Frank Alvarez, Class of 1976 50th Reunion Committee Chair, reflected on his experience at the reunion, “Ģ����Ƶ continues to be the place I remember—a place where students are valued and faculty are accessible. The graduation ceremony was quite moving and truly centered on the students. The campus tours were informative, and most participants, if not all, were impressed by the University’s transformation. The luncheon was beautifully organized, and I especially appreciated how each alumnus was recognized individually. The entire two-day reunion was a very special homecoming.”

Returning to Commencement

Reunion festivities began with one of the University’s most meaningful traditions, as members of the Class of 1976 took part in Commencement celebrations. Alumni joined the academic procession and proudly helped welcome the newest graduates into the Ģ����Ƶ alumni community.

Dressed in full academic regalia, participants received a commemorative golden anniversary stole, marking 50 years since their graduation from Ģ����Ƶ. This powerful moment invited reflection on the day they first crossed the stage and began their journey as Ģ����Ƶ alumni.

For many, participating in Commencement offered a unique opportunity to celebrate the next generation while reflecting on their own accomplishments over the past five decades.��

Lester Thierwechter ’76 greatly enjoyed his experience, “I was blown away by the Commencement experience. Leading the procession with members of the Class of 1976 to thunderous applause from thousands of attendees was emotional for all of us. Watching the Class of 2026 graduates march proudly with their decorated caps, honor cords, and stoles was truly inspiring. It was especially meaningful to witness the incredible diversity of degrees and opportunities Ģ����Ƶ now offers—so much has evolved since we graduated from Ģ����Ƶ State College. The entire ceremony was powerful, uplifting, and deeply moving.”

Reconnecting on Campus

The reunion continued the following day with a series of engaging campus events that brought the Class of 1976 back to the heart of Ģ����Ƶ State.

Classmates gathered for a morning Coffee and Conversation, reconnecting over stories from their time as students while reflecting on the many paths their lives have taken since graduation. The event created a warm and welcoming space to rediscover old friendships and spark new connections.

A special highlight of the morning was the opportunity to hear from President Jonathan Koppell, who joined the group and shared updates on the University’s growth and evolution since their time on campus. He spoke about innovative new academic programs, the expanding impact of Ģ����Ƶ, and key developments shaping the student experience today. President Koppell also took time to answer questions from alumni, creating an open and engaging dialogue that strengthened the connection between past and present.��

Sonia Nunez, member of the Class of 1976 50th Reunion Committee, reflects on how the special occasion allowed her to connect with the Ģ����Ƶ community, “We had two wonderful days of stories and memories brought to life. I was blown away by President Koppell, who joined us at Coffee and Conversation and took the time to meet with us and share such wonderful information.”

The gathering was a meaningful reminder of the lasting bond alumni share with Ģ����Ƶ and with one another.

Capturing the Moment

One of the most anticipated moments of the reunion came when classmates gathered together for the official class photos. Standing side by side once again, members of the Class of 1976 had the opportunity to capture a new memory. The group photo will serve as a lasting reminder of the milestone celebration and the shared history that brought the class back together 50 years after graduation.

Exploring a Changing Campus

Following the morning gathering, alumni boarded a guided campus shuttle tour that offered a firsthand look at the remarkable growth and transformation of Ģ����Ƶ State over the past five decades.

As the shuttle made its way across campus, participants revisited familiar locations that once shaped their student experience while discovering the many new facilities and spaces that now define the University. Longstanding landmarks sparked memories of classes, friendships, and cherished traditions, while the newer buildings showcased Ģ����Ƶ’s continued commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and student success.

The tour provided a meaningful opportunity for alumni to reflect on how far the University has come, while celebrating the enduring spirit that continues to connect generations of Red Hawks.��

“The investment in physical upgrades and equipment is very impressive,” adds Joe Borak ’76, “but I was most taken with the enthusiasm, pride, and eagerness of the staff and students to share their knowledge and experiences. The Ģ����Ƶ spirit truly lives on.”

Celebrating Together

The reunion concluded with the 50th Reunion Luncheon, a heartfelt and celebratory gathering that brought classmates together once again. A highlight of the luncheon was the Medallion Ceremony, where members of the Class of 1976 were presented with commemorative 50th Reunion medallions in recognition of their lifelong connection to Ģ����Ƶ. The ceremony was both moving and memorable, making alumni feel truly honored and celebrated. Another��particularly special moment of the luncheon was the attendance of Professor Emeritus Joe Attanasio, who taught many of the alumni present. His presence was met with genuine excitement and gratitude, as former students were thrilled to reconnect with a beloved professor who had such a lasting impact on their academic journeys.

Following the presentation, classmates were invited to share their favorite Ģ����Ƶ memories. What unfolded was a joyful and emotional exchange, filled with laughter, heartfelt reflections and even a few tears. Stories of friendships, campus traditions and transformative college experiences brought everyone back to their time on campus, capturing the spirit of what it means to be a Red Hawk.��

Carol Masi Amato ‘76 reflected on her lovely experience at the reunion, “The two-day 50th anniversary event was spectacular and something I will treasure forever. Thank you to everyone who made it happen. You made us feel like royalty, especially with the special ceremony at the Reunion luncheon. I especially enjoyed when classmates shared Ģ����Ƶ memories—it brought me back to our college days!”

The luncheon also served as an opportunity to recognize the continued engagement of Ģ����Ƶ alumni and the important role they play in supporting future generations of students.

A Lasting Connection to Ģ����Ƶ

Fifty years after graduation, the Class of 1976 continues to embody the enduring spirit and strength of the Ģ����Ƶ State alumni community. Their return to campus was a meaningful celebration of lifelong friendships and a reflection on the many ways they have carried Ģ����Ƶ’s values into their careers, families, and communities.��

Vivian Grijalva, member of the Class of 1976 50th Reunion Committee, is appreciative of the opportunity to stay connected, “It was truly a special experience to attend this 50th reunion and reconnect, share stories and reflect on the memories created at Ģ����Ƶ. A very heartfelt thank you to all those who coordinated the activities, campus tour, food and memorable gifts. As someone who has lived far from the University for many years, I was so impressed with how Ģ����Ƶ has grown in size and beauty and has become an institution that offers so much to students. This was a celebration I will always treasure, and I hope others celebrating their 50th in the years ahead will experience the same. Thank you again for this special gift—I am so grateful.”

The 50th Reunion not only honored the past, but also reinforced that the Ģ����Ƶ community extends far beyond graduation.

Looking Ahead: Class of 1977

As the Class of 1976 concludes its milestone celebration, attention now turns to the next class preparing to mark this important tradition. Ģ����Ƶ looks forward to welcoming the Class of 1977 back to campus next year to celebrate their 50th Reunion and reconnect with classmates, rediscover campus and take part in Commencement festivities as honored alumni. We are looking to form the Class of 1977 Reunion Committee to start the planning process. Check out the and let us know if you would like to join the committee.

Contact Us

For more information about upcoming reunions or alumni events, please contact:

Hannah Glynn
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
Email: glynnh@montclair.edu
Phone: 973-655-7478

Held at the Student Center Ballroom, the annual event brought together nearly 160 attendees in one of the largest celebrations in recent years. Approximately 100 graduating teacher candidates, 40 cooperating teachers and mentors, and more than 20 faculty and staff members gathered to honor the accomplishments of Ģ����Ƶ’s future educators and the communities that helped shape their success.

“This celebration is always a meaningful moment for our graduates as they reflect on their journey and prepare to enter the profession,” said Carlos Flores, Director for Career Development and Success at the College for Education and Engaged Learning. “I could think of no better way to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and the end of the semester than by celebrating our amazing Teacher Education graduates!”

Dean Vincent Alfonso of the College for Education and Engaged Learning reflected on the significance of the annual celebration and the strong sense of community shared among graduates, faculty and mentors.

“Each year we celebrate our graduates who are entering the work world as teachers!” Alfonso said. “And each year this event is a highlight as nearly 200 people gather to celebrate the year and wish each other all the best in the years to come. Our graduates know they are always welcome in CEEL and that they can take part in continuing professional development at no cost. Congratulations to the class of 2026!”

The event featured keynote remarks from Gillian Ober, the 2025-2026 New Jersey Teacher of the Year, who shared words of encouragement and inspiration with graduates as they prepared to begin their careers as full-time educators. Ober reflected on the importance of resilience, relationship-building and the lasting impact teachers have on students and communities.

In addition to celebrating graduates, the event highlighted the importance of mentorship and partnership in teacher preparation. Cooperating teachers and school partners were recognized for their commitment to supporting Ģ����Ƶ teacher candidates through hands-on classroom experiences that prepare them to lead with confidence and compassion.

Attendees also learned more about resources available to graduates as they transition into the profession, including information about the New Teacher Induction Program designed to support early-career educators during their first years in the classroom.

“We are excited to share that Ģ����Ƶ now offers New Teacher Induction Support for all of our recent graduates,” said Rhena Jasey-Goodman, Assistant Director of New Teacher Induction. “We encourage all recent Ģ����Ƶ graduates who are working as teachers to attend our Summer Induction Retreat on August 20, where they will become part of our Induction Community and leave with practical strategies and tools to set them up for success in their new role.”

Jasey-Goodman explained that the program serves as a bridge for new teachers transitioning from their time as students learning educational theory and practicing instructional methods to becoming teachers of record in their own classrooms. “Our goal is to provide new teachers with the resources, tools and strategies they need to implement the ideas and theories they learned while students at Ģ����Ƶ,” she said. “This support leads to higher rates of retention, fulfillment and joy in the classroom.”

Graduates interested in learning more about the New Teacher Induction Program, mentorship opportunities and the upcoming Summer Induction Retreat can view the program overview . Alumni are also encouraged to join the on to network with fellow educators, access resources and stay connected to the Ģ����Ƶ teaching community.��

As the semester came to a close, the Teacher Education Celebration recognized graduates for their achievements and welcomed them into the Ģ����Ƶ State alumni community, where they will remain connected to a network of fellow educators, mentors and University partners. As they begin their careers in classrooms across New Jersey and beyond, the University looks forward to supporting and celebrating their continued success as members of the Red Hawk alumni family.��

Class of 2026 – Welcome to Your Alumni Network!

Graduates interested in staying connected, learning about alumni programs and events, or getting involved with the University community are encouraged to contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at 973-655-4141 or alumni@montclair.edu.

The John Martinson Honors EDGE Program, newly expanded through the transformational support of philanthropist and Ģ����Ƶ champion John Martinson, marks its 40th anniversary of providing academic, experiential and leadership opportunities for ambitious, hardworking students.

On March 19, alumni, students, faculty and friends gathered to celebrate the impact of the John Martinson Honors EDGE program, an intellectually challenging track that enables some of the University’s most accomplished students to further excel personally, professionally and creatively.

In his remarks, Ģ����Ƶ President Jonathan Koppell pointed to the program’s contributions to academic excellence at the University. “The John Martinson Honors EDGE program reflects the very best of what Ģ����Ƶ strives to be,” he says. “Its continued impact, greatly expanded thanks to John Martinson’s generous investment, will be strengthened as Ģ����Ƶ’s alumni community affirms the importance of excellence paired with access.”

Academic Excellence and Enriching Experiences

The John Martinson Honors EDGE program supports high achieving students, including many who are the first in their families to attend college or who come from historically underrepresented backgrounds. “Rigorous coursework and a heightened sense of community encourage students to prepare for meaningful careers,” explains Jeff Strickland, the program’s executive director. “Our students focus on solving complex problems with curiosity and a willingness to imagine new possibilities.”

Students who are part of the program are quick to note the value of the John Martinson Honors EDGE experience.

“I have had wonderful learning opportunities as a student in the Honors EDGE program,” says Miriam Awwad, an English and Jurisprudence (Law & Society) major. “I’ve traveled to Miami to conduct environmental resilience research with Florida International University, attended the National Collegiate Honors Council conference in San Diego, participated in a sustainability case competition in Boston, experienced Broadway in New York City and studied sustainability in London. These experiences have broadened my perspective and continue to inspire me to think bigger about the impact I can make and the possibilities that come from being part of such a supportive and dynamic community.”

Emily Augustyn, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Master of Business Administration, shares Miriam’s appreciation for the benefits that come with being an Honors EDGE scholar. “I have taken full advantage of the opportunities offered by the Honors program, including a stipend that helped support an internship with a judicial clerk that helped shape my career aspirations to pursue law school,” she says, adding that she plans to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain.

An Enduring Community of Scholars

The John Martinson Honors EDGE program offers more than international experiences and career opportunities. It also creates community, providing an advanced learning setting for high achieving students to connect with, consult with and inspire one other.

Alexandra Zanzalari, a Family Science and Human Development major with a minor in Child Advocacy and Policy, appreciates being surrounded by peers who challenge one another to think critically. “It creates space for meaningful conversations and shapes us into lifelong learners,” she says.

Gail Yosh ’95, Honors alumna and current Ģ����Ƶ professor, agrees. “The Honors Program shaped me in ways that were both deeply personal and profoundly professional,” she says. “As a student, it gave me opportunity, confidence, and a sense of belonging at a pivotal time in my life. Professionally, it helped set me on a path that eventually brought me back to Ģ����Ƶ as a professor, where I now have the privilege of helping to shape students’ lives in the same community that once shaped mine.”

The Power of Philanthropy and Partnership

Although Ģ����Ƶ began offering an honors experience in 1986, a recent, transformative gift of $5 million from John Martinson, venture capital investor and philanthropist, is enabling the University to increase the number of students who can benefit from being part of an honors community, making it possible for more future leaders to access higher quality experiential learning opportunities.

Martinson has a longstanding connection to Ģ����Ƶ. From attending baseball camp on campus as a child to enjoying performances at the University for more than 55 years, he is passionate about giving back to the institution. Through the Martinson Collaborative, he has brought together a consortium of ten honors programs that he funds across the nation, including the one at Ģ����Ƶ. This network creates opportunities to collaborate across campuses and to share best practices in support of honors education.

Looking Ahead��

“While the anniversary is a time to reflect on all that has been accomplished, this moment is also about looking ahead,” Rita Walters, vice president for Development and Alumni Engagement, notes. “The honors program is a place where talented students think boldly, lead with purpose, and prepare to make meaningful contributions to their communities and professions.”

Considering a gift to support the honors experience at Ģ����Ƶ? ��

Considering getting involved? Contact Nada Rustom, associate director of Alumni Engagement, at (973) 655-3323 or rustomn@montclair.edu.

“ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ is a day where our entire community — alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and families — come together to make a real impact for our students and programs,” says Kara Baldwin Brennan ’92, senior director of Annual Giving. “It’s a chance for everyone to feel part of something big and impactful.”

Donors had the opportunity to support areas of campus they are most passionate about, contributing to scholarships and programs that directly benefit students. Gifts poured in from across the country, with over 1800 donors participating through online giving, champion challenges and on campus during World’s Fair Day. Special matches and challenges throughout the day encouraged donors to support the areas of campus they care about most.

This year marked the 10th anniversary of ONE DAY. Over the past decade, the initiative has raised more than $1.9 million through over 8,000 gifts. Brennan reflected, “We aspired to reach $1 million, and we’re so excited to be celebrating the incredible response from our alumni, families, friends, faculty and staff. Our gratitude is overwhelming.”

To celebrate the milestone, the team brought a sense of fun and nostalgia to the campaign through social media, highlighting popular trends such as the Renegade dance, the Mannequin Challenge—featuring Ģ����Ƶ’s own Jersey Joe ’24—and the Ice Bucket Challenge.

Alyssa Arroyo ’27 shared, “ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of Red Hawk pride and continuing the success of future generations. It has helped students like me pursue our dreams and I’m excited to see how the community came together to make an even greater impact this year!”

Throughout the day, a variety of matches and challenges energized donors and helped amplify the impact of each gift.��

Our Red Hawk Athletic teams and programs were competitive to see which team could secure the most donors and gain additional funds for their area thanks to the generosity of Judith Schumacher Tilton, Ģ����Ƶ Foundation Board Member.

Additionally, the College of the Arts Advisory Board came together to award $13,000 to the funding areas with the most donors – amplifying the effect of donor participation from the College of Communication and Media, Cali School of Music, Theater and Dance and Art and Design.��

Micro-challenges were established by Foundation Board members, Greg Collins ‘79, in support of the EOF Book Fund, Beth Gottung ‘19 MA, in support of the Emergency Scholarship Fund and Robert Lieberman in support of the Red Hawk Pantry. Academic challenges were also met throughout the day.����

The day emphasized participation across the entire community, including strong support from the Class of 2026—Ģ����Ƶ’s newest alumni, who will graduate in just a few weeks. Together, they raised more than $11,000 toward their class gift.

“Students gave $20.26 in honor of their graduating year to support the areas of campus they care most about,” said James Stewart, associate director of Annual Giving. “They also had the option to contribute more and include a personalized message to be displayed at the Commencement ceremony at the Prudential Center. Students were excited to know their gifts counted toward ONE DAY totals and received a philanthropy cord to wear proudly during the ceremonies as a thank-you for their support.”

The impactful partnership with Java Love Roasting Co. continued this year. Donors were invited to give up their latte and make that their gift to lift up the next generation of Red Hawks. As a special thank you, Java Love Roasting Co. provided every donor with a coupon to use on a latte or other treat of their choice.��

“We were so happy to once again promote participation with the Give a Latte Challenge, sponsored by our community partner, Java Love Roasting Co.,” added Brennan. “Give up your latte for one day, one week or one year, and receive $5 off at Java Love. We are so grateful for their annual partnership!”

Behind the scenes, the University’s ONE DAY Champions helped power the day’s momentum. These dedicated volunteers shared messages across social media and email, encouraging their networks to participate. Equipped with a toolkit of resources, Champions helped spread the word and inspire others to get involved.

“It is important for me to give back and I always encourage others to join me,” said Laura Ryblewski ’96, ’99MA a ONE DAY Champion.

The campus was buzzing with excitement throughout the day as the community celebrated World’s Fair Day, an annual celebration of Ģ����Ƶ’s vibrant cultural community. Hundreds of students, faculty and staff gathered on Alumni Green to sample international foods while enjoying performances by Ģ����Ƶ’s student organizations.

Additionally, Ģ����Ƶ faculty and staff brought their young Red Hawks to campus for Bring Your Child to Work Day, adding even more energy to the celebration. Families, students, faculty and staff visited tables across campus that showcased funds and programs supported through ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ.��

In total, over 1800 donors came together to support Ģ����Ƶ on ONE DAY. We are incredibly grateful for this inspiring show of generosity and for everyone who helped make the day such a success.

Affordability and scholarship support brought Rita to Ģ����Ƶ. “I received an award from an association of World War II veterans that my father belonged to,” she says. “I received additional support from the University through a program that rewarded students preparing for careers in teaching.”

After completing her degree, she returned to her hometown to join the school district’s special education team as a music teacher. During Rita’s successful 35-year career, she was named Teacher of the Year by the State of New Jersey.

“Ģ����Ƶ provided me with an excellent foundational college education,” she says. “I am truly grateful for my professors who actively listened and inspired me to develop various ways to teach music to all students.”

When considering the philanthropic aspects of her estate plans, Rita thought of Ģ����Ƶ. “I had been putting off updating my will,” she says. “When I learned that I could use my estate to set up a scholarship for students majoring in music education, however, I got excited about the possibilities. It was a great feeling.”

“People tend to look at estate planning as the end of things,” she adds. “But when you establish a scholarship at Ģ����Ƶ, you are carrying your legacy forward, passing the baton to new generations.”

The elder Feliciano was committed to preparing his son for the real world. “We didn’t have a lot of money, but somehow he managed to buy a cold water flat in Passaic,” Feliciano says of his father. “It had seven or eight units, and he had to do most of the upkeep. One day, he told me that it was my lucky day – that I would go in alone to collect the rent. I was only 13, but he wanted to be sure that I could take care of things if something ever happened to him.”��

Feliciano’s parents also taught him the importance of giving back to the community. “Both of my parents volunteered at our church,” he says. “Dad was always ready to help someone find a job when they needed it. My mom taught Sunday school. We were always encouraged to invite friends over for Sunday dinner – some days I think she fed half the neighborhood! They taught me how to work hard and how to give generously.”

A wrestling scholarship at West Chester University sent Feliciano out of state for college, but not for long. “I wanted to be close to home,” he says. He took a break from school and six months later he enrolled at Ģ����Ƶ, leaning into full-time study alongside full-time work.��

“Ģ����Ƶ was so different then,” he recalls. “There were maybe 400 students in the entire business program. My classes always seemed to be on the top floor of Partridge Hall. When the elevator wasn’t working – which was often – it was a challenge to get to class on time.”

In 1982, he graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration.

Feliciano tried corporate life, with jobs at companies like Goya Foods and Richter Brothers, Inc., but he wasn’t cut out to work for others. By the time he was 23 Feliciano had purchased his first investment property and earned licenses to sell, appraise, and broker real estate. By 30, he was married to the love of his life, Mimi. The pair began working on a shared vision of the future. “Mimi is wonderful,” he says. “We balance each other out. We make a good team. Together we started building something of our own.”

In 2001, the couple took over the Lincoln Park Healthcare Center, a family-owned company, and built it into an industry frontrunner in short-term rehabilitation care. “There was definitely a learning curve,” he says. They introduced the JDT Medical Rehabilitation Center and Villa, a new model in health care facility design, which not only transformed short-term rehabilitation care in New Jersey but also set a new national standard of excellence. In 2012, they sold JDT and established FEM Real Estate LLC, which owns, manages and invests in commercial real estate throughout the United States.

While expanding on his parents’ lessons in business, the Felicianos also expanded on his family’s tradition of generosity – which has long included support for Ģ����Ƶ. In 2012, the couple established the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship at Ģ����Ƶ. Their philanthropy was recognized twice that year, at the Chilton Medical Center Foundation Gala and with the University’s Carpe Diem Award. In 2015 the ribbon was cut on the new School of Business building. The School was officially renamed in their honor.��

They are generous with their time as well, with Mimi serving as a member of the Feliciano School of Business Advisory Board and Edwin sharing his wisdom as a guest lecturer. “I teach students about the realities of owning a business,” he says.��

Feliciano has also been busy merging his two passions: education and faith. He has already seen to the building of three facilities in Guatemala, including a church in the western side of the country that includes 12 classrooms as well as a mezzanine that seats 1,000, another church on the outskirts of the jungle to the east, and a community and medical center. “I provide the funding and the residents provide the craftsmanship,” he says.��

With those projects well underway, he is turning his attention to education there. “Guatemalan schools generally stop at the sixth grade,” he explains. “I want to change that. My goal, my vision, is to provide local access to a Ģ����Ƶ education.”��

When Feliciano is speaking with students, he often refers to what he calls the “Ten Essential Vitamins of Life.” They are his tips to attaining joy and, as you might imagine, hard work and giving back are high on the list. “Be present, get involved, practice contentment,” he says. “And keep moving forward.”

He also encourages students – and fellow alumni – to support their alma mater. “Don’t forget where you came from once you become successful,” he advises. “Ģ����Ƶ gave us an outstanding education and helped us create a solid foundation for our careers, and for our lives. It is important to give back to support the next generation. So many of our students rely on financial aid. Our contributions make a real difference in their lives.”

Alyssa Arroyo,��’27, expresses “ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of Red Hawk pride and continuing the success of future generations. It has helped students like me pursue our dreams and I’m excited to see how we all can come together to make an even greater impact this year!”

Our 24-hour day of giving returns for its 10th year, and the momentum keeps growing! Since the inaugural ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ, we’ve raised more than $1.9 million, demonstrating incredible support for our students and helping them reach their dreams.��

Want to be part of the excitement? Become a ONE DAY Champion! Help spread the word and encourage participation from your network to amplify the day’s impact to support current and future Red Hawks! It’s easy to sign up and once you do, you’ll have access to a great tool kit filled with email and social templates, animated GIFs, Zoom backgrounds and more. Champions receive exclusive ONE DAY tech stickers and learn about other cool incentives.��

Thanks-a-latte for all of the Red Hawk support these past years during ONE DAY! We are so excited to continue our partnership with Java Love Roasting, Co. Give up your latte for One Day, one week or one month and make your gift to lift up the next generation of Red Hawks. As a thank you for your gift, Java Love will provide every donor with a coupon to use on a�� latte or other treat of their choice.

“ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ is a day where our entire community — alumni, faculty, staff, students and parents — comes together to make a real impact for our students and programs,” says Kara Baldwin Brennan ‘92, Senior Director of Annual Giving. “It’s a chance for everyone to feel part of something bigger than themselves.”

ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ will coincide with the campus’s annual World’s Fair Day, a tradition that celebrates the diverse cultures of our community through food, music, and performances. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and support our students throughout campus and beyond.

Join us on ONE DAY for Ģ����Ƶ where our Ģ����Ƶ community unites for a day of action and celebration. Let’s soar, Red Hawks!

Want to learn more or make an early gift?

Please contact Kara Baldwin Brennan ’92, Director of Annual Giving at (973) 655-7492 or brennanka@montclair.edu for more information.

He shares this year’s honor with Tommy Foster ’23, an associate producer at Good Morning Americawhose rapid rise in national broadcast media began on Ģ����Ƶ’s campus and now serves as a model for young people imagining careers in journalism and sports media. Together, the two honorees embodied the spirit of the 2026 MEGA Symposium: moving students from access to achievement and from passion to profession.

A Historian Shaped by Harlem

Wilson’s journey as a historian began in Harlem, where the streets outside his bedroom window doubled as his first classroom. Surrounded by artists, clergy and scholars, he absorbed lessons in civic and cultural life that would shape his future work. Among his early influences were neighbors such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson and Leo Whipper and community figures including Jackie Robinson, Adam Clayton Powell Jr. and Mabel Smythe.

Those early experiences stayed with Wilson as he advanced through Cheshire Academy and the New Lincoln School and later to Cornell University and the City University of New York. Trained in the history of science, Africana Studies and American history, he built a body of work that is intentionally intersectional, examining how race, place and power intersect in American life. His research centers on 19th- and 20th-century American and African American history, with projects on New York City churches, urban and suburban migration, school segregation and environmental racism – issues that continue to shape communities today.

“Dr. Wilson has a gift for making every scholar in the room feel like they belong there,” says Daniel Jean, associate provost for Educational Opportunity and Success Programs, EOF and Academic Success. “His passion for scholar success, especially his unwavering commitment to supporting students in academic jeopardy, is undeniable.”

From Campus Leader to National Producer

Tommy Foster ’23 received the Alumni Trailblazer Award for his achievements in broadcast journalism and his ongoing mentorship of young scholars. While earning dual degrees in Television and Digital Media and in Sports Media and Journalism, Foster balanced his studies with community outreach, mentoring high school students in Newark.

During his junior year, Foster landed a competitive internship with Good Morning America and ABC Newsin New York City, where he contributed to coverage of major national stories. One day after walking across the Commencement stage at Ģ����Ƶ, he accepted a full-time role at the show. He now serves as a sports producer, covering the Super Bowl, NBA Finals and World Series and booking interviews that bring powerful stories to millions of viewers each morning.

“Tommy was nominated for the Alumni Trailblazer Award for his continuous growth as a leader, from his time on campus to his thriving professional career,” says Rahjaun Gordon, senior director of EOF and Success Programs. “As a Ģ����Ƶ student, his leadership was grounded in learning, hard work and humility. He has carried those values into his work covering marquee events and uses his experiences to guide high school and college students as they navigate their own career journeys.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

The MEGA Symposium, held March 6, brought together more than 350 students from high schools in Newark, East Orange, Paterson, Trenton, Plainfield and across New Jersey, alongside college scholars from Ģ����Ƶ, Rutgers, Princeton, Rowan and community colleges statewide.

MEGA is part of Ģ����Ƶ’s broader effort to improve educational outcomes for all students by moving them from enrollment to graduation and into meaningful careers. Organizers say that honoring Foster and Wilson at this year’s symposium underscored that mission, showing students how passion paired with persistence and purpose can open doors.

Later that evening, the Office of Alumni Engagement and University Galleries are proud to host . The panel, part of the Carpe Diem: Select Alumni in the Visual Arts exhibit currently on view in the George Segal Gallery, features a panel of exhibiting artists — Nancy Pantirer ’80, Tiffany Perez ’09 and Maria Valdivia ’24 — discussing their careers and creative practices, moderated by curator Sally Morgan Lehman.

“Whether art was their major or a parallel passion, these artists demonstrate how learning, curiosity and creative expression continue to evolve across a lifetime,” says Rita Walters, Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement.

To wrap up the month, we’ll be hearing directly from women who have rewritten their stories through bold career changes, personal reinvention and intentional life balance. These real conversations center around embracing uncertainty, seizing new opportunities, and leading with purpose in every chapter. Join the Office of Alumni Engagement and the Women’s Initiative Network (WIN) for�� , moderated by Tez Roro on March 31.

Women’s Initiative Network (WIN)

“One of the most important components in moving a career forward is networking and being a part of a community. WIN is all about empowerment through mentorship and peer support, “ says Jan Price ’74, ’77 MA, Chair, Women’s Initiative Network. Our membership consists of alumni from all professional disciplines at every stage of their careers, and our intent is to provide programs and opportunities to help our members be strong and confident in both their personal and professional endeavors. We look forward to continuing to expand our membership,”��

As part of our Alumni Affinity Network, WIN engages Ģ����Ƶ alumnae in the intellectual, cultural and educational life of the University. This vibrant community inspires and empowers women to become leading volunteers and visionary donors.

The objective of the group is to increase the number of women meaningfully engaged in University programs, empower the next generation of leaders and strengthen ties between and among alumnae and the University through a strong network of women committed to supporting Ģ����Ƶ State.

“We are excited to grow a supportive network for each other and the mission of Ģ����Ƶ State,” says Jeanne Marano, associate vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “We invite you to join us on this journey. We welcome your ideas and feedback, and look forward to seeing you at future activities.”

If you are interested in joining WIN or serving on the planning committee, please to tell us a little about yourself, your interests and thoughts on developing future programs.

Questions?

Contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@montclair.edu or 973-655-4141.

, baritone (Music Education ’16; Performer’s Certificate in Voice ’22), who studied under esteemed voice teacher Karen Driscoll, takes on the pivotal role of Olin Blitch. A commanding presence both vocally and dramatically, Zacher brings depth and intensity to the complex revivalist preacher, marking an important professional milestone in his burgeoning operatic career.

Joining him on the Sarasota stage is , tenor (BFA in Musical Theatre ’12), who studied with Peter Stewart. Brauner performs the role of Sam Polk, adding to his growing list of professional credits with this role debut appearance. His transition from musical theatre training to operatic performance highlights the versatility and strong foundational training he developed at Ģ����Ƶ. This marks Brauner’s 4th season at Sarasota Opera (2013, 2024, 2025, 2026).

Composed by Carlisle Floyd, Susannah remains one of the most frequently performed American operas, celebrated for its emotional intensity and distinctly American musical voice. The Sarasota Opera production showcases both alumni in a work that demands dramatic nuance and vocal strength.
Ģ����Ƶ is proud to see its graduates continuing to build distinguished careers on prominent professional stages. Zacher and Brauner’s Sarasota Opera role debuts underscore the excellence of Ģ����Ƶ’s vocal and musical theatre programs and the enduring mentorship of its faculty.