Union Magazine Winter 2019

WINTER 2019

UNIONCOLLEGE A Magazine for Alumni and Friends

Volume 113 / Number 2

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Terms abroad turns 50 Four years: What we learned

Education doesn't just take place in the classroom. Pre-orientation activities, terms abroad, internships and faculty-mentored research are integral parts of a Union education.

For students with financial need, these unique opportunities may be out of reach.

President David R. Harris has launched the Making U Possible initiative to ensure that qualified students can benefit from a full Union experience.

Through June 30, each gift to Making U Possible programs will unlock an equal amount from a few generous alumni to be invested in scholarships, doubling the impact we can make in students’ lives.

PLEASE JOIN US.

www.union.edu/upossible

T H E P R E S I D E N T I A L I N I T I AT I V E F O R S C H O L A R S H I P A N D I M M E R S I V E E XC E L L E N C E

WINTER 2019 // Volume 113 // Number 2

UNION COLLEGE ON THE FRONT COVER

The Erechtheion in Greece (By Chetna Prasad '15)

IN THIS ISSUE:

VICE PRESIDENT FOR COLLEGE RELATIONS

Terri Cerveny CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Tom Torello EDITOR

Charlie Casey caseyc@union.edu ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Erin DeMuth Judd demuthje@union.edu CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christen Gowan Tina Lincer Phillip Wajda CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Matt Milless Michael Farrell Shawn LaChapelle

Features

DESIGN

2k Design PRINTING

Fort Orange Press

UNION COLLEGE is published

three times a year by the Union College Office of Communications, Schenectady, N.Y. 12308. The telephone is (518) 388-6131. Non-profit flat rate postage is paid at Schenectady, N.Y., and an additional mailing office.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Office of Communications, Union College, Schenectady, N.Y. 12308-3169.

Alumni who want to inform the College about changes of address should contact the Alumni Office at (518) 388-6168 or via e-mail at alumni@union. edu. The same phone number and e-mail address should be used to correspond about ReUnion, Homecoming, alumni club events, and other activities.

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Celebrating 50 years of terms abroad

Four years: what we learned

In 1969, Professor Fred Klemm led Union’s first term abroad in Vienna, and opened the doors for international adventure and learning that changed the lives of countless young people. Here’s a look at the history of International Programs and what it has meant to alumni and students.

In fall 2015, we met a dozen students just beginning their first year at Union. Now, as they prepare to graduate, they look back on what they’ve learned about themselves these last four years.

Departments 2 President’s Message

42 Media

61 Unions

4 Around U

44 Alumni Clubs

66 Arrivals

40 focUs

45 Class Notes

68 In Memoriam

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Getting to know U

O

ver the winter break, I took a little time to reflect on our first six months at Union.

Looking through photographs, I was reminded of all that has occurred, and why we feel so fortunate to be part of this community. As hard as it is to pick a few highlights, allow me to try.

In September, I was treated to a one-hour, immersive, master class on the Nott Memorial by one of the College’s jewels, Professor Carl George. In December, Anne and I had one of many opportunities to talk with Professor Twitty Styles and his wife, Dr. Constance Glasgow, who have been part of the Union community since the 1960s. These and many other personal connections with some of the people who have shaped Union have deepened my understanding of where we are, how we got here, and all of the many exciting places we can go.

It is striking how many of the photographs show teams and groups. I have “practiced” with the ice hockey and field hockey teams, spoken with incoming student athletes and their families, and interacted in many other ways with the roughly 40 percent of students who participate in intercollegiate athletics. Members of Greek organizations, athletics teams, religious groups and choirs have come together to create light after tragedies such as the limousine crash in Schoharie and the synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh. We have witnessed what it means to be part of something larger than oneself in the stories of former, current and prospective members of our POSSE cohorts. These groups of promising students develop deep connections with one another before Union and, once here, become academic and community leaders.

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Enhancing bonds across these and many other powerful groups at Union will be key to our success.

Yet another set of photographs show the vibrancy and further potential of Schenectady.

Conversations overheard in local barbershops continue to provide a wealth of information about the range of pride points, concerns and daily activities that occupy our neighbors. In October, staff, faculty and students joined me in hosting a booth at the Schenectady Greenmarket.

It provided an opportunity to share what is happening at Union and to hear how Union can be an even stronger partner in the community.

I have had conversations with Mayor Gary McCarthy, Price Chopper Chairman and Union College Trustee Neil Golub, SUNY Schenectady President Steady Moono, MVP Health Care CEO Denise Gonick and many others. Together we have identified ways that the Union community can engage with Schenectady’s cultural and volunteer opportunities, and at the same time advance the academic and non-academic goals of our students, faculty and staff.

These snapshots inspire and guide our recently-launched strategic planning effort. They are reminders of how very special Union College is, and with greater focus and resources, how much more it can accomplish. We are proud to be part of the Union community, proud to be part of a college that attracts and develops the seniors described in this issue, and proud to be part of the perpetual journey to ensure that our future is always brighter than our past.

DAVID R. HARRIS, Ph.D.

S AV E THE DAT E

Volunteer Conference WHERE: Union College

5-6 APRIL 2019

HOSTED BY: The Alumni Council HIGHLIGHTS: • Keynote address by President David R. Harris • Rotating workshops on best practices for volunteer efforts • Alumni awards • Welcome dinner with students FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT http://uconnect.union.edu/volunteer2019

Union + Union has partnered with Audible to offer Annual Fund donors a free, two-month Audible trial. You’ll get two audiobooks and four Audible originals to enjoy.

If you’ve already given, a code to unlock the world’s largest audiobook library has been emailed to you. If not, just visit union.edu/giving to support the Annual Fund. A code will arrive in your inbox within a week.

QUESTIONS? Visit uconnect.union.edu/audible or email alumni-online@union.edu

» Visit us online at www.union.edu/magazine

» Follow us on social media WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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U

AROUND

From building dedications to football, Homecoming had it all

T

he College welcomed hundreds of visitors to campus Oct. 12-14 for Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Highlights included the dedication of three new campus spaces: the Stephen Charles Ainlay and Judith Gardner Ainlay Hall; the Bertagna-Class of 1985 Stadium; and the Stanley O’Brien ’74 Center for Collaboration and Engagement, which is attached to Grant Hall.

Other highlights included pumpkin carving, Golub House Oktoberfest, a family welcome breakfast and student poster session, the “Union & Schenectady Community Engagement in the College Experience,” the family picnic and kids carnival, and athletic contests.

To see more Homecoming photos, visit facebook.com/unioncollege

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U

AROUND

Futuristic. Cool. Ainlay Hall.

Opening Ainlay Hall in October are, from left, President Emeritus Stephen C. Ainlay, Judith Gardner Ainlay, Chairman of the Board John E. Kelly III ’76, Trustee David Breazzano ’78 and President David R. Harris.

W

hen a committee of faculty and administrators gathered more than five years ago to start a conversation over the future of the Science and Engineering Center, they weren’t sure where it would lead.

Built during the late 1960s and dedicated in 1971, the S&E Center had been instrumental in educating generations of students in biology, chemistry, physics and astronomy, and computer, electrical and mechanical engineering.

But it was clearly showing its age.

For inspiration, committee members visited new science buildings at other campuses and worked with architects to design a building that would meet current demands and future needs.

They weighed whether to opt for a completely new complex or a total renovation of the existing building. In the end, they chose a hybrid model. The $100 million project, to be completed in

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phases, would be the most ambitious and largest in the school’s history.

Since the first part of the striking new glass and steel building opened last fall, students and faculty have been effusive in their praise. Transformative. Futuristic.

Efficient. Cool.

Known as Stephen Charles Ainlay and Judith Gardner Ainlay Hall in honor of Union’s most recent president and his wife, the space was formally dedicated Oct. 12 during Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Featuring bright, airy classrooms, labs, faculty offices and student study areas, the space is inviting, open and inspiring.

A key feature is a four-story light well in the atrium that promotes visibility and connectedness among disciplines. Designed to showcase the extensive labs and highlevel scientific instrumentation not typically found at a liberal arts college, the massive glass panels give students and visitors a clear view of the research taking place.

Above: Students work in one of Ainlay Hall's new labs

“A number of schools have new science and engineering facilities but what makes ours unique is the science-on-display concept,” said Scott Kirkton, an associate professor of biology. He has been involved with the project as both a member of the planning committee and as a faculty trustee.

For example, Kirkton said, a student in an introductory science class can see upper level students doing research with faculty.

“This allows them to envision making that transition from a student to a collaborator with a faculty researcher.”

In the old S&E facility, students conducted research in cramped isolated labs separate from classrooms. Also, research typically stopped at the end of the day. The new space is more inviting and engaging, and is intended to be alive after hours.

“By bringing the research space next to the analysis space and allowing free

Right: President Emeritus Stephen C. Ainlay speaks during the dedication of Stephen Charles Ainlay and Judith Gardner Ainlay Hall.

movement between these two spaces without having to leave the relative protection of the laboratory space and entering the common-public space, it’s safer and far more efficient,” said Laurie Tyler, professor of chemistry and chair of the department.

“This allows both the faculty and student researchers to be more productive in their research.”

Tyler is particularly excited about the instrumentation suite, which she compares to those available to students at graduate institutions.

“Our instrumentation is phenomenal,” she said. “I went to a big school where students didn’t touch instruments like this until their fourth year. Here, it is common for our students all four years.

To be able to have it all in this new setting, we’re so lucky.”

Maximillian Tam ’19, a biochemistry major from Queens, said the building’s

flow is vastly superior to the old space. He appreciates the proximity of the research labs, writing space and faculty offices.

As a senior, he will be able to enjoy the new space for one year and he plans to make the most of it.

“Ainlay Hall is a great space because it provides a comfortable environment for students,” he said. “Each time I enter the building I feel like it is a new experience.

It offers a lot of creativity and inspiration for me.”

Work has already begun on the next phase of the project, which includes the renovation of three sections of the existing S&E center by fall 2019. Two other sections will be demolished and replaced by an outdoor quad.

When finished, the 142,000-square-foot space will connect directly to the Wold Center, and Bailey, Butterfield and Steinmetz halls. New outdoor walkways, seating areas and expanded green space will improve foot traffic significantly within the integrated science and engineering complex and enhance the campus grounds.

The new space will be a major selling point for prospective students, and early admissions tours have been overwhelmingly positive.

“A lot of what we have done here has been designed around Union’s philosophy of how can we inspire the next generation of students and improve our teaching and research capabilities,” Kirkton said. “I think we are doing that.”

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Stanley O’Brien ’74 Center built on friendship

Stanley O’Brien ’74 (left) and David R. Mixer ’74

T

he new Stanley O’Brien ’74 Center for Collaboration and Engagement, built on the friendship of two alumni, was dedicated Oct. 13 during Homecoming Weekend.

David R. Mixer ’74, former trustee, made the gift in honor of his friend, classmate, trustee and mentor.

On the east side of Admissions at Grant Hall, the 9,000-square-foot building is a point of entry for thousands of prospective students and families each year. It serves as a conference center and presentation space. It features a large meeting room with video wall, breakout spaces and offices.

The fall meeting of the Board of Trustees was the first event held in the building.

The O’Brien Center is the first building on campus to be named for an AfricanAmerican.

“I could think of no better way to honor Union relationships than to suggest that this building be named for Stanley O’Brien,” said Mixer, managing partner of MiddleLand Capital. “Stan and I would like the building

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to be an icon for the importance of relationships. We hope that when prospective students walk through this building, they will see many reminders of Union relationships that last a lifetime.”

Mixer recalled meeting O’Brien just weeks into their first year. Five years ago, O’Brien invited Mixer to join the board and served as his mentor.

“Throughout my term as a trustee, I saw how engaged Stan was with the College,” said Mixer. “He was a key player on the board, a leader who cared deeply about the institution. He made me reflect on why Union was important to me. It’s about lasting personal relationships.”

O’Brien, retired vice president of BNY Mellon Center, has been a trustee at Union for 11 years.

“By creating this space, we hope to provide an environment that will allow for the continued development of bridges, empowering students, faculty and staff to find new perspectives while acquiring a new appreciation for each other,” he said.

O’Brien, an economics major at Union who played basketball, football and lacrosse, recognized three of his mentors: Peter Prosper, professor of economics; Paul LeClerc, professor of French; and Bruce Allison, head lacrosse coach.

The building is “a model in a world where often differences separate us,” said John E. Kelly III ’76, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Here at Union, as displayed between these two gentlemen, it is possible for us all to come together.”

President David R. Harris ended the dedication by reading from the plaque inside the entrance: “Throughout his life, Stanley has bridged differences by focusing on acceptance and inclusion.

This space pays tribute to Stanley’s humanity and leadership in empowering individuals and building communities.”

“That’s what it’s all about,’ Harris said.

“Future generations will see the names, but more important, they’ll know the story.”

New strategic plan initiative launched

P

resident David R. Harris announced a new strategic planning process at a town hall meeting Nov. 5 in the Nott Memorial. The College’s Strategic Plan was last revised in 2013.

Harris outlined the rationale for a strategic plan and took questions and suggestions from an audience of students, faculty and staff.

A Strategic Plan balances resources and aspirations, he said. It serves as a guide that ensures the College achieves as much as possible while managing resources.

“The key is to have a plan that’s Union,” he continued, adding that there must be savvy initial ideas, engagement from diverse members of the Union community, and sound research and data to develop detailed plans and metrics. Everyone must also understand the path the plan outlines as well as the budget constraints, he said.

Harris will chair and lead the effort.

The Planning and Priorities committee will advise on the structure, process, initial focal areas, emerging recommendations and final substance of the plan.

An ad hoc committee will consist of a subset of the Board, with members selected by the board chair. It will provide guidance on all aspects of the plan and will serve as a proxy for the full Board.

Finally, working groups with broad campus representation will be responsible for deep dives into major areas. Examples include academic offerings, residential experience and “brothers and sisters,” the latter reflecting a commitment to the College motto. A foundational working group will study recruitment, retention, stewardship and reputational goals.

“Union is an amazing place,” Harris said. “We have to figure out how to do a better job of sharing that with the world.”

Members of the Union community are encouraged to participate through upcoming meetings, webinars and surveys.

Written comments may be submitted to strategicplan@union.edu Harris said he expects the deliberation and engagement phase to continue into winter 2019 with a draft plan in May. Approval from the Board would likely come in October 2019.

YOUR OPINION COUNTS Contribute to Union's next strategic plan by completing the alumni survey that was emailed to you.

Take the Union College Challenge President David Harris has called on us to join him in becoming more comfortable being uncomfortable, and in the process, grow as individuals and as a community.

He asks that each of us commit to doing at least one thing that is new, in our studies, our jobs or our personal lives. What takes you out of your comfort zone? What will help you to learn and grow?

Visit union.edu/challenge to take the #UnionCollegeChallenge.

WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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| TIMELINE | AUG.

A new book produced by students in Professor Christine Henseler’s spring class, “Millennials and Social Change: The Rise of the Everyday Changemaker,” is available on Amazon. Generation Now: Millennials Call for Social Change, features deeply personal articles by students on topics that include poverty, pollution, mental illness, sexual abuse and income inequality.

Jenny Kemp, Bug’s Ear, 2017, acrylic on linen over canvas, 22 x 18 inches, Collection of Julie Casper Roth and Jessica Hebrank

SEPT.

The President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll

“Jenny Kemp: Slow Grow,”

featuring 18 of the artist’s striking abstractions, opens in the Mandeville Gallery.

Kemp paints in acrylic and in gouache, building space and light through the placement of intricate, shifting parallel and concentric lines. She taught painting at Union in the fall, and lives and works in Troy, N.Y.

recognizes Union for its exemplary service to the local community for the fifth time in six years. The honor is the highest Federal recognition a school can achieve for its commitment to volunteering, service learning and civic engagement.

The Class of 2022 officially joins the campus community.

Insight Into Diversity magazine,

581 24 20 Students

States

Countries

The class is one of the College’s most diverse and global, with 30 percent international or students of color. Nearly two-thirds of the class was ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class. Fifteen percent of the incoming students are the first in their families to attend college.

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the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education, recognizes the College for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. This marks the fifth straight year Union has been honored with the magazine’s Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award.

More than 400 students help spruce up the city and surrounding area on Saturday, Sept. 29, for the 24th annual John Calvin Toll Day. Volunteers clean up parks, public spaces and provide other help as needed.

The rare lock of George Washington’s hair found

OCT.

hidden in a long-forgotten book in Schaffer Library is displayed publicly for the first time during Homecoming after being professionally conserved. While surveying some of the College’s oldest books and records late last year, Daniel Michelson, a historical records project archivist, rediscovered “Gaines Universal Register or American and British Kalendar for the year 1793.”

74th Steinmetz Memorial Lecture is delivered by Anjan Bose, an expert on power grid control and a renowned researcher in electrical power engineering. His talk: “The Evolution of the Smart Grid from Edison to Steinmetz.”

Bose is Regents Professor at Washington State University, where he also served as the dean of engineering and architecture.

In 2012–13 he served as senior adviser to the U.S. Department of Energy in the Obama administration.

University Innovation Fellows Named Tyler Greenwood ’21, Abdelrahman Mohamed ’21, Emma Lee ’21 and Nathan Gillespie ’20 are the latest students to be named University Innovation Fellows. The highly selective program, run by Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design, helps foster entrepreneurship and innovation among students nationwide.

Veteran’s Day Breakfast

NOV.

Justin Green ’84, a former U.S. Marine and attorney representing families in major aviation cases, is keynote speaker at the College’s annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast.

An attack helicopter pilot in Operations Desert Shield and Storm, he served as his squadron’s aviation safety officer. He supports the Semper Fi Fund, which assists injured military and their families.

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Top: Czech Republic (By Alexis Wojtowicz '17) Bottom Left: Bac Ha Vietnam (By Kaitlyn Brew '16) Bottom Right: On a safari in Pushkar, Rajasthan (By Hannah Gotoff '18)

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p

50 YEARS OF CHANGING LIVES

eter Kircher ’73 hitchhiked around Colombia.

Dan and Helene Lacoff, both Class of 1981, met in Italy (they’ve been married 36 years). A victim of domestic abuse in Cambodia taught Lakhena Leang ’18 how to keep working toward something better.

And in Prague, Anat Tewari ’19 tore it up with a band called Tex-Mex. Adventure. Love. Soul-searing glimpses into the human condition. Rock star moments. No small things any one.

For 50 years, Union students have been seeking and finding experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. This is what terms abroad —from Fiji to Greece—are all about.

“We offer 23 full terms and about 20 mini-terms, though some are offered odd or even years,” said Lara Atkins, director of International Programs. “We have a total of 43 programs in 30 different countries, on six continents and Oceania.”

“Sixty percent of each graduating class participates in a mini or full term,” she added.

But this isn’t what makes Union’s programs unique.

“Study abroad is offered everywhere and many places have a diversity of programs,” Atkins said. “What makes Union

different and special is the number of faculty-led programs and our high level of faculty involvement.”

“Eighty percent of full terms and 100 percent of mini-terms are faculty led,” she continued. “This is just the inverse of what most other campuses can typically offer.”

Since Atkins became director in 2009, faculty have helped develop and launch full terms to Russia, India and Cambodia.

Mini-terms are now offered in Russia, Bali, Poland (Holocaust history), London (theatre), Cuba, Ethiopia, Senegal and New Hampshire (presidential primary). A Klemm Fellow International Internship Program was also recently started.

No matter the country, though, students return changed.

“Studying abroad is a very powerful experience and very intense. A lot of development occurs on all levels and students gain increased confidence academically and personally,” Atkins said. “These students gain first-hand experience that is invaluable. And these experiences confirm what they want to do or reroute their life’s path.

“We say these sort of trite things— oh, its life changing. Well, it is.”

In so many different ways.

niversary t the 50th an ou ab s w ne r Stay tuned fo ternational Programs. ms, visit of In ational Progra rn te In t ou ab e To learn mor edu/offices/international union.

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Peter Kircher '73 (left) and Tom Broderick '73 in Sevilla, Spain

I WAS THE ST. ANDREWS UNIVERSITY (FIFESHIRE, SCOTLAND) exchange scholar for

the 1954-55 academic year. Without meaning to sound trite, it was a lifechanging year for me. I was provided free lodging and board and access to all classes. I didn’t meet any other students during my travels that were on international exchange scholarships from other universities, so I think Union was well ahead of the curve with this program. I have also never met anyone my age who had a similar experience at their university.

I think Union should be quite proud of being a pioneer in international programs.

Between about 1985 and ’95 I organized and directed an exchange program between my university (University of Colorado, Denver) and Guilin College of Geology in Guilin, China, that I modeled after my St. Andrews experience. The St. Andrews experience infected me with the travel bug and I have never stopped traveling since then. I married a woman who had hitch-hiked around Europe in 1960 with two friends, so we had a lot to talk about when we started dating.”

–WESLEY LE MASURIER ’56

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I HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF SPENDING TWO TERMS ABROAD, ONE my sophomore year

and the other my junior year. The first year, I went to Bogota, Colombia. At the time that country was quite politically uninvolved and a very safe place to be. The coolest part of my time in Colombia was weekends.

I spent at least half of them hitchhiking to small towns about a 1/2 day drive away, with 2-4 other group members. We would meet after class on Friday or Saturday morning, backpacks full of sleeping bags, snacks and clothes and stick out our thumbs. Invariably and usually quite quickly, a cargo or pick-up truck would stop. More than once, upon arriving at our destination, the driver invited us to his house for a meal and occasionally to spend the night. When we did not stay with someone, we’d find a very modest hotel.

One town we visited did not have a hotel.

After asking around for a place to stay without success, someone suggested the jail (which was empty). The police chief let us crash there for a small fee. My second term abroad was spent in historic Sevilla, Spain. Perhaps not surprisingly, after graduating Union, I joined the Peace Corps and served two years in Ecuador. I enjoyed a lot of my time at Union, semesters abroad being high on the list.”

–PETER KIRCHER ’73

I WAS PROUD TO BE PART OF THE INAUGURAL GROUP OF 30 UNION College students

participating in the spring of 1969 in the ‘Fruehling in Wein’ semester in Vienna, Austria, led by Professor Frederick Klemm and his wife. The experience positively influenced me in two areas. The first area relates to traveling and living abroad. Ever since, I have traveled extensively all over the continental U.S. and overseas. Much of this occurred during my 23 years spent as a U.S. Air Force officer that included living one year in Thailand, two years in Australia, and four years in Hawaii. I kept traveling in my follow-on work as a defense contractor to include spending three months in Germany in 1999. I was pleasantly surprised to see how much of my German language skills came back after a hiatus of 30 years. The second area involves doing original research, analysis and writing. Efforts similar to my independent study in Vienna were repeated often while in the USAF, graduate degree programs and elsewhere. Some were published as books and articles. I still enjoy doing that activity.”

–FRANK DONNINI ’70

TERMS ABROAD

"I HAD THE GOOD FORTUNE TO DO TWO TERMS ABROAD,

TO A YOUNG, IMPRESSIONABLE MATH MAJOR, TAKING A TERM abroad in Greece was like a

dream. In the winter of 1978, I and several of my closest friends hopped aboard Laker Airlines for an economy flight to London.

There we spent several days sightseeing before flying on to Greece. We were shocked to arrive in Athens to snow flurries, something we were told was ‘unheard of.’ We eventually all got settled

into apartments in the upscale Kolonaki section of Athens, close to where we attended classes, but quite the hike to the Acropolis. Several times a week, we marched over to the ruins for archaeology class. I realized then, and appreciate even more now, how privileged I was to live near such a significant part of human history. Class trips to other ancient sites, visits to the islands of Crete and Mikonos, as well as a week in Egypt, were the icing on the cake.”

one in Vienna with Prof. Klemm and his wife, and one in Schwäbisch Hall, Germany, with Prof. Warde. I majored in English and modern languages (German and Russian), so the terms abroad were essential to improving my knowledge of the German language. The Austro-American Institute (Vienna) was very good at making our stay as pleasant and interesting as possible. I was a runner and had given up my outdoor track season in Schenectady to go abroad.

At my request the Institute arranged for me to practice with a track and field club on the outskirts of the city. I was pretty out of shape, but I was touched that during one race (my only one there) when I was lagging quite far behind and feeling miserable, people from the club whom I didn’t even know were cheering me on: “Auf, Stanley!” “Come on, Stanley.” Also, early on in my stay in Vienna, I think it was a Sunday or a Saturday afternoon, I had gone across the street and was going right back since where I wanted to go was closed.

There were no cars anywhere and none in sight. And so I just walked back across the street and didn’t pay any attention to the traffic light. What I failed to notice was the policeman waiting on the other side— where did he come from? He made me pay a fine for jay-walking, which was especially annoying because I was low on funds at that point for some reason, waiting for a money transfer.”

–STANLEY WISKOSKI ’77

–JILL DULING STOPKA ’78

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“IT’S HARD TO FATHOM, BUT I AM RAPIDLY APPROACHING THE 40TH

anniversary of my 1979 term abroad to Florence, Italy. Actually, it’s not that hard to fathom since I recently celebrated my 36th wedding anniversary to the girl I first met on that term abroad. I look back at my months abroad as a life-changer. I learned all about the world that existed outside of the United States: the peoples, the cultures, the languages, the foods and the politics. I learned all about art and religion and to this day, I still love walking into churches and museums around the globe and reminiscing about my time in Florence, where I first gained this love and appreciation. I am still close with my Union friends who ventured with me to Florence and we love sharing stories and memories because there certainly were a plethora of them. But meeting my life partner there, that’s the best recollection of all.”

–DAN LACOFF ’81

“MY EXPERIENCES ON CAMPUS TAUGHT ME ALL I REALLY needed to know for future success in life: How to think, how to write, how to view the world through the skeptical lens of a scientist, how to manage my time, and how to work hard and play hard. And this would have been enough. Fall term of our junior year, Bill Riley and I were roommates in Florence, living in a 16th century building just blocks from Piazza di Santa Croce with a host family whose English vocabulary was limited to the phrase ‘cheese hamburger.’

Laura, Massimo and their 5-year-old son, Max, patiently taught us the language and customs of their city and put up with plenty of our college boy shenanigans. We walked across the Ponte Vecchio every day to our classrooms, where we were immersed in the study of western civilization, art history and the Italian language. Every weekend, we took off on an adventure (some expertly guided, others on our own). We celebrated Oktoberfest in Munich, gambled in Monte Carlo and swam in the Grotta Azzura in Capri. We lost and found each other in foreign cities, slept in train stations, ‘swam’ in the Grand Canal, took late-night moped tours of Tuscany, and debated politics over liters of beer and pomme frites at Il Scorpione. All the while, we made deep and lasting friendships surrounded by the renaissance beauty of Firenze. I cried as my northbound train passed Lake Como on a cold and rainy November day over 25 years ago. Even then, I knew I was saying goodbye to a place and time that I could never experience in quite the same way again.

Thank you, Union, for not just making it possible, but for knowing that it would make me a more complete student, physician and human being. I am deeply grateful.”

–T I M F I S H E R ’ 9 3

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TERMS ABROAD

“I WAS PRIVILEGED TO BE PART OF THE FIRST UNION TERM ABROAD TO JAPAN.

With Professor Thurston as our guide, 15 of us spent the fall term living with our Japanese families, learning about the language and culture, and going on some amazing trips. In particular, our overnight trip to a Buddhist monastery and our visit to Hiroshima stand out. Thanks to the term abroad program for giving us such a wonderful experience!”

–DENI KEA ’86

"IN MARCH OF 1972, I AND ANOTHER 30 STUDENTS, ACCOMPANIED BY PROF.

Frederick Klemm and his wife, flew to Vienna, Austria. Knowing that I had been a soprano soloist in the mixed chorus back in Schenectady, Professor Klemm graciously arranged for me to sing with the community chorus of the Vienna Conservatory—what a thrill at the age of 21! Our side trips to Prague, Czechoslovakia and Budapest, Hungary were also otherworldly to me. It was the time of the Cold War and we traveled behind the Iron Curtain twice. On our first jaunt—to Prague during Holy Week—one of the students innocently but foolishly packed his luggage in a U.S. Army surplus knapsack. We sat on our bus for nearly two hours at the border before being allowed to go on our way to Prague. It had only been four years since the 1968 Soviet invasion and annexation of the country.

Soldiers with machine guns patrolled the city. We were appointed a government guide, who accompanied us everywhere and who suddenly changed the subject if someone tried to ask a political question.

But the rose window of St. Vitus Cathedral was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in my life! There don’t seem to be enough superlatives in the English language to cover all the strangely wondrous, glorious sights and sounds, people and places that I still vividly remember from my term abroad.

Thank you, Union, for the life-changing experience. It remains to this day in a special corner of my heart’s memory.”

–M A R G A R E T PAT T E R S O N G R E E N ’ 7 2

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“THE ISRAEL TERM ABROAD WAS A RUGGED AUTHENTIC

“OF COURSE, I STILL REMEMBER THE UNION TERM ABROAD IN SUMMER

1983. I have been in a loving 33-year relationship with the sweet Cornell student that Union allowed to join our SocMed (socialized Medicine) Program. Dr. Bob (Baker) and Gunilla Gado led us in a fun and informative program to London, Sweden, Prague, Budapest and East Berlin (before the walls came down). The concepts that we learned about in the introductory week on the campus of Union and at healthcare facilities in Schenectady and Albany, and then examined further in Europe, shaped our thinking in our future medical and social work careers, and in how we think about the current health care crisis in the U.S. today. What began as a romantic night at Jackson Gardens in June 1983 led to the purchase of my wedding gown during a second term abroad I went on to Cuernavaca, Mexico in winter term 1985, and a wedding in June of 1985!”

–RAVIT AVNI-SINGER ’85

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experience. For eight weeks, 12 Union students worked, lived, and studied on a kibbutz, Kibbutz Gal-on. We worked daily in the fields or motor fan factory. Sometimes we worked in the kitchen or chicken coop (crating chickens for the live market).

We had host families and studied Hebrew daily, learned traditional folk dances and occasionally tended bar in a converted grain silo. We also had to write a final paper for Professor Berk (handwritten). Weekends were spent in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. An earned day off could be used to make a long weekend trip to Elat. The Israelis were eager to meet us and invite us into their homes. It was a way of life foreign to all of us, but we knew kibbutz life was central to the founding Israel and a commitment to a simpler way of life.”

–DAVID COHEN ’88

“I TOOK PART IN THE FIRST MINI-TERM to Martinique under

Professor Chilcoat my sophomore year.

My entire junior year was spent in Rennes, France (I had so much fun in the fall term abroad, that I stayed for the full year). I have returned to Rennes numerous times since to teach English, visit with my host family and friends, and just recently to enjoy my honeymoon (when again I met up with Professor Chilcoat). I’ve now been working at a French company for the past 10 years, which has certainly fallen right in line with my past experiences abroad. I will forever be grateful to Union for exposing me to such awe-inspiring places and to everyone I met along the way, who have helped to get me where I am today.”

–KRISTEN CLARKSON ’04

TERMS ABROAD

“I WENT ON THE TERM ABROAD TO India, the mini-term to

Tianjin, China, and the Klemm Fellow International Internship Program mini-term to Chengdu, China, where I worked in an international kindergarten. As soon as I came back to Union after my first term abroad, my perception of Union changed and I felt motivated to become more involved in the community around me.

Since then, I have always tried to channel the spirit that I had on my term abroad for creating positive change and experiencing new things. Since I was able to work on a few different projects while abroad in many different kinds of places, I was also inspired to pursue a career that allows me to serve others. Whether it was witnessing extreme poverty firsthand in India or getting the chance to work at a really successful school in the center of a Chinese city, my experiences serve as constant reminders to use what I have learned abroad and work to make the world a better place. One of the most important realizations I had while I was abroad was that in order to actually create change and help others, it is important to learn from other people and work with them. This may seem like a simple concept, but getting the chance to be involved in this kind of impact firsthand has shown me how powerful it can be. It’s one reason I chose to apply to the Fulbright program—I will be an English teaching assistant in Taiwan.”

–ABBY SALAMONE ’18

“MY STUDY ABROAD EXPERIENCE IN SEVILLA HAD

a huge influence on the reason and place I chose to apply for a Fulbright. While I was abroad, I had the opportunity to take a biomechanics class in Spanish at a local university. It was one of the more challenging but rewarding academic experiences I’ve had. And it was the first time I got to combine my passion for science and language and really see what it was like to be a student my age in Spain. I loved this so much that I really wanted to find an opportunity to live abroad in a Spanish speaking country while carrying out my passion for research. Fulbright was the perfect avenue to do this. Paraguay, where I will spend my Fulbright, has unique biomaterials research with environmental applications that fit my research interests.

I believe that my time abroad in Spain really played an important role in my winning a Fulbright because it showed how much Fulbright aligned with my personal goals and interest.”

–ALLIE NOVAK ’17

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“MY INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN RENNES

really emphasized the advantages of knowing a foreign language. Not only was it helpful for communication but it also encouraged cultural exchange. Knowing a little of the language allowed me to learn idioms, slang, jokes or games. I could better appreciate French films, music, football matches or markets. Even now there’s a thrill in being able to read an untranslated news article, watch a film without subtitles, get the gist of a song, or proudly translate the French label on a tissue box! My term abroad inspired me to major in French and to pursue jobs that involve foreign languages or cultural exchange. Motivated by my international experiences, I applied and was accepted to the Teaching Assistant Program in France, so next year I’ll be helping to teach English at a secondary school in Grenoble. I’m thinking about possibly becoming a high school French teacher or an interpreter. In any case, I’ve become a fierce advocate for learning a foreign language. Just getting some simple conversational phrases in your mouth can open up so many opportunities for cultural exploration and can also give you a new understanding of your own community.”

–WILLIAM GARNER ’18

“THE TERM ABROAD IN GERMANY WAS A FULFILLING

experience that allowed me to grow immensely. Being abroad—with new people, in new places—allowed me to embrace more of who I am and weave my personal experiences in with my educational experiences with fewer inhibitions. The term abroad helped me win a Fulbright because it encouraged me to be myself, take risks, engage with others and be brave. And just being in Germany certainly influenced my decision to be a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant there—I wanted to return. My term abroad gave me the courage to pursue my own interests and desires, and to be myself—boldly and unapologetically. At the same time, exposure to new people, places and experiences, complete with language and cultural barriers, humbled me and allowed me to better understand my small role in this big world.”

–GIANLUCA AVANZATO ’18

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TERMS ABROAD

“AS A KLEMM FELLOW ON A PUBLIC HEALTH INTERNSHIP

in Cambodia, I was part of a team that distributed basic treatment and medical supplies. During this experience, I realized that human beings and their symptoms cannot be readily cured or diagnosed the way that they are on ‘House’ or ‘ER.’ We didn’t have a cure for physical overexertion, chronic pain, or the pill to cure depression and psychosis. We had Voren Gel, an ointment that temporarily relieves joint pain, Tylenol and vitamins. One elderly lady who approached us was different from the others and for me, the most memorable of all. She told us that her husband beats her to a point of weakness, completely visible upon initial observation. ‘I would like some medicine that will give me energy,’ she requested. I remember that we were all speechless. In our bag, we didn’t carry any pills that would heal the fragility in her spirit, or cure the years of mental damage that had already been done. I wanted to say that she could fight this. That she could fight him. Instead, we handed her 5 packets of Royal D and 15 tablets of multivitamins and watched as she a limped away. The medical bag I carried back, despite its heavy weight, felt empty that day. In that moment, I realized that there will be days when you find yourself doubting whether the things you do for the people around you are worth it. Whether or not you’re worth it.

And at times like this, more often than not, you’ll feel absolutely useless. In Cambodia, I learned how to combat this insecurity and use it as motivation to keep working towards something better.”

–LAKHENA LEANG ’18

“I MET A FEW GUYS FROM MEXICO, Bangladesh and Germany on

my term to Prague and soon struck up a great friendship with them. My new group of friends had similar taste in music and one of them knew the owner of a dive bar. With our connections and jovial attitudes, we started Tex-Mex, a cover band that played songs ranging from Pink Floyd to Green Day. Eventually, we found a way to perform 4-5 times at the bar, and were approached by ‘fans’ who asked us where we were touring next! We were all just students, and yet, we somehow tricked the audience into thinking we were professional musicians.

Making money off of tips, and simply living my ‘rock star dream’ were things I never thought would have happened in Prague, and yet there I was, playing on the drums as if my life depended on it. I cannot wait to go back to Prague. My time in Prague helped me realize that life is beautiful, and I need to take advantage of each day that I have been blessed with, whether it’s in Metronome Park in Prague or at Union College.”

–ANAT TEWARI ’19

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The sun never sets on Union College PROFS. KLEMM AND THOMAS LAUNCHED AND NURTURED TERMS ABROAD

Union’s international programs were launched and nurtured by a pair of unflappable and detail-oriented language professors who were inveterate travelers and staunch advocates for the value of finding oneself in another culture.

i

FRED KLEMM

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n 1968, inspiration for a term abroad struck Prof. Fred Klemm in the middle of the Vienna Museum of Art. Pausing among the Rubens and Rembrandts, he announced the idea to his wife, Eleanor, who responded, “Why don’t you do something about it?”

The next spring, after negotiating the details with the administration and a close faculty vote, the professor of German boarded a plane at JFK with 28 Union students bound for Vienna.

He embarked, he said, with “great expectations … and some trepidation.”

He needn’t have worried. On the night before their return, Klemm sat in the darkness of the Gothic 12th-century St. Stephen’s Cathedral as students took in an organ concert. “It gave me a warm feeling of satisfaction to see the students there,” he said. “It made insignificant the petty problems, annoying logistics and unnecessary hindrances that mark any new undertaking.”

In an article for the spring 1970 Union College Symposium, Klemm said he was planning more terms abroad: “The day may soon arrive when we can truthfully say, ‘The sun never sets on Union College.’”

“Fred Klemm was a determined and ambitious pioneer for our terms abroad program,” recalls

Steve Ciesinski ’70, who as a junior electrical engineering major studied traffic planning on the pilot term. “He was a visionary, and saw this program as something that would not only allow students to experience firsthand the language and culture of a sophisticated European city, but as the beginning of a much bigger initiative that would put Union at the forefront of an immersive learning experience.”

Decades later, Ciesinski, a life trustee and former board chair, has had a successful career leading international tech firms. He is president of SRI International, a research and development institute based in Menlo Park, Calif. “The term abroad program was a significant factor in shaping my perspective on international affairs as well as researching and enjoying new cultures and ways of life,” Ciesinski recalls. “It’s been a big influence in the progression of my professional career.”

Klemm was director of terms abroad from 1970 through 1978. In 2002, Klemm and his wife were honored by the College, and his photograph was unveiled in the International Programs office. He received the Faculty Meritorious Service Award from the Alumni Council when he retired in 1978. He passed away in 2010.

TERMS ABROAD

b

BILL THOMAS

ill Thomas, a professor of French who ran International Programs after Klemm retired, often said that the most valuable thing a student gains from a term abroad is independence.

Which means, he encouraged students to explore. And he worried.

“They have to grow up and act on their own,” he said shortly after his retirement in 2010.

“Which is tricky these days. It’s the millennial generation and they’re used to dealing as a group. But most of them realize they’ve got to do it themselves.”

Thomas, with his sardonic humor and dry wit, was well suited to organize and lead terms abroad. With his trademark gentle sarcasm, he reminded students to be on time and to be courteous to their hosts. In a letter to students bound for France, he wrote: “If you think I’m charming at 9:30 a.m., don’t tempt fate by finding out what I’m like at 3 a.m. after a nasty complaint from hotel management.”

Thomas, who seemed to have total recall for the biographic details of every student he met, made something of a second career out of staying in touch with alumni, many of whom had children who would become his students.

His work was recognized by Union and other institutions. Czech Technical University in Prague awarded him a medal for arranging an exchange of engineering students. York St. John University in England, another longtime exchange partner with Union, made him an honorary fellow in a grand commencement ceremony at York Minster Cathedral. In 1992, he received the Alumni Gold Medal from Union’s Alumni Council. Thomas, who taught at Union for 41 years, passed away in 2013.

A world of difference: the cell phone On Dec. 27, 1985, terrorists attacked the El Al terminal at the Rome airport, where Union students were awaiting a flight to Tel Aviv. Some of the students were injured, none seriously, but 16 other travelers were killed before police overwhelmed the gunmen.

Without email, text or cell phones, frantic parents flooded the College with calls.

Luckily, Richard Roth ’70 was covering the event for CBS News. “The minute he heard there were Union students in the group of survivors, he got them up in front [of the cameras] in their Union t-shirts so their parents could see that they were OK,” Thomas said. “Boy, were we grateful to him.”

Three decades later, during a bombing in Madrid on March 11, 2004, Thomas didn’t get a single call. “The students were on cell phones right away saying, ‘I’m alright, mom. I’m not anywhere near it. Don’t worry.’” “[The cell phone] has made my life a lot easier,” Thomas said.

“It’s a big difference because I can say ‘don’t worry.’ I have the ability to call anywhere in the world and find out what’s going on.”

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WHAT WE LEARNED

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We photographed a dozen first-years as they arrived in the fall of 2015. This fall, the seniors answered another call for photos, and a question: what have you learned?

PHOTOS BY MATT MILLESS

PHOTOS BY MATT MILLESS

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EMMANUELA OPPONG MAJOR: Bioengineering MINOR: Global Service and either chemistry or electrical engineering ACTIVITIES: African Dance Club, Society of Women Engineers, African Students Association, Heavenly Voices Gospel Choir, Ellis Hospital volunteer POST-UNION: Oppong, who received a Davis Project for Peace grant to build a vocational school for orphaned students in her native Ghana, is the second Union student to receive a Truman Scholarship, the premier scholarship for aspiring public service leaders. She plans to pursue medical and master of public health degrees toward a career in international medicine.

Exploring intersections “I discovered that I am very inquisitive and love to learn about all kinds of things, languages, and activities ranging from Arabic to social entrepreneurship. I love to explore intersections and merge fields. At Union, I got to interact with professors in classes and research, develop my own minor, get funding for medical internships and develop skills from my course work.”

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Making an impact on campus culture

“Who you know matters, and the energy you give to others can shape the mindset of a group and lead to success. I never had been exposed to student activities as a possible career until I came to Union and got involved in clubs like U-Program and Concert Club. The programming made me feel like I was having an impact on the campus culture. Each time I go to U-Program, I am excited by the energy from my peers as we plan events.”

DEVLIN DALEY MAJOR: Psychology and classics ACTIVITIES: U-Program, Concert Club, Student Forum secretary, Alpha Delta Lambda sorority, Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honors society POST-UNION: Graduate school for a master’s in higher education administration and a career in student activities.

“I am excited about the potential to continue to foster positive programming on a college campus.”

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Finding challenge and support “In my time at Union, I've gotten a better understanding about myself and personality in general. I learned where my strengths lie and even just as important, my weaknesses.

I owe it to my professors, academic advisors, leadership advisors, and peers at Union for helping me find my path as they all challenged and supported me along my journey.”

MICHAEL STALTERI MAJOR: Neuroscience ACTIVITIES: Student Forum president; Admissions senior intern; Dutch Pipers; supplemental instructor for Behavioral Neuroscience; ODK National Leadership Honor Society; peer leader of the Body Project; Club Soccer; historical tour guide POST-UNION: “I would like to work in pediatric developmental healthcare or teaching at a college. Whether I go on to become a physician's assistant or receive a Ph.D., my experiences at Union have prepared me for wherever my interests take me.

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FLORAINNE WALCOTT-TAYLOR MAJOR: Psychology and English ACTIVITIES: (current) Writing Center tutor/fellow; UMarketing member and head designer; local volunteer; Idol contributor; (past) Sigma Delta Tau sorority; theater cast member; Idol member and contributor; Hip Hop club; Catholic Student Association; Women’s Union; Union Unfiltered blogger POST-UNION: Graduate school (“to pursue my love for language, human cognition and helping others”) toward a career as a cognitive psychologist specializing in psycholinguistics for children.

A new version of myself

“I created a stronger identity, and I’ll forever be grateful to be at a school that allowed me to test the strength and functionality of my own self-security. I don’t feel that I discovered anything about myself—the art of creation and the art of discovery are not synonymous—but I do feel that I created a version of myself through my own personal growth, self-reflection, mindfulness and self-awareness. Gaining a better sense of who I am is the greatest knowledge I will ever acquire.”

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Understanding the Renaissance Man “The amazing faculty have helped me understand the many benefits of my ‘Renaissance Man’ personality.

I was at first worried that a small liberal arts school would not have the opportunities I was looking for, but year after year, I am always impressed by the level of dedication Union has for its students, and how much Union has to offer.”

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ANAT TEWARI MAJOR: Biomedical engineering MINOR: Theater ACTIVITIES: Ultimate Frisbee; Student Forum; senior general manager of WRUC; two theater productions; Committee on Committees; Finance Committee; Academic Affairs Committee; co-house manager of Rights House; re-establishing Union chapter of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES); vocal advocate for design thinking on campus.

POST-UNION: A career that integrates biology, technology and creativity. I aim to work as an engineer in pioneering biotechnology companies, and hope to one day start my own biotech company.

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ZAID AL-MOGHRABI MAJOR: Mechanical engineering ACTIVITIES: President of the senior class; President of IREP (International Relations and Economic Policy Club); Member of SAC (Student Affairs Council); Member of Sigma Phi Society POST-UNION: Employment or graduate school in PV solar tracking and renewable energy.

Defining career interests

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“My sophomore research helped me define my career interests. I built, modified and analyzed a two-axis photovoltaic solar tracking system that orients a solar panel toward the sun throughout the day, resulting in maximum power output.

The following year I took a class on solar energy design and took an internship at a solar tracking company in Livermore, California. My senior project is analyzing bifacial PV panels, which produce electricity from both sides.�

Getting out of my comfort zone “I discovered how much of an outgoing person I can really be. It used to take a lot for me to try new things and get out of my comfort zone.

When I started college, I joined many clubs and activities but stayed very quiet. However, going abroad my junior year allowed to me to grow as a person. I came back and really started enjoying all of the things Union had to offer.”

COLLEEN POULIOT MAJOR: Biomedical engineering ACTIVITIES: Habitat for Humanity, Society of Women Engineers, STEP, tour guide, senior Admissions intern, residential advisor, Best Buddies, Alpha Delta Lambda, Good Eats, Campus Kitchens POST-UNION: Exploring opportunities with biomedical companies in new areas of the U.S.—Florida, California and Arizona—toward a career focused on helping those with disabilities.

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Finding a happy medium “I learned that I need balance. As many hard science classes that I take, I need some time in the dance studio—taking classes, running rehearsal or just moving on my own.

Finding a happy medium between these two interests is what makes me happiest at Union.”

SHANNON WEST MAJOR: Neuroscience MINOR: Dance ACTIVITIES: Psi Chi and Nu Rho Psi honor societies; Dance Team co-captain, Sigma Delta Tau scholarship chair; Biology Club vice president;, Pre-Health Society; supplemental instructor for Biology, Psychology, and Physics; Zumba instructor; director of FallU Dance Showcase; Edward Villella Scholar; Obenzinger Scholar; Performing Arts Mini-Term Abroad to Bali, Indonesia; National Health Systems Term Abroad POST-UNION: “I plan on attending medical school to become a pediatric oncologist or palliative care specialist.

The resources in the health professions office—classes, advising, scholarships and the opportunity to conduct my own public health project—have allowed me to explore my passion for health and helping my community.”

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COREY TINES MAJOR: political science and history interdepartmental ACTIVITIES: Union College football team; Theta Delta Chi fraternity; real estate club POST-UNION: “I’ve always wanted to work in the real estate industry along the lines of commercial development. However, taking a variety of courses at Union exposed me to other opportunities. I’ve had a few internships in both the private and public sectors and I’m interested in finding a job in either field. The Becker Career Center really opened my eyes to the countless opportunities around the globe.”

Balancing a life “Union pushed me in many aspects of life, and I was able to grow from these challenges and develop a disciplined work ethic and a network of friends that will be close to me forever. Being able to balance my schedule between school work, football and social time took a while to get adjusted to. The best thing about being faced with a challenge is the reward afterward. The experiences I had here not only shaped my character, but also opened my eyes to the genuine sense of community and comradeship among both current and former Union students and faculty.”

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Discovering a leader

“At Union, I discovered a new woman who is a leader. I had always been interested in leadership, however coming to Union made me explore that even more. After serving as class representative, I was elected student trustee. This opened up so any doors, improving my communication skills, getting an experience with the presidential search committee, giving presentations and representing the student body in front of the whole board. I learned that I am stronger than I thought; these experiences made me stronger and wiser.”

SARAH TAHA MAJOR: Biomedical engineering major with focus in electrical engineering ACTIVITIES: Student Trustee; Student Forum; Garnet Society; ODK Leadership Honor Society; Presidential Search Committee; Delta Delta Delta; BMES; president and founder table tennis club; Women's Club Soccer; Messa House; orientation advisor; Language Lab consultant; Germany term abroad; international student from Jordan POST-UNION: Two-year rotational management leadership program with Stanley Black and Decker, where she did an internship on robotics and automation.

She found the opportunity through trustee Jim Loree ’80, CEO and president.

“I always wanted to take a path in the management engineering side. I was introduced to the company through Jim’s great enthusiasm for giving Union students opportunities to explore the industry.”

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ADAM BERRADA MAJOR: Biology and Asian Studies interdepartmental major MINOR: Film Studies (possible) ACTIVITIES: Taiko Ensemble, leadership mentor for pre-orientation, one of two lead actors in Mountebanks production of “The Last Five Years.”

POST-UNION: Pediatrician, but after developing an ID major and possible minor, “I am more open to other career paths that will allow me to interact with a board spectrum of people.”

Trying new things “I discovered how much I enjoyed doing things that I may not succeed at or be all that comfortable doing. I used to only try out for things that I thought I would be good at, but I found myself just simply trying new things for the sake of giving them a shot.

Some of my most memorable experiences have come from randomly signing up for an event or auditioning for something I have never done before. Likewise, I have met some of the most memorable people from simple passing hellos.”

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Courage to be myself I came into Union as a physics major, but after working with the outstanding faculty in the psychology and political science departments, I changed my majors. My many experiences have given me the courage to be myself at all times.

I no longer am shy in expressing my opinion or standing up for what is right. My friends tease me about being too loud or talking too much, which is a stark difference from who I was coming into Union.�

CHRISSY CRAIG MAJORS: political science and psychology ACTIVITIES: Studied in Galway, Ireland and Washington, D.C.; Alpha Delta Lambda sorority; UProgram member; supplemental psychology instructor; chair of Student Conduct Committee; two-time recipient of community service internship through Becker Career Center POST-UNION: An international fellowship, then a joint degree in law and social work or psychology. Hope to work with underserved populations, perhaps as a public defender.

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FOCUS

Ever wonder what Union professors are up to when they aren’t teaching?

Just about everything, as it turns out.

Nothing is beyond their collective reach or curious minds. Here’s a glimpse of the diverse and intriguing work they do.

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What makes a conspiracy theorist?

J O S H U A H A R T , associate professor of psychology (with Molly Graether ’17)

C

onspiracy theories are nothing new.

(The moon landing was faked. Weather balloon at Roswell? Try a UFO.) But lately, they’ve become more prominent.

(Climate change is a hoax. The deep state is trying to sabotage Donald Trump’s presidency.)

“For the first time in history, we have a president who has regularly endorsed [conspiracy theories],” Joshua Hart wrote for The Conversation. “Assuming that President Donald Trump’s preoccupation is genuine, he shares it with many fellow Americans. What explains it? I wanted to figure out why some people gobble up conspiratorial explanations, while others dismiss them.”

Specifically, he wanted to look at habitual conspiracists. Most people gravitate toward ideas that validate their political views.

Democrats, Hart explained, are more likely to think the Trump campaign colluded with Russia. Republicans are more likely to embrace the idea that Barack Obama wasn’t born in the United States.

But habitual conspiracists believe such things on a much more generic and varied scale. To find out why, he and Molly Graether ’17 surveyed more than 1,200 American adults.

They asked them to provide detailed information about themselves and whether they agreed with generic conspiratorial statements like “scientists systematically deceive the public” or “world politics is controlled by a cabal instead of governments.”

They measured myriad personal factors

previously linked to conspiracy belief, and consistent with previous findings, discovered that one key predictor of a person’s tendency to embrace conspiracy theories is schizotypy.

A schitzotypic person possesses a certain combination of traits, Hart said.

They tend to be untrusting, ideologically eccentric and prone to unusual perceptual experiences (they sometimes sense stimuli that aren’t actually there).

Other predictors Hart identified that make a person more likely to be a conspiracist are an elevated need to feel unique and a propensity to see the world as a dangerous place. Conspiracists, when compared to non-conspiracists, also more often think nonsensical statements—like “wholeness quiets infinite phenomena”—are profound.

But why does any of this matter?

“It’s important to understand why people believe the things they believe because it helps us understand how the human mind works,” Hart said. “Understanding how our own personalities and cognitive biases influence us is absolutely essential if we want the best chance of knowing the truth about the world, not to mention ourselves.”

“Truth is important! It’s the basis for action, from making daily personal decisions all the way up to crafting the best social policies,” he continued. “If we are aware of our own implicit biases, we can discount or adjust them to some extent.”

Hart’s study was recently published in the Journal of Individual Differences.

–Erin DeMuth Judd

Building Our Third Century

The remainder of a charitable gift annuity was received from the estate of William H. Meyer, Jr., Class of 1948.

Proceeds will be used to support areas of greatest need.

Dr. Meyer established this annuity designating the proceeds be unrestricted in memory of his father, William H. Meyer, Class of 1928. Dr. Meyer was a science and pre-med major and a member of Sigma Chi. A quarterly trust distribution was received from the estate of Naomi Chambers and added to the Walter R.G. and Naomi Baker Scholarship. Mrs. Chambers was the widow of Walter R.G. Baker, Class of 1916.

A bequest was received from the estate of Natalie W. Weinstein. Proceeds will be added to the Abbott S. ’46 & Natalie W. Weinstein Endowed Scholarship. Mrs. Weinstein was the widow of Abbott S. Weinstein, Class of 1946. She established this scholarship in her late husband’s memory adding to it over many years. Mr. Weinstein was a social science major and a member of Kappa Nu. An additional unrestricted distribution was received from the estate of Monica Z. Greco. The proceeds, along with a previous distribution, will be used at the discretion of the Trustees of Union College. Mrs. Greco was the widow of Louis D. Greco, Class of 1950 and continued supporting the College in his memory. Mr. Greco was an economics major and a member of Kappa Sigma.

A bequest was received from the estate of Sarah Gage.

Proceeds will be added to the James L. Gage ’31 Scholarship. Mrs. Gage, “Sally,” was the widow of James L. Gage, Class of 1931. She established this scholarship in her late husband’s memory adding to it over many years. The scholarship provides support to students studying pre-law or the liberal arts. Mr. Gage was a pre-law major and a member of Kappa Sigma.

A quarterly trust distribution was received from the estate of Robert L. Slobod, Class of 1935. Proceeds will be used to support areas of greatest need.

An unrestricted bequest was received from the estate of Catherine L. Stewart. Proceeds will be used to support areas of greatest need in memory of her late husband, Ellsworth E. Rose, Class of 1929. Mr. Rose earned his degree in civil engineering while at Union.

An unrestricted bequest was received from the estate of Rodney W. Gartner, Class of 1951. Proceeds will be used to support areas of greatest need. Mr. Gartner was a civil engineer major and a member of Theta Delta Chi. A bequest was received from Gioia Ottaviano. Proceeds will be added to the Nicandro & Amelia Ottaviano Scholarship. Gioia was the sister of Orazio Ottaviano, Class of 1947. They established this scholarship for economic students in memory of their parents.

An additional trust distribution was received from the estate of Thyra Joan Smith. The proceeds, along with a previous distribution, will be used in support of Jackson’s Gardens.

A bequest was received from the estate of Alice C. Juenging. Proceeds will be added to the College’s endowment for a purpose to be determined. Alice was the widow of Harlan B. Juengling, Class of 1951. Mr. Juengling was a science major and a member of Sigma Chi. CHARITABLE GIF T AN NUITIES A deferred payment charitable gift annuity was established by Cynthia A. Vanina, Class of 1979. The designation of the remainder proceeds is currently undetermined.

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| MEDIA |

JAMES BARR ’49

JOHN WILLIAMSON ’59

Conversations at the Redwood: The Portraits Speak

Born on the Links: A Concise History of Golf

CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

A fictional historic romp of more than 60 famous and near-famous Americans whose portraits crowd the walls of the 250-year-old Redwood Library in Newport, R.I. In the early hours before dawn, they discuss matters of universal interest such as war and memory; law, medicine and art; the written word and religion; dynasty and aristocracy; being in second place and unintended consequences.

Conversationalists include U.S. Presidents and would-be Presidents, colonial governors, merchant princes, Indian chiefs, doctors, lawyers, writers, military heroes and aristocrats among others. The author advises with some levity that all conversations were recorded at the insistence of several former Redwood librarians, and that all of the conversations were selected by an independent editorial committee and appear unredacted. Included are Union alumni William Henry Seward, U.S. Secretary of State under Lincoln; and composer John Howard Payne.

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Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

Golf has been around for over 600 years, its origins tracing back to the links in Scotland in the fifteenth century. Since then, the game has spread worldwide, with millions of fans and players from all walks of life. Born on the Links encompasses the entire history of this popular sport, from the fifteenth century up to the present. It covers the development of golf equipment, rules, and playing fields, and shows how the game changed from a pastime exclusively for the rich to a sport that is played by millions of people of all classes, ages and backgrounds. In addition, this book details the lives and accomplishments of the many iconic players of the game— including Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Ben Hogan, Charlie Sifford, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Annika Sorenstam, and Tiger Woods—and their greatest moments on the golf course. Additional chapters focus exclusively on the history of African Americans and women in the sport, recognizing their distinct struggles for equality and recognition, as well as their ultimate triumphs.

JANE OPPENLANDER ’86 PATRICIA SCHAFFER ’90

Data Management and Analysis Using JMP: Health Care Case Studies SAS Press

Written for both beginner and intermediate JMP users working in or studying health care, Data Management and Analysis Using JMP: Health Care Case Studies bridges the gap between taking traditional statistics courses and successfully applying statistical analysis in the workplace.

Authors Jane Oppenlander and Patricia Schaffer begin by illustrating techniques to prepare data for analysis, followed by presenting effective methods to summarize, visualize, and analyze data. The statistical analysis methods covered in the book are the foundational techniques commonly applied to meet regulatory, operational, budgeting, and research needs in the health care field.

MELISSA STEWART ’90

Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs Peachtree Publishers

Why are certain animals puny?

Poky? Clumsy? Shy? This fun nonfiction book takes a lighthearted look at the surprising traits that help some animals survive. Written with a lively, playful voice, the books introduces young readers to a variety of animal underdogs from around the world, and explains how the characteristics that might seem like weaknesses are actually critical for finding food and stay safe in an eat-or-be-eaten world.

CONSIDERATION Media, formerly Bookshelf, features new titles by or about alumni and other members of the Union community. To be included, send a copy of the work (book, DVD, CD) and synopsis to:

DVD

LEIGH SCHMITT ’95

ROBERT HOFFMAN ’60

STEPHEN C. LEAVITT, Union

Wild Bahamas: An Illustrated Ecology of the Bahamas: Sun, Sand, and Sea from A-Z

Six Innings to Destiny: The Heart and Mind of America is Found in Baseball

vice president for student affairs and dean of students

Media Enterprises Ltd.

Z-Hall with MFNY Media Solutions

Wild Bahamas is an illustrated encyclopedia of aquatic and terrestrial organisms of the Bahamian archipelago. It covers animals microscopic to mammoth, from lesser-known rodents like hutia to majestic and iconic national treasures like the blue marlin and West Indian flamingo. From the letters A-Z, creatures great and small, as well as critical ecological principles such as invasive species, habitat loss and extinction, are represented to educate the reader about the beauty and biodiversity "that make up the land of sun, sand and sea.

In 1954, sports casting legend Mel Allen tagged them “Destiny’s Darlings.” Six decades later, filmmaker Bob Hoffman ’60 has chronicled the trajectory of the 12 kids from blue collar Schenectady who were Little League World Champions.

Six Innings to Destiny opens with a snapshot of the times— Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio, McCarthyism, Brown vs. Board of Education, GE as the heart of Schenectady— and a prescient call by Coach Mike Maietta, a domineering tough-love mentor, that his team would rebound from a heartbreaking loss in the 1953 championship to win the next year. Martin Rabalvsky’s 1974 book Destiny’s Darlings gave a largely unflattering look back: he found that few of the players had found their potential and Coach Maietta was recalled as a tyrant who was in it for himself.

Those images have changed over time, and Six Innings to Destiny catches up with the players as they recall with fondness how they played their hearts out for their team, their town and each other.

with PHILIP K. BOCK

Office of Communications Union College Schenectady, NY 12308 or synopsis and high-resolution image to magazine@union.edu

Rethinking Psychological Anthropology: A Critical History, Third Edition Waveland Press

Psychological anthropologists have grappled with changing trends in both disciplines, including psychoanalytic, holistic, cognitive, interpretive and developmental approaches.

It is important to appreciate these currents of thought to understand the state of the field today. This edition is a guide to that history along with a critique that may lead to a new synthesis. After over three decades of continual publication, the premise of the previous editions remains: that all anthropology is psychological and that the interplay between anthropological methods and the psychological theories existing in different times is dialectical.

It is an ideal choice for courses in psychological anthropology, cross-cultural psychology, and the history of anthropology.

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Alumni Clubs

ALBANY This past fall, the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement, along with regional club committee volunteers, hosted several “Welcome to the City” events. Graduates came together to welcome the Class of 2018 to Union’s alumni ranks in Albany, N.Y., Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C.

The Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement, in partnership with Union College Committees on LGBTQ+ Affairs, Diversity, and Multicultural Affairs, participated for in the recent Pride parade in New York City. Union marched with alumni communities from Wesleyan University, Hamilton College, Colby College, St. Lawrence University, Bowdoin College, Wesley College, Colgate University, Williams College, Amherst College, Vassar College, Connecticut College, Skidmore College and Trinity College.

BOSTON

Save the Date UPCOMING ALUMNI CLUB EVENTS FEB. 8 Men’s Hockey vs. Harvard Boston, Mass.

APRIL 6 Volunteer Conference Union College

WASHINGTON, D.C.

MARCH 26 MAY 17-19 Men’s Lacrosse vs. MiddleReUnion 2019 bury Union College Syracuse, N.Y. (Carrier Dome) APRIL 4 President’s Council Meeting Union College For more events, visit uconnect.union.edu

NEW YORK CIT Y 44

UNION COLLEGE | WINTER 2019

CL ASS

Garnet Guard Alumni who have celebrated their 50th ReUnion.

GARNET GUARD CLASS CORRESPONDENT

John Honey ’61 121 Waterside Dr., Box 1175 North Falmouth, Mass. 02556 jahoney@msn.com

1945 Dante Scaccia served as a delegate for Columbia University at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is also an alumnus of Columbia.

1948 Burk Ketcham writes, “I rowed (doubles and quads) competitively up to age 90. Even became a world champion in my age group in 2015. I have now switched to another sit-down sport writing. Over the past three years I have published two books of poetry and this year one of short stories. I hope to expand one of the stories set in Upstate New York to a novel. Never had a course in writing at Union!”

1949 Jim Barr has written a book of historical fiction, Conversations at the Redwood: The Portraits Speak (see Bookshelf, p. XX) The book covers a series of

U

imagined conversations between the famous and notso-famous people depicted in portraits at the Redwood Library and Athenaeum in Newport, R.I., America’s oldest library. Barr, a former journalist and retired public relations executive, has written a number of fiction and non-fiction books on subjects ranging from corporate business to nuclear deterrence. See more at his website: jamesbaarbooks.net.

1951 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

James Taub 711 S. Market Street Johnstown, N.Y. 12095 (518) 762-1172 shrevie711@hotmail.com Craig Williams writes, “Attended this year’s graduation that included my granddaughter, Jessica Gilbert ’18. She has blossomed during the four years and I would recommend Union to future prospects.”

1952 David Weichert writes, “This fall made a great a great trip to Glacier National Park in MT and the Canadian Rockies. As a civil engineer it was amusing to read about the engineers working to determine the western border of Alberta, which is legally the continental divide. Any small change caused by animals could

N O TE S

cause a change in the province boundary. Really enjoyed visiting Lake Louise, Banff and the other natural wonders in the area.”

David Weichert ’52 at Lake Louise

1953 Fred Davies writes, “I’m living in Jacksonville, Fla. Any Union alumni in this area please call 904-254-0651.”

1954 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Avrom J. Gold 33 Madison Lane Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29926 (908) 581-1455 avromgold@gmail.com Avrom Gold writes, “On June 19, I had the pleasure of having lunch with Irwin Gertzog in New York City. We spent several hours reminiscing together, and then spent another hour chatting with his

wonderful wife, Alice. Sonny has finally retired after having a successful career teaching and writing about politics at Alleghany, Yale, Princeton, Rutgers and Columbia. I also received a letter from Julian Potts, now retired from his career in the Air Force, and over 30 years at IBM. He’s deeply involved in family genealogy. He’s learned that his great-great grandfather was Rev. John Henry Goetschius, one of the founders of Queens College (now Rutgers) and minister of the Dutch Reformed Church in Hackensack, N.J., from 1748 to 1774. Dr. Goetschius was succeeded at the church by Rev. Theodorick Romeyn, better known to Union people as Dirck Romeyn, from 1775 to 1784, who then founded Schenectady Academy in 1785 (now Union College). Super story. Then I had a couple of emails from Rick Fink, who I will see in San Antonio, Texas, in September on my semi-annual visit to my daughter at USAA. Also, my brother Hy, Class of 1967, is very active in the Trenton, N.J., ham radio club, and recently successfully supported the newly elected mayor of the city. Finally, at the end of November, I expect to be leaving N.J., and returning to Hilton Head Island, S.C., where I lived from 2003 to 2010.”

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CLASS NOTES

1955

by Frances and Fanny Seward.

Ultimately, through the lens of the Seward family as patients, the entire medical history of their era is revealed.

CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Ken Haefner 1346 Waverly Pl. Schenectady, N.Y. 12308 kbhaefner@gmail.com Thomas H. Lee retired from the Air Force to 1978 to a career in information technology with a number of defense contractors.

He has written two books.

Final Curtain: Saigon, a historical novel based on his two tours of Vietnam, was published in 2006 and revised a year later.

Quiet Revolution, a political thriller about the CIA, was published in 2011. He lives in San Antonio, Texas, where he reports he is “keeping his insights and writing skills honed by furnishing strategy papers to a national political party.”

1956 Robert Huntington writes, “Pat and I are now permanently settled in Prospect, Ky., a very pretty area just up the Ohio River from Louisville situated in horse country not far from the Bourbon Trail and the great city of Louisville. In a sense, I may have recently had an interesting close call. I have been spending quite a bit of my consulting time over the last 10 years down in Guatemala at an agro-industrial complex helping my client build power plants with emission controls to supply the local grid using their off-season sugar cane boilers by firing Colombian coal. It’s a very beautiful tropical area near the Pacific, and located just under both the picturesque, but infamous, fire (Fuego) and water (Agua) volcanoes about six miles east of the complex. A very intense eruption occurred a few weeks ago and two towns just adjacent to the plant were completely wiped out along

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Fuego and aqua volcanos, as seen from Terra Power Plant and sugar plantation in Guatemala, where Robert Huntington ’56 has been working

with over a three hundred souls lost or still missing under the ash. The eruption mode was similar to that of Pompei, where toxic gases and ash suddenly swept down the mountain face at near supersonic speed, burying the towns.

The industrial complex just missed damage, but suffered quite a bit of ash. None of my friends were injured, thankfully, and I was not on site at the time, expect to be shortly to help with damage control and commissioning of the final of six boilers. If any classmates are curious about the area, just go to Google Earth and search for Ingenio Madre Tierra, Guatemala.”

1957 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Paul Mohr 140 E Duce of Clubs Ste A Show Low, Ariz. 85901 dadtired@frontiernet.net

1958 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Robert B. Howe 135 Chevy Chase Dr. Wayzata, Minn. 55391-1053 howex001@umn.edu

1959 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

William “Dal” Trader 5361 Santa Catalina Avenue Garden Grove, Calif. 92845 daltrader@earthlink.net (310) 629-8971 A. Lee Fritschler is retired at last but still writing and lecturing.

Staying in touch with Union through his grad school roommate, your professor and interim president, Jim Underwood. He is also hoping to persuade his terrific granddaughter, Phoebe, to enroll in Union in four years.

Gustave Davis writes, “I am continuing my exploration into the life of Wm. H. Seward, Class of 1820. I spoke at Seward House Museum, Auburn, N.Y., on ‘Murder and Medicine: The Seward Assassination Attempt Reconsidered,’ on Oct. 17, 2018.” Yale Clinical Professor of Pathology Dr. Gustave Davis delves into the medical history surrounding Secretary Seward’s injuries, paying attention to the original diagnoses and prescribed treatments, which included recommendations for “electrization” and “vacuum cures.” Dr. Davis further explores the medical consequences of Mr. Seward’s carriage accident as well as the various illnesses suffered

James Yannes writes, “My latest book, Obama’s Wonder Years, (subtitled 8 Years of Lower Unemployment & Rising Stock Markets), has been selling as expected. All goes well, seeing Jimmy Brown on TV brought back memories of playing lacrosse against him at Syracuse some 60 years ago with my parents looking on.”

1960 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Charles E. Roden kiw702@aol.com Joel Kupersmith writes, “I have been dean of a medical school and later directed the VA medical research program nationally where my accomplishments included initiating the Million Veteran Program, the world’s largest genetic database. I am now the director of veterans initiatives at Georgetown University, where I have started educational and research programs. One initiative is the Veteran’s Creed, a statement of principles for veterans which former Army COS George Casey and I developed with the leadership of 12 major veterans’ organizations (American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, etc.).

The rollout for the Creed was on Flag Day on Capitol Hill where three Congressman, veterans’ organizations, Gen. Casey and I spoke. The Creed is officially recited at venues all around the country and at sporting events. We believe that the Veteran’s Creed will be an integral part of the veterans’ experience for some time to come.”

Paul Cohen writes, “I was honored to be awarded the Patrick Henry Award for distinguished service by the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) at the association’s annual convention in New Orleans on Aug. 27, 2018.”

contact me. It is a very rewarding group. We would love to hear from more of you, as I am sure other classmates would be interested in hearing from members of the Class of 1960.”

ing. We are grateful that no one was killed and we can return to our homes.”

1963 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

1961

George Ball 6929 Country Line Road Wayland, N.Y. 14572-9553 gball@frontiernet.net Robert Jones writes, “I retired as a staff attorney for the Superior Court of Pennsylvania at the end of September.”

Brig. Gen., USAF (Ret) Paul Cohen ’60 is awarded the Patrick Henry Award for Distinguished Service by the National Guard Association of the United States

Peter Adasek ’61 recently visited his cousins Pavel and Zdenka Trgala and their family in Bratislava. From there, Peter traveled to Prague and them home to Colorado Springs.

Charles Roden writes, “Hard to believe that it is 58 years since we left the ‘bounding brook.’

Even harder to realize that I just celebrated my 80th birthday. My son had a golf outing to mark the occasion.

Among those attending were David Lawrence ’65, my stepson Roger Smith ’94 and Warren Lesser, brother-in-law of the late Joel Halprin ’61 .

Incidentally, Roger’s wife, Piper ’95, and sister-in-law Amanda ’99, as well as their grandfather, graduated from Union. I also recently attended a gathering in New York to introduce Dr. Harris, our new president. It was a terrific meeting. It was surprising to me to realize Dr. Harris is younger than my children.

Time marches on. He recently joined the President’s Council at our regular meeting. Anyone interested in learning more about the council, please

George Thompson writes, “In September we survived wildfires that ravaged southern Utah County, burning over 120,000 acres before full containment. We were evacuated for over 10 days.

Miraculously, no homes were burned thanks to the federal and local firefighters. The outpouring of assistance and concern from the surrounding communities was heartwarm-

Southern Utah County fire, viewed from Payson Temple (from George Thompson ’61).

Gaylord “Gil” Hurlbut writes, “Last year we celebrated our daughter’s colorful wedding in Bangalore, India. We were joined by a number of Hurlbuts, including Garry Hurlbut ’65.”

Daniel Schwarz writes, “Cornell celebrated my 50 years here with a wonderful two-day conference. Hundreds of my former students came from all over the country and abroad. See below and english.cornell.edu/50-yearstransformative-teachingcelebrating-dan-schwarz. Also former students arranged a summer weekend of informal study: ‘Coming Home Again: Dan Schwarz Alumni Seminar on Modernism,’ Cornell University, July 14-15, 2018; ‘Reconfiguring Modernism and Joyce’s The Dead,’ July 13, 2018; ‘Reading Modern Poetry: Yeats, Stevens, and T. S. Eliot,’ July 15, 2018. I published Reading the Modern European Novel Since 1900 (Malden,

Peter Adasek ’61 recently visited his cousins Pavel and Zdenka Trgala and Gaylord “Gil” Hurlbut’s (Class of 1963) daughter was married in India last year family in Bratislava. From there, Peter traveled to Prague and them home to Colorado Springs.

Six members of the Class of 1961/Kappa Sigma, got together on the Jersey Shore (Sea Girt, N.J.) in mid-August. From left are Bill Reaman, Bob Fuller, Bob Hurlbutt, Bill Marx, John Welch, Dave Muench and Don Crist.

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CLASS NOTES

Mass. and Oxford, UK: Wiley-Blackwell, 2018). It Includes works by Proust, Camus, Mann, Kafka, Grass, di Lampedusa, Bassani, Kertesz, Pamuk, Kundera, Saramago, Mueller and Ferrante. This is a sequel to Reading the European Novel to 1900 (Malden, Mass., and Oxford, UK: Wiley-Blackwell, 2014.

Paperback, Wiley-Blackwell, 2018). It includes works by Cervantes, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Flaubert, Balzac, Stendhal and Zola. I am still teaching full-time, now my 51st year since arriving.”

George “Geo” Ball writes, “I am delighted to be singing bass in a recently formed senior barbershop chorus, the Seneca Statesmen. We qualified to sing on stage at the Grand Old Opry in January at the Barbershop Midwinter Convention. It is an amazing experience to sing with a 65-member chorus!”

1964 Matthew Intrieri writes, “Moved to Myrtle Beach in December 2017. Thankfully we did not get hit by hurricanes Florence and Michael. Did work a week for Red Cross in Florence.”

1966 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Antonio F. Vianna 7152 Tanager Drive Carlsbad, Calif. 92011 simpatico1@juno.com Antonio Vianna writes, “Currently writing documentary about a USAF Sergeant who survived the first Islamist terrorist attack in Germany in 2011. He is a USAF Wounded Warrior Ambassador. His story is compelling and must be told. We never know when our last day is.”

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William Stoner writes, “If you want to attract a variety of pollinators to your garden, try planting joe pye weed and swamp milkweed. The monarch in this photo hung around a patch of flowers in my yard nearly the whole day on September 29. The tongue of the monarch is extended deep into the flower to get nectar to refuel for the flight to Mexico.”

Monarch butterfly and bee in garden of William Stoner ’66

1967 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Joseph Smaldino 6310 Lantern Ridge Lane Knoxville, Tenn. 37921 smaldinoj@comcast.net (815) 762-5984

The San Diego Military Advisory Council awarded the 2018 RADM Bruce Boland Lifetime Achievement Award to Henry James Bedinger, CDR USN retired, for his significant work with many organizations that support our local military and their families. Henry is now retired with his wife in San Diego, Calif.

Michael Berlowitz served as a delegate for Boston College at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018.

He is also an alumnus of B.C. Frank Darmiento writes, “I conducted the premier of my latest composition for

orchestra, ‘Symphony No. 4,’ last September. The work was performed by La Forza Chamber Orchestra in Phoenix, Arizona. I have to thank the late professor Edgar Curtis for my early education in music composition at Union College.”

Dominic Poccia writes, “Played in a backup band for Ladies of Motown legends Martha Reeves (of the Vandellas) and Mary Wilson (of the Supremes) in September in Great Barrington, Mass. I was contacted by a fellow writing a book on Jimmy Hendrix who saw in Union Magazine that last year I played with Ronnie Spector, who had appeared at Union with the Ronettes in the late 60s. He told me that Jimi may have been a backup for her in that concert. Anyone remember this? Or was he Photoshopped?” [Ed. Note: We can thank Jeff Hedquist ’67 and Bob Saltzman ’69, both members of the concert committee, for recalling three appearances by Hendrix. They were recently interviewed by Michael Hochanadel of the Daily Gazette. Hendrix played Memorial Chapel behind the Ronettes in 1968 and the Drifters in 1969. Also in 1968, Hendrix played with the Jimmy Soul Band at a dance in Alumni Gymnasium.]

Bob Sussman and Sid Schnoll ’64 were together last spring at a Schnoll family event. They connected through Sid’s younger brother, Steve, who noticed Bob wearing a jacket from Phi Sigma Delta, Sid’s fraternity. “Steve recognized the fraternity and the Union connection was quickly established,” Bob said, “and Steve and I have been close friends ever since.”

Bob Sussman ’67 and Sid Schnoll ’64

John Temple served as a delegate for Carnegie Mellon University at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is also an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon.

1968 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

John Dresser Etna, N.H. jdressernh@gmail.com John Morey served as a delegate for the University of Georgia at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018.

Dominic Poccia ’67 recently played in a backup band for Ladies of Motown legends Martha Reeves and Mary Wilson

Norman Dovberg writes, “Since my 50th reunion last spring, I’ve stayed in touch with my classmate, Fred Fagal, who has been a resource for my novel in progress, The Redemption of A. Lester Lord. Fred has given me leads to information on college politics. The novel

will complete a trilogy and takes place on the backdrop of Trumpian America. It is the sequel to The Brief Long-Term Therapy of A. Lester Lord.”

William Warcholik writes, “Added another volunteer ministry, Adventist World Radio, and spent July in Maine, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island sharing the results of that world-wide ministry at camp meetings and in churches. Also my wife and I got to see our great grandson in Connecticut, who was joined in October by his new baby brother. Still staying busy with local churches in Tennessee and helping review programs for broadcast on It Is Written media ministry.

Grandkids are numerous from age 24 to newborn.”

whom have produced grandchildren. Son John III recently forsook the family legacy at Union and entered the freshman class at the University of Alabama, where he received a scholarship in aerospace engineering. Go Crimson Tide! I look forward to our 50th in ’19.”

1970 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Frank P. Donnini Newport News, Va. fpdonnini@aol.com

1969 CLASS CORRESPONDENTS

George Cushing Delanson, N.Y. pinyachta@gmail.com Ray Pike Salisbury, Mass. rnwpike@comcast.net John Glidden writes, “As I approach my 50th ReUnion at Union College, I become more sentimental about this whole life thing, and much more thoughtful about seeing my classmates again. Since our last ReUnion, I continue my municipal/public finance business which operates well when I pay attention to it. But alas, my attention is somewhat diverted to my recent election as mayor of our hometown of Closter, N.J. This is an interesting challenge between handling residents’ complaints and developing a long range strategy for the future of the town. News on the home front includes daughters Emily ’99 and Elizabeth ’00, both of

Three classmates and fraternity brothers got together for the first time since graduation as they arranged a meeting in April at the Cooper Inn in Cooperstown, N.Y. From left to right, Larry Giammichele ’70, Allan Page ’69 and John Ellerton ’69 (both engineering)— asserting obvious vigor—pose without visible means of support in the lobby of the hotel after spending a couple of days catching up, telling lies and otherwise reminiscing about days at Union.

Fernando Siaba writes, “Having retired from full time pastoral ministry two years ago, I now spend more time with my wife, children and grandchildren.

Trying to keep a healthy balance in my use of time, I have begun playing the viola in the Oak Park River Forest Symphony, mentoring a second-year seminarian at

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and doing volunteer pastoral visits with detained immigrants at the McHenry, Illinois County Jail.

I give thanks to God for life, love and good health.”

Ted Steigut writes, “We lost our dearest friend, Floyd Weintraub, on Sept. 7, 2018. A group of us from the Class of 1970 (Floyd, Arnie Drogen, Andy Sherman, Charles & Michael Hollander, Richard Sloan, Stuart Shapiro and Andreas Papanicolaou ’71 have been getting together regularly to spend a few days in various places. Sadly, following our wonderful time together this year in New York and at Andreas’ Jersey Shore beach house, Floyd was diagnosed with incurable cancer and succumbed nine weeks later. Floyd was our Union ReUnion leader as well as the heart and soul of our group. He reveled in making the plans and then designing an annual T-shirt for us. But, much more than that, he was the sweetest, kindest and gentlest person, always with a smile and a good word that uplifted each of us in special ways. Floyd was my best friend from the day we met at Diamante’s bar on Nott Street.

Our fathers (Morris ‘Tiny’ Weintraub ’41 and Stanley ‘Zip’ Steingut ’43) were on the baseball team and best friends at the College and for the rest of their lives. We joined the former Phi Sigma Delta fraternity together. Floyd went on to a varied career in education (at Union and the California University system), publishing and other consulting businesses. Floyd had an uncanny knack for striking up conversations and friendships with strangers he met along the way. On a personal level, Floyd always had my back and

I like to think I had his. We spoke daily and shared all our life experiences. The other guys and I (as well as our families, all of whom became extended family for Floyd, Joanne and Abigail) miss Floyd beyond description. I think of him daily and, forcing back the tears, I smile at his memory.”

Union friends met on the Jersey Shore last summer shortly before the passing of Floyd Weintraub ’70, the “heart and soul” of the group who organized their annual gatherings and designed a t-shirt. They are, front row, from left, Arnie Drogan ’70 and Stuart Shapiro ’70; middle, Richard Sloan ’70 and Andreas Papanicolaou ’71; top, Charles Hollander ’70, Ted Steingut ’70, Andy Sherman ’70, Floyd Weintraub’70 and Michael Hollander ’70.

Ted Steingut also writes, “On another note, living the life with my second wife, Carolyn Stoller, in semi-retirement (as I await new business from lawyers and clients in commercial litigation). We have a newly purchased and reno-

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CLASS NOTES

vated place in Boynton Beach, Fla., for the winters and live in Manhattan/Long Island (room at our golf club) in the summers. I have a 19-year-old (step) granddaughter, Nova Stoller, a sophomore at Lehigh. We are expecting our first grandson, seen as a lefthander in the womb and nicknamed by me ‘Sandy Koufax Steingut-Powell,’ in January from my daughter Rebecca Rose and her husband, artist and designer John Powell. Becky is a magna cum laude graduate from Brown with a Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of Texas. Floyd Weintraub always called her Rebecca Rose while nearly everyone else calls her Becky. I am proud to say that she is proof that the brain gene skips a generation or that misbehaving is actually good for you.”

Commercial Finance Lawyers at the organization’s meeting in Orlando, Fla. The college is comprised of approximately 250 attorneys nationally who have been identified as preeminent in the field of commercial finance law.

Patrick Guida ’73

CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Henry Fein, M.D. Rockville, Md. hgfein@aol.com

Robert Sachs writes, “It’s been a busy year. Lots of travel including a recent trip visiting many Baltic capitals, plus Amsterdam, Bruges and London. On the professional front, a book I co-authored, From Competition to Collaboration: How Leaders Cultivate Partnerships to Create Value and Transform Health, has just been published.”

1973 Patrick Guida, of the Rhode Island law firm Duffy & Sweeney, was recently elected to the executive committee of the American College of

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UNION COLLEGE | WINTER 2019

CLASS CORREPSONDENT

Cathy Stuckey Johnson San Mateo, Calif. caj1080@hotmail.com Kathryn (Mitchell) Mullaney writes, “Brian and I have been retired for nearly five years now.

We spend three months each winter RVing around the sunny south. We welcomed our fourth grandchild Oct. 3, 2018.”

Robert Ruggeri served as a delegate for the University of Buffalo at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is general counsel for the university.

like to call it, ‘dinosaur hunters’) and love to spend an afternoon marveling at winged creatures ranging from hummingbirds to California condors.”

Chris Fink writes, “Diving into my next phase, I’m supporting the Asheville start-up community as a Venture South investor and have joined the board of Asheville FM, our premier community radio station. I host ‘The Big Horns’ on Thursdays (and yes, often play Springsteen!). Get hip!

Stream us at ashevillefm.org or download the most recent show podcast. Please reach out if you’re coming to our fair city: We’ll show you around!”

1975

1971

1972

1974

In July, Paul Martini ’73, Steve Stockman ’74, Larry Caruso ’74 and Mike Fine ’73 got together in Winchester, Mass. to play golf.

Steven Lillienstein writes, “I’m a recovering lawyer loving life and splitting my time between NYC and Gulfport, Fla., with my wife, Jan Abelseth, who I met when we were both seniors at Union. Also, I’m approaching 150 hospital bedside performances as a volunteer musician for Musicians on Call.”

Chris Fink ’75

1976 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Rob Glicksman’s new book, Reorganizing Government: A Functional and Dimensional Approach, will be published

by NYU Press in 2019. Rob continues to teach and write about environmental, natural resources, and administrative law at the George Washington University Law School. He was recently named as one of the 20 most cited public law scholars in the country.

Jill Schneier Wegenstein Carmel Valley, Calif. jwegenstein@gmail.com

Steven Lillienstein ’75

Paul Ferguson writes, “Since retiring almost three years ago, my wife Sue and I have been touring every corner of California with our Old English Sheepdog, Zoey. We have become avid birders (or as I

Joseph Bedell writes, “Happy to report I am living the old high school reunion cliché.

We’ve known each other since 2nd grade but never dated!

She’s a ’72 grad of Skidmore.

Probably relocating to Tustin, California (Orange County).”

Helena Binder writes, “Delighted to collaborate once again with Maestro Bob Bernhardt ’73 on a new production of ‘Carmen’ for Chattanooga Symphony & Opera this spring.

If you are in the area, we hope to see you there! http:// chattanoogasymphony.org/ event/carmen/” Arthur Bragg writes. “I’m semi-retired, working remotely maintaining a software system for a medical equipment delivery company in Miami and Puerto Rico. My wife, Becky, is retired. We are planning a round-the-world trip for this coming spring. We teach swing dancing; I play a bit of jazz piano (my latest hobby) at some of the dances.

I’ve got one kid doing a postdoc in math at Berkeley, one doing some real-estate in Fort Collins, Colorado, and one teaching fencing in Missoula, Montana. We get back to New York now and then and have enjoyed keeping up with Rod Aldrich ’77 and his family.

He and I spent a wonderful two weeks in Ireland last year.

Looking forward to being more completely retired!”

Wisconsin, hoping to start a pediatric cardiology fellowship starting July 2019. My first twin son is teaching French language at a public high school in Los Angeles and my second twin son is a Ph.D. candidate in physics at the University of Colorado. My wife is a retired R.N. and I am hoping to retire in the next two years.”

Gloria Jones writes, “Since my retirement from the non-profit word, I have become a published author of a short novel called The Beauty Shop Murder. Working on a second.”

1978 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Jeff Laniewski, Florence, Ariz. jlaniewski4@gmail.com

1977 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Leila Shames Maude LeeShamesMaude@alumni. union.edu Stephen Blonsky writes, “I am currently a nephrologist at the Marshfield Clinic in Wausau, Wisconsin. My oldest son has graduated with a doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Iowa and is working for CVS in Milwaukee. He and his wife have my only grandchild, who is turning 2. My oldest daughter received her M.D. and just finished her nephrology fellowship at The Cleveland Clinic and is working at Marshfield Clinic in Marshfield, Wisconsin (with the same organization I work with in the same medical specialty). My second daughter obtained her M.D. and is a third-year pediatric resident at the Children’s Hospital of

1975. I keep in touch with Rob Sherman ’76, George Garivaltis and a few others. I have referred a few students to Union over the years. Still wondering if there was ever anyone else who played four varsity sports at Union.”

Lisa Gorbaty Haldane ’78 and Jim Lerner ’78 spent some time catching up while fly fishing on the Miramichi River in New Brunswick in August.

lactation consultant in a hospital outside of Boston. I have also enjoyed becoming a grandmother twice this year.

Life is good!”

James Warnick writes, “I retired from GE 4/1/18 with almost 40 years of service. Prostate cancer diagnosed also in April, but prostate removed in July and 1st PSA test = 0 meaning no more cancer at end of August! Granddaughter Lydia Mae Boyer is 2-1/2 now and the cutest thing you have ever seen.”

Levi Earl Kennedy, grandson of Faith Kaplan ’78

Faith Kaplan writes, “I have to say I am so lucky. I am still running Cail Realty, LLC with my dad, I have a wonderful husband and two great daughters. But the best part of my life is my beautiful grandchildren. Camilla is 3 and Levi was born July 6. My best friends are still Diane DiMeo Dickinson and Kathy Greco.”

Sarah (Duffus) Breen writes, “I remarried in 2016 and together, Dan and I are hiking the Appalachian Trail. My trail name is ‘AT BY 80!’ I hope to finish it long before I turn 80.

Between hiking segments of the trail, I am working as a

Lydia Mae Boyer, granddaughter of James Warnick ’78

1979 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Kurt Hamblet San Luis Obispo, Calif. kurthamblet@gmail.com Kevin Kilbourne and his wife, Maryalice, hosted several classmates in August for a

Erhan Mergen served as a delegate for Rochester Institute of Technology at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is professor of decision sciences at RIT. Ray Stecker writes, “In the 27th year of the company I founded (Boston Research and Management) and living on the North Shore of Boston with my wife, Candy, who I met at UC in

Sarah (Duffus) Breen ’78 with Dan, hiking the Appalachian Trail

Kevin Geary ’79, Kevin Kilbourne ’79, Murray Levison ’79 and Paul McLaughlin ’79

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CLASS NOTES

boat ride and dinner at their home on Loon Lake in Wayland, N.Y., about 40 miles south of Rochester. In attendance were Kevin Geary, Murray Levison and Paul McLaughlin. Murray was visiting from California and Kevin and Paul live in the Rochester area.

1980 The 2019 edition of The Best Lawyers in America recognized Brooks Pierce attorney Mack Sperling for his practice in commercial litigation.

Debra Katz was recently profiled in The Washington Post. The story focused on her career as a civil rights and whistleblower attorney, and her representation of Christine Blasey Ford, who said Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her. Katz is a partner at the Washington, D.C. firm Katz, Marshall & Banks.

1981 Susan Farley, of Heslin Rothenberg Farley Mesiti, was honored by the U.S. Court of Appeals with the 2018 American Inns of the Court Professionalism Award for the Second Circuit. Chief Judge Katzmann, along with Judges Richard Wesley and Denny Chin, presented the award at the Thurgood Marshall U.S. Courthouse in New York.

Judge David E. Peebles represented the U.S. District Courts from the Northern District of New York, where Susan has her office.

surgery. Scott moved with his wife, Tammy Wood (whom he met at Union) to Portland, Ore., in 1989. In Portland, Scott worked for Sequent Computers for a few years before moving to Intel in 1994.

Scott most recently led the Cloud Systems Research (CSR) team within Intel Labs, where he pulled together an ambitious research agenda around visual cloud computing over the last couple of years and led the creation of the Intel Science and Technology Center at Carnegie Mellon University for Visual Cloud Systems. Prior to that he led several research initiatives within Intel Labs, including storage systems and persistent memory. Scott was a superb technologist, beloved leader and mentor to many who worked with him over the years. Scott lived a full life in addition to his career. He was an accomplished woodworker who filled his home with the beautiful arts and crafts furniture he made. He was comfortable in the kitchen, where he liked to cook, and bake, and can applesauce and grape juice in the fall. He was an avid cyclist and hiker. He loved to travel, especially to off-the-beaten path destinations. His three sabbaticals at Intel were filled with weeks-

long tours of Europe, China and India. He enjoyed backpacking with his wife in remote locations—the Wallowas in northeastern Oregon was a favorite. Scott is survived by his wife and their two children—a daughter, Rachel, and a son, Daniel.

His kindness, wisdom, humor, and humanity will be sorely missed in the short term, and remembered fondly in the long run. Scott is further remembered on pg. 71.

1983 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Cory Lewkowicz Needham, Mass. corylewkowicz@gmail.com

1985 Jonathan Heimer writes, “I recently arrived back in Shanghai after an 11-year absence to take up new responsibilities as the principal commercial officer at the U.S. Consulate here.”

Joel M. Musicant writes, “On June 7, I met and golfed with Jonathan Barofsky ’87 at Deal Country Club at the Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus medical staff outing. As we graduated years apart and hadn’t previously had the opportunity to get acquainted, it was a

1982 His family shares the heartbreaking news that Scott Hahn passed away June 23, 2018, following complications from a heart-valve replacement

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Scott Hahn ’82 in the Wallowa Mountains, September 2017.

Scott passed away June 23, 2018.

Joel M. Musicant ’85 and Jonathan Barofsky ’87

surprise to learn that we were both alumni. We had a great time golfing and comparing our Union experiences and reminiscing about the alma mater. It was a joy!”

Bruce Richards writes, “I am enjoying retirement after a 44-year career that began at GE Schenectady as a mail clerk at the age of 16 and ended at the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory (KAPL) as manager of construction projects, Kesselring Site.

During my career I completed the 4-year GE Apprentice Training Program (Machinist) and then obtained my Union College mechanical engineering degree by attending evening classes for 8-years while working during the day in GE Gas Turbine Assembly.

My Union degree provided me the opportunity to enjoy a long diverse career at KAPL. I will always be thankful to Union College.”

1986 Philip Bean served as a delegate for Haverford College at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018.

He is associate dean of the college and dean of academic affairs at Haverford.

Faith (Dunn) Deutsch writes, “In 2015 I started a marketing agency, FinMark Partners. We focus on the financial services industry. After 25 years of running design and branding teams for global financial firms, the time was right for me to branch out. I partnered with some exceptional former colleagues and together we built FinMark. Our client base has been smaller financial firms that want to leverage our experience. Building this business has been both

challenging and rewarding.

What I didn’t expect was to enjoy it as much as I am. It was a wonderful change for my career, my family and for me personally.”

1987 Georgia Sullivan writes, “Serving in the cultural affairs section of U.S. Embassy Baghdad as the Fulbright Exchange Program Manager.

Grateful for the amazing Union College Terms Abroad Programs. What an amazing educational opportunity!”

Rachel Siegel writes, “I just celebrated my one-year anniversary as the director of digital strategy for Show Me KC Schools, a non-profit that helps families living in Kansas City, Missouri make their way through the complicated school landscape here and find a good fit for their children.

Best job I’ve ever had! I moved to KCMO two years ago after 28 years in the San Francisco Bay Area and this job has been a great way for me to get to know my new city.”

Alan Kriegstein writes, “I am still president of ALA Scientific Instruments in Farmingdale, Long Island. We are currently working on a ‘Dynamic Phantom’ that is used to calibrate MRI machines to optimize them for fMRI studies where the functioning brain can be imaged. The project is funded by a Fast Track SBIR grant from the National Institute of Drug Abuse. The work is being performed jointly by ALA and Stony Brook University. The Phantom is made completely of plastic, the movement it needs to have is powered by an air motor, while all the electronics, valves, and compressed air source sit safely outside the

MRI suite. I have also started a new company called Dinobonez.com to sell dinosaur fossils. These are not museum quality items, but rather fragments of bones that are collected on private ranches in the western U.S. They have no scientific value but would be lost to erosion of we did not collect them for sale. Most of the fragments are Triceratops and Hadrosaur dating from about 68 million years ago and come from the Lance formation in Wyoming, which is a fascinating part of the American landscape. We even have packages for dinosaurthemed kids’ birthday parties!”

Alan Kriegstein ’87 on the hunt for dinosaur fossils in central Utah

1989

practicing anesthesiology in New Hampshire.”

Dave Morrison writes, “My wife, Jennifer (Izzo) Morrison, and I visited our daughter Alexis ’19, while she was on her term abroad in Florence in April. In addition to beautiful Tuscan landscapes and delicious wine, we were very impressed with her Italian language skills. Ciao!”

1991

Nanci Redman writes, “I continue to live in the DC area (since 1992) working as professional responsibility counsel at Crowell & Moring LLP. Remarried in 2012 and now an empty-nester with both sons at college. Enjoy my three adult stepchildren and their families, including a 2-year-old grandson and granddaughter on the way.

Where did the time go?”

Richard Steele, M.D., J.D. writes, “I graduated from the University of New Hampshire School of Law (formerly Franklin Pierce Law Institute) on May 19. I was honored to be selected by my class to speak at our graduation. I passed the New Hampshire Bar exam, and the admission ceremony is December 5. I am

Andrew Kadak ’67 writes, “My son, Christian Andrew Kadak ’91, passed away July 25, 2018 after a long illness.

He graduated from La Salle Academy, where he played lacrosse, and earned a bachelor of arts degree from Union College in English. At Union, he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta. He is survived by his sister, Noelle Catherine Medeiros; a nephew, Zachary; and a niece, Mya.” Christian is remembered on p. 72.

Christian Andrew Kadak ’91 passed away July 25, 2018

1988 Kathleen Brown served as a delegate for Denison University at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. She is chief investment officer at Denison.

Diane Mehta writes, “I’m living in Brooklyn with my boyfriend and teenager, and writing for a design company. My book of poems is coming out in 2019 and I just finished writing a historical novel set in 1946 India. I also wrote a small book about poetry, and have written scores of book criticism, essays and articles of every topic you can imagine.”

Dave Morrison ’89 and Jennifer (Izzo) Morrison ’89 with daughter, Alexis ’19, in Florence.

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The 2019 edition of The Best Lawyers in America recognized Brooks Pierce attorney Alex Elkan for his practice in environmental law.

David Kohl writes, “After 25 years in management consulting, I left EY to start a purposedriven digital advertising technology company, TRUSTX (trustx.org), built to restore trust, transparency and safety to the digital media supplychain. Starting a business has been the most challenging and rewarding part of my career, especially after coming from the relative safety of a large, multi-national consultancy. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from my family, which has been nothing short of amazing. Speaking of family, Kari recently joined Planned Parenthood as a mid-wife, Alexandra is in her junior year at Brown University, and Ben is deep into his college applications. Going on 50, I picked up long-distance bike riding to keep myself fit, and I’m still using my 15-yearold pilot’s license to visit friends, family—and Union— whenever I can.”

of my kidney transplant on March 7, 2018. I received a kidney from my best friend and Union roommate for two years, Kelly Mooney Lester.

Organ donation works, and we are both doing great!”

1992

Martine Cadet ’92 at the graduation of her daughter, Olivia Britton ’18.

Also picture is her son, Winston Britton Jr. Olivia will be attending Boston University in pursuit of her Ph.D. in political science. Winston plays football at UPenn, going into his sophomore year. Martine is a post-graduate of New York University School of Social Work and has been employed for 18 years at her residential school district.

1993 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Jill D. Bernstein New York, N.Y. jilldbernstein@yahoo.com Christopher Ryan recently wrote an opinion piece for universitybusiness.com, which focused on ways academic institutions can proactively protect their students, faculty and staff from school shootings. Christopher is managing director at K2 Intelligence, a New York-based investigative and compliance services firm.

Kari and David Kohl ’91 beating traffic over I-95 on a recent trip to visit their daughter, Alexandra.

Colleen Adamson writes, “I just celebrated the 20th anniversary of my life-saving lung transplant on July 3, 2018. I also celebrated the 12th anniversary

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Stacie (Jordan) Brenkovich writes, “Recently enjoyed another wonderful visit with Maria Bruno Warner ’94 and family, visiting the iconic Rye Playland amusement park in Rye, N.Y. Kids, sports and working at Accenture continue to keep me busy. Life is good.”

Stacey (Cervellino) Thorp teaches acting, mindfulness and physical theater in NYC. She recently adapted and directed the stage version of the novel How to Make an American Quilt, and is working on a book about self-discovery through acting and actor training. She lives in Cobble Hill Brooklyn with her husband.”

Children of Stacie (Jordan) Brenkovich ’93 and Maria Bruno Warner ’94

summer, and are now featured in a growing number of restaurants and liquor stores in Northern New York. My oldest son, Tristan, is a sophomore at Siena College and Colby is a junior in high school—about time to hit the college visit circuit again.”

Sarah and Randall Beach ’94 in the Murray’s Fools’ Tasting Room

1995 Elissa D. (Hecker) Strauss was selected as Best Trademark Attorney 2018–New York, from the 2018 AI Intellectual Property Excellence Awards.

She was again selected as a Super Lawyer, Entertainment and Sports for NY Metro, Westchester, and Top Women Attorneys. Elissa and David Strauss ’94 are also proud parents of Rebecca, a ninth grader, and Daniel, a seventh grader. Elissa can be reached

1994 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Randall Beach Schenectady, N.Y. rsbeach72@gmail.com Randall Beach writes, “2018 has been another busy, but fun year. Our distilling company continues to grow. We introduced our American Single Malt—WolfJaw Whiskey—this

Elissa (Hecker) Strauss ’95 and David Strauss ’94 with children, Rebecca and Daniel

Major: Industrial economics Current Position: American Dragons Singapore paddle team member

© Right Exposure

PAMELA KUSTAS ’90

’90

From the Mohawk River to Kallang River

I

n December 2012, Pamela Kustas ’90 joined Bloomberg’s market specialist team as a local hire in Singapore. She had never been to Singapore, knew no one there and would be relocating from Boston, Mass., on her own. To learn about her new home, she did some research.

That included Googling “Americans in Singapore.” Which led her to American Dragons, a paddle club that trains and competes in dragon boat and outrigger canoe races in Singapore and around the world.

A lifelong athlete—competitive runner, triathlete, skier and former Union crew member—Kustas was curious.

“My good friends, Eric ’92 and Alison (Pallotta) Czech ’91, lived in Singapore from 2004 to 2008 with their kids. They were very encouraging about my move and told me I’d probably really like dragon boat paddling,” Kustas said. “It’s a big community there.”

Community is just what she was looking for. When she isn’t working her full-time job as a Southeast Asia equity market specialist with Bloomberg, she trains with American Dragons.

“It’s amazing. There is an entire paddle community in Singapore of people from all over the world. American Dragons

has members from over 22 countries— Singapore, China, India, Mexico, Hungary, Ukraine, just to name a few,” Kustas said.

“Moving to Singapore without knowing anyone, they became my family. I love being part of team sport.”

And dragon boat racing is a unique team sport.

“With its beginnings centuries ago in Southern China for naval military use, dragon boating today is the fastest growing international team water sport,” Kustas said. “Each year, festivals are held around the world in Asia, Australia, Europe, Canada and the United States—even in East Glenville (N.Y.) on the Mohawk River.”

Outside of Singapore, she has competed in Australia, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and the Philippines as both a team drummer and a paddler. She has a box full of medals and her team won the 2016 National Championship in Singapore.

“There are 18-20 paddlers per standard dragon boat, plus a drummer and a helm (or steerer),” she explained. “Just like crew at Union, it takes serious commitment from everyone to practice and race together.

Typical race distances are 200, 250 or 500 meters. There are longer courses, but to get a general idea, the 500-meter race

usually takes about 2.5 minutes.”

Whatever the distance, Kustas remains committed.

“At Union, some days we were rowing in the cold rain and strong winds on the Mohawk. In Singapore, we are paddling in ‘equator hot’ temperatures and occasional monsoon rains,” she said. “Knowing your teammates are in it with you, you power through.”

“The crew team was like a family at Union,” she added. “Taking political science and spending a term in Germany were important, too. It was so valuable to live and study abroad. It helped prepare me for life in Singapore and made it easier to adapt to the many different cultures here.”

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CLASS NOTES

at eheckeresq@eheckeresq. com and her website is www.eheckeresq.com.

1996 Rich Fuerst of Niskayuna (N.Y.) has been selected to the 2018 Upstate New York Super Lawyers list. Rich’s law practice is concentrated in the areas of estate planning, wills and trusts, elder law, estate administration, trust administration and taxation. Rich holds an AV® Preeminent™ 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rating from the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory. He also serves on several local boards including M&T Bank’s Directors Advisory Council (Albany Division) and is also a volunteer trustee/ treasurer of the Carlilian Foundation.

Rich Fuerst ’96

Marie Cavuoto Petrizzo writes, “I recently took a leave from my clinical allergy/immunology medicine practice and am now working as core faculty at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. In my new role, I facilitate student sessions and am transitioning into the role of co-director of a longitudinal course called ‘Patient, Physician and Society.’ I am really enjoying this new career path as it combines my medical training and teaching. It also allows me to spend more time with my

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two children, ages 9 and 11, who are growing up way too fast!”

1999 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

1997 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Sara Amann Garrand Ballston Lake, N.Y. sgarrand1@nycap.rr.com Nicholas Conway served as a delegate for Trinity College at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is a visiting lecturer of American studies at Trinity.

1998 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Ryan T. Smith Jupiter, Fla. ryan.smith@thebenjamin school.org Jason Goldberg was promoted to associate general counsel for corporate affairs at the New York City Housing Authority.

Ruth (Strosberg) Simon writes, “This summer I was appointed executive director of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School, a liberal Orthodox rabbinic training program located in Riverdale, N.Y. I’ve been with YCT for 15 years and I’m loving every minute of the journey. Here’s more about our school: www.yctorah.org” Courtney Seymour writes, “My Union librarian colleagues, Lindsay Bush, Gail Golderman, Robyn Reed, and I recently collaborated on a book chapter. ‘Passport to Discovery: A Library Adventure’ was published in Planning Library Orientations: Case Studies From Around the World. It features our authentic learning scavenger hunt for Academic Opportunity Program/Higher Education Opportunity Program (AOP/HEOP) first-year students at Union College.”

Kellie Forrestall BeeBee Lowell, Mass. forrestkj@hotmail.com Jarrod Liebel writes, “Haven’t kept up with UC much since graduation. I wanted to send a short note with my story and to wish everyone well. Post UC, I attained my master’s degree from a small, formerly all-girls, private college in Massachusetts.

Afterwards I moved to Dallas and pursued a career in financial planning. I passed the CFP exam in 2011 then served as director of wealth management for the former Xerox Credit Union (now Xceed of El Segundo, CA). In 2015 my son, Carter, was born and my wife, Sarah, and I moved back to Western Massachusetts to be near family. I accepted a book of business in partnership with a prominent community bank and brought my Texas clients along. In 2016, my daughter, Stella, was born. My family of four (and our pup Zee) are enjoying family, friends and the simple pleasures of home.

Hope everyone is doing well and staying positive.”

Jarrod Liebel ’99 with wife, Sarah, and children Carter and Stella

2000 In summer 2018, James Dowd studied coral reefs, manatees, howler monkeys, jaguars and

other wildlife while learning the methods communities are using to sustain them in Belize.

James, a biology and chemistry teacher at Lowell High School, lives in San Francisco, Calif., and is a graduate student in Miami University’s Global Field Program.

2002 Nate Peck was named to Engineering News-Record Magazine’s National Top 20 Under 40 list. Nate was the sole ambassador from the New England region to be named to the prestigious list.

He attended a summit in San Francisco with 19 other rising leaders and was featured on the cover of the July issue of ENR. He and his wife, Jane, own Kaplan Construction, where Nate is the president.

Nate and Jane reside in Brookline, Mass., their two children, Theo and Leah.

2003 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Katrina Tentor Lallier Shrewsbury, Mass. katrinalallier@gmail.com

Friends from the Class of 2003 gathered at the home of Anjali and Anil Gupta in Toledo, Ohio, recently. Alumni included Rahmona and Paul Trumble, Anjali and Anil Gupta, Chris Hartnett (Christa, UGA), and John Forbush (Kate, Wake Forest), and their children.

2004 Matt Gerien served as a delegate for Rhodes College at the inauguration of David Harris as Union’s 19th president on Sept. 8, 2018. He is executive director of communications at Rhodes.

Emily Horsford got engaged to Harshana Godamanna on her birthday last September and they were married this year. Emily started a wellness business called Space to BE, leading individual and corporate yoga and meditation classes, plus mindfulness seminars.

2005 Carolyn Rooney was promoted to senior counsel in the Environmental Practice Group at National Grid.

2006 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Sarah T. Heitner New York, N.Y. sarah.t.heitner@gmail.com Brianne Baggetta writes, “This summer I purchased the real estate at 32 Dove/293 State Street in Albany. It was previously the Center Square Pub. After a complete remodel, we have just re-opened as

Dove + Deer. I handled the design and renovation. I have a business partner who is overseeing daily operations.

I will continue my career as president of the Mailworks and sister companies Hearing Aid Marketing and Pretty Polite Print Boutique.”

Karen Bertasso finished second in the Hartford (Conn.)

Marathon on Oct. 13, 2018.

Her time of 2:43:46, a two-minute personal best, qualifies her for the Olympic trials in Atlanta in 2020.

Bertasso, a physician assistant, was a neuroscience major at Union, where she ran track and played soccer.

Berkeley National Laboratory, has earned the 2018 Universities Research Association Tollestrup Award for his work on the Mu2e experiment at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.

The award recognizes outstanding postdoctoral research at Fermilab or in collaboration with Fermilab scientists.

Carla Reeves, an employment law and litigation attorney at Goulston & Storrs PC, was recently presented with the Denis Maguire Pro Bono Award by the Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Boston Bar Association.

2007 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Jackie Siedlecki Murphy Delmar, N.Y. jaclynrenemurphy@gmail.com Brian Gulack recently started his fellowship in pediatric surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario.

Carla Reeves ’08

2008 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Dana Cohen Bernstein New York, N.Y. dana.lynn.bernstein@gmail.com Richard Bonventre, a physicist with the U.S. DOE’s Lawrence

Thomas R. Hickernell (middle with the blue suit and blue tie) graduated from residency in orthopedic surgery at Columbia University Medical Center in June. His sister, Sarah Hickernell ’18 (to his right) graduated from Union one week before his graduation.

Robert Hodgson writes, “This summer I had the pleasure of attending two Union weddings with Elise Wakeland ’10.

Brandon McArdle ’09 married Ann Squires in Tupper Lake in

August, and Matthew Kearney ’09 married Patrick Collins in June in Avon, Connecticut.

All the above are living in Philadelphia. I am still enjoying life between Philadelphia and the East End. I have a little shack in Bridgehampton that I’m slowly fixing up. My daughter, Macy, will be 5 in December and she is enjoying the Montessori School and camp at the French International School. Jude Mason ’08 and Carly Mand ’11 had their daughter, Charlotte, in July.

Ellie Rines ’10 is ‘killing it’ in the New York gallery world and was recently featured in a New York Times ‘T’ magazine article about young gallerists. I saw lots of Ian Austin ’09 this summer in the Hamptons—he is working on growing the Cane + Austin skincare line now carried in Sephora and other stores. Saul Kurtz ’11 is launching a new EP next week in Brooklyn—I’ve had the pleasure of hanging out with him in the Hamptons over the last few summers as well. He can be found @saulriversmusic and performs under the stage name Saul Rivers.”

Friends from the Class of 2006 met up in Maine in August for lobster rolls and camaraderie. In attendance were Sarah Seifert, Liz Wade, Kate Kirk, Rachel Straus, Angela Morse and Anique Lebel, along with future Union Dutchboys and girls.

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Editing DNA to find cures

D

NA mutations can be harmless.

They can also cause incurable, debilitating and fatal diseases.

Michelle Richter ’11 is trying to change this.

Working with David Liu at the Broad Institute, she’s striving to discover novel ways fix the kind of DNA errors that cause conditions from color blindness to cystic fibrosis.

“Recently, a tool to target and edit DNA, called CRISPR-Cas 9 was discovered,” Richter said. “My research focuses on developing new genome editing tools based on the CRISPR-Cas9 system to study, and potentially one day to treat, diseases caused by point mutations in the DNA.” “A good example is sickle cell disease,” she added. “One single point mutation in the gene for hemoglobin makes it more challenging for red blood cells to carry oxygen. If we could fix the point mutation, we could improve the lives of people with this genetic disease.”

Richter’s interest in this type of work was piqued at Union, first on a term abroad in Italy, where she conducted research at a national institute. Then doing subsequent research with professor Kristen Fox, and in classes with professors Joanne Kehlbeck, James Adrian and J. Stephen Horton.

She hopes to take what she learned at Union, and since, to make a difference.

“I am motivated by improving human health. I am driven by projects where there is a potential therapeutic application, even if it isn’t immediate,” Richter said. “Developing tools for genome

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MICHELLE RICHTER ’11 Major: Biochemistry Current Position: HHMI Hanna H. Grey Postdoctoral Fellow, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard University

engineering is perfect for this.”

“Genome engineering has a lot of potential for treating so many devastating diseases. As I continue on in science,

’11

I hope to continue working on projects that can help people. My dream would be to work on a project that directly leads to a new drug.”

2009 CLASS CORRESPONDENTS

Gabe Kramer Los Angeles, Calif. kramerg3@gmail.com Carl S. Winkler New York, N.Y. carl.s.winkler@gmail.com Nadia Alexis writes, “Thrilled to share that I am a 2018-2019 Scholar in the Carr Center Independent Scholars Fellowship program with internationally renowned artist Carrie Mae Weems. This year-long fellowship is an unprecedented opportunity for 10 young, early career artists and art historians of color from diverse disciplines and backgrounds to work under the mentorship of Weems and other renowned artists at the height of their careers. The program consists of four in-person sessions spread out over 12 months and will culminate with a Fall 2019 exhibition and symposium in Detroit, Mich., where the Carr Center is based.”

2010 Deanna Cox recently relocated to southeast Florida and is the new assistant director of college guidance at the Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton.

Courtney Foster recently moved from Los Angeles to Chicago to work as a senior associate brand manager for Kraft Heinz.

Cristina Liquori has recently relocated to London with her partner. She continues to work for the LEGO Group, now in a digital marketing role for the U.K./Ireland business unit.

2011

2014

David Frasz has been named vice president of production for Capital One Multifamily Finance. David will be responsible for loan origination across all Fannie, Freddie, and FHA products and for building and maintaining relationships with real estate investors, expanding Capital One’s footprint across the U.S.

Cara Zimmerman and E.J. Feld graduated from Albany Med in May of 2018. They moved to Providence to start their residency training in internal medicine and psychiatry at Brown University together.

Ankur Shah also graduated with his M.D. and is at the University of Pennsylvania completing his urology training. Colleen Kilbourne is training as a family medicine primary care physician at University of Rochester.

2012 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Anna Meiring Boston, Mass. annameiring@gmail.com

Clamping and gripping provider RÖHM Products of America recently announced that George Burleson will manage the sales of the company’s products in the Illinois and Wisconsin territories. In this role, he will hold responsibility for supporting the company’s efforts to provide chucks, centers, vises, tool clamping and automation systems as well as customized solutions for turning, milling, drilling and grinding to customers across the region.

2013 CLASS CORRESPONDENT

Cristina Vazzana Boston, Mass. vazzanaca@gmail.com Julia Duros achieved the certified financial planner designation. She works at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management in Boston, Mass., as part of the Johnson Lessard Stanton & Nelson Group.

2016

HEY

U Have you changed careers?

Traveled?

Won an award, gotten married or had a baby?

Been published or promoted?

Quisqueya Witbeck ’16 and Aubrey Griffen ’17 at World Boston’s International Exchange Happy Hour in July.

LET US KNOW SUBMIT A CL ASS NO T E :

Email classnotes@union.edu, the deadline for the spring magazine is February 25.

Photos are welcome too.

Send high-resolution images that are at least 1 MB in size.

Pavel Aprelev completed a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering from Clemson University.

WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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CLASS NOTES

A two-pronged career: Music & aerospace

BY MOLLY CONGDON ’12

KAELAN HANSSON ’15 Major: Mechanical engineering Current Position: Composer and organist; Ph.D. candidate, aerospace engineering, University of Michigan

K

aelan Hansson ’15 has many talents, from prize-winning composer and organist to aerospace engineer.

A Ph.D. student at the University of Michigan, the American Guild of Organists recently presented Hansson with its Student Commissioning Project award, given annually to recognize new musical works composed for the organ.

“On a national stage I have committed to two occupations at once,” he said.

“And it gives me a whole different perspective on how our jobs, our careers and our hobbies define us.”

“Growing up in rural New Hampshire, I spent as much time trying to find ways to entertain myself as I spent being

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’15

entertained,” he said. “By high school I was doing as much as I possibly could: three seasons of sports, two or three different bands, playing the trombone, AP classes, a math team and a trivia team.”

But back then, he kept his talent for the organ to himself. And he didn’t take it too seriously.

“I played in bands by necessity,” Hansson said. “The organ showed up because my mother had inherited one from a great aunt, which I taught myself to play out of boredom.”

His one “true path,” Hansson thought, was in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Which is why he was always tinkering—building a stereo

system or leading solar panel projects (both heat and electric).

Discovering he had two paths was a gradual process.

“I think everyone with a technical background has, at one point, coveted being a rocket scientist,” Hansson said.

“I was a mechanical engineering major at Union and very quickly decided I didn’t want to work on electronics, or cars or buildings.”

He did decide, though, that music was just as much a part of him as STEM. “Professor Hillary Tann, my composition teacher, practically gave me private lessons in composition even after I graduated,” Hansson said. “I’m particularly indebted to her for the award from the American Guild of Organists.”

“There was also Professor Diane McMullen, who taught me organ, and Professors Palma Catravas and William Zwicker, who never let any us do less than three different things at once— especially if it was STEM and music.”

On the STEM side, Professors Brad Bruno and Ashok Ramasubramanian were also influential, advising Hansson in his engineering research. And Professor William Keat helped him get a position at General Electric.

There, Hansson worked on the development of several advanced jet engine components, which led him to the University of Michigan’s aerospace engineering department.

He’s looking forward to seeing what happens when he finishes his Ph.D. “Since most of my work deals with radiation transport, there’s a solid chance I’ll end up at one of the national labs.”

U UNIONS

’09

Alumni at the wedding of Lyndsay (Wehrum) Damo ’09 and Patrick Damo

1977 Louis Leatso writes, “Married the love of my life Bob Mock June 24, 2018 in Sharon Springs, N.Y.”

2009

’77

Louis Leatso ’77 and Bob Mock

Lyndsay (Wehrum) Damo married Patrick Damo in Boston, Mass., June 2, 2018.

The wedding ceremony was held at St. Leonard’s Church and the reception was held at the New England Aquarium.

Amy (Kemmler) Kocienda and Jillian (Bannister) Shaheen served as bridesmaids. Other alumni in attendance included Megan Bordino, Mallory (Mason) Sakats, Elizabeth Zamore, Jenna (Ondash) Switchenko, Alan Zulick, Katherine Nielsen, Sara (Wilson) Reigle, Elise Wakeland, Mark O’Shea, Marla Feldman, Katie Weinstein, Gabe Harris, Paul Wehrum, Jenna Frisch, Elizabeth (Stanford) Zulick, Tatum Weishaupt, Andrew Reigle and Robyn (Schneiderman) Harris.

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2011 Matt Rogers and Jenny Miller were married June 17, 2017 in Boston, Mass. Alumni in attendance included P.J. Mugford, Max Troop, Sean Gannon, Rachael Smith, Chris Smith, Liz Sargent, Dan Sclicher, Jason Philbrick, Evan Ryan, Ben Stewart, Anthony Cassese, Tori Matieu, Jim Cain, Jackie Hung, Jon Griffith, Nick Poli and Scott Crasnick.

Matt Farrell ’12 and Kelly Peterson Farrell were married May 19, 2018 at Wadsworth Mansion in Middletown, Conn.

Alumni in attendance included Jonny Campbell ’12, Scott Zurawel, Matthew Breazzano, Samantha Peper, Sloane Sheldon, Tyler Kelly ’12, Webster Gordon, Chuck Pappas, Lauren McCartney ’10, Ben Humphries ’12, Sarah Gagnon ’12, Peter Theodorou ’13 and Joe Cardino ’12.

’11

Alumni attend the wedding of Matt Rogers ’11 and Jenny Miller

’11

Alumni attend the wedding of Matt Farrell ’12 and Kelly Peterson Farrell ’11

’12

Alumni attend the wedding of Ted Civetti ’10 and Kealin Maloney ’12

2012 Ted Civetti ’10 and Kealin Maloney were married Sept. 8, 2018 in Nantucket, Mass., with a number of Union classmates in attendance.

2013 Lillian Hamill writes, “Nick Hayes and I met and started dating as sophomores at Union.

We were married Sept. 1, 2018, at the Carey Institute for Global Good in Rensselaerville, NY. Charles Steckler, the Dwane W. Crichton Professor of Theater emeritus and scenic designer in residence at Union—and also our professor abroad in Florence in 2012—was, wonderfully, our officiant.”

Guests included Charles Steckler, Christopher Paolini, Ibrahim Durrani, Justin Reilly, Alex Stone, Kristin O’Connor,

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Patrick Manning, Ginamarie Mule, Chase Richey, Lisa Catrambone ’14 and Noah Joseph.

Bonsal Brooks and Stephanie (McCarthy) Brooks were married June 9, 2018 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Meredith, N.H. In attendance were William Scudder Clay, Robbie Young, Rogan Quinn, Joseph Kiernan, Megan Welhoelter, Rebecca Duffy, Sally Bendiks, Andrew Brooks ’78, Gregory Maya ’78, Joseph Cordrey, Hallie Manheim, Kyle Christine, Eric Spector and Stephen Brooks ’71 . The two met their first day at Union College as part of their orientation group and dated throughout their years at Union and since. The couple lives and works in Boston.

Bonsal is a provider services manager at American Well and Stephanie is a third-year dental student at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Bonsal is son and nephew to Union alumni Andrew Brooks ’78 and Stephen Brooks ’71, respectively.

’12

Alumni attend the wedding of Taylor LaBrecque ’12 and Mitchell Pfeiffer ’12 June 30, 2018.

’13

Alumni attend the wedding of Lillian Hamill ’13 and Nick Hayes ’13

’13

Alumni attend the wedding of Bonsal Brooks ’13 and Stephanie (McCarthy) Brooks ’13

Sheri Park and Peter Kong were married Oct. 7, 2017. Alumni in attendance included Alistair Phaup ’14, Aubree Heydrick, Melissa Harvey ’15, Julie Warren ’15, Jessica John, Jasmine Roth ’14, Keilah Creedon ’14, Heather Brown ’16 and Tokuei Higashino.

Elsa Bruestle ’14 and Cal Shorey were married in Minneapolis, Minn, on Aug. 31, 2018. Alumni in attendance included Mac Purvis ’14, Alex Tancrell Fontaine ’14, Alana Marcinko, Dan Gross, Keven Donohue, Kelsey McDonald ’14 and Matt Petrone.

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UNIONS

2014 Lauren Hafkemeyer and Kris Darlington ’02 were married June 2, 2018 in Dover Plains, N.Y. They celebrated with many close Union friends.

Elise (DiMeo) Sievert and Matthew Sievert were married April 7, 2018 at the Endicott Estate in Dedham, Mass.

Alumni in attendance included Shalini Singaravelu ’12, Samantha Moyer, Katie Beale, Molly McCune, Clara Boesch, Elsabeth Graebener, Gabriella Levine, Meaghan Jain ’15, Katherine Weeks, Ellen Muehleck, Alex Paolicelli, Leandra Falotico, MaryKate Farber ’15, Meghan (Kupiec) Waldrop, Samantha Bertschmann, James DiMeo ’77, Paul DiMeo ’16, Diane (DiMeo) Dickinson ’79, David Dickinson ’77, Robert DiMeo ’84 and John DiMeo ’83.

’13

Alumni attend the wedding of Sheri Park ’13 and Peter Kong

’13

Alumni attend the wedding of Elsa Bruestle ’14 and Cal Shorey ’13

’14

Alumni attend the wedding of Lauren Hafkemeyer ’14 and Kris Darlington ’02

’14

Alumni attend the wedding of Elise (DiMeo) Sievert ’14 and Matthew Sievert

2015

’15 Shanice Wilson ’15 married Vincent Vivenzio ’14 on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2018.

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THERE ARE COUNTLESS REASONS TO GIVE TO UNION. Mark your calendars for #ADAY4U on FEBRUARY 20, 2019 and let’s make history!

UNION COLLEGE

#ADAY4U 02/20/19

The Union College Annual Fund WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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U ARRIVALS

Miles and Daisy with baby Graham Cole (Harriton ’97)

Callahan and Preston Bodden (Bodden ’03)

Courtney and Brad Akin ’06 with son, Finn

Brooks Morse Brainerd (Morse ’06)

Madison Eileen with baby Giovanni Dominic (Mancini ’06)

Jack Cunningham Brett and Leila MacEachern Brett (Brett ’08)

Louis John (Deck ’08)

Charlotte Susannah Mason (Mason ’10)

1997

2006

2007

Niko (Winstral) Harriton writes, “Thrice is nice. Miles and Daisy are ecstatic to welcome little Graham Cole Harriton into the world. Born May 7, 2018 at 4:44 a.m., he weighed 6 pounds, 4.4 ounces.”

Brad Akin and his wife, Courtney, welcomed Finley Clayton Akin to the world on June 8, 2018.

Hannah Clements writes, “It’s been a busy couple of years.

Tommy was born in December 2016 and Harrison was born in July 2018. Myself and my husband, Thomas Mazzarino ’08, are very proud parents!”

Jennifer (Turecamo) and Ryan Deck ’09 welcomed their son, Louis John, in June of this year.

The family lives in Boston, Mass.

2008

Jude and Carly (Mand) Mason welcomed their daughter, Charlotte Susannah Mason, July 10, 2018.

2003 Andrew “A.J.” Bodden writes, “My wife Deirdre and I welcomed our second son, Preston Andrew, on July 9.

Big brother Callahan is thrilled.

We still live close to campus and look forward to sharing Union with both of the boys as they grow.”

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Angela Morse and Josh Brainerd, along with big brothers Jameson and Asher, welcomed Brooks Morse Brainerd into the family on July 10, 2018.

On Sept. 5, 2018, Michael Mancini and his wife, Gina, celebrated the birth of their son, Giovanni Dominic. He is their second child. Their daughter, Madison Eileen, is 2.

Evan (Duffy) Brett and Andrew Brett ’06 have welcomed Jack Cunningham Brett (Jan. 1, 2016) and Leila MacEachern Brett (April 23, 2018) to the family.

Everyone is happy, healthy, and rooting for the Dutchmen.

2010

Parents Circle Dr. Matt Nagorsky ’79 P’19 and Mrs. Julie Nagorsky P’19 with daughter Halle Nagorsky ’19

T

he Union College Parents Circle is made up of families who make annual leadership

gifts of $5,000 or more. Such

“

generous philanthropic support has

Our family is proud to carry on the Union tradition through our own intergenerational legacy. Matt ’79 and Halle ’19— although 40 years apart—will come together to celebrate ReUnions for years to come.

“

- The Nagorsky family

an immediate impact on academics, student life and campus priorities.

We invite you to join us in supporting the educational programs and activities that will make your child’s Union experience extraordinary.

To learn more about the Parents Circle, please contact: Noelle Beach Marchaj '05 Director of Parent and Family Philanthropy Cell: 860-655-2875 marchajn@union.edu WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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8 IN MEMORIAM

8 .........

1940s . . . . . . . . .

Dr. William H. Walker ’41, of Naples, Fla., who graduated from Cornell Medical College and served as a physician with the Navy on the USS Ariel during World War II, and in Florida during the Korean War, June 20, 2018. Chief of medicine at Mineola (now Winthrop) and Syosset hospitals, he practiced internal medicine in Hicksville, N.Y., for 42 years. William, who was a monitoring physician for astronauts that trained at Grumman on the Apollo lunar excursion module, was 99.

R. Gordon Murphy ’41, of Queensbury, N.Y., who served in the U.S. Army and retired from Wallace & Tiernan (N.J.) as vice president of manufacturing after 43 years, Aug. 24, 2018. Co-author of the book Basic Industrial Electronic Controls, he was president of Montclair Society of Engineers and Montclair Glee Club, and a member of First Presbyterian Church of Upper Montclair. He was 99.

Daniel Wit ’44, of Rancho Mirage, Calif., June 11, 2018. He was 95.

Dr. Karl Sohlberg ’44, of St. Petersburg, Fla., who served with the U.S. Army Air Corps in the Philippines during World War II, Aug. 20, 2018. A pathologist for many years in Peoria, Ill., and founder of the Peoria Tazewell Pathology Group, he served as president of the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College.

An avid sailor, he was 96.

Marshall C. Yovits ’44, of Deerfield, Ill., who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps and held a Ph.D. in physics from Yale University, May 4, 2018. Named a Computer Pioneer by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, he built the Department of Computer and Information Science at Ohio State University and then became dean of science at Indiana University-

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Purdue University Indianapolis. Past president and board member of Congregation B’nai Torah, he was 94.

Warren O. Kamm ’45, of Greece, N.Y., July 28, 2018. He was 94.

Samuel A. Katz ’47, of Rochester, N.Y., a U.S. Navy veteran who served during World War II, Sept. 2, 2017. He was 91.

Howard W. Bishop ’48, of Voorheesville, N.Y., who spent 47 years as a research chemist with Sterling Winthrop Research Institute, July 27, 2018. An avid Boston Red Sox fan who pitched competitively in numerous fast-pitch softball leagues until the age of 70, he enjoyed baseball, bowling, stamp collecting and spending time with family. He was 90.

Albert M. Wittenberg ’49, of Chevy Chase, Md., Sept. 3, 2017. He was 92.

Ralph H. Hautau Jr. ’49, of Closter, N.J., who taught physics and mathematics at Fairleigh Dickinson University until 2004, when he retired, Sept. 7, 2018. Ralph, who had many hobbies, including ecology, physics and health, and was involved at Mensa, was 90.

.........

1950s .........

Millard B. Hunter Jr. ’50, of Manchester, N.H., who served in the U.S. Army and Navy Reserve, July 3, 2018. First a chemist with American Locomotive, he later spent 35 years with the International Nickel Company in sales and marketing, rising to national sales manager. A member of Kearsarge Community Presbyterian Church (New London), he was both a student and instructor with the ColbySawyer Adventures in Learning program.

Also a member of the New London Historical Society, he was 90.

John D. Miller ’50, of Jacksonville, Fla., Nov. 17, 2017. He was 92.

John C. Moessinger ’50, of Athens, Tenn., who served in the U.S. Navy and was associated with International Paper in various capacities as an electrical engineer, retiring after 35 years, July 19, 2018. He was 90.

Burnett C. Southworth ’50, of Cooperstown, N.Y., who held a master’s degree and Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, July 27, 2018. After 40 years in corporate work, he developed his own consulting business, from which he retired in 1995. A longtime member of Christ Church, he served on vestry and as a lay leader, chalice bearer and Eucharistic visitor. He was 89.

Thomas Quinlan ’50, of Haines, Alaska, May 15, 2018. He was 92.

Townsend F. MacCoun ’50, of West Grove, Penn., Aug. 30, 2018. He was 91.

Frank J. Perozzi ’50, of Rochester, N.Y., who served in the 104th Infantry Division and kept detailed accounts of his service in France, Germany, Belgium and Holland, Oct. 14, 2018. The original manual of his notes, once published in the Timberwolf Tracks, is with the Oakfield, New York, Historical Society. Frank, who worked at General Dynamics before retiring from Taylor Instrument, was 94.

Rodney W. Gartner ’51, of Beaver, Penn., who was vice president of engineering product development at the technical center of the H.H. Robertson Co. (Ambridge), July 20, 2018. Active in many community and professional organizations, including as a founding member of the Moon Area Excellence in Education Fund, he was a U.S. Navy veteran who

served in the Civil Engineering Corps during the Korean Conflict. Rodney, who held an M.S. in engineering from Harvard University, was 88.

Harvey E. Kronick ’52, of New Port Richey, Fla., who served with the U.S. Navy, spent 30 years with IBM, held several patents and helped develop Universal Product Code scanning, June 20, 2018. Harvey, who served for many years as treasurer of Hurley Library and on the board of the Hurley Lions Club, also held leadership positions with B’Nai Brith and Ahavath Israel (Kingston). A longtime tennis player who enjoyed gardening and built his own greenhouse, he was 89.

John K. Schwartz Jr. ’52, of Schenectady, N.Y., who held a master’s degree in education from the University of Albany and taught at Shaker High School for 32 years, Sept. 22, 2018. Also a bus driver for Greyhound and Yankee Trails, he was a longtime member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church (Colonie, N.Y.). An avid Union College sports fan, he was 88.

Graham H. McCall ’53, of Black Mountain, N.C., who worked in the finance administration of General Electric in the locomotive manufacturing division, April 8, 2018.

A member of Black Mountain Presbyterian Church, he was 94.

Earl W. Jennison Jr. ’53, of Basking Ridge, N.J., a retired cost engineer for PSDI who held a master’s and Ph.D. from Columbia University and was a Fulbright Scholar who studied in Germany at the University of Frankfurt, March 3, 2017. A member of Phi Beta Kappa at Union, he was 85.

Douglas E. Stolberg ’54, of Tucson, Ariz., who served in the U.S. Army and Reserves before spending 26 years at the Army’s Electronic Proving Ground at Fort

Huachuca, March, 11, 2018. Chief of the radar test division and deputy chief of the surveillance division before becoming chief of the communications division, Doug received the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service when he retired in 1989. An avid photographer and videographer, Doug enjoyed a second career in real estate, retiring after 21 years. He was 85.

Walter M. Cegelski ’54, of Hermosa Beach, Calif., Aug. 22, 2018. He was 86.

Dr. Robert L. Chesanow ’55, of Cheshire, Conn., who graduated from Albany Medical School before joining the faculty of the neurology department at Washington University, Sept. 20, 2018. Robert, who spent 20 years at Cedarcrest Hospital in Newington and became chief of the medical service, also wrote biographies for the IMBD, a database devoted to films.

A fan of classical music, he was 82.

Richard C. Schappert ’56, of Apple Valley, Calif., Aug. 9, 2017. He was 82.

Dr. Philip M. Eastman ’57, of Portola Valley, Calif., who graduated from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine and in 1963 served with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia, June 19, 2018. A U.S. Army veteran awarded the Silver Star for his service in Vietnam, he later returned to Ethiopia to teach at the College of Public Health (Gondar). Stateside, he spent 25 years with San Mateo County Medical Center, serving three years as chief of staff. Philip, who loved to run, backpack and travel, was 82.

Donald E. Roundy ’58, of Sanford, N.C., who held a master’s degree from New York University, Aug. 20, 2018. After working at Chase Manhattan Bank in New Jersey, Don spent seven years in London

before becoming senior vice president for Dai-Ichi Kangyo Bank. A bridge player and antique collector, he was 82.

Henry J. Kane Jr. ’59, of Vernon, Conn., who earned a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering at Union and was an engineer at United Technologies, April 6, 2018. A member of Phi Delta Theta, he was 81.

.........

1960s .........

Robert O. Grabner ’61, of West Falmouth, Mass., and previously of Glastonbury, Conn., and Schenectady, N.Y., who rose to vice president of lending after 30 years with Schenectady Savings Bank, Oct. 10, 2018. Retiring as executive vice president, chief credit officer of the combined Schenectady Savings and Northeast Savings Bank in 1989, Robert was founding director and treasurer of Arts Center and Theater of Schenectady.

Instrumental in rescuing the abandoned Proctors Theater, he was 80.

Roger A. Fitch ’62, of Tully, N.Y., who held a master’s degree in health and human ecology from Cornell University, July 27, 2018. After serving as flight medic in the New Jersey Air National Guard, the U.S. Air Force and the Air Force Reserves, he worked at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Worcester Memorial Hospital in hospital administration. Later the founder of a health care planning consulting company, he served on the boards of directors of Cornell University College of Human Ecology and Community Health Link at UMass Memorial Health Care. He was 77.

Michael C. Holowaty ’65, of Marina Del Rey, Calif., who held an M.S. in transportation planning from the Polytechnic

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IN MEMORIAM

Institute of New York and specialized in the design and maintenance management of railroad and rapid transit/commuter rail facilities, Sept. 17, 2018. While at DeLeuw Cather, he was chief engineer of program planning for the Northeast Corridor Improvement Project, and later spent 27 years as a consultant with DeLeuw Cather/Parsons Transportation Group.

Michael, who also worked on the Channel Tunnel, was 75.

Edward T. Gignoux Jr. ’66, of Atlanta, Ga., who spent two years with the Peace Corps teaching English in Korea and earned a master’s degree from Harvard University, July 20, 2018. Ted, who served in the U.S. Army Reserves, worked in banking in Hong Kong and Japan before working with MetLife Corporate Investment and the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, from which he retired in 2006 as a senior bank examiner. In retirement, he supported the refugee resettlement services of Catholic Charities Atlanta.

He was 74.

William D. Toth ’67, of Patchogue, N.Y., and Baltimore, Md., who spent 47 years with Northrop Grumman Corporation and retired as director of space systems payloads, May 18, 2018. A member of the 1965 baseball team that was inducted into the Union College Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015, he and his wife enjoyed traveling to U.S. National Parks and across Europe.

William, who held degrees in engineering and business from New York University and George Washington University, respectively, was 72.

Jeffrey C. Savitsky ’67, of Zionsville, Ind., who held a Ph.D. in psychology from Vanderbilt University and a J.D. from Indiana University, Sept. 22, 2018. A professor of psychology at Purdue

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University, where he conducted research and taught classes related to clinical psychology and the law, he also founded the Institute for Public Safety Personnel, Inc. Active in civil rights and social justice causes, he served as president of the Lafayette chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union. He was 73.

Robert W. Benjamin ’67, of Sarasota, Fla., who held a juris doctorate from the University of Virginia School of Law and a master of laws in taxation from New York University School of Law, Oct. 2, 2018.

Doc, who practiced law for 15 years in the New York City area, also served as an adjunct professor of law at the Benjamin Cardozo School of Law and as director of the International Tax Institute. He finished his career with Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen in Sarasota. Past legal counsel and board member of the Sarasota Opera, he was 73.

.........

1970s .........

Peter B. Garrison ’70, of New Canaan, Conn., who held an M.B.A. from Columbia University, July 16, 2018. Beginning his finance career at the First National Bank of Chicago, he later joined Greenwich Associates, becoming a partner in 1986.

An avid golfer and history buff who delighted in family dinners, time with friends, lacrosse games and his “perch” on the deck in Falmouth, he was 71.

Floyd Weintraub ’70, of New York, N.Y., Sept. 7, 2018. A political science major at Union, he earned his Ph.D. in political philosophy from the University of Nottingham, England, before embarking on a career in education, technology and communications. He was 70.

Dr. Stephen E. Feuer ’71, of Schenectady, N.Y., who attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry and ran a private practice in Schenectady for many years, July 8, 2018. He was 69.

Dr. Douglas J. Binder ’72, of New York, N.Y., and Lawrenceville, N.J., who loved old Hollywood films, theater and dance, classic cars and his dogs Muffin and Bunnie, May 11, 2017. He was 65.

John J. Mahar ’76, of New York, N.Y., who held an M.B.A. from the University of Rochester, June 29, 2018. Beginning his career as an analyst with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, he later worked for Schroder Capital Management International as a first vice president. Also a consultant with Gladstone Resources/ Capital, he was executive vice president at Teton Petroleum Corporation and founder and managing director of UKB Capital LLC. He was 64.

John R. Glover ’76, of Cornwall Bridge, Conn., an avid sailor and art collector who was a professional photographer, July 9, 2018. In recent years, John had exhibits at the Photographic Solutions in Norwalk and at the Ridgefield Guild of Artists’ juried show, in which he won first place for the category of Abstractions. In 2012, B&W magazine published many of his photographs. He was 64.

Adrienne L. Carlyle ’77 died Jan. 6, 2018.

She was 63.

Richard J. Benton ’77, of Tunkhannock, Penn., who served in the U.S. Army as an Air Corps mechanic and was a computer technician for many machine shops, July 27, 2018. Passionate about dancing and playing the harmonica, he enjoyed the outdoors. He was 98.

8 ANTONIO FAGA ’73

A

ntonio Faga of Naples, Fla., an attorney who was an active volunteer for ReUnion, admissions and alumni events, passed away on Oct. 3, 2018 after a battle with cancer. He was 67.

A prominent defense attorney who first practiced in his native Utica, N.Y., he began a full-time law practice in Naples, Fla. in 1994.

At Union, he was a member of Beta Theta Pi, Concordiensis, Block U and student government.

As an alumnus, he served as ReUnion chair and a member of the

Reunion committee for many of his anniversary years. He served as a volunteer to the Annual Fund for over 10 years as an associate agent. He helped plan, organize and host many regional Union alumni events in the Naples area. He was an admissions volunteer representing Union at college fairs in Florida and interviewing prospective students.

He earned his law degree from St. John’s University School of Law. Shortly after admission to the New York Bar, he served as defense attorney in the 1979 Tri-Willow Nursery murders, in which three were convicted of killing four people in a robbery near Rome, N.Y. He defended John Lennon's killer, Mark David Chapman, during his hunger strike in Attica Prison. He also worked alongside F. Lee Bailey on a case before the United States Supreme Court. Recently, he had been interviewed in the national media as the attorney representing Mark Sievers, who is accused of hiring two men to kill his wife at their home in Bonita Springs, Fla. His favorite pastimes were playing golf at Olde Florida Golf Club, cooking and making wine with friends.

Survivors include his wife, the former Kimberly Carolan; four children; and five grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to Royal Palm Academy, 16100 Livingston Rd., Naples, Fla. 34110.

8

George Siletzky ’78, of Albany, N.Y., who spent 23 years with the New York State Department of Transportation, Aug. 2, 2018.

Active in local churches, including First Presbyterian Church (Schenectady), First Baptist Church (Kingston) and Grace Community Church (Lake Katrine), he once played Macbeth and Willy Loman on stage. A Green Bay Packers fan, he was 64.

George Lenhardt ’79, of Delmar, N.Y., who served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and spent 28 years with NYNEX before working at NY Power Authority, June 27, 2018. Active in his community, he was a Slingerlands firefighter for more than 51 years, a member of the American Legion Blanchard Post and served on the Bethlehem Planning Board and Town Board. Also a Delmar Dolphins Swim Club officer and Red Cross Disaster Services volunteer, he was 71.

.........

1980s .........

Scott Hahn ’82, of Portland, Ore., a computer scientist who worked at Sperry Univac and Sequent Computers before joining Intel, June 23, 2018. Most recently leader of Intel Labs’ Cloud Systems Research team, Scott headed the creation of the Intel Science and Technology Center at Carnegie Mellon University for Visual Cloud Systems. An accomplished woodworker, he liked cooking and baking, and was an avid cyclist and hiker who enjoyed traveling and backpacking with his wife. He was 59.

Kevin J. Sullivan ’88, of Westfield, Mass., who graduated from Albany Law School and was a partner with Fallon and Sullivan before starting his own practice recently, Sept. 16, 2018. Active in his community, Kevin was elected for three terms on the

WINTER 2019 | UNION COLLEGE

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IN MEMORIAM

Westfield School Committee and served as vice chair for several years. A youth baseball, soccer, softball and basketball coach, he was a member of the Sons of Erin and supported the Westfield Boys and Girls Club. He was 52. .........

1990s . . . . . . . . .

Christian A. Kadak ’91, of Newport, R.I., who worked in sales for many high tech companies and at many water-based Newport businesses, July 25, 2018.

Christian loved sailing, reggae music, volunteering at Sail Newport and his dogs, Whitney, Lexi and Molly. He was 48.

Roberta McCaffery ’91, of Spencerport, N.Y., who spent 22 years as an outreach coordinator, medical case manager and educator/program coordinator working to prevent and treat HIV-AIDS, Sept. 16, 2018.

Later a common metrics senior trainer and coordinator for the University of Rochester’s Center for Leading Innovation and Collaboration, her greatest joy was her family. She was 49.

.........

2000s . . . . . . . . .

Andrew L. Wininger ’03, of Astoria, N.Y., a peer counselor who worked at Manhattan Psychiatric Center, June 21, 2018. A graduate of Howie the Harp Advocacy Center of New York City, he was a comedy writer who had written a play.

Andrew, who enjoyed adopting and training dogs, was 39.

Joseph J. Carrig ’05, of Whitesboro, N.Y., who was a home health care coordinator at The House of the Good Shepherd (Utica), June 23, 2017. Also a part-time direct support professional at ARC

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Herkimer, he was an avid sports fan who followed all the New York teams. Jay, who enjoyed playing video games and magic cards, and reading comics, was 34.

Andrew W. Davis ’11, of Silver Spring, Md., an associate at government relations firm Chambers, Conlon and Hartwell who was formerly senior policy advisor for Rep. Daniel Lipinski (D-Ill.), July 22, 2018.

A graduate of Georgetown University Law School, he was an avid Patriots and Nationals fan, food connoisseur, and history and politics buff. Andrew, who loved sports trivia, was 29.

Friends of Union College Karen A. McCarthy, of Mechanicville, N.Y., a longtime security specialist who worked for Union College, Christmas Tree Shops and Albany Airport, among others, June 9, 2018. Karen, who enjoyed knitting and donated many items to people in need, was 77.

Father Erwin H. Schweigardt, of Schenectady, N.Y., who was chaplain of the Union College men’s basketball and hockey teams, July 16, 2018. Erwin, who held a Ph.D. in education administration from the Catholic University of America, was pastor at St. Patrick’s (Watervliet) from 1981-2005 and served in a number of area churches, including St. John the Evangelist (Schenectady, 1972-78) and Our Lady of Victory (Troy, 1967-68). He was 79.

Shamir Pasha, former lab technician for the Department of Civil Engineering at Union College, Aug. 1, 2018. Shamir, who worked at Union from 1980 until 2002, was 65.

Nancy and Ed Lonergan ’59

Laura and Ed Lonergan ’81 with daughters Taryn and Cara

Family Ties: Father and Son Celebrate Union Experiences

T

hey have the same name, but Edward A. Lonergan ’59 and his son, Edward F. Lonergan ’81, were very different Union students.

Ed ’59 readily admits he owes much to the Union academic staff “in affording me the opportunity to complete my college studies despite less than sterling academic performance.”

A reduced course-load allowed him to find his footing in his engineering studies.

He graduated with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering and fond memories of Beta Theta Pi fraternity life, interfraternity sports, and study breaks for “refueling” at the Rathskeller.

Ed spent 43 years with General Dynamics/Electric Boat Division in Groton, Conn., retiring as director of electrical design and engineering. He liked to recruit engineers from Union because, as he had discovered during his own time at the College, “a broad-based education makes it possible to interact successfully with multiple disciplines.”

Son Ed ’81 likewise felt he learned much by being in classes with pre-law, pre-med and engineering students. He embraced fraternity life, too, and served as a student trustee—a leadership experience which changed his life. He was intending

to become a lawyer until fellow Board member Norton Reamer ’58 asked, “Why not think about business instead?”

Ed ’81 did, first joining Procter & Gamble in sales.

“Union taught me how to think, P&G taught me how to think in business terms,” he said.

He forged a long career as a turnaround leader for such companies as Gillette, Diversey and Chiquita Brands International, taking struggling businesses and making them better—living in 18 cities in five countries in the process.

Both Eds are celebrating Union’s impact on their lives with charitable gifts. Ed ’59 used appreciated stock to create a charitable gift annuity. In addition to tax benefits, he and wife, Nancy, receive payments for life, with the remainder eventually going to Union.

Ed ’81 and his wife, Laura, have created an endowed scholarship in honor of his dad to help unconventional students. Both are big believers in providing learning opportunities to students who might not otherwise have them.

“The world’s a better place because Union turns out well-rounded, balanced students,” explained Ed ’81. “We’re happy to do what we can to support it.”

TO LEARN MORE, PLEASE CONTACT:

Jacqueline Cavalier, Director, Gift Planning (518) 388-6156 (direct) | cavaliej@union.edu | www.union.giftplans.org

“The world’s a better place because Union turns out well-rounded, balanced students.

We’re happy to do what we can to support it.”

E D W A R D F. L O N E R G A N ’ 8 1

Office of Communications 807 Union Street Schenectady, NY 12308-3169

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SAVE THE DATE

REUNION 2019 MAY 17-19, 2019

F R I D AY, M AY 1 7 • Golf Tournament • 50th Class Medallion Ceremony • Academic Receptions • Class Welcome Receptions & Dinners

S AT U R D AY, M AY 1 8 • Class Photos • Alumni Parade • Convocation & Alumni Awards • ReUnion Picnic & Kids Carnival • Faculty & Alumni Presentations • Kids ReUnion (child care) • All Class Lobster Fest • Fireworks

SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS THIS YEAR:

S U N D AY, M AY 1 9

• 100th Anniversary of Mountebanks • 50th Anniversary of Terms Abroad • 50th Anniversary of HEOP • Farewell Concert for Hilary Tann, John Howard Payne Professor of Music

• Bon Voyage Breakfast

Would you like to get more involved?

Email: reunion@union.edu

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uconnect.union.edu/reunion