Potsdam People - Spring 2016

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

Spring 2016 Vol. 10 | No. 2

P E O P L E

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Alumni Celebration

The Alumni Association was founded in 1873. This beautiful program from the reunion of 1894 celebrated the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Potsdam Normal School building. The structure pictured here was the first hall built after the St. Lawrence Academy was chosen to become a Normal School in 1866, and was demolished to make way for a larger facility (now Clarkson’s Snell Hall) in 1919.

Profiles

Dimitri Pittas ’99 Antonio Peraza ’76 The Professor Rutley Effect The Class of 1919

On the cover: Formerly known as Raymond Hall after the instution’s founder Benjamin F. Raymond, today Satterlee Hall and its clocktower are more than just bricks and mortar. Since 1952, SUNY Potsdam’s “old main” represents Potsdam like no other landmark, and has been the icon most loved on everything from memorabilia to social media.

Departments News & Notes Reunion Announcements Mini Reunions Class Notes In Their Own Words

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14 Reunion 2016

Registration information and complete schedule of events. www.potsdam.edu/alumni/reunion

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Happy Birthday, SUNY Potsdam!

We’re Social

www.potsdam.edu/getsocial

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PRESIDENT’S

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200 years of alumni and friends.

What a rich history and tradition we all share!

Since our founding in 1816, a lot has changed: How we go about providing an education to students on a day-to-day basis; what our campus looks like; how students live, work and study, and the ways in which we communicate both across campus and with our alumni and friends.

But what hasn’t changed is our commitment to providing a quality educational experience, in and out of the classroom, for each and every student. Our pioneering efforts in teacher education has brought us to the advent of our third century, where we are now recognized as a leader in the liberal arts and sciences, creativity across all disciplines, applied learning and teaching excellence.

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POTSDAM PEOPLE STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS MANAGING EDITORS Deborah Dudley, Assistant Vice President Alexandra Jacobs Wilke, Director of Public Relations ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT Mona Ouimet Vroman ’85, Director of Alumni Relations

And as we celebrate this special point in our history, it is you, our alumni and friends, that have made this possible. As members of the SUNY Potsdam family, each and every one of you has played a role in shaping the Potsdam Experience for the generations of students to come.

Through times of peace and prosperity, through times of strife and challenge, you have remained loyal to your alma mater. Through your impact, first as creative students, and then as engaged and generous alumni, you are the very fabric of Potsdam.

Emily Hutchison, Director of Development

As we enter Potsdam’s third century, we also conclude the College’s most successful fundraising campaign in our history – the Take the Lead Campaign. Exceeding several goals set along the way, you, our faithful alumni and friends, have given nearly $33 million to help ensure that the next 200 years will be as successful as the first 200. Thank you!

Christa Carroll, Director of Annual Giving

So together, let’s pause for just a moment and reflect upon SUNY Potsdam’s amazing history, and the role each of us has played. We are now, and forever, linked as members of the Potsdam family. What a proud tradition we all share.

CONTRIBUTORS David T. Britt ‘73, Director of Business Planning & Analysis Dan Bronson ‘03, Sports Information Director

Kathryn Deuel, Associate Director of Regional Alumni Relations & Engagement Gerald Ghidiu ’73 Nancy Griffin (Hon. ‘08), Development Officer Jason Ladouceur ’94, Director of Planned Giving Sarah Maneely ’07, Assistant Director of Research and Donor Relations

Kristin Esterberg, Ph.D. President

Ellen Nesbitt, Assistant Director of Annual Giving Sherry Allen Paradis ’00, Director of Donor Relations & the Campaign Dan Roet ’76 Donna Planty, Project Manager & Production Artist Ellen Rick ’18 Laura Stevenson (Hon. ’07), Alumni & Donor Relations

Vicki Templeton-Cornell, Vice President for College Advancement WEB MANAGER Mindy Thompson, Director of Web Communications DESIGN & ART DIRECTION

CHRISTOPHER LENNEY PHOTO

J. P. Manke, Graphic Designer & Production Artist

Alumni Relations 44 Pierrepont Ave. | Potsdam, NY 13676 (315) 267-2120 2

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www.potsdam.edu

THEN

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The more things change, the more they stay the same. If academics are the heart and student life is the soul of a campus, then the radio station is the pulse. The Inter College Radio Network and Northern Twin Colleges were founded in 1947, and jointly owned by SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson. WRPS was formed at SUNY Potsdam in 1967. The station broadcast rock music, campus events, guest speakers and athletic events. In the 1980s, WRPS became an FM cable station, and later changed its call letters to WAIH-FM. (Source: “The State University of New York at Potsdam,” Campus History Series, Arcadia Publishing.

By Jane M. Subramanian ’72 & Virginia Rose Cayey ’60) w w w.potsdam.edu/people

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Celebrate with Us!

We’ve exceeded goal, but the fun’s not over yet! The Take the Lead Campaign will close this summer and after we tally our final numbers, we have a hunch that we’ll have even more to celebrate.

So, mark your calendars for Friday, September 30, when SUNY Potsdam will celebrate the successful completion of the campaign and also the start of our first academic year in our third century!

Our Donors Took the Challenge!

Last March, SUNY Potsdam announced our Third Century Challenge, increasing our Take the Lead Campaign goal from $27 million to $32 million. And our donors accepted the challenge in a big way.

We exceeded goal! We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our bicentennial year than to announce that the campaign has just surpassed its goal. With a few months left to go, the campaign has now raised $32.8 million in donations and pledges.

Thank you! The gift that tipped the campaign past its goal was received from Anna Collins ’67 and Susan Morrison, Hon. ’16, who provided a leadership gift commitment to fund a scholarship in their name. Join us in thanking Anna, Sue and the many donors who have taken the lead for Potsdam. With gifts to scholarships, program support, new facilities and equipment, our donors are making a difference.

Help us be #1 in SUNY!

SUNY Potsdam is second among our SUNY peers for campaign success. Let’s be #1. The campaign ends on June 30, 2016, and as we celebrate our bicentennial, we see no reason to slow down.

Our students still need you, so let’s see how far this energy and excitement can take us... and them!

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CAMPUS

news & notes

A Closer Look at the Third Century Challenge Challenge Goal #1:

Increase overall goal to $32 million We did it! $32.8 million raised so far! $32.8 M*

Challenge Goal #2: GOAL $32M

Gain 2,016 new donors

In this final phase, 1,665 new donors have made a gift to the campaign. Only 351 left! Will you be counted?

1,665

351

DONORS NEEDED

NEW DONORS

$27 M

Challenge Goal #3:

Increase unrestricted giving

$8 million has been committed to the College’s greatest needs. These dollars are for current use by the College and are among the most critical raised.

*as of printing

Third Century Challenge: $32 Million

Giving by Campaign Priorities Academic Excellence $11,212,408 (102%) Scholarships $8,048,639 (100%) Annual Fund $7,992,698 (100%) Transformational Student Experiences $5,057,481 (101%) And 38% of all gifts raised are for the arts!

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You help us ex ed ceed of ou all prior r ities!

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news & notes

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SUNY Potsdam Expands Center for Diversity

On February 24, SUNY Potsdam celebrated the grand opening of the College’s expanded Center for Diversity. SUNY Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Dr. Carlos Medina traveled to Potsdam to speak at the ceremony and join in the festivities. “The word that comes to mind as I look around this room is engagement. This is a space where we can come together, culturally, socially and academically,” Medina said. “We are doing as much work as we can to make SUNY a place where we can all thrive.”

SUNY Potsdam’s Center for Diversity includes the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), the North Country Science and Technology Entry Program (NCSTEP) and Native American Affairs, including the Native American Teaching Initiative. The Center for Diversity also supports student groups, including the Black Student Alliance, SOCA LOCA, the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, the Potsdam Association for Native Americans, Voices of Victory, the Bear Witness Step Team and Team NV. NE W INITIATIVES

SUNY Potsdam Unveils Interdisciplinary Baccalaureate Program in Exercise Science

SUNY Potsdam’s Department of Community Health has been approved to offer a new Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science, beginning in 2015. The exercise science major focuses on the scientific and applied study of the human body, including prevention of injury and performance. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students will learn the research behind and the application of sound exercise and physiology principles. Dr. Kathleen O’Rourke, chair of the Department of Community Health said, “The new exercise science major, combined with the master’s degree program in community health approved last year, will provide an educated workforce in St. Lawrence County and beyond to address some of our region’s most pressing health concerns.”

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Blueline Magazine Releases New Volume

Blueline Magazine has released its 36th volume, which is published annually by the Department of English and Communication at SUNY Potsdam. Blueline is a literary magazine dedicated to the spirit of the Adirondacks celebrating the Adirondacks by featuring poetry, fiction and nonfiction from regional and national writers. This year’s issue includes new fiction by Matthew J. Spireng, poetry by Linda Batt and Maurice Kenny, as well as nonfiction by April Jo Murphy and Neal Burdick. The issue also features photography by Ron Nolland and painting by Judith Utter. Copies of Blueline can be purchased at the SUNY Potsdam College Store, the St. Lawrence University Bookstore, TAUNY, or by contacting blueline@potsdam.edu.

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SUNY Potsdam CSTEP Programs Awarded $2.8 Million in Grants

The New York State Department of Education recently awarded two grants totaling more than $2.8 million to support SUNY Potsdam’s Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program, as well as the North Country Science and Technology Entry Program, over the next five years. For more than 25 years, SUNY Potsdam’s NCSTEP and CSTEP programs have served local middle school, high school and college students, with the goal of increasing the number of low-income and underrepresented minority students pursuing majors and careers in STEM fields and the licensed professions. SUNY Potsdam’s CSTEP will now be able to increase program enrollment by 35 percent for the new funding cycle.

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Two Professors Named to Distinguished Faculty Ranks

Crane School of Music Professor Dr. Carleen Graham was named a SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor, while anthropology Professor Dr. Karen Johnson-Weiner was named a SUNY Distinguished Service Professor by the State University of New York Board of Trustees. Since the program’s inception in 1963, SUNY has appointed 1,023 faculty to the distinguished ranks.

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Two Professors Win Walker Research Fellowship

In May, nine area professors were named the winners of the T. Urling and Mabel Walker Research Fellowship Programs for 2015, two of whom come from SUNY Potsdam. Robert Ewy, an assistant professor of biology, was awarded $5,000 for a project on “Developing and Promoting Sustainability in the North Country.” Working with Raymond Bowdish, a university instruction specialist in the biology department, Ewy’s research emphasis will focus on renewable energy production and indoor food production. Associate professor of chemistry Clifford S. Rossiter also received $5,000 for his study “Treatment of Bovine Mastitis with Essential Oils,” which expounds upon research that was funded by a past Walker Fellowship in 2012. Bovine Mastitis is considered the most costly disease of dairy cows for North Country farmers, but organic farmers cannot use antibiotics to treat these bacterial infections. This research ultimately aims to create a new formulation that will allow farmers to treat bacterial infections in dairy cows while still adhering to organic regulations.

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Professors, Museum Officials Discover Civil War Training Camp

SUNY Potsdam professors and museum officials found a Civil War training camp in the village of Potsdam, after an old map mentioned one and a survey revealed what could be artifacts. The discovery was confirmed

by SUNY Potsdam anthropology professors Hadley Kruczek-Aaron and Timothy C. Messner, along with the Potsdam Public Museum Board President Jan A. Wojcik, after surveying a mowed area west of Meadow East Apartments with sophisticated metal detectors nsity were consistent with bullets, buttons and belt buckles, according to Wojcik. The training camp included a mess hall, infirmary, barracks and two wells. Those who trained at Camp Union came from Potsdam, Stockholm, Canton and other North Country villages, and were collectively known as the 92nd New York State Volunteers.

CAMPUS

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SUNY Potsdam Partners with NYSARC Artists

The performers of St. Lawrence NYSARC’s community arts program has a new home in SUNY Potsdam’s Performing Arts Center, thanks to a new partnership with the College. With the help of theatre and dance professor Jay W. Pecora, SLNYSARC now has permission to use studio space in the Performing Arts Center twice a week for dance and drama classes for the entire 2015-16 academic year. Pecora said that the partnership is important for SUNY Potsdam students because it helps them prepare for jobs that involve working with the developmentally disabled, and also allows them to see what theatre can do. The College is committed to the partnership going forward, planning to assign student interns to work with NYSARC, and to explore how to incorporate the work of SLNYSARC performers into classes.

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Alumni of Delta Lambda Nu Donate

Alumni of the Delta Lambda Nu sorority at SUNY Potsdam donated more than 100 thermal totes to fam ilies in the pediatric and neonatal intensive care units at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center in August 2015.

The totes contained items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, body wash and shampoo—items families may forget when leaving home in a medical emergency.

DE VELOPMENT & AWARDS

Seismic Station Dedicated to Geology Professor Emeritus

In November 2015, Colton-Pierrepont Central School held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the completion of their new modern seismic station and to honor Professor Emeritus Dr. Frank Revetta Hon. ’05 for his contribution to earthquake science in the greater Potsdam region.

The seismic station, named the Frank Revetta Observatory, Potsdam, N.Y., with station code “PTNY,” operates on a renewable energy source - solar panels. The station sends data via digital radio to the lab at SUNY Potsdam and receives accurate location and time from the GPS, via its antenna mounted on the pole. It will contribute to mitigate hazards from earthquakes in the region by providing useful ground motion data to engineers to build safer structure and facilities like bridges, tunnels and gas mains.

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Education Program Receives Accreditation

SUNY Potsdam recently was reaccredited for seven years, under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education standards.

NCATE’s performance-based accreditation system for teacher preparation ensures that teacher candidates are prepared to make a difference in Pre-K-to-12 student learning. The review team particularly commended SUNY Potsdam’s School of Education and Professional Studies for its pursuit of excellence and for recruiting exceptional student candidates, building collaborative relationships with schools and offering a complete spectrum of continuous improvement activities. Teacher education at Potsdam traces its history back to the College’s foundation as St. Lawrence Academy in 1816, making SUNY Potsdam’s teacher education programs the oldest in the SUNY system.

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Alumni Present at “Journey Into Literacy” Bicentennial Conference

Several alumni returned to campus to present at SUNY Potsdam’s Bicentennial Conference titled “Journey Into Literacy” in November.

Hosted by the College’s Literacy Education Department , the conference drew more than 120 teachers, administrators, education students and college faculty. Keynote speaker for the conference was Donalyn Miller, nationally renowned author of The Book Whisperer: Creating a Classroom Where Readers Flourish.

Alumni presenting at the conference included Dr. Patricia Ruggiano Schmidt ’65, retired professor from LeMoyne University, who presented on “LEAP for Learning: Teachers Take the Risk Pictured at the Journey Into Literacy Conference were presenters Dr. Esther Tedeschi ’63 (left) and Dr. Patricia to Communicate Ruggiano Schmidt ’65 (right),with Tina Wilson Bush ’89, and Connect,” who served as conference co-chair, with Carolyn Stone ’98. and Dr. Esther Tedeschi Fusco ’63, Hofstra University professor and former classroom teacher and elementary school principal, who presented on “Brain Research and its Application to Instruction.”

Other alumni who presented included Dr. Rick Bates ’78, ’91 & ’96, retired SUNY professor and blues artist; Faith Bish ’03, ’04 & ’10 and Mary Hoffman Russell ’06 & ’08, Jefferson Elementary School in Massena; Holly McQueen ’10 & ’12, secondary literacy and social studies at Canton Central School; Jennifer Hutchins ’01 and Carly Walbridge ’13 & ’14, Salmon River Middle School STEM team; Bill Gotsch ’01, fifth grade teacher at Madrid-Waddington Central School; Elizabeth Ringer ’13 & ’14, first grade teacher at Montgomery County Public School, Virginia, and Ronnie Diederich ‘07 & ’08, literacy specialist at Norwood-Norfolk Central School.

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Anthropology Professor, Students Make Canoe Using Ancient Methods

In August 2015, Assistant Professor of Archaeology Timothy Messner and nine of his anthropology students created a dugout canoe using ancient techniques. This task was part of a four-week summer course in experimental archaeology, Photo Credit Jason Hunter which gave students a chance to make and use Stone Age tools helping them understand how real artifacts look when excavated at an archaeological dig site. Messner and the students created the dugout by burning and scraping out the core of a 16-foot log of white pine in team rotations, spending 17 days and approximately 90 hours on the task. They then moved it into position for the launch, which took place at Lehman Park, using a simple log-rolling method, receiving help from Akwesasne Archaeology Field School students and their moderator, Francis Scardera. w w w.potsdam.edu/people

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SUNY Potsdam Dining Services Tops in State

Potsdam Auxiliary and College Educational Services is proud to announce that SUNY Potsdam has once again been ranked number one in the SUNY system for dining services. The 2015 SUNY Student Opinion Survey again found that Potsdam was the top campus for student satisfaction with dining services. The SOS project collects information and opinions every three years and uses the information to assess and study quality of life issues on SUNY campuses.

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Amati Named State Paleontologist

In June 2015, the New York State Board of Regents appointed Lisa Amati, former associate professor in the SUNY Potsdam Department of Geology, as the state paleontologist. She will be responsible for curating the State Museum’s paleontology collection, conducting paleontological field and laboratory research, overseeing the development of research grants and participating in the development of public and educational programs. Amati’s research is focused on the state’s paleontology with a concentration on the ecology and evolution of 450 million-year-old trilobites.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

SUNY Potsdam Students Help Maintain Bodies of Water

This summer, two SUNY Potsdam students served as watershed stewards with the Adirondack Watershed Institute, a Paul Smith’s College-led initiative to keep lakes, ponds and other waterways free of invasive species. Jeffrey Goolden ’15, an environmental studies major, and Jennifer Ryan ’18 a biology and environmental studies major were stationed at boat launches across the Adirondacks,. They conducted inspections of boats entering and leaving the water and operated boat-washing stations to remove any invasive species and convey the importance of clean boats, clean gear and clean waters to boaters.

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TRiO Program Awards SUNY Potsdam $1.5M

The U.S. Department of Education awarded $1.5 million to SUNY Potsdam through the federal TRiO program, which will be disbursed over the next five years. The Student Support Services program provides opportunities for academic development, offers assistance with basic college requirements and motivates students toward the successful completion of their post-secondary education. TRiO Student Support Services has been offered at the College since 1984 and serves more than 200 participants each academic year. TRiO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities with the progression through the academic pipeline, from middle school to post-baccalaureate programs.

THE BEST GIFT TO POTSDAM Gifts to the Annual Fund for Potsdam are a wonderful way to help the College’s greatest needs. They allow Potsdam flexibility to seize compelling opportunities for our students. They can be made in memory or honor of someone special.

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Omega Delta Phi Alumni Association Gives Back Omega Delta Phi’s Alumni Association gave back to the community with a school supplies drive for A.A. Kingston Middle School in Potsdam. The sisters donated a wide variety of much needed supplies including binders, notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, rulers and pencil boxes making back to school time a little easier for the students and families.

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Geology Faculty, Students Present at National Conference

In October, five faculty members from the Geology Department took 11 students to the Geological Society of America National Conference in Baltimore, Md. Two SUNY Potsdam seniors, Kate Grisi ’16 Pictured left to right are Thomas Hobbs ’17, Robert Staand Robert Stachowiak ’16, chowiak ’16, Jason Kryszak ’17, Instructor Kate Shervais, presented their re- Amanda Blackburn ’16, Stacia Jeroulis ’16, Nicholas search during the Avgerinos ’16 and Benedict Pucilowski ’16. Attendees not pictured include Lucas Peters’18, Judy Norkus’16 five-day conferand Brianna Hill’16 . This trip was made possible by a ence. Stachowiak gift from geology alumnus William Lilley ’74. presented his research, “River Terraces Indicate Paleo Glacial Lake Level Changes, Colton, N.Y.,” and Grisi received an award for the best poster, for her research titled “Carbon and Sulfur Geochemistry of Possible Marine Zones within the Pennsylvanian Joggins Formation, Nova Scotia, Canada.” Conference attendees included Associate Professor Michael Rygel, Assistant Professor Dylan Blumentritt, Associate Professor Christopher Kelson, Adjunct Instructor Kate Shervais, department Secretary Roberta Greene ’09, and students.

Check out the SUNY Potsdam alumni Facebook page.

Be sure to “like” us at:

www.facebook.com/BearAlumni

We also have the following alumni related pages for you to “like”: • The Crane School of Music Alumni Group • SUNY Potsdam Albany Region Alumni Chapter • SUNY Potsdam Boston Regional Alumni Chapter • SUNY Potsdam Syracuse Alumni Chapter • SUNY Potsdam Alumni Group

ATHLETICS

news & notes

Three Bears named to All-SUNYAC Team

Men’s soccer players Ben Firlit ’18, Alex Griffith ’16 and Matthew Wagner ’18 were named to the All-State University of New York Athletic Conference third team. Firlit, scored seven goals in the Bears’ first eight contests, finished second on the team in scoring with eight goals for 16 points, while starting all 19 games. The senior forward, who served as a team captain, finished his career ranked third on Potsdam’s all-time scoring list with 22 goals and three assists for 47 points in 73 games. Griffith, a senior defender, was first team all-conference last season. He overcame early season injuries to start 16 games. Griffith, who also served as a team captain, scored two game-winning goals. He played in 62 career games for the Bears with 50 starts. Wagner’s sophomore campaign was a breakout year. The defender started all 19 games and finished third in scoring with three goals and three assists for nine points.

Seamans Earns All-SUNYAC Honors

Women’s soccer player Olivia Seamans ’19 of Bolton Landing, N.Y., was named to the All-State University of New York Athletic Conference’s third team. Seamans scored five goals and recorded three assists for 13 points during her freshman campaign. She started in all 18 games and tied a program record with three goals at Bard in September.

Bears Capture Second Potsdam College Cup Title

Women’s Lacrosse Named 2015 IWLCA Academic Honor Squad

The SUNY Potsdam women’s lacrosse team was named an Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Academic Honor Squad for the 2015 season after posting a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better during the 201415 school year. It is the second time the team has earned the honor in the past four years. In the last two seasons, the Bears have placed 23 total players on either the SUNYAC All-Academic team or the Commissioner’s List.

Midfielder Brooke Falsion ’18 and forward Morgan Robbins ’18 each scored to lift SUNY Potsdam women’s soccer team to a 2-0 victory over New England College in September. The win gave the Bears their second Potsdam College Cup title in four years. Midfielder Rylie Murray ’19 was named to the all-tournament team and goalie Val Driscoll ’18 was the 2015 Potsdam College Cup Tournament MVP.

Two Men’s Hockey Players Named to National Team of the Week

A day after collecting SUNYAC Goalie and Player of the Week honors, SUNY Potsdam men’s hockey players Brendan McMenimen ’18 and Dylan Vander Esch ’18 were honored by D3hockey.com. The duo earned a spot on the first team of the website’s National Team of the Week.

Bears Hold Alumni Weekend & Hall of Fame Inductions

SUNY Potsdam Athletics hosted its 2015 Bears Alumni Weekend and Hall of Fame Inductions in October 2015. The weekend featured alumni games in lacrosse, softball, hockey and basketball. Inducted into the of Class of 2015, All-American wreslter Mark Nourse, men’s basketball player Christian Turner ’05, and women’s lacrosse player Alisha Schaad-Waite ’08 join the other 130 members of the Bears Hall of Fame.

SUNY Potsdam Replaces Turf Field

In Fall of 2015, SUNY Potsdam’s 14-year-old turf field received a muchneeded upgrade. The home of the Bears men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams got brand new A-Turf Titan artificial turf. The new turf will help reduce injuries and their severity, especially concussions from surface impact. It remains unaffected by heavy use, plays perfectly in all weather conditions, requires minimal upkeep and is long lasting.

potsdam.edu/athletics

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’99

Dimitri Pittas

By Alexandra Jacobs Wilke Returning to SUNY Potsdam brings back a flood of memories for 1999 Crane School of Music graduate Dimitri Pittas.

The spot where he first kissed that girl. Hiking to Allens Falls. The moment he fell in love with opera (listening to a CD his vocal instructor Dr. Robert Loewen had lent him). The big decision to switch his major from music education to performance in his senior year.

And quite vividly, the time that he dropped everything (even taking a semester off from the Pointercounts and Phi Mu Alpha) to prepare for his first starring role, as Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” for a Crane Opera Ensemble production.

“Even now, with over 75 performances [as Rodolfo] under my belt, sometimes onstage I can still feel myself as I was as a nervous 22-yearold,” he said.

More than anything, though, Pittas remembers the silence.

“There’s such a beauty to Potsdam and the connection to nature, that allows you to just be in the music and not worry about the external,” he said. “It’s just quiet here, so you can hear things in a much different way, and I really love that.”

Pittas was back at his alma mater once again to lead a masterclass and present a recital—taking time out of a busy performance schedule that brings him to opera stages and concert halls around the globe. He credits his experience both in music education and performance at Crane for shaping him as a musician and a communicator.

“It formed me and not only the kind of artist that I am, but the ambassador that I am of music,” Pittas said.

Most recently, he earned rave reviews for his turn as Cassio in the Metropolitan Opera production of “Otello.” He also played Michele in the world premiere of “Two Women” for San Francisco Opera last year. This season, he also sang the role of Alfred in “Die Fledermaus” at Japan’s Saito Kinen Festival and performed in concert with the Baltimore and Scotland symphony orchestras.

After graduating from Crane, Pittas completed his master’s degree at the McGill Conservatory of Music in Montreal. He earned a place in the highly respected Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, and went on to make his Met debut in 2005. Pittas still recalls that audition in front of Met conductor Maestro James Levine like it was yesterday. A piano was rolled onto the set of “Madama Butterfly,” and

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the maestro took his seat in the grand hall.

“I was standing in a 4,000-seat house that is just gilded gold, and this man, this myth, this legend, is 20 rows back, listening to me. It was amazing. It was surreal. It was fight or flight at that moment, so I gave every ounce that I could into it,” Pittas remembered.

Since then, he has gone on to stack up accolade after accolade. He earned first prize in the Elardo International and the Licia Albanese/ Puccini Foundation competitions, and won the coveted Richard Tucker, George London and Sullivan Foundation grants.

That continued success seems all the more incredible, given that Pittas is a cancer survivor, with half a lung and a diaphragm that doesn’t fully function on one side. He was first diagnosed with cancer while he was on his honeymoon in Tahiti with his wife, the multitalented performer Leah Edwards.

“It was a big lasso, a big boomerang, from that point of release, of finding out that you have cancer. Suddenly, everything you thought you had in your crosshairs is gone and your path changes from then on,” he said.

Overcoming cancer has taught Pittas to live and work in the moment.

“On any given day, your body and your instrument is what it is. And you have the choice of using that instrument and that body to its fullest potential in that moment.

And they’re not always going to be fantastic moments, where the stars are aligned and everything is perfect. In fact, those moments happen very rarely,” he said. “All we can do as artists is to do all of the work that we can and the preparation that we can, and know that when we get out there, all of that is going to pay off.”

Like any Cranie and opera singer, Pittas has a great admiration for his fellow alumnae who have also graduated from the Lindemann Program and gone on to great success, including Renée Fleming ’81, Margaret Lattimore ’91 and especially Stephanie Blythe ’92. He hopes one day to serve as a mentor to other young musicians, offering guidance the way that Blythe has for him.

The one piece of advice that he offers to Crane students is pretty simple.

“Take your experiences here and allow them to shape who you are moving forward,” Pittas said. “And especially, just remember the quiet, and remember the music.”

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’76

Antonio Peraza World Champion at Age 61

By Dan Roet ’76 When Antonio (Tony) Peraza won his division at the Veterans World Championship Wrestling Tournament in Athens, Greece, last year, it wasn’t simply another medal. For the first time, and at age 61, he had won a gold medal for his country in world competition. He was the first American gold medal winner of the tournament. On his way to the victory podium, Tony felt overcome with pride at seeing the American flag prepared to be raised.

Peraza was raised by his Mexican-born father and multiracial mother. The third of eight children, Tony and his three brothers and four sisters were raised in a home dominated by a mentally ill mother who would be in and out of health institutions for over 30 years. It was a difficult childhood. One that was filled with the challenges of psychological abuse, poverty and family tragedy.

Against great odds, Peraza would rise above his challenging circumstances to make a life that was not only motivated by his athleticism and discipline on the wrestling mat, but also marked by a lifelong career nurturing the love of learning in others.

After he graduated from high school, Peraza’s top priority was to escape his difficult home life and get an education. During the summer after his freshman year of college, he took on a job as a manual laborer to help feed his family. For three months, he woke each morning at five o’clock to bike 44 miles round trip to a farm where he worked 10 hours a day. That same persistence was demonstrated in his approach to school and athletics.

While at SUNY Potsdam as a biology major, Peraza, who had been a very good, but not an elite, wrestler in high school, became a two-time All-American, winning the NCAA Division III title in 1976, after finishing as a national runnerup the year before. His academic and athletic prowess earned him the 1976 Maxcy-Molnar Award for Excellence. Potsdam had become his safe haven, and he began to believe in future possibilities for himself. In addition to his gold medal at the Veteran Worlds, Peraza also went on to win five U.S. National Championships since graduating from Potsdam, including four in freestyle and one in Greco-Roman. From his own wrestling, as well as his head-coaching days at Ithaca College while taking graduate courses, he knows that the benefits of the sport far outweigh competition. According to him, helping young people develop their physical skills also helps them develop self-confidence and resil-

ience, qualities that he knows from experience are necessary for a meaningful life.

All three of Peraza’s brothers died tragically in their mid-20s but unlike his brothers, he survived and his triumph over his past struggles gave birth to a future of limitless opportunities for his own three sons. Now married for 28 years, Peraza and his wife Rosemary have made a home for their family where anything is possible. Michael, 23, graduated third in his high school and received his bachelor’s in biological engineering at Cornell, where he is now a graduate student. Matthew, 19, graduated second in his class and followed in his brother’s footsteps; he is now a sophomore at Cornell. The youngest, Anthony, is a junior in high school and ranked first in his class.

As an educator, Peraza is a strong believer in nourishing the potential of the adolescents with whom he works, whether in the classroom or on the wrestling mat. While Rosemary still teaches high school science, Tony retired after 32 years of teaching, mostly at the same high school he attended. Certified to teach biology, chemistry, general science and earth science, he gave his courses the personal touch, including weekend tutoring before standardized tests, complete with free food. Although the high school the community serves is disadvantaged, Peraza is proud that the overwhelming majority of his students received passing scores on their science Regents.

Even though he does not teach anymore, Peraza continues to work with young people three nights a week, not wrestling with science facts but with opponent’s moves. When not coaching young people or training himself for this year’s Nationals and World Wrestling Tournaments, Peraza can be seen acting at North Forks Shakespeare in the Park and other community theaters. His acting career started on a dare, but he became passionate about it, and today is a stage actor with numerous credits.

He and his son Matthew were even on the stage together in “Inherit the Wind.”

Athens is 4,922 miles from Peraza’s native Long Island, N.Y., but in October 2015, nearly 40 years after graduating from SUNY Potsdam and after becoming a husband, father, science teacher and stage actor, he was on the mat yet again, in the 187-pound weight class at the Veteran World Wrestling Championships. His former Potsdam wrestling teammates, including his best friend and 1975 All-American wrestler, Joe Galea ’76, were rooting for him again. They had raised the money for Peraza to be able to travel and compete in Athens. In the over-60 division, he faced four world-class wrestlers. Not one was able to score a single point against him.

Peraza pinned three of his four opponents; his closest match was 10 to 0 against a Kazakhstani wrestler who would go on to win the silver medal.

Peraza will turn 62 in July. He has become a dedicated husband and father, committed teacher and coach, stage actor, and now world champion wrestler. For most of us, a gold medal in a world competition would have been the biggest victory of our life. For Tony, however, the victory is rooted in a love of teaching and learning, and a life well lived beyond the obstacles of his youth.

I would like to thank Joe Galea ’76 for reconnecting me with Tony after 35 years. This article was written after spending hours on the phone and Facetime with Tony in January 2016. -Dan Roet ’76 Photos from top: Peraza’s paternal grandmother, Potsdam wrestling days, Peraza with students, 2015 World Champion

profile

The Professor Rutley Effect

By Gerald Ghidiu ’73

Potsdam was ready for me as a student, but I was not ready for Potsdam. My first two years at Potsdam from 1966 to 1968 resulted in a 1.6 total GPA for that period. Still immature and irresponsible, I attended Potsdam only to avoid the military draft, with no concerns for my future.

During the winter break in 1968, I was one of five male students found in a sorority house after 10 p.m. (for a bridge tournament), which at that time was illegal to be in a woman’s residence at that hour. I was asked by the Dean of Students to submit a 1,000-word essay on improving town and gown relations as a prerequisite to remaining a student at Potsdam (he was not aware of my poor academic standing, as I was already below the minimum GPA) – and of course, I refused to write such a paper, since I knew I would be leaving and it didn’t matter to me if I dropped out, flunked out or was kicked out.

After leaving Potsdam in May 1968, I was soon classified 1-A (draftable) by the U.S. Selective Service (full-time college attendance was an exemption for the military draft). Not knowing when I would actually be drafted (could be tomorrow, could be next year), I decided that I may as well “get it over with,” and volunteered for the draft. Sure enough, I was immediately drafted and entered the U.S. Marine Corps in April 1969. Sent to Vietnam in January 1970, I finally grew up and learned not only about life, but what it meant to have a life, to give it meaning. The military service, especially Vietnam, helped me develop self-respect, responsibility and self-confidence.

While attached to the 1st Marines at Da Nang, I wrote that 1000-word term paper (“Improving Relations between Town and Gown”), sent it with my application for readmission to Potsdam, and was accepted for the 1971 spring semester. I was a biology and secondary edcuation major, and enrolled in some tough courses: advanced biology, organic chemistry, genetics and physics, earning a 3.8 GPA my first semester back. One of the first courses I took was general entomology, instructed by biology professor Mary Rutley ’60. It was my first “formal” entomology contact, and it really captured my interest.

I then took an independent study course with Dr. Robert Cerwonka, which involved marking/ remarking red-legged grasshoppers, and then with Rutley’s help and encouragement, I enrolled in tropical entomology, co-offered by St. Lawrence University, and thus my bonds with the world of insects were forever solidified.

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

’60

Graduating from SUNY Potsdam in 1973, and with the assistance and guidance of Professor Rutley and Dr. Cerwonka, I was accepted with a research assistantship into an entomology Ph.D. program at Iowa State University – no small feat on their part because of my previous grade record: They suggested to my future graduate major professor to base his considerations on my final two years at Potsdam and not my overall GPA (it was very difficult, but I did achieve a final GPA of 2.6, still below the 3.0 needed for grad school). So Professor Rutley had not only given me a second chance at life by helping me become accepted as a grad student, but she led me into a future career of entomology. After a two-year postdoctorate position at the USDA European Corn Borer Laboratory in Ankeny, Iowa, I was appointed to a faculty position with the Department of Entomology at Rutgers – the State University of New Jersey, in 1980. Currently retired after 33 years, I still give entomology lectures to local elementary and high schools.

What is not readily apparent are the interactions Professor Rutley made possible long after I left Potsdam. I met my future wife at an entomological conference in Syracuse, N.Y., in 1981 and we were married in 1982. During my career at Rutgers I served a five-year appointment as director of the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center, in Bridgeton, N.J., overseeing eight resident faculty; a seven-year appointment as editor for the Journal of Economic Entomology; a 10-year appointment to the Board of the Agrichemical Association of New Jersey (including one year as President), and being in the field of education, four terms (of three years each) on our local school board. None of these would have happened without my entomology background and experience, which would not have happened without my entomology beginnings at Potsdam under the guidance of Professor Rutley.

Professor Mary Rutley not only helped me salvage my life, but through her efforts and encouragement, and probably without realizing it, she put me on the path to find both my career (entomology) and my wife (also an entomologist), and to secure my future. My life, my wife, my career, and my future – not bad work, Mrs. Mary Rutley, not bad at all… and I thank her profoundly for that.

PROFESSOR MARY RUTLEY CIRCA 1972

POTSDAM

POTSDAM

profile

The Class of 1919

Not so Normal: A look into Potsdam’s one and only female class

By Ellen Ricks ’18 1919: almost two decades after the turn of the century, and one year before the roar into the ’20s. The world’s first Great War was coming to an uneasy close. Einstein’s theory of relativity was tested and confirmed, and a little college in a sleepy upstate town was making history of its own. On the Potsdam Normal School’s semicentennial year of being a Normal School (a college that trains teachers), a lot of not-so-normal things occurred. The Great War had taken 12 of the school’s students. In January, the president of the college died suddenly of illness, and the graduating class itself was composed of 64 students, all women. It was the same year that the United States Congress passed the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.

In this unusual year, the women at Potsdam Normal School proved that life can still go on as normal.

I suppose the first question that would be on anyone’s mind when they hear this would probably be, “How?” How could there be a graduating class comprised solely of women?

Well, the long answer would be to tell you about the bullet that killed Franz Ferdinand, but the short answer would be to tell you about the draft, yes, the draft which called our able-bodied men out of the halls of academia and into the trenches.

The men being called into war left the women in charge on the homefront. In the 1919 edition of the the Normal School senior yearbook, the editors mentioned the lack of men in their class: “To Leon Longale, Frank Roda, Carlton and Nelson Clough, the four junior males, we, who have had no males (this being wartime) do will and bequeath the right to ‘start things’”(this being a cheeky way of saying you can start some trouble). Since it only took two years to get through college, there

was a younger class (called juniors) and an older class (seniors), meaning there were only four male students on campus, total. However, this did not stop the girls from getting into all sorts of mischief. There were parties, socials and even a boy or two (if you could find one).

So who were these 64 women who attended the Potsdam Normal School? They were from the surrounding areas of the North Country, either from the town itself, or from areas like Stockholm, Gouverneur, Brownville and other small villages around the area. This was to be expected, because travel took a very long time and was very expensive back then. The student coming from the longest distance was Atha Hall, nicknamed “Alcohol.” Hall came from Swanton, Vt. Many of these women were studying to become teachers, since Potsdam Normal School was primarily a teaching college.

Since social media sites were decades away from being created, the Pioneer yearbook was a way for the girls to share all of their inside jokes with each other. They had pages called “shocks,” where they write things that would shock them if they did or didn’t do it. There was a class poem, and a “prophecy” page, where the girls predicted each other’s futures.

The yearbook also had a voting contest for best of, which was equally as witty and sassy as the rest of the yearbook. There were some typical categories like “most popular” and “class clown,” but also more unusual ones, like “class fret,”“always in the wrong” and “class kicker.”

These girls truly had a sense of humor all their own, and this was a place where they could have some fun sharing their jokes and stories with each other, without censorship.

The height of the girls’ cleverness is with the earlier-mentioned Atha Hall, aka, “Alcohol.” If that nickname wasn’t enough for you, the quote for her is “What will she do if the country goes dry?”

The most important thing is that these girls proved that life goes on. Despite wars, deaths, and lack of the second gender on campus, these girls continued to go to school and become educators. I have fun on campus through clubs and amusements. In many ways, we see a lot of today’s modern woman in these girls: independent, unabashed and spirited. In the coming years, with more wars and rights to come, the Class of 1919 proves that under any circumstance, we must all try to carry on, no matter how normal or un-normal they are.

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REUNION WEEKEND

2016

Bicentennial Reunion Weekend 2016

Schedule of Events, July 14-17 Indicates Bicentennial Academy Classes Attend three Bicentennial Academy classes, designated with ( ) and receive a Bicentennial Academy Certificate. Class Passports will be located in registration packets for those that sign up for classes. Stamps from class presenter will be required for Academy Certificate.

Indicates family activities

Thursday, July 14

9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Campus Walking Tour

4 - 6:30 p.m.

Early Bird Gathering Entertainment provided

by Alex Vangellow Hon. ’14 and sponsored by Jane Morale ’80 and Glen Zagorski ’87. (cash bar)

10 - 11 a.m.

The Crane School of Music History Project Hear research compiled

by Robyn Lisuzzo Hosley ’77 and Scott P. LaVine ’71 and ’72. The multi-media history includes oral histories, photos and sound clips edited by Gary Galo ’73 and ’74.

8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Registration

Friday, July 15 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Registration

8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

Cupid Breakfast - For All Potsdam-Potsdam and Potsdam-Clarkson Couples.

9 - 10 a.m.

Yoga with Julia Rapczynski Start your day the right way with yoga in our beautiful campus Labyrinth.

Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Emeriti Luncheon All are invited to attend and visit with some of their favorite retired professors and a delicious lunch.

11 a.m. - Noon Tour of The Crane School of Music 11 a.m. - Noon Tour of Maxcy Hall Facilities

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Drumming for Fun Presented by Tracy Wanamaker ’08, Adjunct Instructor: Special Music Education. No experience necessary!

11 a.m. - Noon Planetarium Show Presented by Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Geology Dr. Frank Revetta (Hon. ’05).

1 - 2:30 p.m.

Adventures in Excavation: SUNY Potsdam’s Archaeology Field School Hear archaeologist and SUNY Potsdam Professor Hadley Kruczek-Aaron describe some of the recent fieldwork carried out by faculty and students. Artifacts will be on display.

1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Crane Chorus and Crane Symphony Orchestra: Historic Performances of the Class of 1966 Audio Engineer Emeritus Gary Galo ’73 continues his survey of Crane Chorus performances given by the class celebrating its 50th Reunion.

2 - 3 p.m.

Making Music Mobile: Exploring Apps for Phones and Tablets Discover fun and useful apps that turn your mobile device into a music production studio. Presented

by Dr. Peter McCoy, associate professor of music education and coordinator of music technology.

2 - 3 p.m.

SUNY Potsdam’s Photographic History Book Discussion Alumnae Jane Gatta Subramanian ‘72 and Virginia Rose Cayey ‘60 who authored this book containing many vintage photographs of the college’s past.

2 - 3 p.m.

The Potsdam Seismic Network and Earthquakes in New York State Seminar Presented by Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Geology Dr. Frank Revetta (Hon. ’05).

2 - 3 p.m.

Tour of the Performing Arts Center

For complete session descriptions, visit:

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

www.potsdam.edu/alumni/reunion

2 - 3:30 p.m.

Legacy Campus Tour Is your child or family member considering Potsdam? The Office of Admissions is pleased and honored to provide legacy tours for our multi-generational alumni families.

2:45 - 4 p.m.

Hosmer Hall Tour Walk through the hallways of Hosmer Hall and talk about the famous people from the 20th Century who participated in the Spring Festivals instituted by President Fred Crumb and Dean Helen Hosmer.

Presented by Dale Zurbrick ‘68.

3 - 4:15 p.m.

Voices of the Past Author of the award-winning book, “River Views: A History of the 1000 Islands in 3-D,” a collection of 19th Century stereoviews.

3 - 4:15 p.m.

Class of 1961 Informal Gathering Please bring your memorabilia to share. (cash bar) 3 - 4:15 p.m.

Class of 1966 Informal Gathering Please bring your memorabilia to share. (cash bar)

REUNION WEEKEND

2016

4:30 - 6 p.m.

Welcome Reception for All Alumni and Friends Help celebrate our athletic history and achievements with coaches, fans, and friends along with Jerry Welsh (Hon. ’79), Neil Johnson (Hon. ’01), and many others! (cash bar) 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Class of 1966 Dinner Dessert will follow at the home of President Kristin Esterberg.

6 - 8 p.m.

Backyard BBQ This year includes a traditional picnic menu and á la carte items! Catch up with friends, enjoy great food, drinks and a make your own sundae bar.

Entertainment provided

by Andy VanDuyne ‘75 and Michael Welch, sponsored

by PACES Dining Services. (cash bar) 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Double Axel (Maxfields, downtown Potsdam)

Saturday, July 16 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Registration

8:30 - 9:45 a.m.

Annual Bear Walk/Run 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Estate and Will Planning Seminar and Continental Breakfast Presented by Roger Linden, Esq. ’74.

9:15 - 11 a.m.

Walking Tour of Bayside Cemetery and Its Legends This year marks the 150th Anniversary of Potsdam’s Bayside Cemetery. Dale Zurbrick ’68 returns to conduct this popular tour at the local historical site.

10 - 11 a.m.

Planetarium Show Presented by Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Geology Dr. Frank Revetta (Hon. ’05).

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

A Seriously Fun Journey through 200 Years at Potsdam Attendees will have the chance to learn about Potsdam’s 200 years of history. Presented by Kim P. Loucks ’77 and Carolyn Hirst-Loucks.

10:30 a.m. - Noon Legacy Campus Tour Is your child or family member considering Potsdam? The Office of Admissions is pleased and honored to provide legacy tours for our multi-generational alumni families.

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Crane Institute of Music Business Alumni Brunch CIMB alumni are invited to brunch with Carol (Kickie) Britt ‘69, CIMB Executive Director. Join Kickie as she celebrates her retirement.

2 p.m.

The Alumni Bicentennial Time Capsule Burial Join the Alumni Board for the burial of the time capsule which contains a selection of items curated by alumni as a celebration of SUNY Potsdam’s past, present and future.

2:45 - 3:45 p.m.

Tour of the Performing Arts Center 2:30 - 4 p.m.

Potsdam Bears Athletics Alumni, Friends, and Fans Reception

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Campus Learning Center Alumni Reception Did you attend the Campus Learning Center as a child, student, teach or observe classes or work at the CLC as faculty or staff?

Visit Merritt Hall to reminisce and share memories of a very special place.

Sponsored by the School of Education Alumni Association.

4 - 6 p.m.

Gala Reception, Donor Recognition and Silent Auction President Kristin Esterberg invites all alumni and friends to celebrate their return to Potsdam with a gala reception and silent auction to help celebrate our Bicentennial and enjoy the company of SUNY Potsdam’s past Alumni Award Recipients.

11:15 a.m.

Class of 1966 Photo At Minerva Plaza.

6 - 8 p.m.

Class Dinner and Alumni Award Presentations Join us at the biggest event of the weekend.

Tables will be reserved for classes and minireunions. The Alumni Association Meeting will also occur during dinner.

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

50-Year Club Luncheon (Classes of 1966 and earlier)

The Class of 1966 will be officially inducted into the 50-Year Club during a diploma ceremony.

11:45 a.m.

Greek Photo Photo of all Greek alumni will be taken at Minerva Plaza.

12:15 - 1:45 p.m.

Bicentennial Block Party This celebration will feature a lunch buffet, entertainment, games and activities. All organizations are encouraged to decorate a table (ie, Greeks, Campus Life, Athletics, etc.) Prizes will be given.

Entertainment sponsored in part by Omega Delta Phi Sorority. (cash bar) 1 p.m.

Crane Band Alumni Luncheon 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Men’s Alumni Basketball Game 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Choral Reading Featuring octavos, known to all, conducted by Dale Zurbrick ’68, and a short major work conducted by Peter Bagley ’57.

(Annual Alumni Association business will be conducted, including election of 2016-17 officers.)

8:30 p.m.

Crane Alumni Band Concert Hosted by Dr. Brian Doyle, Director of Bands, including special guest conductor Dr. Anthony Maiello.

10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Double Axel (Maxfields, downtown Potsdam)

Sunday, July 17 8:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Farewell Breakfast (featuring an omelet station)

While You’re Here

• Visit Maxcy Hall - Facilities will be open and free of charge to registered Reunion attendees • Shop at the College Store • Take a self-guided tour of the Mary E. English Commons • Enjoy the Potsdam Village Summer Festival potsdamchamber.com

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REUNION WEEKEND

2016

Save the date, and let’s celebrate! SUNY Potsdam’s 200th Celebration, July 14-17

Bicentennial Reunion Weekend 2016 MINI-REUNIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS

• Athletics Bicentennial Celebration • Campus Learning Center Reunion • Campus Life Reunion • Crane School of Music Alumni Band Reunion • Delta Kappa Theta Fraternity 60th Anniversary • Omega Delta Phi Sorority 55th Anniversary • Past Alumni Association Award Recipients Reunion • Phi Kappa Pi Sorority 110th Anniversary

Phi Kappa Pi Alumni Weekend Schedule – Celebrating 110 years of Sisterhood!

Thursday, July 14 • 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Work session at 58 Elm St. • 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Phi Kappa Pi Alumnae Association Annual Meeting Friday, July 15 • 3 - 6 p.m.: Registration at 58 Elm Street • 4 p.m.: Recording session rehearsal • 6:30 - 8 p.m.: Welcome home dinner at 58 Elm St. Saturday, July 16 • 10 a.m.: Alumnae Association Meeting, Kellas Hall 101 • 12:30 p.m.: Recording session • 3 - 7 p.m.: Phi K Picnic, 110 years of Sisterhood at 58 Elm St.

For complete session descriptions, visit:

www.potsdam.edu/alumni/reunion

Omega Delta Phi Alumni Association 55th Reunion Wednesday, July 13 • Early arrivals, informal gatherings for dinner, casual group activity and dinner on your own • Weekend-long activities (scavenger hunt, school supply drive) begin Thursday, July 14 • 12:30 p.m.: Arrivals, song recording session #3, campus activities • Chat and craft girls night In Friday, July 15 • Deliver school supplies. Campus activities, All Greek Gathering (TBA) Saturday, July 16 • Campus activities • 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.: ODPAA Annual Meeting - BSU 204 - The Forum • 11:45 a.m.: Greek group photo, Omega group photo - Minerva Plaza • 12:15 - 1:45 p.m.: Bicentennial Block Party on campus • 4 p.m.: Unity time at the house • 6 p.m.: Annual Omega Banquet Knowles MPR Sunday, July 17 • 10 a.m.: Farewell breakfast - (TBD)

Sunday, July 17 Campus Life Alumni • 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Alumni of Campus Life groups and organizaBreakfast at 58 Elm Street and tions are invited to attend Reunion Weekend Song Session and gather at the Bicentennial Block Party on Saturday afternoon. Decorate your table with your group’s memorabilia and compete for prizes. For example, Campus Life All Greek Alumni Events student staff (previously known as Student • Bicentennial Block Party, Saturday, 12:15 Involvement and Leadership), Emerging - 1:45 p.m. Attend and decorate your table Leaders, Orientation Leaders, RA’s, Peer with your organization’s memorabilia Counselors (previously known as Wellness compete for prizes.

Advocates).

• Greek Alumni sponsored food drive drop off points: Reunion Registration area and CPS Schedule residence halls/Townhouses. Donations will be donated to the campus student food Community Performance Series summer musical production “Mary Poppins” pantry and the Potsdam community food Call the CPS Box Office for tickets and pantry. information at (315) 267-2277 or purchase • All Greek Group Photo in Minerva Plaza at tickets online at http://www.potsdam.edu/ 11:45 a.m. newsandevents/012116cpssummermusicala • Greek Good Neighbor Stroll/Open House nnounce.cfm on Elm Street. Friday 2 - 4 p.m. All alumni Performances are as follows: and friends welcome. Contact Donnalyn • Thursday, July 14 – 7:30 p.m.

Shuster ’78 for more information at • Friday, July 15 – 7:30 p.m. d_shuster@yahoo.com.

• Saturday, July 16 – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

Inaugural Crane Alumni Band Weekend

Any alumni who performed in one or more of the Crane Bands are invited.

Hosted by Brian K. Doyle, current Director of Bands at Crane, the weekend will feature several special guests, including guest conductor Anthony Maiello, Crane faculty member from 1972-86. Rehearsals on Friday and Saturday will culminate in a performance on Saturday evening at 8:30 p.m. in Hosmer Hall. As part on an ongoing History of Crane Bands project, we will be putting an open call out for media (stories, pictures, recordings) you might wish to share in support of this project. Project highlights to-date will be displayed during the weekend.

Crane Alumni Band Schedule: Friday, July 15 • 3 - 5 p.m. Meet and Greet Mixer • 4:30 - 6 p.m. Meet fellow alumni at the Reunion Weekend Welcome Reception • 5 - 6:50 p.m. Dinner on your own, or register for the Friday night BBQ • 7 - 10 p.m. Alumni Band rehearsal Saturday, July 16 • 8:30 - 9:50 a.m. Informal coffee with conductors and Crane faculty • 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Alumni Band rehearsal • 1 p.m. Lunch with Crane faculty and conductors • 2:30 p.m. Sectional “breakouts” topics/events TBA • 8 p.m. Ensemble picture on Hosmer stage • 8:30 p.m. Inaugural Crane Alumni Band concert • Post-Concert Reception Polo shirts with the “official” Alumni Band logo must be pre-ordered ($25) as part of registration, and should be worn for the group picture and concert on Saturday.

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Cranebands. For more information, or to submit stories, photos, and/or recordings, please contact Brian K. Doyle: doylebk@potsdam. edu.

REUNION WEEKEND

2016

ALUMNI AWARDS SUNY Potsdam is proud to acknowledge the achievements, dedication and service of this year’s Bicentennial Alumni Award recipients.

Minerva Award Robert E. Margevich ’79 Distinguished Service Award Amy J. Kellogg ’99 Donald L. Lougheed, Hon. ’54 Kathryn Kofoed Lougheed ’54 Rising Star Award Laura L. Mooney ’06

Honorary Lifetime Award Susan L. Morrison Vicki L. Templeton-Cornell St. Lawrence Academy Medal Jean Lemieux Pottle ’68 Helen M. Hosmer Excellence in Music Teaching Award Cynthia Anderson Ripley ’73

SPECIAL INFORMATION Reunion Committees

Reunion committees are hard at work encouraging classmates to attend Reunion Weekend. Committee members want to remind everyone that there is still time to contribute to your class gift.

Join your class in celebrating your time at Potsdam and your successes that followed. For committee lists and fundraising progress, visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni/reunion.

Faculty Emeriti

Emeriti are welcome to attend the emeriti luncheon on Friday afternoon at no charge. Fee applies to spouses and guests only.

IRA Charitable Rollover is Here to Stay!

“Recently I made a gift to SUNY Potsdam using funds that I was required to take from my individual retirement account (IRA). I simply instructed my IRA administrator to send the amount I specified directly to the Potsdam College Foundation. The transfer enabled me to satisfy my annual required minimum distribution Dr. Gary C. Jaquay ’67 (RMD).

Benjamin F.

Raymond Society

“For me, this was a win-win situation as the transaction Member provided meaningful financial support to Potsdam, while also helping me to avoid paying additional taxes. I am so pleased Congress and President Obama finally passed legislation making the IRA Charitable Rollover permanent. From here forward, I can look to my IRA as smart way to make a meaningful gift to SUNY Potsdam.”

Individuals 70.5 years of age and older can join Gary and many others by making a gift from their IRA that qualifies as an IRA Charitable Rollover.

For more information visit: www.potsdam.edu/giftplan or contact Jason N. Ladouceur ’94, director of planned giving, at 315-267-2123 or giftplan@potsdam.edu.

At Liberty Mutual, we are proud to be partnering with SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association

At Liberty Mutual, we are proud to be partnering with the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association

To learn more about Liberty Mutual and our auto and home insurance, please contact us at 844.653.9688, or visit usat libertymutual.com/potsdam Coverage provided and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance itsMutual affiliates, To learn more aboutand Liberty and our auto and home 175insurance, Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116.or visit us please contact us at 844.653.9688, at libertymutual.com/potsdam

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Coverage provided and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance and its affiliates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. ©2016 Liberty Mutual Insurance AFF 20202 2015/05

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

1816: St. Lawrence Academy

. . . o n t h i s t w e n t y f i f t h d a y o f Ma r c h i n t h e y e a r o n e t h o u s a n d e i g h t h u n d re d a n d s i x t e e n . . .

2016: The State University of New York at Potsdam Ha p p y 2 0 0 t h Bi r t h d a y, S U N Y Po t s d a m .

w w w. p o t s d a m . e d u / 2 0 0

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

The place that binds us.

There are many who have embodied the philosophies of the Potsdam experience throughout our history. Dr. Thomas B. Stowell served as principal of Potsdam Normal from 1889-1909. He was a well-known scientist and progressive administrator. Stowell was one of the first in higher education to view student life as an integral part of the educational process and recognized the force of the teacher’s personality on the lives and ambitions of stiudents. He advocated for new programs in the sciences, vocational training and physical education in the public schools and also understood the value of an institution’s alumni. He stated:

There’s a School in Old St. Lawrence SUNY Potsdam has had many names.

Founded in 1816 as St. Lawrence Academy, in the next century the institution transitioned to a Normal School and then Potsdam State Teachers College, before being adopted into the State University of New York system in the mid-twentieth century. Our roots will be forever linked to old St. Lawrence.

“I want you alumni to recognize my appreciation of what you have done to make this school great.

Our greatness is your greatness.”

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Sung to the tune of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”

Warming up our voices

In the music of SUNY Potsdam, there is something for everyone. This selection of music from our archives represents drinking songs and alumni rallying cries.

The classic Scottish tune “Annie Laurie” is based on a poem by William Douglas. It was Julia Crane’s favorite song. Later, Helen Hosmer picked up the tradition. The Crane Chorus would sing “Annie Laurie” in every warm-up.

“Miss Crane’s singing of ‘Annie Laurie’ is a memory and a tradition treasured by many generations of Potsdam students.”

— 100th Commencement celebration program, June 9, 1934.

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

Sung to the tune of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee”

Join us for our Bicentennial Reunion

Back to the vales of old St. Lawrence, fondly we turn.

Where still the fires of Alma Mater ever brightly, brightly burn.

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1960s Gail (Hawthorne) Bohling ’60 returned to Potsdam with her husband, who was the speaker for the 60th anniversary of the Potsdam Volunteer Rescue Squad, where he was one of the original members.

Lynne Noel ’63 authored a book, “The Grammie Guide,” which is selling well and has won wide acclaim. She and her Salvatore Signorelli ’50 recently met with Crane School husband, Bruce, traveled of Music Dean Michael Sitton at String Instruments, Ltd., to Panama, France and Canada this year and are a full-service string shop in Rochester, which Signorelli enjoying a busy life. founded in 1968 and has been the sole owner and operator of ever since. Signorelli is the 2015 recipient of In 2014, Joan (Thaler) the Eastman Luminary Award, which recognizes Dobbie ’67 interviewed individuals who have given extraordinary service to music and the arts at the community and national levels, residents of Parishville, and whose dedication and achievements set an example NY, for a video inth honor of Parishville’s 200 birthday for Eastman School of Music students and alumni. celebration, which is available online and for purchase in the Parishville Museum.

Lois Annette Hesser ’52 recently celebrated her Lee Crandall ’69 85th birthday. She is still Sophia (Constantikes) teaching private students completed a seven-year Guidi ’47 currently reappointment as departand is looking forward to sides in Marco Island, FL, ment chair and returned Reunion 2016. and recently celebrated to a regular faculty posiher 90th birthday. She tion in the Department Gloria (Baz) Misnick ’55 still continues to use her of Public Health Sciences resides in Corning, NY, musical skills that she at Clemson University in where she is the national learned from the old Clemson, SC. director and national Potsdam State Teachers welfare officer of Catholic College. She directed War Veterans Auxiliary. two choirs and until just recently she played the Valerie (Johnson) trumpet in the New HoriWaage ’57 enjoys being Carol (Millard) DiLallo zons Band. a deacon and singing ’70 resides in Clifton Park, with the choir in her NY. When she attended growing church and feels SUNY Potsdam, she betruly blessed. longed to Omega Delta Phi. Carol volunteers for Stephen Gitto Sr. ’52 In June 2015, James many church commitdropped out of high Mullen ’59 was inducted tees, a local food pantry, school to enlist in the into the Burnt Hillsand is a representative to service during World Ballston Lake Hall Class the teacher association War II. Gitto went to the of 2015 Hall of Fame and is a retired education EuropeanTheater, travelfor his achievements in associate. ing all over Europe, on high school soccer and RMS Queen Elizabeth. basketball.

Nancy Evans ’70, a After the war, he went professor in the student back to high school in Geraldine “Gerri” affairs program at Iowa Fort Edward. Because of (Moore) Pugliese ’59 State University, received the G.I. Bill, he was able and her husband celethe Lifetime Achievement to go to college. He spent st brated their 51 wedding Award from ACPA-Colan additional three sumanniversary in July 2015. lege Student Educators mers obtaining a master’s International, at the 2015 degree.

National Convention in Tampa, FL.

1940s

1970s

1950s

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

Clarkson University Research Professor Dana (Malloy) Barry ’71, senior technical writer/editor at Clarkson’s Center for Advanced Materials Processing, won her 20th consecutive award for publication excellence, the APEX 2015 Award.

Rick Carter ’71 retired after 29 years as professor of finance at Iowa State University. While at ISU he published in a number of top-ranked academic journals and was a highly cited researcher in the field of financial economics. Carter and his wife, Elizabeth, are originally from Auburn, NY, and are now living in Newport, OR. Rose O’Keefe ’71 is a local historian with a special interest in the Frederick Douglass family’s years in Rochester, NY, from 1847-1872. O’Keefe has written five books including her latest, “Special Delivery: From One Stop to Another on the Underground Railroad.”

Bruce Rodgers ’71 was honored as a “Cultural Champion” for his work at the Hermitage Artist Retreat.

Donna (Rogers) Winters ’71 of Garden, MI, began penning novels in 1982 and is an award-winning author of over 20 books in print. Her most recent book, “Saving Mossy Point: In the Fifty-First State of Superior,” was published in 2015.

Since retiring from the U.S. Coast Guard Band in 2001, James Conover ’72 has been working as a church choir director and vocal soloist.

Flossie Mitchell ’72 was the force behind the Utica College Young (Scholars) Program for 11 years. She officially retired in 2015 and she walks away holding special bonds that she has created with the students.

Howard Champlain ’73 retired in 2015 after 41 years with the Social Security Administration.

Cheryl (Hinman) Champlain ’74 retired in 2014 after over 25 years with Vestal Eye Care.

Richard C. Sperry ’74 received a Ph.D. in technology management from Portland State University in 2014. He teaches project management at the university and is conducting research on the effects of Oregon wildfire policies on stakeholders. He is also president and principal of Sperry Management Consulting Corp.

G. Scott Verity ’74 was a guest conductor at NMEA Division I West Chorus Tilles Center – LIU Post Campus in Brookville, NY. Mariangela Risucci ’75 retired in 2012 as an administrator at SUNY Cortland.

President’s Club The President’s Club is a distinctive giving society that recognizes alumni and friends who give $1,000 or more during the fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Learn more and/or join today by contacting the Donor Relations Office at (315) 267-2855 or by emailing donorrelations@potsdam.edu.

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Glenn Albin ’78 lives in Tappan, NY, and started working at Nyack Hospital as a registered nurse in 2012. After leaving SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson, he had a 30 plus year career with NYS. He is also certified paramedic.

Salvatore Cania ’79 and his wife Lisa, of Hannawa Falls, NY, have established the Cania Family Endowment in support of programs presented

by Community Performance Series, in honor of the organization’s 25th anniversary. This fund will be used to sponsor an annual music concert and programming with students. Sal worked at Crane for 20 years, before serving first at St. Lawrence University and now at Clarkson University.

Their children, Sal III and Emily, grew up in Potsdam and enjoyed access to high-quality performing arts activities.

New Endowments The brothers of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Sigma Tau Psi are well on their way to endowing scholarships in the name of their fraternities. The Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Scholarship fund drive is led by Jordan Walker ’11, while fundraising for the Sigma Tau Psi Scholarship is led by Jim Brewer ’71, Don Fiesinger ’66, Ted Holynski ’68, Harry Richards ’68 and Chuck Sparnecht ’71. Greek alumni are also invited to contribute to a collective endowment fund in support of Greek Life on campus. An anonymous Greek alumni donor has pledged $10,000 as a seed grant to get the endowment started.

The alumnae of Alpha Delta Kappa have established the Alpha and Friends Fund in support of the Rebecca V. Sheard Literacy Center on campus, which offers an after-school program for SUNY Potsdam education students to mentor local school children.

An anonymous Greek Alumni donor is matching gifts to the fund.

Mary Ann Mango Flatt ’69 and her husband Dean are endowing the Mango-Flatt Family Endowment for Music Education Research, to provide financial support for Crane School of Music faculty and students to conduct research on topics, issues, questions or problems related to pre-college music education, and to present their findings to audiences on the regional, national and international level.

William Lilley ’74 and his wife Judy have created the Otto and Grace Lilley Endowment, designated for geology student travel. He and Judy have named the fund in memory of Bill’s parents, who sacrificed a great deal to help Bill achieve a college education, and who helped many others during their lifetime.

Since 2003, Bill has been principal investigator and president of his own company, Ecoinvestigation Inc., specializing in analysis of former industrial, nuclear and spill sites for law firms, consultants and insurance companies. Recently, Judy began working as a school physiologist for Lincoln County Schools in Newport, OR. For more information on any of these endowments, please contact Nancy Griffin, College Advancement, at griffine@potsdam.edu.

Michael Danis ’78 retired as the fine arts director of the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District in June 2015.

1980s Rich Campbell ’80 was recently awarded the Ruth Boshkoff Composition Prize by the Organization of American Kodaly Educators.

OAKE commissioned him to compose a new work, “The Wind,” which premiered in March 2016 with the National Children’s Choir in Long Beach, CA. Steve Constantino ’80 is the superintendent of the Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools in Virginia. He came to WJCC in 2010 from Cobb County schools in Georgia, where he served in the executive administration. He also served as principal of Stonewall Jackson High School in Manassas, VA, from 1995 to 2003, and was a professor of education at George Mason University.

Kathleen DaBoll-Lavoie, ’80 has been named the new dean of the School of Education at Nazareth College. DaBoll-Lavoie currently is the co-chair of the New York State Professional Standards and Practices Board, the convener of the Teacher Education Advisory Group to the New York State Commissioner of Education and is immediate past president of the New York Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.

Rose Rivezzi ’80 has three years’ experience as a Potsdam Town Council member and was previously the president of the Potsdam Food Coop Board of Directors.

Lisa Vroman ‘79 performed with the Oregon Symphony in October 2015 and met up with two fellow alumni who perform with the symphony, Zachariah Galatis ’08 (assistant principal flute and piccolo) and David Bamonte ’84 (assistant principal trumpet).

Brent Campbell ’81 is retiring after teaching instrumental music for 34 years at Vincent Massey High School in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. He will continue as director of the Brandon Jazz Festival, Canada’s largest educational jazz festival that annually hosts over 165 groups every March.

He also owns the Brandon School of Dance and plans to race in a transAtlantic sail sometime in the next few years.

Jeffrey Peskowitz ’81 is the new profile series and metal composite material product manager at CENTRIA, a developer and manufacturer of architectural metal wall and roof systems.

John ’74 and Ann (Martin) Carvill ’82 reside in Potsdam, NY, where Ann has spent 13 years with the Potsdam Central School Board of Education and is very active in local government.

In 2014, Patrick Keleher ’82 retired from the New

York State Police after 26 years at the rank of senior investigator. During his career, he received a Superintendent’s Commendation, the William V. McDonagh Award and five Troop Commander’s Commendations. Recently, Keleher took a position as an inspector with the New York State University Police and is also an adjunct instructor of criminal justice at Clinton Community College.

After seven years with the Potsdam Central School District and a total of 31 years as an educator in St. Lawrence County, Larry Jenne ’83 retired from public education and his position as principal at Lawrence Avenue Elementary in July 2015.

James “Jim” McCargar ’83 is the recipient of the Student Senate Faculty Excellence Award from Baldwin Wallace University. He is a professor of chemistry and associate dean of the School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing. w w w.potsdam.edu/people

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In October 2015, tenor Dimiti Pittas ’99 and Greek soprano Lydia Zervanos ’10 returned to their alma mater as part of the Crane Alumni Concert Series. Pittas, a graduate of the Metropolitan Opera’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, has appeared on leading opera stages throughout SUNY Potsdam College Council member Molly Clough North ’92 was recently honored with the 2015 National TRiO America Achievers Award at the Council for Opportunity in and Europe, Education Conference in Atlanta, GA. President Kristin including Esterberg and Director of TRiO Student Support Services the Met. Mark Millward ’09 & ’10 joined her as she accepted the Zervanos award. Clough is a law partner at Carrothers and Clough is a singer PLLC, and a dedicated advocate for local charities. and cellist with the Neuköllner Oper and in Karen (Dutton) Billing2013 joined the Greek sley ’84 resides with her National Opera. husband, Lance ’83, in Kerrville, TX, and is curVanessa Breault Mulvey rently a middle school ’90 was appointed to choir director. Karen has the faculty of the New been teaching for 30 England Conservatory Raymond V. Depew ’01, years and has moved a of Music in 2015. She is a was a student of English few times, enabling her member of the EntrepreProfessor Maurice Kenny, to have taught in every neurial Music Departand also wrote for the area of her Crane training: ment and will be teachcollege newspaper. He general music, orchestra, ing body mapping in the recently published a choir and band. They Conservatory Division. book series, called “Donhave two children pursubridge.” ing music careers. Their Kenneth Schenk ’90 son is the third generahas been teaching music Maria D. (Conger) tion of music educators. since 1991, and is curMorrison ’04 was rently teaching elemenrecently chosen by the Elizabeth (Myler) Moore tary music in the Lake NYS Women’s Inc., St. ’84 was named deputy George Central School Lawrence Chapter, as the director for the Division District. He continues to 2015 Woman of the Year of Research and Colperform as a baritone for St. Lawrence County. lections at the Virginia soloist in the Northeast.

Morrison currently serves Museum of Natural HisKen has been a frequent tory. She was also named conductor at all levels for as the program manager for literacy of Northern Professional Archaethe Washington County NY, in addition to teachologist of the Year by the Area Music Teacher’s ing high school English Archaeological Society Association Choral classes and adult literacy of Virginia, in recognition Festivals. classes. of her archaeological research, promotion of Jude L. Kiah ’91 resides Jon ’05 and Jessie historic preservation in Cincinnati, OH, with efforts and her continued his wife Renee Turck ’92. (Wells) Sequin ’05 met mentorship of students He is employed by Xavier in Potsdam and lived in Nantucket, MA, where throughout Virginia.

University as the assisthey worked with top tant vice president and chefs, before deciding Tammy (Canfield) Curhis wife is employed as a to make Lake Placid, NY, ren ’89 was promoted to music director at Souththeir home. They now vice president of informa- eastern School District. have two businesses, tion systems for Kennedy Jude also completed his Smoking Cork, and Health in Cherry Hill, NJ. Ph.D. in 2015.

Stouts and Stogies.

She and her husband, Brian, reside in Marlton, NJ.

1990s

2000s

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

Justin A. Glodich ’08 had an article featured in the December 2015 issue of Choral Journal, a publication of the American Choral Directors Association. The article was titled “Vocal Percussion in Contemporary Choral Music” and featured information that was presented at his standing-room-only session at the 2015 National ACDA Conference in Salt Lake City.

David Joseph Cotter ’08 has become the director of education programs at the Redhouse Arts Center, where he oversees a teaching staff of 29 teaching artists and three administrators.

2010s

Brittany (James) Robischon ’10 resides in Morrisonville, NY, with her husband Matt.

Brittany presented at the

SUNY CDO conference in Corning, NY, and started a position in August as senior academic advisor in the Department of Continuing Professional Studies at Champlain College in Burlington, VT. 2nd Lt. Daniel Aceti ’13 graduated from the specialized undergraduate pilot training class at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma. He currently serves as a student pilot with the 14th Student Squadron, at Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi.

Kaitlin Marie Flack ’14 resides in Moscow, ID, and is working as human resources and operations supervisor at the University of Idaho College of Natural Resources.

In May 2015, Army ROTC Gold Knight Battalion Cadet Joseph Locci ’15 was commissioned and received gold bars.

How to include us in your will (sample bequest language)

“I give, devise and bequeath (specific dollar amount, percentage of estate, and/or residual beneficiary) to the Potsdam College Foundation, Inc., federal tax ID#23-7088021, for its general purposes.” * Specific named endowments, schools, departments, etc. may also be listed as designations.

For more information, visit the College’s estate and gift planning page at

www.potsdam.edu/giftplan or contact Jason Ladouceur ’94, director of planned giving, at (315) 267-2123 or

giftplan@potsdam.edu

As you plan your future, invest in Potsdam’s

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notes

MARRIAGES Chantal Wood ’10 married Kyle Briant on Association Island on July 18, 2015.

The couple took a oneweek honeymoon to Bar Harbor, MN, and they reside in Woodville.

On May 16, 2015, Christopher Curley ’12 married Lindsey Ferguson.

The couple resides in Raleigh, NC, with their dog, Boomer.

Lacey Skeldon ’13 and Troy Vaughan were married August 28, 2015, on Smathers Beach in Key West, FL. The couple enjoyed a five-day honeymoon on Carnival Victory with family and friends.

The couple resides in Hermon, NY. On June 6, 2015, Britney Livingston ’14 married Patrick Lawton at the Wesleyan Church in Lisbon, NY. The couple honeymooned in the Pocono Mountains and resides in Lisbon.

bBIRTHS Dr. Mary Ann DeMario ’97 and her husband, Chris, welcomed a son, Zachary Chase, on March 30, 2015.

Robert J. Soricelli ’06 & ’10 and his wife Tiffany (Conn) Soricelli ’06 & ’10 were delighted to welcome their first daughter, Juniper Lea, on October 8, 2015.

Justin A. Glodich ’08 and his wife Nicole, were proud to announce the birth of their son, Brody, on October 14, 2015. bIN MEMORIAM Evelyn Holt Seeber ’30 December 13, 2006 Evangeline (Prittie) Rorke ’34 May 28, 2015 Mildred (Frary) Hazen ’34 May 12, 2015 Gerald P. Normile ’35 June 10, 2015 Kathryn M. (McCabe) Hall ’36 July 15, 2015 June Louise (Carton) Kennedy ’39 October 24, 2015

Katherine (Walling) W. Moomey ’39 November 4, 2014 Mollie L. (Damon) Bangs ’40 September 5, 2015

TELL US YOUR STORY!

Do you have a funny or significant story to share about your time at Potsdam? What is it about your Potsdam experience that made it memorable or special? Email us at alumni@potsdam.edu H. Luther Everly ’66 May 1, 2015

Leonard R. Lambert ’40 June 7, 2015

Teresa N. (Wilson) Lieber ’66 May 28, 2015

Dorothy M. (Newton) Dolch ’41 Date not provided

Laura (Kennedy) Graney ’67 April 24, 2015

Dorothy (Kirtland) Arnold ’43 September 2009

Christine (Shampine) Rexford ’68 July 17, 2015

Roy A. Edelfelt ’43 July 7, 2015 Mary C. (Jebo) Hannahs ’43 May 20, 2015 Betty (Norton) Smith ’44 July 13, 2015 Mae E. (King) Schneeberger ’45 June 20, 2015 Mary (Altomare) Stander ’45 August 19, 2015 Mary Ellen (Regan) Adami ’48 & ’53 August 13, 2015 Elizabeth W. Kirwan ’49 June 30, 2012 M. Lorraine (Brown) Bogardus ’49 & ’52 August 6, 2015 Joyce (Brownell) Kanze ’51 August 5, 2015 Laurella (Arnold) Tyler ’51 October 11, 2015

Jane Elizabeth (Connors) Shea ’57 Marissa Reiter ’15 exchanged vows with Sanford Newvine on August 1, 2015, at the Bucks Bridge Church September 21, 2015 in Madrid, NY. The couple took a one-week wedding trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica and resides in Watertown, NY. Charles G. Vedder ’60 September 29, 2014

James K. Sadewhite ’68 October 26, 2015 Suzanne S. (O’Connor) Ahern ’69 February 10, 2015 Rodney J. “Rod” Thomas ’75 September 28, 2015

bEMERITI & FRIENDS Robert W. Derouchie, worked as a carpenter at SUNY Potsdam and retired in 1992. May 20, 2015 Mary T. Dial, Distinguished Service Award & Honorary Degree recipient.

October 12, 2015 Patrick J. Grady, former PACES employee until 2008. July 22, 2015 Helen R. Ober, a secretary at SUNY Potsdam for 36 years, retired in 1980.

May 8, 2015

John J. “Woody” Wood ’76 July 20, 2015 Thomas J. Petty ’77 June 10, 2015 Karl L. Crannell ’78 October 28, 2015 Constance A. (Moore) Nelson ’80 May 28, 2015 Kathleen A. (Hallenbeck) Wylie ’81 September 3, 2015 Raymond E. Dutcher Jr. ’82 November 26, 2013 Catherine M. (Bruce) Frick ’92, ’97 & ’12 July 1, 2015 Robbie M. Coates ’95 July 5, 2015 Dana Rodeghiero ’96 August 8, 2015

Audrey (Platt) Jacobson May 19, 2012 Philip T. McGreevy, former director of food services.

March 12, 2015 Conrad M. Rothrauff, professor in the English department for 24 years.

December 13, 2014 Dorothy M. Silmser, a former cook in PACES. September 10, 2015 Birgit M. (Nordin) Weaver, a former nurse in Student Health Services.

July 25, 2015 Perry H. Yaw, Jr., Crane School of Music professor.

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ALUMNI

opportunities

Save the Date

SUNY Potsdam invites everyone to participate in the upcoming activities, all of which are on campus unless otherwise noted. For a complete listing of more than 350 on-campus activities, including specific dates, locations, registration and ticketing information (when applicable), visit the Campus News & Events tab on the SUNY Potsdam website at www.potsdam.edu.

Questions can be directed to the Office of Alumni Relations at (315) 267-2120 or alumni@potsdam.edu.

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 ECONOMIC FUSION (April 20) SUNY Potsdam celebrates entrepreneurism and innovation on campus with a series of events, including a student creative idea competition, career networking with employers and featured keynote speaker, Larry E. Thomas, former CEO of Guitar Center, Inc. and Fender Musical Instruments. Visit potsdam.edu/economicfusion.

ALBANY ALUMNI & FRIENDS GATHERING

(April 21) Join President Esterberg for an update on the College and catch up with Professor Emeritus Dr. Richard Del Guidice, Hon. ‘92 in Albany. To register, visit www.potsdam.edu/ alumni or call Alumni Relations at (315) 267-2120.

TEACHER EDUCATION STUDENT ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE (April 23)

LOUGHEED-KOFOED (LOKO) FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

CRANE AT CARNEGIE HALL

(MAY 8)

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime concert and pre-concert reception at this prestigious venue with Maestro Duain Wolfe. The Crane Chorus and the Crane Symphony Orchestra performance at Carnegie Hall is made possible by the Adeline Maltzan Crane Chorus Performance Tour Fund, established by Dr. Gary C. Jaquay ’67.

Photo: Program from Crane’s first appearance at Carnegie Hall in 1941 (April 29 – May 8) with conductor Nadia Boulanger.

Join us for 10 days of free arts events, including theatre, music and dance performances, visual arts and creative writing.

• A two-day photo workshop with renowned photographer Douglas Beasley (May 1 and 2) BICENTENNIAL REUNION WEEKEND (July 14-17) • The always-popular illuminated sculpture garden in the Special bicentennial/historic highlights include: Academic Quad (May 4) • Celebrate 200 years of athletics at the Friday night • Poetry reading by notable poet Martín Espada (May 5) Welcome Reception • The musical rock comedy, “Return to the Forbidden • Saturday afternoon’s Bicentennial Block Party for all Planet” (Opens May 5) attendees • Crane School of Music performance (April 30, 7:30 p.m.

• Bicentennial time capsule burial on Saturday afternoon, in Hosmer Hall) of “Requiem” by Gabriel Fauré and other following the Block Party works conducted by Duain Wolfe, the 2016 Dorothy • Campus Learning Center alumni and friends gathering Albrecht Gregory Visiting Conductor. on Saturday Check for updated event information at • Celebration of all past alumni award winners at Saturwww.potsdam.edu/loko day’s Gala Reception

The SUNY Potsdam alumni superintendents and principals career guidance program will be offered as part of the Teacher Education Student Association annual conference on campus. For more information, please contact Nancy Griffin at griffine@potsdam.edu.

DEDICATION OF THE BICENTENNIAL PLAZA & PARTY IN THE PLAZA (May 20)

BOULANGER/HOSMER CRANE SYMPOSIUM (April 22 – 23) This symposium will focus on the connection between Nadia Boulanger, Helen Hosmer and The Crane School of Music and will examine Boulanger’s wider influence on music in the 20TH and 21st centuries. Events include: • Panel discussions with international Boulanger experts • Film screening of “Nadia Boulanger: Mademoiselle” • A concert of historic works

(May 21) SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher will address the bicentennial Class of 2016 at Commencement, honoring all master’s and bachelor’s graduates, in a historic outdoor ceremony in the Academic Quad.

The “three pillar” statues between Crumb Library and Merritt Hall will be redesignated Bicentennial Plaza to honor and recognize our bicentennial year, during the Commencement weekend.

BICENTENNIAL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

SUNY POTSDAM ONLINE ALUMNI DIRECTORY IS AVAILABLE! The Office of Alumni Relations is pleased to offer its online Alumni Directory via BearPaws.

The online directory is available for your use. Alumni must have a potsdam.edu email account to access the directory.

If you do not have one, you may request an email account at www.potsdam.edu/alumni/services/email.cfm, or by calling the Alumni Office at (315) 267-2120. Once you have your potsdam.edu email address, go to bearpaws.potsdam.edu and select “Alumni Services.” Tab through the various options to update your profile, find a classmate, make a gift or explore career opportunities.

Questions about the directory may be directed to alumni@potsdam.edu.

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POTSDAM PEOPLE SPRING 2016

SARATOGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (August 18) Renée Fleming ’81 performs with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Join SUNY Potsdam alumni and friends for this special concert and preconcert dinner. To register, visit www.potsdam.edu/alumni or call Alumni Relations at (315) 267-2120.

SYRACUSE ALUMNI REGIONAL EVENT

(September 24) Enjoy an evening with great friends, dance to the sounds of Double Axel, Northern New York’s favorite party band, and enjoy food from the acclaimed Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Syracuse. For more information, call Alumni Relations at (315) 267-2120.

CAMPAIGN CULMINATION & KICK-OFF OF THIRD CENTURY (September 30) SUNY Potsdam will celebrate the incredible generosity of alumni and friends, who set new records for giving, with the successful completion of Take the Lead: The Campaign for Potsdam. The College will mark the official launch into its third century of excellence, with campus-wide festivities open to all.

IN THEIR

own words

On Sundays, Thatcher was closed. I walked to the Student Union to purchase a tuna sandwich. The Crumb Library looked like a scene from Hades, with steam rising from all the outside vents. When I got back to Van Heusen Hall, the sandwich was frozen!

Paul Russell ’71

SUNY Potsdam Launches First Album in Bicentennial Oral History Collection “Baby, It’s Cold Outside: Remembering the Seasons in the North Country,” is a free online album now available to stream or download at https://sunypotsdam.bandcamp. com. The album artwork comes from the scrapbook of Ronald Farra ‘57 and Johanna (DiCroce) Farra ‘56, who generously allowed their alma mater to scan their photographs of campus in the 1950s for the College Archives.

Aerial photography by Josh McLear w w w.potsdam.edu/people

29

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

, Past and Five Generations of Potsdam

Present

‘86, Brandon , Ruth Molnar Short family! Rick Short ‘85 r-Belluomini ‘85. Nina is holdthe in s run ide Pr Potsdam Judy Molna ne-Molnar ‘57 and Short ’19, Nina Lavig W. Molnar ‘55. e org ing a picture of Ge

200 years of family.

200 years of Potsdam Pride. Join us in July to celebrate the past, present and future of SUNY Potsdam during our bicentennial reunion.

See inside for special reunion information, registration and highlights.

Bicentennial Reunion Weekend 2016

7.14.16 - 7.17.16 To register and for more information, visit

www.potsdam.edu/alumni (315) 267-2120