorary member of the Class of 1951, April 6, 2024
Audrey Askew ’51, April 23, 2024
Janice Adams Miller ’52, Feb. 23, 2024
Inez Brumm ’52, Dec. 18, 2024
Ruth Miller Babiy ’53, July 9, 2023
Joan Beauchamp Ward ’53, Dec. 9, 2023
Stephanie Dragon Kelly ’53, July 18, 2024
Jane Williams Divan ’53, Sept. 9, 2024
Joan Black Reading ’54, 2024
Alice Adams Sherman ’54, Aug. 8, 2024
Margaret J. Moonan ’54, Sept. 8, 2024
*Carolyn Schermerhorn Rogers ’55, Sept. 12, 2021
*Judith Hopper Rankin ’55, Dec. 10, 2021
Eleanor Powell Phelps ’55, April 16, 2023
Mary Jean Pelham ’55, July 1, 2024
Judith Kirkman Scanlon ’55, Oct. 26, 2024
*Brunhilde Wuester Payne ’56, 2021
Lois Ingram Johnston ’56, May 30, 2024
Janet Rowell ’57, March 22, 2023
Peggy Keddy Steward ’57, Sept. 7, 2023
Marilyn Jones Maleski ’57, April 14, 2024
Sally Blakelock Kuzmanov ’57, April 23, 2024
Katherene “Kay” Tuttle Meisch ’58, Trustee Emerita, Aug. 1, 2024
Audrey Bedford Holstein ’58, Aug. 29, 2024
Diane Caterina Miller ’59, Feb. 25, 2023
Sandra Smith Stevenson ’59, Dec. 10, 2023
Ruth Maine Kreckman ’59, Jan. 16, 2024
Sandra C. Truex ’60, April 9, 2024
Joanne Moerkirk Elyseev ’60, Dec. 3, 2024
Beverly Deci Young ’61, Feb. 2, 2023
Stephanie E. Yaworski ’61, Jan. 31, 2024
Lynne Humason Wood ’62, June 11, 2024
Polly Ann Arehart ’62, June 17, 2024
Carolyn Kroeger Pinther ’63, Aug. 24, 2023
Virginia deRonde Becher ’63, Oct. 24, 2023
Catherine Howell Kress ’64, Aug. 31, 2023
Patricia McCurdy King ’65, June 22, 2024
Donna Tillinghast Gibson ’65, July 4, 2024
Gloria Esteves ’66, April 19, 2023
Donna Houston Moseley ’66, Aug. 18, 2023
Linda Gardener Griffin ’66, July 1, 2024
Diane M. Williams ’66, July 18, 2024
Laura Wilder Brown ’67, Dec. 20, 2023
Barbara Boyle Shay ’67, July 15, 2024
Audrey Dixon Settle ’67, Sept. 25, 2024
Susan Taylor Bradshaw ’68, Sept. 14, 2023
Lois Breur Pritchard Krause ’68, March 24, 2024
Jeanne Lifson ’69, May 12, 2023
Cynthia Anno ’69, Jan. 19, 2024
Marilyn Sparke Cavers ’69, April 11, 2024
Margery Pask ’70, Oct. 3, 2023
Meg Pearson Dunn ’71, Dec. 10, 2023
Myna Kerber Howell ’71, Jan. 31, 2024
Carol Dodd ’72, July 15, 2023
*Patricia J. Gibson ’73, May 5, 2022
Janis Freeborn Ackerman ’73, March 4, 2024
Anne Bailey Emerson ’73, June 6, 2024
Carol Reed Kelsey ’74, Dec. 8, 2023
Karla Merrifield ’74, Dec. 7, 2024
Deborah Mabry-Strong ’75, Aug. 3, 2024
Claudia Denselbeck-Laskow ’76, Oct.13, 2024
Pamela Page ’77, Dec. 16, 2023
K'ythrn Williams Irons ’77, April 20, 2024
Barbara Ann Lewis Maher ’78, April 8, 2024
Melody Couch ’79, Oct. 8, 2023
Patricia F. Nelson ’81, Nov. 24, 2023
Suzanne Willson ’82, Jan. 4, 2024
Cherylanne Barton Gray ’83, Oct. 22, 2024
Michael Trombly ’90, Oct. 10, 2024
Karen L. Seymour ’92, 2023
Kathleen Watson Siglin ’94, Aug. 16, 2023
Kenneth Eveland ’03 M’08, June 7, 2023
Victoria Vaughn ’11 M’12, July 8, 2024
David Hull ’12, May 30, 2024
Courtney Nojeim Fannon ’16, March 8, 2024
Jenna K. Cooper ’21, Dec. 17, 2024
NON ALUMNI:
David Zelnick, husband of Trustee Emerita
Helen Zelnick ’51, May 18, 2023
Dr. Edgar E. Webber, Professor Emeritus, May 15, 2024
Beverly Mae Davison, Honorary degree recipient, May 23, 2024
Pamela Jennings, College employee, July 30, 2024
George Hamlin IV, Trustee Emeritus, Oct. 24, 2024
*Note: (*) indicates Keuka College Magazine learned about these alumni passings since previous publication.
ANNUAL REPORT
Keuka College’s 2023–24 Annual Report, which includes financial data from the 2023–24 fiscal year and in comparison with the three previous fiscal years.
These figures outline the exemplary work the College has done to maintain a strong financial position despite the challenges facing the higher education industry.
