Class Notes

Summer 2025

Robert Marshall, Rutgers College 1950

I am 96 years old with a Master of Science in Ed. from CCNY, a Ph.D. from the University of Buffalo, and a Certificate in Psychoanalysis from The Postgraduate Center in NYC, and I am still practicing about 12 hours a week. I have authored 35 professional articles and two books.
I remarried three years ago, having found my lovely wife after three years of assiduous study on Match.com. I have returned to live in New Jersey (Basking Ridge) while maintaining a house in East Hampton, NY, and wintering in Vero Beach, FL. I have enjoyed my two daughters, three grandchildren, and a great-grandson. I owe considerable to my years at Rutgers.

Fall 2024

Joyce Gartenberg, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1952

We are sad to announce the passing of Joyce Floryne (Perselay) Gartenberg on July 25th, 2024. Her obituary can be found here.

Summer 2025

Family of Jerry Fleischman, Rutgers College 1953

I am saddened to report the passing of my father, the Hon. Jerome "Jerry" Fleischman, on May 13, 2023. After Rutgers, Jerry graduated from Harvard Law School.  He served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve Judge Advocate Department, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel, and received the Reginald C. Harmon Award for outstanding service.  Jerry's career included over 50 years of private law practice, serving as Corporation Counsel and Associate Court Judge in Long Beach, NY, and receiving appointments to the Nassau County Court as Associate Court Judge and a NY State Supreme Court judgeship. At Rutgers, he met Helen Mazzara (Douglass '53) and they married in 1954.  Eventually, Helen and Jerry settled in Long Beach, NY, where Helen had grown up, and they became leaders in the community.  Helen passed away in 2024.  Her obituary is posted in the Douglas College class notes.  Helen and Jerry are survived by their children, Lisa, Robert (Barbara Mullally), and Nancy (David Silver), and three grandchildren.  Jerry had fond memories of his years at Rutgers and enjoyed telling stories of his ZBT fraternity brothers and their antics. 

Fall 2024

Howard Cooper, Rutgers College 1953

To the Champagne Class of 1953. After more than five years with federal government and having served as Chief Counsel for the Small Business Administration Smal Business Investment Company, Surety Bond and Lease Guarantee Program, I retired in 2022. Our class correspondent, Bill Sansalone, lives about a mile from me in Montgomery County, Maryland. We probably represent a significant percentage of the Class of 1953 survivors, but I hope not a hundred percent. I look forward to hearing from other Rutgers alumni and friends from that era.

William Sansalone, College of Agriculture 1953, Graduate School New Brunswick 1961

On November 3, 2023, the university hosted a special, one-day class reunion with most activities occurring on Queens Campus. This event reunited members of the Class of 1948, '53, '58, '63, '68, and '73. For us, the Class of '53, it underlined the 70th anniversary of our graduation from Rutgers. I was the lone representative of our class that day, and I carried our class banner in the alumni parade. We marched within the perimeter of Queens Campus with the university band leading the way. At our next landmark reunion (2028), I hope NOT to be the lone representative. Instead, I look forward to being joined by those of you who can make it back to campus--if indeed I am able to do so by then. Meanwhile, I remain your class correspondent. I would love to receive news from you, my classmates from priceless student days ""On the Banks."" Bill Sansalone, Class Correspondent, 1953 William (Bill) Sansalone; 6835 Old Stage Road, Rockville, MD 20852; (301) 881-0063; ws31@verizon.net

Summer 2025

Family of Herb Hersh, Rutgers College 1954

Herbert H. Hersh, 92, passed peacefully on June 8, 2025. Born in Brooklyn and raised in New Brunswick, NJ, he was a proud Rutgers alumnus and served in the U.S. Army as an officer in the 1950s. Herb led his family’s millinery business to great success, expanding it across New Jersey. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was known for his warmth, generosity, and ability to connect with everyone he met. He served the Rutgers alumni community in numerous capacities, earning accolades like the Loyal Sons & Daughters Award. After sharing his life story with the Rutgers Oral History Archives, he served as a volunteer leader with the Rutgers Living History Society for two decades. Herb’s legacy lives on through his family, his contributions, and the countless lives he touched with kindness and joy. Read about his life told in his own words at his interview with the Rutgers Oral History Archives here: https://oralhistory.rutgers.edu/explore/alphabetical-index/interviewees/2074-hersh-herbert.

-- Submitted by Rutgers Oral History Archives in memory of Herb Hersh's life

Fall 2025

Herbert Dunmeyer, College of Agriculture 1954

Remember our freshmen dorm, the former Prisoner of War compound located approximately 6 miles from the Queens campus. Current students WOULDN'T BELIEVE IT!!

Herb Hersh, Rutgers College 1954

Looking for Classmates for Good News, email me at herbhat@gmail.com.

Robert Levenstein, Rutgers College 1954

Greetings from Teaneck, NJ to '54s fellow ""Super Seniors"". Go RU - beat those Huskies from Seattle! In the 37 years of retirement from the stimulating television broadcasting business, I've proudly carried the Rutgers banner forward through thick and thin. Looking back, the biggest milestones in my global life after Rutgers have been - in chronological order - fraternity friendships, the US Army, my marriage to Ann, our children and grandchildren, Madison Avenue USA, 9-11, and Covid. I remain very grateful to Professor Fred Merwin of the Rutgers Journalism Department for launching me on my career path.

Summer 2025

Family of (Leon) Tom Carpenter, Rutgers College 1957

It is with great sadness that the Carpenter family announced that their dad, Leon (Tom) Carpenter III, passed away peacefully on 5/25/2025. He was a loyal son of Rutgers and the Class of 1957 President. He was a member of the Rutgers Alumni Association board, serving a term as President. He received several awards from Rutgers, such as the Walter Seward Class of 1917 Reunion Spirit Award, the Loyal Sons Award, the Golden Oak Award, and the first Rutgers Legacy Award. He was a member of Lamda Chi Alpha and was Captain of the Queens Guard.  He is survived by his wife, Mary, of 66 years, daughter Mary, son Tom (Jeannie), daughter Joanne (Edward), daughter Michelle, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Fall 2024

Ken Deveney, Rutgers College 1957

Graduate School of Education Haven't had contact with Class Notes for several years. Still in Ashland OR, still composing chamber music (working on a 3rd piano quintet), still active with climate change organizations. Other than that, I'm seeking to retire from retirement as I turn 90 in 2025. Would love to be in touch with other Glee Club alumni in my area.

Summer 2025

Richard Fleck, Rutgers College 1959

After graduating from Rutgers, I served as a Park Ranger Naturalist and then completed my M.A. Degree in English from Colorado State University and later a Ph.D in English from the University of New Mexico (1970). Most of my teaching career was with the University of Wyoming, with visiting positions at Osaka University, Japan, and the University of Bologna, Italy. I am the author or editor of twenty or so books, including Colorado River Reader, Henry Thoreau and John Muir among the Native Americans, and Desert Rims to Mountains High. I live in retirement in Denver, CO, and am married to Maura with 3 children and 7 grandchildren.

George Graulich, Rutgers College 1959

Carol and I are living in Huntington on Long Island. So far, I am in good health although slowing down. I have monthly lunches with two other 59ers: Rich Nicklas and Bill DeBruin.

Fall 2024

George Graulich, Rutgers College 1959

Still living on Long Island with my wife, Carol. We are both in good health. I have six grandsons in California and one granddaughter living nearby. Often think of the wonderful times we’ve shared “on the banks.“ Occasionally see Rich Nicklas and Bill DeBruin at a monthly luncheon.

Jim Toscano, Rutgers College 1959

We moved to Portland Oregon just in time for the riots, the forest fires and Covid. Now we are emerging to do lots in one of the most beautiful places on earth. See all at the Reunion!!

Spring 2025

Catherine Maiorisi, Douglass College 1960

After I retired from consulting in 2003, I challenged myself to write a novel. I had never written a word of fiction before, but eighteen months later, I had a full manuscript for my first mystery. In February 2025, Blood of the Innocents, the fifth book in the NYPD Detective Chiara Corelli Mystery Series, was published. In between writing the mysteries, I published five romances, a general fiction and multiple mystery and romance short stories. Two of my books have won GOLDIE awards, and many others have been finalists for various awards.

Spring 2025

Edward Blaufuss, College of Engineering 1961

We are sad to announce the passing of Edward Blaufuss on February 23rd, 2024. His obituary can be found here. https://www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/edward-blaufuss

Summer 2025

Judi Thomases Cacioppo, Douglass College 1962

Received this award: 2025 INTERNATIONAL IMPACT BOOK AWARDS for The Wisdom Keys in the categories of SPIRITUALITY, SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS.

Fall 2024

Rutgers College Class of 1962

Dear Classmates,

Planning reunion activities and class fundraising is a committee of classmates dedicated to furthering the legacy of the Class of ’62 while serving the University. I am sad to report that we have recently lost two key members of our team: our long-time class correspondent Geoff Gould and committee member Barney Hoffman. Both will be sorely missed for their energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to RU and the Class of ’62.

The rest of our steering committee—Barry Pavelec, Bill Lyons, Dick Anderson, Stuart Freedman, Tony Oliva, John Hendricks, and myself as chairman—remains dedicated to communicating and keeping you posted on events and personal updates. We are currently discussing plans for an event for our class during Homecoming and Family Weekend on October 19th, when we host UCLA in football. We are planning an activity that keeps our advanced age in mind yet is exciting enough for us to get together. Follow these notes for more information.

Several of us recently attended the President’s Employee Excellence Awards recognition event at President Holloway’s home, where Stu Freedman presented our Excellence in Public Service Award to Lt. Jamie Hendrix, Institutional Planning and Operations Officer with the University Public Safety of Newark Rutgers. As part of her gracious thank you, Jamie commented: “Thank you for creating an annual moment to honor the power of service to our collective community. I eagerly look forward to the opportunity to greet you all in person …and express my gratitude.”

A hearty thanks to Dick Anderson, class treasurer, for his untiring effort to keep the award going. Kudos also to Barry Pavelec for his leadership and dedication over many years in keeping our class website active and looking great, as well as serving as class President. For those of you who attended our last reunion, you will recall we named our Class of ’62 Student Scholarship award the “Barry Pavelec Scholarship” as a fitting tribute to his leadership. The website is being replaced by these class notes as Barry steps down as webmaster.

Stay well, and we hope to see you soon.

Joe Nazzaro, EdD Steering Committee Chairman

Fall 2024

Steven Dougherty, School of Engineering 1964

As COVID started our daughter announced that her family, with our two youngest grandkids, was going to pay the sunshine tax and move to southern California. So my native Californian wife immediately announced that our part time presence in LA county would be full time. So we sold two houses and bought a big enough for family gatherings and relocated to that lively college town of Claremont. As things eventually shook out only one son and grandchild stayed away in New Hampshire. Our daughter and the twins ended up less than a mile away. All others are within a 90 minute drive. Note like most of us in SoCal we measure trips by time not distance.

We have continued to travel overseas and will be in Europe while you gather. I tried, unsuccessfully, to find when the reunion might be, but September is just too nice to not be away. Have a great time and I hope the weather of our frosh week does not repeat.

Summer 2025

Chuck Hennings, Rutgers College 1965

Classmates - I sent out a blast to the Class announcing our upcoming Class Reunion on Friday, September 19. Carl Woodward (Class President) has scheduled a Zoom meeting with our “officers” to discuss what our activities that day might be and then coordinate with the RU staff. There is a football game vs Iowa that evening at 8 pm, which will keep our group activities to midday. I’ll update everyone I have emails for as soon as things firm up a bit. Please send me your email address if you haven’t been receiving Class Notes from me over the last decade or so. And of course, consider attending the Reunion if you are able. Depending on when these Class Notes are published, the University may send you info for the 19th.
Other than that, thanks to those who have RSVP’d to me regarding possible Reunion attendance. I believe we’ll have a good turnout. Too hot and stormy here in Central FL for playing golf, but I enjoy reading historical fiction and about a new Rutgers President, Harper & Bailey NBA news, and Coach Schiano’s putting a team together. See you in September!  Email Chuck at c2hennings@yahoo.com.

Spring 2025

Michael Goodkind, College of Engineering 1965 

We sold our Fractional Share apartment in Paris in February 2024. On the good(kind) side, we still managed to use the apartment in March because the new owners couldn't arrange their travel for that time slot. The visit highlighted the not-so-good(kind) side, our seller's remorse. So, we rented an apartment from the same company that managed our previous apartment and were back in Paris in January 2025. We had an enjoyable time, even though it rained for most of the time there. We are thinking about going back for Christmas 2025, but haven't made any real plans yet. Other than thinking about Paris (friends, baguettes, cookies, croissants/cookies, and other delights, we are still involved in our OLLI adult education program, the Chicago Symphony, the Chicago Yacht Club (a great Valentine's Day dinner) and celebrating friends entering the Octogenarian cohort (it took me several tries to get that spelling right). Hello to all of our classmates who have made it this far and best wishes for continued success in getting older!

Carl Woodward, Rutgers College 1965, School of Law, Newark 1969 

All is well in the Woodward household. While I'm not fully retired, I find that activities with NGOs provide a very satisfying level of satisfaction. Kathy and I are particularly involved in environmental and public lands issues, particularly with National Wildlife Refuges. Our grandchildren are growing, with two in college, one in high school, and one who is almost 20 months old. In February, we took a short trip to Florida, including a couple of days with our stellar Class Correspondent and his wife, Chuck, and Rita Hennings. It was a delightful time. We are excited to see the return of Class Notes. They are a valuable means of staying in touch. So, please send in your experiences. We'd love to learn how you are doing.

Chuck Hennings, Rutgers College 1965 

My lower back pain, unrelieved by meds, was cured with an epidural shot allowing me to play golf again. That pleased my partners as they had missed taking my money. And after living in Brevard County FL for 7 years, I finally visited the Brevard Zoo feeding giraffes and kangaroos. A terrific experience and zoo! We also adopted our 4th dog whose owner didn't survive a traffic accident. Had a great visit from roomie Carl Woodward and Kathy in February. We’d hoped for a better basketball season but it was still fun watching Bailey and Harper with their outstanding play.

Fred Simon, Rutgers College 1965

A fond hi to my classmates. Hong and I have been retired in Surprise, AZ, since 2012. Golfing, lap swimming, and biking still. Gotta keep moving. Did a cruise with our son to Antarctica and South America in December and January. Stunningly beautiful vistas and wildlife. Love those penguins. We continue to be inspired by the sights, history (albeit remarkably short), and cultures in this gorgeous state. Last week we took Navajo-guided tours of Antelope Canyon in Page, AZ, and Canyon de Chelly in Chinle, AZ. 

Glen Canyon and Grand Staircase Escalante at sundown are breathtaking- truly purple mountain majesty plus. Still sharing nostalgic RU memories with Phi Sig brothers Jim Beckwith and Dan Rothberg. Sadly we lost Roger Kirschen. Will really miss him. 

Best wishes to all my classmates!

Harvey Kohn, Rutgers College 1965 

Was off to Spain for 2 weeks on 3/15/2025. My last visit was in 1970 when I was a medical intern and was given 2 weeks off for a vacation. It was then my first trip out of the continental USA. Spain was then considered a great inexpensive vacation with a mid-grade hotel costing $10/nite. Franco was still in charge, and there was martial law in effect. Secret police were everywhere then, and our passports were constantly checked while traveling by rail, and even in Madrid. I am certain that the tourist atmosphere is currently more inviting, while the cost of a vacation has soared. Taking American Airlines with an expected full flight, while in 1970, traveled by TAP to Lisbon and on to Madrid with only 3 passengers for the transatlantic flight. Will report back next alumni update with more details of this current trip.

Bill Lewers, Rutgers College 1965 

I continue to do seasonal work for the Office of Elections in Fairfax County, Virginia. 2025 is a big year as the voting machines that have been in use for 10 years have been retired and are being replaced by the next generation of voting equipment. March was an especially busy month as the new machines are undergoing the rigor of an "acceptance test." My latest novel "Murder at the Polls" was published last fall and continues to be popular among "election nerds."

Winter 2025

Ed. Belding, Rutgers College 1965, Graduate School of Education

Old Ed. Belding has been busy of late--two books of historical fiction published -- IRON WATER and THIRTEEN STRIPES (check Barnes&Noble); paintings exhibited here and there locally; conducting a Poetry Workshop at the South Brunswick Township Library--first public reading at the Artists' Reception was on November 22nd.; conducted a summer softball clinic for local Senior Citizens; there is more, but the ink ran out!

Fall 2024

Roger Bales, Rutgers College 1965

First, some bad news. We lost Ed Gordon several months ago. Ed and I stayed in touch over the years as he ended up in Bellows Falls, VT years back and I would visit on my way to a 50 acre rural VT parcel/hunting camp that I had for 43 years in South Washington, VT; and now several years ago transferred to the Vermont Land Trust. Became too much and all my help and hunting partners either died or moved to Florida! Sound familiar?

So onward. Sharon (my college sweetheart) and I have been married for 58 years this July and she just turned 80, me 81. WOW! So we share several abodes now and have moved in the past about 11 times with Mobil Oil. One home is on Shelter Island, NY and Dave Stout has visited. The other is in Honeybrook PA (Amish country) where we spend 8-9 months a year as it is near (10 miles) 3 of our 4 daughters. The other daughter lives in Glen Cove, Long Island NY. I still hunt deer and quail and fish and go clamming as much as I can. 

Ed Belding, Rutgers College 1965

Just finished up a softball batting & fielding clinic for the Senior Citizens Center of South Brunswick Township . . . I developed a game that excluded running the bases (the Center wanted to avoid injuries) . . . folks liked the concept, especially using the donated bats and mitts and balls that cost us nothing. We plan to play against other Senior Citizen Centers next year.

On the creative writing front, my Poetry Workshop at the SB Public Library is going great guns—we meet two times a month, work on improving our poems, and find ways to get them published. So far four members have gotten published; one participant won a $4,000 poetry scholarship to help with the cost of college. Our first public poetry reading will be in November.

I recently completed proofreading and editing my second Wetherill Mystery—IRON WATER. It should be out in September or October. Debate over the cover design is holding things up. I will start writing the rough draft for the fourth mystery in October. Still gathering info on the setting for the mystery—lots of hikes in the woods west of Griggstown and north of Kingston.

The grand daughters are doing well—Taylor recently got married; Molly is getting married on September 13th; Emma is away at TCNJ; and the twins, Elle & Erin made the volleyball team at Hopewell Valley HS. My son, the song writer, is experimenting with AI music—this stuff sounds pretty good! His two kids are looking forward to first and second grade respectively.

The SB Historical Society had a successful outing at National Night Out this August. We distributed close to 200 like-new books on various subjects and had locals vote on their favorite historical places in the Township. The only regret was that we ran out of children’s books too early . . . that will not happen next time.

Stephen Bosin, Rutgers College 1965

I live in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and practice law in Riveredge. I handle mostly employment matters. I also represent people who have lost their long-term disability insurance. Practicing law is still exciting!

Tom Clark, School of Engineering 1965

A hot (95*) and humid afternoon in Wesley Chapel.  Bless the person who invented air conditioning! My wife, Shirley, is recovering from her second knee replacement so we are staying close to home for the summer.  I have also had both knees replaced so we are a prestigious 4-titanium knee family now.  We will be celebrating our 55th anniversary later this month and I recall similar weather in Petersburg, VA at the time we were married.  I left for Vietnam three months later – I will try to enclose a photo of me in Quang Tri – several pounds lighter and a few inches taller. Our two grandsons are home for the summer from Florida State.  Both will be Seniors in the Fall. I was thinking of my roommates over the 4 years On the Banks – Freshman in Demarest- Jim Cunliffe (now in Tennessee) and Andy Hocker (now in Massachusetts); Sophomore in Livingston – Dave Buchholz (deceased); Junior in Mettler (Preceptor - no roommate); Senior in Demarest (Preceptor with Mike Wiener (now in Thailand).

John Corcoran, Rutgers College 1965

Oh, career to date? Freelance writer, three books. Plus twenty years as entertainment reporter on TV newscasts in Washington, DC, Boston and Hollywood.

Joseph Daku, Rutgers College 1965

While we spend summers at Moosehead Lake in Maine and winters in Venice, Florida, my great anticipation is the 60th alumni reunion at the Rutgers campus in 2025.

W Alan Day, Camden College of Arts & Sciences & School of Engineering

Alan Day '65 BA/BSEE & Janet Day nee Zukowski DC '67 have lived in Reston, VA since 1971.  He serves as Potomac Appalachian Trail Club District Manager of Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, & Potomac Heritage trail.  He also serves as Webmaster of the Bull Run Civil War Round Table, Friends of Fairfax Archeology & Cultural Resources, Friends of wolf Trap, & Central Intelligence Retirees Association Loudoun Chapter.  For fun, he plays with Raspberry Pi computers, the Internet of Things, is studying computer algebra systems (maxima, and wolfram), & tries to understand quantum computers.

Ed Doherty, College of Agriculture 1965

Fifty-nine years have passed since my June 1965 graduation from Rutgers.  Last November I turned 81 years old.  How are either of those time frames possible? 

So much has transpired for yours truly over those 59 years -- four years service as a Supply Officer in the United States Air force, 29 years in Sales and Marketing with IBM, 4 years with a small I/T firm, and now (gasp) 22 years of retirement!  Moves along the way included from hometown Wayne, New Jersey to Indiana, Connecticut, and North Carolina, where I now live.  I miss some things about New Jersey -- mostly the food (pizza, tomatoes, NJ hard rolls, Thumanns’s hot dogs to name a few).

The upcoming Rutgers football season has some promise.  The schedule is not a particularly difficult one for being in the Big 10.  Some are predicting a 9 - 3 record.  Wouldn’t that be nice? It will be interesting to see how the transfer QB performs. 

My three “children” live in New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Florida.   I visit them about once a year.  My oldest retired as a full Colonel from the Army with 30 years service in 2021.  Very proud of him.  He lives in Florida, near Destin.  My second “child” remarried this past February following a very difficult marriage and nasty divorce.  She lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  My youngest lives in New Hampshire on Lake Winnepesauke.  I visited her last week to attend her 15-year-old daughter’s performance as Helea in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”  A Shakespeare play is sponsored every year by “Perform It! Stage Company,” a New Hampshire Theater company for home-schooled children in the area.  It was the 30th year that they have performed one of Shakespeare’s plays.  It was fabulous.

Like so many of us, I took up golf many years ago.  I was not very good at it and gave it up five years ago.  In the 1970s I took up flying.  I earned my private pilots license with an instrument rating. It was great fun for some 15 years, but that too has long ended.  Puttering around the house seems to take up most of my time these days, along with spoiling our Schnoodle dog (schnauzer / poodle mix).   My wife and I spend summers in northern Maine.  It’s very rural, located 100 miles north of Bangor, some 30 minutes from the Canadian border.  We have a house on a six-mile long, crystal-clear, very cold lake and do lots of boating.

Best wishes to my fellow classmates.

Paul Eisenkramer, Rutgers College 1965

Retired and living in San Diego.

Doll Fell, Rutgers College 1965

I am a retired non profit Executive who worked for the YMCA, group homes for adjudicated youth, and the Wisconsin chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.  I also did some capital and program fund raising.  My wife Ruth (a retired Nurse who graduated from Columbia University) and I have 2 daughters and each of them have 2 grown children. We live in Rochester, Minnesota, home of the Mayo Clinic. Due to 3 hip replacements over the past 28 years I am an avid bike rider!  I used to play wheelchair basketball and ice hockey and still kayak whenever I get to chance.

Noah Finkel, Rutgers College 1965

Great job. I always look forward to the class notes to follow classmates I knew but haven’t stayed in contact. For myself, I continue to see patients 4 days a week in my office but no longer perform surgery. I am also doing some medical-legal and liability defense.  I know retirement has to come as 81 approaches, but still enjoy taking care of people. I plan to travel to Greece and Alaska during the coming year. Wishing all of you good health and long productive lives.

Michael Goodkind, Rutgers School of Engineering 1965

Mary and I haven't done much travel since we got back from Paris in March of 2024. We were supposed to fly to Newark in May to visit with my sister and her family (triplets, each with two children), but United Airlines continues to have problems. We were required to deplane for a maintenance issue, with an estimated 2 hour delay. We decided to cancel our reservations because it would have impacted all of the plans. As it turned out, the flight arrived 3 hours late in Newark. Good thinking for an Octogenarian!

My sister and brother-in-law and one of their triplets, with her husband and two children are supposed to fly to Chicago for a weekend visit next month. We have our fingers crossed that United will not screw up these plans.

Our next trip is scheduled for May of next year and involves a trip to the Loire Valley, via London. We are looking forward to travelling again.

Don Green, Rutgers College 1965

I've been making more trips to doctors' offices than in the past, but, fortunately, nothing serious has turned up. Our family has enlarged as my son-in-law's brother finally got hitched at age 50. His new wife is a firecracker as she was a state champion gymnast, and reviews various eateries. Her work takes her to Mexico and so her new beau goes with her. What makes me very happy is my 3 daughters have remained close and often go out together with their in-laws. I enjoy open mic nights reading my poetry at a local cafe in town. I did try a Princeton U. venue but driving at night is not my favorite thing to do. My wife enjoys Times puzzles, contacting a local friend (we go out to eat together), and keeping up with our children and grandchildren. My sixteen-year-old grandson was recently diagnosed and treated for a testicular malignancy. I'm quite proud of him because as soon as he noticed the lump he told his Mom about it. It is a testament to their close relationship. His brother is a Freshman at Rutgers and trying to settle into the rigors of college academics. He was always limited in his social outlets, but with the help of the internet, he now has a girlfriend. I still belong to a poetry club online, which started when I lived in Massachusetts. It is a fun and challenging thing to do. We (my wife and I), are looking forward to going to Nantucket this summer. It's our 42nd trip there and we very much enjoy it each time we go. My children now own it and have been renovating the house. It was past due for improvements. So hello to all my classmates, even though we didn't meet up back in the day. It still makes me feel good how well you've all done.

Chuck Hennings, Rutgers College 1965

Nice to have Class Notes back! Even though those of us in “vintage” classes have  less job related news than most, we certainly can pass on personal updates about retirement, grandkids, hobbies and travel. And I hope my “old” classmates, as able, will share their stories as they did before Class Notes were cancelled along with the Rutgers Magazine. I’ll miss being Class Correspondent but hoping this format is received positively.
The wife and I spent a few summer weeks in North Carolina but are returning to Florida just in time for peak hurricane season. The generator I bought last summer is ready to go but praying we won’t need it. As if having 3 dogs isn’t enough, we do fostering and dog transports from kill shelters to rescue organizations. And a Meals On Wheels route which reminds us of how fortunate we are enjoying our good lifestyle. The wife paints, I golf, enjoy top down rides in my old sportscar and organizing small reunions of folks who worked in Iran with me back in the day.

Jim Hughes, School of Engineering 1965

I'm still working for the University as both a University Professor and a Distinguished Professor of Urban Planning and Policy Development. I served as Dean of the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy from 1995-2017. I've authored or co-authored over 35 books, including America's Demographic Tapestry and Population Trends in New Jersey (both from the Rutgers University Press), and The Atlantic City Gamble (Harvard University Press).
My latest co-authored book, Rutgers Then and Now, proceeds through ten sequential development phases of College Avenue and Piscataway campus expansions that took place over the course of 250 years.

Harvey Kohn, Rutgers College

Back to Wisconsin from May- October from Phoenix. Grand boys, 10/14 and daughter stayed with us for the summer from Costa Rica, attending camp, playing tennis and golf. The plan for the family is to move to Milwaukee permanently in January of ‘25, after daughter Samantha moved to CR in 2004 to marry her  college boy friend (from there). He is engaged as the CFO currently in selling the Central American Scotia bank group, then moving back to Milwaukee. Yours truly is still working part-time performing orthopedic insurance consultations for W/C and PI cases as an independent contractor with a medical group in the Milwaukee area. Still playing golf PB, and riding bike weekly. Looking forward to the ‘24/25 RU football and basketball seasons with the arrival of 5* Bailey and Harper. Hoping for a repeat of ‘76 both in 🏈 and basketball. Samantha recently won the open division of the Central American/Caribbean open tennis doubles prior to her arriving here in May, and continues to play with her 4.5 state league team here in Wisconsin with many of her former high school teammates. They did qualify for the national over 40 tourney in Phoenix last year (of all places). She had played her college tennis @ Colgate, and was the woman’s tennis Patriot player of the year in 1995, her senior year.

David Kuch, Rutgers College 1965

After a couple years teaching English in a tiny Vermont prep school, moved to Colorado, became a bicycle mechanic and shop owner, re-discovered rowing with a rec single, moved to Seattle and now Portland and have continued with rowing, cycling, and wrenching. Now have a nice home shop and still do repairs and repair tutoring. Sad to see the loss of lightweight rowing years back, when I rowed 150's as the first varsity crew to do so. Rutgers really shaped my work and play habits in the best of ways. Would love to hear from crew and other classmates.

Bill Lewers, Rutgers College 1965

Bill Lewers continues to do seasonal work for the Office of Elections in Fairfax County, Virginia. He has also written a series of novels that revolve around the theme of elecrtion service. His latest title, "Murder at the Polls" is due to be published in the fall of 2024.

John Lipman, Rutgers College 1965

About 6 years ago, my wife and I took a 16 week course (Lakeland Citizens Police Academy) offered by the Lakeland Police Dept. After our graduation, we joined the Lakeland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association where we volunteer our time and efforts raising money for the Department  so they can purchase police dogs without the City having to go to bid for the dogs.  We also help the Department wherever they need help such as helping the Police Athletic League, helping staff the Halloween events for the kids, help with parking at City functions, organize and run the Fallen Heroes Dinner and the Children's Christmas Party.  We have been among the top volunteers for the last 4 years.  This coming February, we will be very busy as the Department will be hosting the Southeast Conference Trials for K-9's and their handlers from police departments from Florida and southeast Georgia and Alabama..  The Lakeland team has historically been one of the top 3 teams and  we expect to be one of the 2 top teams when the trials finish up in February.

Fall 2024 (cont'd)

Joe Ludwig, Rutgers College & School of Engineering 1965

My wife, Judy (Douglass '64), and I are snowbirds.  We summer in Sharon, MA and winter in Boca Raton, FL .  We have been doing this for more than 30 years; it suits us perfectly.  I have been retired as a registered investment adviser since 2016.  Judy and I started a wealth management firm in 1986 which we ultimately sold to a much larger wealth management firm, RWA Wealth Partners, in 2016, when I retired.  Judy still works for the firm as a CPA and wealth advisor.

We have a son and a daughter.  Our son Jonathan, lives in Boynton Beach, FL, about 25 minutes away from our Florida home.  Our daughter, Jessica Joseph, lives in Sharon, MA, about two miles away from our Massachusetts home.  Between them they have given us five grandchildren, all between 22 and 25 years old and all recently graduated from college (no Rutgers graduates unfortunately).  We are very fortunate in many respects including a healthy family who lives close to us in one place or the other.

I lost two close friends and fraternity brothers (Tau Delta Phi), within the last year who were members of the class of 1965: Al Sabo (who was best man at my wedding) and Steve Kaul.  Both lived in South Florida and will be sorely missed.  The only other class of '65 (and also a fraternity brother) that I am in relatively frequent contact with is Jim Crumel.  Jim and his wife, Priscilla, live on the west coast of Florida in Parrish.  They have two daughters, Dawn and Kenya, both Brown University graduates, and one granddaughter, Masai.

I am glad to have Class Notes back!

Michael Maguire, Rutgers College 1965

I have been retired for the last 12 years after a very successful career working for Fortune 500 companies in the plastics and adhesives market.

Jeff Morehouse, School of Engineering 1965

I'm sorry to report that my Rutgers roommate of sophomore through senior years, Michael Weber, died in November last year.  Michael, an Art Major, was Air Force ROTC and served in communications for over 20 years.  He retired and continued working with the AF via a consulting firm for another 20 years.  After his second retirement, he and his wife, Mary Alice, left NJ and moved to Utah to be close to their two boys.
I had 3 roommates (all named Michael) my last two years, as we four moved off-campus into a high-rise apartment next to Douglass and across the highway from the Rutgers boathouse.  It was obviously a great location!  I rowed (Lightweight Varsity), so it was convenient for that, too.
Michael DiLillo (Russian Major) worked for AT&T in NJ but died young around age 60.  Michael Colin (Pre-Med) finally retired last year from his gerontology practice in NYC.

Bob Reardon, Rutgers College 1965

In the early spring I developed a severe lower back pain. I spent time in the hospital and in the nursing home.  This week (June 17) I returned to my home.  Mostly pain free. So while it was a long several months it seems to have worked.  I enter summer optimistic.

Jon Rodiek

It’s been four years since our retirement and migration north to the PNW from the expansive green fields of TAMU campus. Susan and I decided to start our next phase of living here far away from our northeast origins.  Being members of the design fields of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, we decided to build our own home for this phase.
We have since been spending our time fulfilling the demands of this decision. Retirement takes on a different character under this concept. It’s all good. Susan designed the architecture, I the masterplan layout. We now have a native area for our interests in wildlife habitat and a place to figure out what to do now that we left our professions behind.
We indulge the everyday concerns of focused living for the moment and the seasons. The property keeps us busy as does the task of meeting our needs as senior citizens. Neighbors make it worthwhile as do the natural elements and weather afforded us by the weather here in the PNW.
We have found other folks with similar circumstances so we can reach out and still be part of the community. Staying connected to former friends and family is still a priority but the concept of working for ourselves is very fulfilling. We are better able to realize what a life can offer under this retirement phase.

Best wishes to all
Jon & Susan

Joseph Sahid, School of Engineering 1965

After receiving a degree in Ceramic Engineering from Rutgers in 1965 and graduating first in my class from the University of Virginia Law School in 1968, I served on Presidential Commissions in Washington studying and writing about the events of those turbulent years. I went on active duty as a Coast Guard lawyer during the waning years of the Vietnam era. Following my discharge I joined the New York City law firm of Cravath, Swaine & Moore as an associate, becoming a partner five years later. As a litigator I participated in some of the largest cases ever tried on behalf of clients that included IBM, CBS, Time, Holiday Inns, major securities firms, a major national political party, and other enterprises, and successfully sued Donald Trump.
In 1995, having retired as an active Cravath partner, I became the New York City resident partner of Barrack, Rodos & Bacine, a firm that specialized in representing plaintiffs in securities and antitrust class actions.
By 1996 I had founded my own law firm specializing in commercial litigation. I have written about a number of things, most recently about bitcoins and other virtual currency.
I spend a significant portion of my time serving as an arbitrator and/or a mediator in programs sponsored by the courts and others. My pro bono practice is extensive.

Richard Smolenski, School of Engineering 1965

Bev & I have been doing a lot of traveling...to opticians, dentists, oncologist, cardiologist, dermatologist, periodontist & ophthalmologist. We did manage cruises to the ABC islands, & Alaska. And a trip by seaplane to the Dry Tortugas. Next month we're cruising to China.
As a lark, I wrote a play for the Houston Scriptwriters' 10x10 Festival. It got selected and proved to be a big hit. It's a comedy about 2 Catholic teenage boys dealing with confessing their most dreaded sin...having impure thoughts & desires.

Norman Thetford, School of Engineering 1965

Have been officially retired from medical engineering and professional investing for 20 years now, and enjoying it immensely!  Mary (M.A. GSE ’67, EdD ’74) and I just had our 58th wedding anniversary, and hope to have many more.  As usual, we have had our share of ailments attributed to aging, but I have managed to avoid the worst of them, in part due to 63 years of rowing!  Since learning the sport as a freshman at Rutgers, I have been competing nationally and internationally, and will be off to Germany the weekend after Labor Day to compete at the World Rowing Masters Regatta in Brandenburg.  There are over 3400 rowers from all over the world and almost 5,000 entries spread out over five days.  Since I am over 80 now, the competition has thinned out, but those still competing are definitely competitive!  Best wishes to all my classmates.  Glad that the Class Notes are back!

Laurence Tomar, Rutgers College 1965, Rutgers Law School 1968

Larry Tomar, a graduate of Rutgers, passed on March 15, 2024 from Lewy Body Dementia.  A very important part of his life is the one he spent at Rutgers.  To the date of his death he was still in touch with friends from that time.  He is very much missed. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/greensboro-nc/laurence-tomar-11714791

Michael Wiener, Rutgers College 1965

Nothing really exciting happening in my part of Thailand....lots of rain and lots of flooding again. We held the celebration ceremonies for the passing of my partner for 31 years Somsak. There were 14 monks who chanted prayers and we provided a good lunch for them. A nice coming together of family and friends who made and served the food. Also, fresh lotus blossoms and new shower shoes for each of the monks. Had to re-register to be able to vote absentee since Florida un-registered all absentee voters. Glad the value of Class Notes has been realized by the powers that be and will be posted again.

David Wolf, School of Engineering 1965

In mid-August, Margaret and I will take our annual pilgrimage to the Monmouth County beaches, staying for 3 weeks in Ocean Grove in 2 separate airbnb’s.  We will be joined for a portion of our stay by our daughter, her wife and our grandson, my Jacksonville, FL sister, 2 cousins (NC and CT), and another ’65 engineering alum, Norman Thetford, his wife and their daughter, son-in law, and granddaughter.
I have retired from the Jefferson County, CO school district as a guest (substitute) math teacher. I have applied for rehire and expect to resume teaching this fall.  I will double dip from both the Colorado Public Employee pension fund and the school district.  If I exceed 110 days of teaching per calendar year, I must take a hit to my pension.

Howard McGinn, Rutgers College 1965, Rutgers Law School Newark 1968

Thanks to Rutgers Foundation and Alumni Association for reestablishing Class Notes. And many more thanks to Carl, Chuck, Mike, and Joe for their efforts working for this to be done. When I see this in print I can make my annual donation to the Foundation, which I’ve deferred, awaiting their success.
I’m still active doing genealogical (and historical) research for patrons of the Jane Moyer Library of the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society in Easton PA. Many of my other activities have been deferred recently as I’m caring for my significant other who is in poor health. I’m hoping to get back on skis this winter after two years away from them. I’m also looking forward to reading the notes from my fellow RU grads.

Carl Woodward, Rutgers College 1965, Rutgers Law School Newark 1968

Class Notes have returned to the Banks, after being discontinued the past year. But, through continued advocacy by our class and others, Rutgers has embarked on a new program to ensure that Class Notes are now available to all alumni. Special thanks go to our Class Correspondent, Chuck Hennings, and Classmates Mike Goodkind and Joe Ludwig, for their unflagging support in engaging with Rutgers staff members on the best way to reinstitute Class Notes for Alumni. I also want to thank the Rutgers Alumni and Foundation Office, especially Kimberly Hopely, Scott Owens and Yvette Martinez, for their efforts and cooperation in moving our concerns forward and their creativity in developing this new approach to Alumni communication. As for us, Kathy and I celebrated our 51st wedding anniversary in May. While mostly retired, I still keep my fingers in the legal practice. Fortunately, we are active in a number of volunteer activities and on the golf course. As a Glee Club Alum, I participated in interviews for the selection of the new Director of Choral Arts at the Mason Gross. Our oldest granddaughter, a junior at Penn State, on the track team, and a chemical engineering major, had an internship in North Jersey this summer, so she lived with us for 2.5 months – a true delight. Our middle granddaughter is a freshman at the University of Texas, majoring in mechanical engineering. Our youngest granddaughter is a high school sophomore in Tomball, Texas. We recently spent a weekend in Medford, Mass., with our son and family to celebrate their son’s first birthday. We have Rutgers Football tickets, so if you want to meet up at a game or afterwards, please drop me a line. We would love to join you.

Richard Steffan, Rutgers College 1965, Graduate School New Brunswick 1969

Greetings to all of my former classmates.  I have two degrees from Rutgers - BA ('65) and MA ('69),  My favorite professor at RU was Guido Weigend in the Dept of Geography.  As a freshman, I lived in the Heights quonset hut dorms. UGH!   Later, I lived in Freylinghuysen and Ford.  Rutgers gave me a strong educational basis which led me to later receive a doctorate from the University of Southern California.   Now 80 years old, I comfortably retired at age 70 from the Federal government. I had a long career in teaching and educational administration at the high school and college levels. Many years in education were devoted to my work as a teacher and administrator in education of deaf children.  My wife and I are living the dream in a retirement community in Maryland near Washington, DC. I remain active in education as co-chair of the Continuing Education Committee in my current community.  We love to travel and have visited all the continents except for Africa and Antarctica.  We enjoy family life with our six grandchildren. Best to all!!

Summer 2025

Keith McDermott, Rutgers College 1966

My wife and I have been married for almost 50 years, have 4 children and 11 grandchildren, and live in London.
Following graduation, I did a 2-year tour in the Army, then earned an MBA at The Wharton School. Joined Goldman Sachs, where I stayed for 30 years. After Goldman Sachs, I co-founded Longview Partners, a Global equity wealth management firm, and sold my stake in 2015.

William Pollinger, Rutgers College, 1966

After 53 years as a Civil Trial Attorney, on December 31, 2022, I walked out of my office and haven’t looked back. I guess you could call me a recovering lawyer. Having been in Court almost every day during my career, it wasn’t all that easy, but there is still much to do. I appeared before all New Jersey state and federal courts, Appellate Courts, and the Supreme Court multiple times. It was a good and successful run, with many of my cases being approved for publication. I also wrote legislation for an industry I represented. I am also, and have been for many years, an international track and field official. Having been to China, Peru, the UK, Germany, and El Salvador, among many other countries. I have officiated at five Olympic Trials, three World Championships, and numerous other local, state, regional, area, and National Championships both indoors and outdoors. This year alone, I have officiated in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and San Diego and, as I write this note, am preparing to leave for Eugene, Oregon for the Under 20 and High School Nationals. Sadly, after 44 glorious years, my wife, Helen, passed away in April 2021, so traveling keeps both my mind and body active. Here’s to our 200th Anniversary Class. Go, RU. 

Harold Shil, Rutgers College 1966

"Gene Renna (RC '66) and his wife, Aprile Renna, were honored recently with the 2025 Scarlet Legacy Award.  Their recognition highlighted an event celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Scarlet Knights on the Banks.  The award recognized their 50-year commitment to supporting Rutgers athletics, student-athletes, programs, and facilities.  Gene shared with the audience his thoughts about the history of Rutgers athletics and the ways in which his student-athlete experience prepared him for a successful career with Mobil.
As an undergraduate, Gene was a starting guard on RU football teams in the mid-60s.  He received the 1965 Upstream Award as that sport's scholar-athlete of the year. Gene and Aprile have made major donations for the football, basketball, and wrestling programs, among others.  It is good to see a distinguished classmate honored for his long-term loyalty to Rutgers and for his generosity.  

(NOTE: The information for this class note was extracted from an official RU press announcement, the 1966 Scarlet Letter yearbook, and this writer's recollections as Targum sports editor)"

Spring 2025

Michael Perlin, Rutgers College 1966 

Although I’ve been retired for almost a decade (from my teaching job at New York Law School), I’m still doing lots – writing books and articles (about mental disability law, criminal law and procedure, international human rights law), as well as playing the clarinet (in two community symphonic concert bands), birding (recently glossy ibis in Cape May), and, the best, spending time with our kids and grandkids (in NYC and Boston). And this: in what may be my final pro bono case, I have just received notice of a victory before the UN Human Rights Council’s Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on an appeal by a Uzbekistan citizen who has been locked in a psychiatric hospital for some years as a result of speaking up (via a blog) against Putin. That Council ruled that the deprivation of liberty in that case contravened multiple articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Here's the press release that tells more about the case: https://www.uzbekforum.org/uzbekistan-free-blogger-from-forced-psychiatric-detention-un-experts-call-for-immediate-release-from-arbitrary-detention-compensation/.

Larry Klein, Rutgers College 1966 

I'm now living in Paris, France for ten-plus months per year with my partner Eddie. We travel a great deal, mostly to Western Europe. In March, it was Stockholm for six days; in January, was Verona and Milan for two weeks. April will be a return to San Francisco to do my U.S. taxes as well as a trip to Albuquerque, Mesa Verde, and Chaco Canyon. Given that we both dislike group travel, much of my retirement time is spent carefully planning "unguided" travel. It takes more effort, but we find it more rewarding.

Steven Weiner, College of Engineering 1966 

I am getting close to completing my ninth year as an in-classroom volunteer at Gaithersburg (MD) Middle School. I still have not graduated from the sixth grade. Maybe next year! 

In an English class, the students recently studied a text from Jackie Robinson's autobiography, I Never Had It Made. Sixth graders analyze written text and summarize their conclusions, a lifetime skill of immense importance. Mr. Steve often says that writing is just one paragraph at a time. 

I recently conducted a class that focused on Robinson's steal of home in the first game of the 1955 World Series (In fact, I was in the sixth grade!). An excellent video narrated by Doug Glanville served to analyze the steal and capture the larger meaning of what Robinson accomplished in his lifetime. 

At the end of the class, I presented each student with a Jackie Robinson baseball card. You would have thought I handed them a bar of gold!

James Grayson, Rutgers College 1966 

My wife, Ruth, and I are still living in the same Sheffield, UK, house that we bought when I became a professor at the University of Sheffield in 1987. Academically, I have presented conference papers, published articles in professional journals, and organized conferences. Last year, I jointly organized a conference on "Soundscapes and Folklore in East Asia." Unfortunately, I tripped upon entering the hotel in London and broke my right femur. That fall required a total replacement of my right hip. However, I am now walking the family dog, going to shops without a cane, and taking the bus downtown without assistance. As a retired Methodist minister, I continue to preach regularly and lead various Biblical and theological study groups in addition to my academic work. My younger son, Chris, has a daughter, Emily, who is now 9-1/2 years old. Elder son Andy has just welcomed his first child, Nyla, giving me and Ruth a second grand-daughter. We are both still in good health and are enjoying life in Sheffield now that I am almost fully recovered from his fall.

Eric Krebs, Rutgers College 1966 

Celebrating the 51st season of George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, which I founded in 1974...Still producing off-Broadway theater at my Theater555 in NYC, this year Forbidden Broadway and BreakinNYC, a joyous Hip Hop Dance Musical...Celebrated my 80th on Dec. 13 by reading my father's WWII letters from the Philippines to about 100 guests...still riding my bicycle through the streets of Manhattan... still married, 53 years, to the wonderful Suzanne.... still hoping and working for a more rational and empathetic world!

Paul Hetzel, Rutgers College 1966, NJ College of Medicine & Dentistry 1970

I can still vividly remember the summer night I received a phone call from John Sorrentino, a soon-to-be senior, asking me to organize my soon-to-be junior class as volunteers in the planned Family Health Center. We met in the basement of the then-Maryland Hospital on a weekly basis. We were staffed by third and fourth-year medical students and third-year nursing students. One faculty member oversaw our activities. We were used to hands-on patient care, for as memory serves me, there were few medical house staff at Maryland in those days, and we, as fourth-year students, were the first responders. It was our first exposure to outpatient medicine. It was there I met a nursing student who was to become my wife. It is heartwarming to hear the clinic continues to thrive.

Fall 2024

Larry Benjamin, Rutgers College 1966

My daily goal in retirement is to pursue activities that provide satisfaction. Family contact is most rewarding as my wife Lois and I watch our five grandchildren grow. Taking a week or so to visit tourist areas to absorb the museums, greenery and waterways is so worthwhile. The family and trip photos provide albums and scrapbooks that preserve our history for now and forever. Exercising at the fitness center is not only good for my body but also introduced me to the special community of a gym environment. Then there’s regional theater (Paper Mill Playhouse), lifelong learning at Rutgers usually focusing on government and musical entertainment, and my love of baseball. Without doubt, the highlight of any day is having a lunch date. I meet friends from my Rutgers days (Ed Dauber, Tom Sitzmann, Michael Perlin, Hal Shill, Ray Kaden), Asbury Park Press colleagues (my journalism days are 16 years in the past) and associates from my involvement in temples in Lakewood, Marlboro and now Manalapan. The food is incidental to the talk as we reflect on years gone by and look ahead.

Harold Shill, Art & Sciences 1966

Hal Shill continues to facilitate two listservs, College Athletics Group and Targum Group, for alumni from the 1960s.  Both listservs are active, especially during football and basketball seasons.  The 17-member College Athletics Group is strictly non-political, while the 12-member Targum Group includes opinion, commentary on current issues, and reminiscences of our childhoods, life at RU, and experiences since graduation.  Contact Hal (hbs2@psu.edu) if interested in participating.

Steve Weiner, Rutgers College & School of Engineering 1966

Author Steven Weiner (Rutgers Class of 1966) and the Society for American Baseball Research’s Games Project (sabr.org/gamesproject) are pleased to share a small slice of Rutgers baseball history with fans everywhere:

• June 15, 1950 - Rutgers’ late rally defeats defending champion Texas in College World Series opener https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/june-15-1950-rutgers-late-rally-defeats-defending-champion-texas-in-college-world-series-opener/
• April 10, 1958 - Rutgers edges St. John’s on Paul Tootleman’s three-hitter at empty Ebbets Field https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/april-10-1958-rutgers-edges-st-johns-on-paul-tootlemans-three-hitter-at-empty-ebbets-field/
• May 17, 1963 - Rutgers beats Lafayette to conclude Jeff Torborg’s All-American season https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/may-17-1963-rutgers-beats-lafayette-to-conclude-jeff-torborgs-all-american-season/

Steven Weiner RC 1966 figured out a way to get back into the college classroom, through a volunteer program at the University of Maryland's College of Information Studies. Steve helped a small group of students with their class projects for two courses: Organizations, Management and Teamwork; Information User Needs and Assessment.

Charles (Chick) Mandell, Rutgers Law School Camden 1966

Currently reside in Melbourne, Florida - Married, three children, four grandchildren, playing a lot of golf and going to a lot of local Theater.

Fall 2024

John Broggi, Rutgers College 1967

Along with my wife Barbara, we received the 9th Annual Scarlet Legacy Award for lifetime support to Rutgers University on June 4th.

Summer 2025

Alan Swyer, Rutgers College 1968

My award-winning documentary "When Houston Had The Blues" is now streaming on Amazon Prime, Tubi, Kanopy, and other platforms.

Summer 2025

James McNamee, College of Engineering 1969

Sue (Eagleton Inst. of Politics '69) and I celebrated our 56th wedding anniversary. The last of our five grandchildren graduated from college and are all professionally employed. Our two oldest granddaughters got married this year. Life is good thanks to the solid foundations gained at RU.

Gary Myron, College of Engineering, 1969

Though I retired after a long career as an executive with IBM, Lockheed Martin, Leidos and other government contractors, I have maintained my avocation of being a high school (primarily) basketball official.  I just completed my 45th year as an official.  I have officiated the Maryland State Championship, the DC Classic (DC All-Stars vs Rest of Country All-Stars), FIBA Basketball in the UK and over 3000 games in general.  Now hoping to make it 50 years!

Spring 2025

Eric Carey, College of Engineering 1969 

Graduate studies at Columbia followed by a 47-year career managing large building and infrastructure construction projects. All while located in the Washington, DC area with the exception of a single year in Los Angeles. Employed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, followed by Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. Celebrating fifty years of marriage to Priscilla Brown Carey with three children and six grandchildren. Attend a few home football and basketball games every year as well as reunions. Occasionally get together with Class of '69 classmates in DC or NYC. Retired now, living in Arlington, VA since '76. If classmates are nearby, please reach out at carey22207@gmail.com.

Peter Takacs, Rutgers College 1969 

Mary Pat and I are enjoying interacting with our 2 grandsons whenever we have a chance. Just took the 4 1/2 year old to Disneyland. A fun time for all. On a sad note, my roommate, Georges Schak, passed away this past August. He was a dear friend.

James Cuviello, Rutgers College 1969

Hi Classmates! Just wanted to share some good family news. We had our first grandchild get married this past year. We will also celebrate our youngest grandchild's high school graduation in June. Carolyn (DC'69) and I are doing well and hope you are, too!

Philip Mahalic, Rutgers College 1969 

I am currently employed as the Full Time Director of Catholic Ministries at JBSA Randolph Air Force Base and as the Catholic Chaplain. I retired from the US Army with a total of 43 years of Service. I now work for the DoD performing the same duties I had while in uniform as a Catholic Chaplain.

Fall 2024

Michael Barr, Rutgers College 1969

I was a history major as an undergraduate and have had an ongoing interest in historic preservation at Rutgers. Plaques continue to pop up, including this year at the different gated entrances to the Queen's Campus. These are based in part on the National Register of Historic Places nomination I prepared, and are well worth taking a look at while at Reunion this fall. Also worth a visit is Kirkpatrick Chapel for the Revolutionary War plaque I researched in 1976 at the suggestion of University Historian Richard P. McCormick RC '38.
I've been married to Helen Rumsey DC '69 since 1973. While we knew each other in college, we didn't become a couple until after we traveled on the Orient Express for three days across Europe to Athens on a student exchange program following graduation.
Currently, I am working with a conceptual art dealer, but I had previous stints in the law, including the Navy JAG, banking, oil industry analysis, journalism, and Russian securities.

James Cuviello, Rutgers College 1969

It is hard to believe that our graduation day, June 4, 1969, is now 55 years ago. Since our last, and wonderful 50th Reunion, much has happened.  Carolyn (DC 1969) and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary in July 2020. Unfortunately, our planned family gathering did not take place due to covid restrictions. We have had three of our grandchildren graduate college and this past June, we attended the wedding of one of our grandsons. I hope as many classmates as possible are able to attend the upcoming 55th Rutgers Reunion. See you soon!

Bruce Hubbard, Rutgers College 1969

In the last year,  I have seen Bryant Mitchell on MV, Ben Kraft on Facebook in the Virgin Islands, Jerry Harris and Chuck Bowers On Line, and had email contact with Paul Reagan, Gene Fornarotto, Keith McAllister, Dick Askin, Tad Kallini, Costa Kensington and Nick Kensington (all Chi Psi’s). All are still with us and well. Our Class Officers and Class Of 1969 Scholarships are both still active and performing.

Philip (Flip) Mahalic, Business Administration 1969

I retired from the U.S. Army in July of 2012 as the Senior Catholic Chaplain at Fort Sam Houston. Including Guard, Reserve and Active duty, I had a total of 43 years. After retiring from Ft. Sam Houston, The military kept me on as a GS. I am have been and am currently the Catholic Chaplain for Joint Base San Antonio - Randolph Air Force Base.

Summer 2025

Ivan Jeffrey Rubin, Rutgers College 1970

The Class of 1970 used some funds from our 50th reunion to establish an oral history archive composed of our own oral histories of our time at Rutgers and beyond. You can read some of the oral histories compiled so far at  https://oralhistory.rutgers.edu/explore/rutgers-history/rutgers-college-alumni-classes?option=com_latestnewsenhancedpro&view=articles&category=&tag=124&author=&alias=&period=&stage=&limitstart=0&filter_order=&filter_order_Dir=ASC&6cb63272643629fee33c838bddd3574e=1&filter-search=&tag_selector_top=124.  As we approach our 55th Reunion I wanted to remind all class members that our class is supporting the work of the Rutgers Oral History Archives (ROHA) to collect oral histories of the Class of 1970. Consider joining this project by contacting Shaun Illingworth at the Rutgers Oral History Archive. illingwo@history.rutgers.edu.

Spring 2025

Frederick Perkins, Rutgers College 1970 

I had planned to attend my 50th reunion in 2020, but the COVID pandemic became a problem. I hope to make it to our 55th. 

I have had a busy 55 years. After I graduated I went to Medical School (Univ. of Vermont), completed a residency (Univ. of Iowa), and did a fellowship (NIH, Bethesda, MD). I then had a career as an academic physician (Univ. of Vermont '80 - '89, Univ. of Rochester '89 - '00, Dartmouth '00 - '18). My wife and I have remained in Hanover, NH since my retirement in 2018. I hope to see some classmates from that now long ago time of our college years.

Jorge del Castillo, Rutgers College 1970 

A number of us who were in ZBT class of '70, have been getting together since graduation and have attended many reunions over the years. We are planning on attending in September for our 55th. There are about 10 or more of us. We were cheated out of the big 50th due to the COVID scourge, and the "makeup" reunion was not feasible for many of us. On a sad note, we lost one of our dearest friends and "brother' this past year. David R. Maizel was a retired Family Medicine physician living in Virginia Beach with his wife Honey. Dave was known and respected by many as a member of the IFC and other campus organizations. We look forward to seeing some of the class of '70 on campus in September.

Spring 2025

Thomas Kuchler, Camden College of Arts and Sciences 1972 

Thomas F. Kuchler, 75, of Hammonton, NJ passed away on December 21, 2024 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He is pre-deceased by his parents, son Michael, and grandson Ethan. He is survived by his loving wife Marion, children Jennifer, Matthew, and Christine. He is also survived by loving brothers Joseph and Steven, and nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. 

Thomas graduated from St. Peter & Paul Elementary School in Camden in 1964. He graduated from Camden Catholic High School in Cherry Hill in 1968. He received a BS degree in Accounting & Finance from Rutgers-Camden in 1972 and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Rutgers-Newark in 1990. Upon receiving his MPA, he was honored with the E. Drexel Godfrey Award academic excellence. He was employed by the State of New Jersey for over 30 years. In 2008 he retired from the Division of Developmental Disabilities as a Fiscal Manager working in Trenton, N.J. 

He was a member and officer at the Navy Lakehurst Historical Society for over 30 years. He was also a member of the Association of Government Accountants for Over 15 years. He enjoyed attending air shows, NASCAR Races and Doo Wop concerts.

Fall 2024

Gary S. Kraemer, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1972

Newark College of Arts and Sciences Many years ago! I live in Arizona now. 

Spring 2025

Gerald Novellino, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy 1973 

Gerald Novellino, 75, of Union, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. A graduate of Essex Catholic High School, Gerald went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Rutgers University in 1973. He was a member of the Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity. 

For fifty years, Gerald was the proud owner and Registered Pharmacist in Charge of Abbot’s Drug Store in Belleville, NJ. His dedication to the pharmacy was unwavering, and he became a pillar of the community, known not only for his professional expertise but for the personal care and compassion he extended to every patient. To him, his customers were more than just patients; they were friends whom he treated like family. His commitment to their well-being was evident in every interaction, and he took immense pride in providing quality care to all who walked through his doors. 

Donations in Gerald’s memory can be made to the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy Academic Excellence Fund at https://give.rutgersfoundation.org/emsop-ae-fund/1165.html.

Gerald Novellino, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy 1973 

Gerald proudly retired in January of 2023 after working for 50 Continuous years at his retail Pharmacy, Abbot's Drug Store, formerly located in Belleville, New Jersey

Ray Wiss, Rutgers College 1973 

I met my future wife, Pam, who is a 1973 graduate of Douglass College, at a dorm party at Campbell Dorm in January 1971. We got married in August 1974, and recently celebrated our 50th anniversary. Still have a season tickets to RU football 🏈

Fall 2024

Ira Jacobs, Rutgers College 1973

Rsaad36@outlook.com richard saad class of 1973 rutgers college new email. Gary heubel rc class of 1973 died several years ago. 

Winter 2025

Lynn (Wolfe) Spector, Livingston College 1974

"I retired in 2018 after more than 35 years of federal service working for the US Department of Health and Human Services where I helped provide health care to the nation's medically underserved. I have one married daughter and two beautiful grandchildren. I am on Facebook and I would love to hear from fellow Livingston Alums from the class of 74. Ours was a most interesting journey!"

Michael Capizola, Rutgers College 1974

Michael Capizola 1974 Rutgers College "I recently hit 73,000-lifetime running miles. I began my running career as a sophomore at Rutgers College in 1972 and haven't stopped. I was the boy's cross country coach at South Plainfield High School for 42 years and have influenced many student-athletes to become lifetime runners. I began competing in duathlons and am currently ranked second in New Jersey and nineteenth nationwide. I plan on running, biking, and competing for a very long time."

John Mudrock, Rutgers College 1974

At almost 72, I keep working as a primary care physician for Tufts Medical Center Community Care in Wakefield, MA. I have thoroughly enjoyed my career and hope to continue working for a few more years.

Peter Kurtin, Rutgers, University College - NB 1974

Received my BS degree in accounting from Rutgers, my MBA in finance from FDU and hold various business certifications. I recently retired as the Chief Administrative Officer from a major branch of the federal government and currently serve as an Adjunct Professor in accounting.

Cheryl Hooten, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1974

Despite the trials and tribulations of life, I earned a Master of Education from Seton Hall University in May 1978. The cliques are to stay focused, on task, and in the groove of things.

Thomas (Tommy) Thompson, Rutgers Business School - Newark 1974

Earned my MBA (Professional Accounting) in August '74. It seems weird that 50 years have flown by. My RBS MBA (and the CPA/ABV that followed), opened the doors to a career as an analyst, planner, executive, writer and speaker. Started my career in New York City with Arthur Young & Co., moved to Albany, NY with them, and spent 32 years there in five different companies, one of which I took public in 1992. Retired from a boutique investment bank as a managing director in 2010, when we also moved to New Mexico. I currently volunteer for the SCORE Association's Albuquerque chapter, providing coaching advice to small businesses. I'm also active with community radio station KUPR-FM (KUPR.org), for which I led a team building new studios for the station during the height of the pandemic in 2020. My wife, who I met on my first business trip in 1976 (thank you, Rutgers MBA!) and I travel quite a bit as well. Although I can claim no influence on their decisions, three of my nieces and nephews have earned RU degrees, at both undergraduate and master's levels.

Gene McAvoy, Cook College 1974

"After graduation, I joined the Peace Corps, which led to 14 years of international work on various USAID ag projects in West Africa, South Africa, and the Caribbean. On returning to the US, I joined the University of Florida /Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences Hendry Co. Extension service as a regional specialized vegetable/horticulture Extension agent and County Extension Director working with vegetable producers in five counties in southwest Florida.

On retirement in 2019, I was granted the title Extension agent emeritus by the University of Florida, less than a month later, I was invited to become the associate director for stakeholder relations at the UF/IFAS Southwest Florida Research and Education Center and served the agricultural community of Southwest Florida in this capacity until July 2022.

During my time in Florida, I was active in the Florida Association of County Agricultural Agents (FACAA), the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA), the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP), the Hendry County Cattlemen’s Association, Florida Farm Bureau, and the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association. I served as President of the of FACAA in 2004, NACAA in 2019 and JCEP in 2021.

Highlights of my career include receiving the Rutgers University Dennis Fenton Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018 and being inducted into the National Association of County Agricultural Agents Hall of Fame in 2022 and the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2024.

I remain self-employed as President of Have Gun Will Travel Agricultural Consulting LLC and am currently President of the Hendry County Cattlemen’s Association and President of Hendry Glades Farm Bureau. My lovely wife Donna of 48 years, and I live on a ranch outside of LaBelle, Florida."

Larry Kessler, Rutgers College 1974

Sorry to say, my husband Larry, Avrahom Kessler, passed away over 2 years ago, leaving a legacy of 11 children, close to 40 grandchildren, and a wife of close to 44 years, at the age of 70. 😢 May his memory be a blessing.

Gerald R Gioglio, Livingston College Graduate School of Management and Labor Relations 1974

Dear friends, I am humbled and very honored to report that the Catholic Media Association awarded my Vietnam-era social justice and war resistance memoir Marching to a Silent Tune: A Journey from We Shall to Hell No second place in their 2023 Memoir Category. The book is available from ACTA Publications (www.actapublications.com) and on Amazon.

Fall 2024

Kevin Mulshine, Livingston College 1974

Dear Classmates,

It’s hard to imagine that 2024 is our 50th reunion year! I’m excited to see you “on the banks of the old Raritan” for this September 27th milestone occasion.

Carl A. Glassman, RC'74,
President, Class of 1974, Rutgers College-New Brunswick

Kevin Mulshine, the former Inspector General for the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), served as the Deputy General Counsel for the AOC. Prior to joining the AOC, from 1995 to 1997 he was Senior Advisor and Counsel to the Congressional Office of Compliance. He is a cum laude graduate of the Howard University Law Center and a 1974 graduate of Livingston College, Rutgers University.

Karen Sherry Leoncavallo, Douglass College 1974

Since retiring from New Brunswick Public Schools in 2012, I have been a volunteer at Jersey Shore Hospital, substitute teacher in Wall Township and have taken up the game of croquet. With a handicap of 8, I am a certified referee, club coach and tournament director, giving lessons to members and running tournaments at the Green Gables Croquet Club in Sea Girt, NJ.

Joseph Sikora, Rutgers College 1974

Upon our graduation from Rutgers in May 1974, who knew where or what our paths would follow especially 50 years later. Many can recount their families and careers. I am very proud to say that next April 21, 2025 will be my 40th running of the Boston Marathon (32nd consecutive). While my college roommate Dan Feeney RC'74 was the runner back then, the best running I did was to pick up a quart of beer from Patti's before closing. Cheers.

Lonny Strum, Rutgers College 1974

Lonny was married to Marcie Wiener in 2023 after the passing of his wife, Beth Rosoff Strum (RC '77) in 2020. He runs a marketing consulting practice based in NJ, Strum Consulting Group, Inc.

Summer 2025

Bill Cummings, Rutgers College 1975

After a long ( and sometimes fulfilling ) career, I moved to The Villages, FL, in 2017 with my wife Andrea to enjoy lots of year-round outdoor time interspersed with visits to kids and grandkids in DC and CA.   As I look back, I realize that the purpose of college was not to teach you everything there was to know back in 1975, but to prepare you to be able to learn what you need to be successful in your field....I regard my time on The Banks with the only regret being that I didn't work harder and take advantage of everything that was offered...and not staying in contact more with my fellow graduates.

Erwin Heinz, University College-New Brunswick 1975

After graduating from University College New Brunswick with Highest Honors in 1975, I took a position in Human Resources with NCR Corporation. I advanced to Director Human Resources Europe, a position I held until my retirement in 1992. Thereafter, I relocated to the mountains of Northern New Mexico and, with my wife, started a dealership with Lindal Cedar Homes, selling Home Building Packages for the next 30 years. 
Upon retirement from business, we moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico, where I practiced what I learned in English 101 and published two books :
Borne in Nazi Germany, my story of growing up during World War II in Nazi  Germany. 
The second publication is a story of my experiences with feral cats in Northern New Mexico, The Tale of the Tail, a story for cat lovers, young and old.
Now in my 91st year, I am handicapped and no longer able to travel. I regret not being able to attend the 50th class reunion. But I will attend in my mind and with my memories.
I fondly remember my time at UC NB, and I am grateful for the education I received. I enjoyed the camaraderie with my brothers at Kappa Upsilon and serving as president of the German Club.

Donna Lee (Iozia) Jones, Douglass College 1975

I received a PhD and MS in environmental engineering. Recently (2025) retired from USEPA in air pollution control. Live in North Carolina. One daughter, 30. 

Peter Ljutich, Rutgers College 1975

My career was split between Brandeis University, where I eventually became Assistant V.P. of corporate and foundation relations, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, from which I retired at the end of 2019 as a research associate. Post-retirement, I'm still working as a consultant for the American Academy.

Joanna Leonowicz Martinez, College of Engineering 1975

Will Martinez (Eng '75, PhD '79) and I were happily married for nearly 50 years. Four kids, four grandchildren, careers that started in engineering and rose to executive management. Joanna was part of the SOE Industry Advisory Board for seven years, is an author and speaker, and splits her time between Sarasota FL, and NYC.

Daniel Puzo, Rutgers College 1975

Retired and living in Pasadena, CA., after more than 4 decades in communications, including as LA Times Staff Writer, USDA food safety outreach Director, Edelman Senior VP, and Editor in Chief at Reed Elsevier (RELX). After RU, earned an MA in journalism at USC. Now growing olives, citrus, figs and plums. Married to Cate for more than 20 years.

Tyrone Underwood, Rutgers College 1975

Majored in African studies, minor in Philosophy. I was in the African Dance Troop at Livingston College.

Harry Vosganian, Rutgers College 1975

Hi everyone!  I still stay in touch with my Davidson buddies, especially on Groundhog Day.  After 44 years of managing transportation for some Fortune 500 companies, I retired to Hilton Head, SC, and full-time golf! Look me up in Indigo Run or find me in the Golden Bear clubhouse. 

Spring 2025

Vita Morales (Patrick), Rutgers College 1975

Many of my plays can be seen around New Jersey in community theaters from Cinnaminson to Hackettstown. I'm proud to be called a New Jersey playwright.

Laurie Stauhs, Rutgers College 1975

Executive Director of Passaic River Coalition, founder of North Jersey Rowing and former marketing director at various book publishers.

Bill Cummings, Rutgers College 1975 

Greetings from The Villages Fl - left NJ in 2017 - we have an active Rutgers Club in the area if you would like to join us let me know!

Summer 2025

Josh Moritz, Rutgers College 1977

I am now entering my third year as a full-time lecturer at the Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College, City University of New York. I not only lecture in the areas of research, marketing analytics, and generative AI, but I am also a member of the graduate curriculum committee. Teaching in the undergrad, grad, and DBA programs, I am also an instructor at the Baruch Business Executive Education program. I have  developed an online book called "The Marketing Handbook" through a CUNY grant and co-authored a research textbook entitled "Information for Decision Making." Available this fall through Cognella Publishing, the book is targeted for undergraduate and graduate courses in marketing research.

Daniel Van Abs, Cook College 1977

Having failed retirement in 2012, I am giving it another try after ending my 12 years at SEBS as a Professor of Professional Practice. Great fun, but I'm done. Except for all the volunteer work I continue with in the NJ water resources and environmental field, of course, including my service on the NJ Highlands Council. Doing useful things on my own schedule is very nice.

Spring 2025

Dan Van Abs, Cook College 1977 

Upon conclusion of twelve years on the faculty at the SEBS Department of Human Ecology, I re-retired in June 2024 (having already failed retirement after 26 years in water resources management with the NJ state government). Now, I am keeping busy with volunteer work in both the non-governmental and governmental sectors, still with water resources, watershed, and land use management. Living in Princeton - a lovely walkable town - with my wife.

Winter 2025

John Warner, Rutgers College 1977

My 3rd novel was a “Distinguished Favorite” in Fantasy in the Independent Press Awards. The 4th was Runner Up in Fantasy at the New England Book Festival.

Mark Usinger, Rutgers College 1977

Rutgers College Me and my wife Margo celebrated our 29th wedding anniversary on December 2nd!

Spring 2025

Eric Wargotz, Livingston College 1978 

As a physician and a judge, I am pleased to share with you that In October 2024 I was honored to be elected to serve as President-Elect of MedChi-The State Medical Society of Maryland. I have been informed that I am the first Rutgers University alumnus and first Pathologist physician to be elected to the presidency of the Society.

Winter 2025

Phil Buehler, Rutgers College 1978

It's been a very busy year with two stories on the front page of The NY Times. The first is about a 100 foot long mural about the 20,000 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia since the beginning of the full-scale invasion titled, "Empty Beds." https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/29/arts/design/empty-beds-little-ukraine-exhibition.html

The second about a 16mm documentary I made in 1974 with a friend about then-abandoned Ellis Island after going there in a small rowboat. PBS also did a story about our return 50 years later. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/28/opinion/ellis-island-immigration.html https://www.pbs.org/video/return-to-ellis-island-tfo7fs/

Also a solo art exhibit at Front Room Gallery in New York titled, ""No Man Is an Island: Poetry in the Ruins of the New York Archipelago."" https://hyperallergic.com/920471/phil-buehler-photographs-forgotten-islands-surrounding-new-york-city/

Winter 2025

Diane Smith, School of Law, Newark 1979

On October 29, 2024, I received the inaugural Lifetime Advancement of Pro Bono Service Award from the New Jersey State Bar Association. The Award recognized my more than 40 years of leadership in New Jersey civil legal services and access to justice initiatives.

Summer 2025

Rochelle Gizinski, Rutgers College 1980

After 15 years on the bench as a trial judge presiding over murder, sexual assault, kingpin drug cases, as well as a plethora of civil cases, I retired. Looking forward to translating my experience into informing the public on criminal and civil justice in New Jersey.

John Ruescas, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1980, Rutgers Business School 1981

I was elected as President of The Madrid Players, Spain’s oldest foreign language theatre company, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

Winter 2025

Dr. Janet Smith Warfield, School of Law, Camden 1980

Please see our (501)(c)(3) Non-Profit Corporation Website: https://planetarypeacepowerandprosperity.org/. I was recently honored with the Marquis Who's Who in America, Alfred Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award (2025). The International Association of Top Professionals has honored me as a Top 25 Global Impact Leader. Our Foundation offers weekly TV Shows

Winter 2025

Miriam Diaz-Gilbert, Rutgers College 1981

I am a retired adjunct professor of theology/religion studies. After I retired early due to the pandemic, I became a self-taught acrylic painter. I have participated in four art exhibitions so far. My book, Come What May, I Want to Run: A Memoir of the Saving Grace of Ultrarunning in Overwhelming Times, was published in 2023. I am an ultra runner. I ran ultras no. 40 & 41 in October. In June 2023, I beat breast cancer. In July, my husband Jon Gilbert, RC '82, also a cancer survivor, and I, celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary. We have two adult children and are grandparents to three beautiful grandchildren. I’m working on my next book. It’s about how I healed my eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE); it’s part memoir/part cookbook.

Summer 2025

Gillian (Jill) Kendall, Douglass College 1982

I am living in Northern California, in a delightful co-housing community called FrogSong.  My latest book -- a memoir about working as a parliamentary reporter in Australia -- will be out in summer 2025. It's called NOTES FROM THE STRANGERS' CORRIDOR: A STORY OF EDITING, INSOMNIA, AND MINOR MENTAL ILLNESS (Australian Scholarly Press).

Spring 2025

Joseph C. Schiavo, Camden College of Arts and Sciences 1982, Graduate School of New Brunswick 1986 & 2006 

Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, Camden College of Arts and Sciences Artistic Director, Mallery Concert Series, Visual, Media, and Performing Arts Department.

Winter 2025

Hank Lubin, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School 1983

Classmates, we are trying to build out our Class Directory. Please send me your contact info to hanklubin@rwjmsaa.org, including email address. Thanks.

Summer 2025

Frank Albano, Mason Gross School of the Arts 1984

Dwight Skerritt, Cook College 1984, has passed away on June 17, 2025.
While we all hold our alma mater, Rutgers University, near and dear to our hearts, Dwight held particular pride in RU and Rutgers Football, a season ticket holder for over 20 years. He could very often be seen wearing his signature Rutgers cap and/or t-shirt, whether at the stadium or not. He loved talking about our Rutgers days and the thousands of stories we shared over and over again throughout the years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Joseph Carlani, Rutgers College 1984

I continue my journey as a lifelong learner this year. After graduating in 2008 with a Master of Science from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation, I graduated again this May 2025 with a Master in Law from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Congratulations! I currently serve as Senior Vice President, Endowment & Foundation Specialist, with the Institutional Investments & Philanthropic Solutions Group at Bank of America, and likewise serve as a recipient of the Rutgers Excellence in Alumni Leadership Award for my many initiatives as founding president of a chartered alumni group affiliated with the Rutgers University Alumni Association.

Debra McCusker, Graduate School of New Brunswick 1984

Under my leadership as academic department head, Alamance Community College has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) for the IT Systems Security (Cybersecurity) program of study. This affirmation extends through academic year 2030.  The academic program's ability to meet the increasing demands of the CAE-CD criteria will serve the nation well in contributing to the protection of the National Information Infrastructure.

Winter 2025

Marlana DeMarco Hogan, Rutgers College 1984

After retiring from a twenty-five-year career teaching Italian Language and Culture in the Old Bridge Public School System right out of college, I have since published a five-book children's book series, the Growing Up Years, and a collection of verses - decades in the making - all through Newman Springs Publishing.

The recently released collection of poems, Decades Under the Same Shared Sun, transports the reader through time, and with each heartfelt verse, the author provides a glimpse of her life experiences as a first-generation Italian American. The Growing Up children's books follow four generations of family fun over two continents, from her parents' hometown in Italy to her own New Jersey home. From Growing Up in the Torrone Zone to Growing Up in the Dragonfly Zone, these storybooks are filled with love, outdoor play, and special family traditions enjoyed together under the same shared sun.

My studies at Rutgers provided me with a strong knowledge base to enable me to share my life experiences while teaching and through this more recent writing endeavor. Thank you Rutgers!

Martin Portillo, Rutgers Newark College of Arts and Sciences, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

I’m a dynamic healthcare executive with over three decades of experience driving strategic initiatives and leading clinical operations within complex healthcare systems. As a seasoned chief medical officer, I am dedicated to enhancing patient care and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. I have proven expertise in Hospital operations, Medical Group and Health Plan operations. In my previous roles, including Corporate Clinical Director for Population Health Management at Bon Secours Health System Inc. and VP of Medical Affairs & Chief Medical Officer at Molina Healthcare Inc., I have developed and executed strategic programs to enhance patient care, optimize resource utilization, and ensure regulatory compliance. I worked in dyad partnership to lead Clinical transformation collaborating with six state matrix leadership; including over 16 Hospital Presidents, Hospitalist and their CMO to implement a Reliable Care Accountable Matrix (RCAM) organization which led improvements in LOS, Mortality, Sepsis, falls and HAI and laid the infrastructure for driving Population Health. My track record includes achieving substantial cost savings, securing commendable accreditation status, and driving initiatives to improve patient engagement and provider satisfaction.

My tenure is characterized by a dedication to driving organizational performance bolstered by expertise in healthcare reform and evidence-based standards. The initiatives I've led reflect a deep-seated value for improving patient safety and healthcare delivery, all while embracing innovation and transformation within the dynamic landscape of medical practices.

With a proven track record of success in spearheading transformative initiatives thru change management, I have led the integration of multiple medical practices, resulting in enhanced quality patient outcomes and substantial revenue growth. My expertise extends to strategic planning, population health management, and the implementation of value-based care models. I am passionate about leveraging technology and data analytics to drive innovation and improve healthcare delivery. Throughout my career, I have excelled in fostering stakeholder relationships, driving value-based care models, and implementing innovative healthcare strategies. Whether deploying telemedicine solutions, pioneering Medicaid Managed Care programs, or enhancing patient-centered medical home initiatives, I consistently deliver measurable results.

I am a proud father of Sonia and Estevan with a wonderful 16-year-old grandson-Nicolas and a devoted clinician. I enjoy spending quality time with my family and enjoy a deep love for reading, always pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Lou Schopfer, Camden College of Arts and Sciences Graduate School - Camden 1984

My retirement exemplifies a life that continues to be rich with service, engagement, and personal growth. After a remarkable 34-year career in public service with various state agencies, I have seamlessly transitioned into retirement activities that reflect my longstanding commitment to my community, my passion for learning, and my deep ties to my alma mater, Rutgers University.

A highlight of my post-retirement life is my dedication to volunteerism and mentorship. I remain actively involved in church, the Haddonfield United Methodist Church, where I contribute to the technical team, serve as a Stephen Ministry Leader, and coordinate disaster response efforts. My volunteer work extends beyond the church as well; I continue my advocacy for public safety and disaster preparedness through my role with the New Jersey Community Emergency Response Team (NJCERT). In addition to my community service, I have furthered my personal development by enrolling in programs like the Cherry Hill Township Civilian Police Academy and the LiveStrong program at the Mount Laurel YMCA. These activities reflect my belief in the value of lifelong learning and health. My ongoing commitment to public safety and community improvement also led me to serve as a District Disaster Response Coordinator for the Delaware Bay UMC District, showing my continued leadership in disaster relief. Additionally, I have not slowed down in my academic pursuits. I hold a Master’s in Public Policy and continue to engage with Rutgers University as a member of the Alumni Advisory Board for the Department of Public Policy and Administration. My enduring relationship with Rutgers is a testament to my belief in education and civic responsibility.

Through these activities, my retirement is far from a quiet retreat. Instead, it is a dynamic extension of my life’s work—a testament to my ongoing commitment to service, leadership, and personal fulfillment.

Summer 2025

Linda Tancs, Rutgers College 1985

I have authored a new book on travel entitled All You Want to Know About Travel. Imagine having all of your travel questions answered in one text, eliminating the deep dive into a multitude of sources. After all, you're too busy for that. That's where All You Want to Know About Travel comes in. As practical as it gets, the book is chock-full of tips, tricks, hints, and resources covering everything from researching a destination to getting ready to come back home.
Available exclusively through the Lulu bookstore in print or e-book at https://www.lulu.com/shop.

Spring 2025

Maryjayne Lambert Carter, Douglass College 1985 

From a personal standpoint, I’m experiencing life as an empty nester. I’m happy to say that one of my daughters has been accepted into Rutgers Law school!

Summer 2025

Dawn Filos, D.M.V., Cook College 1986

I had my veterinary memoir published on October 8, 2024. It is titled: Tales of a Pet Vet. Stories from the Clinic and House Calls and is available in paperback, eBook, and audio formats.

Maureen Sherbondy, Douglass College 1986

My latest poetry book, THE BODY REMEMBERS, will be published by Unsolicited Press in October of 2025. www.maureensherbondy.com

Summer 2025

Anne Cerstvik Nolan, School of Communication, Information, and Library Sciences, 1987

I have retired from Brown University after 32 years.  My last title was Collection Strategist for Licensing and Assessment in the Brown University Library.

Summer 2025

Marjorie Cuffy, School of Business Camden 1990

I am the author of a Book, The Bond of Love: A Global Affair, published by Balboa Press in 2017.
It is a categorized as Spirituality.

Diana Manning, Rutgers College 1990, School of Law, Newark 1993

I have been named to the 2025 NJBIZ Law Power List for the fifth consecutive year and have been sworn in as the Second Vice President of the New Jersey State Bar Association (NJSBA) during its Annual Meeting and Convention. The NJSBA is the largest professional organization for judges, lawyers, and legal professionals in the state. I am on track to become President of the NJSBA in 2028. In addition to my role as a member of NJSBA’s Executive Committee, I serve as Chair of the Civil Trial Bar Section and have served as Chair of the Amicus Committee as well as Chair of the Judicial and Prosecutorial Committee.

Winter 2025

Richy Spiegel, Rutgers College 1990

Over a year ago I moved to Mechanicsburg, PA where I am the Director of Corporate Communication and Legislative Affairs for the US Navy, Naval Supply Systems Command. I enjoy being as close as I have ever been to home in NJ and the opportunity to get more involved in Rutgers events and alumni activities.

Jeffrey Jacob, Rutgers College 1990

I started a position as SVP, Finance & Administration at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. It is a fantastic opportunity and a great way to help drive the continued rebirth of Newark! 

Fall 2024

James Barrod, Rutgers College 1990

I was recognized in August as among the 20 top 2024 Leaders in Technology by NJBiz business journal.

Laurie Hall, Rutgers College 1990

Received Doctorate from University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education in Higher Education Management with research focus on leadership and governance. 

Jeff Isaacs, Rutgers College 1990

Jeff recently celebrated ten years as brand manager at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. His older son is halfway to a degree in civil engineering at Old Dominion, and is handling calculus way better than his old man ever did.

Albert Zaretskie, Rutgers College 1990

I have nothing but great memories of being at RC back in the late 80s. I've been living in Switzerland since 1998 but made a visit back to College Avenue on a lazy summer day a couple years ago. Hope to make the next reunion.

Summer 2025

Sandra Adams- Picchierri, Rutgers College 1991

Administrative Law Judge.

Holly (Ray) Folgia, School of Social Work 1991

I started The Rooted Foundation, established to raise funds to advance ovarian cancer research. Rooted’s first fundraiser is underway with the sale of my first book- I Hope You Know, a tribute to the bond between parent and child written in 2007 and published during my courageous fight with stage 4 ovarian cancer, 50% of all proceeds go to ovarian cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering.
The link for the book at Amazon: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/i-hope-you-know-holly-ray-folgia/1147403229 
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/i-hope-you-know-holly-ray-folgia/1147403229

Spring 2025

Larry Ladutke, Rutgers College, 1991

I have been admitted to the Masters of Public Administration program at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Classes begin in September; we are in the process of planning our relocation to Nova Scotia from New Jersey. This will be my fifth degree--I have my B.A. from Rutgers and my M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D from CUNY Graduate Center (all in Political Science). I expect to complete an internship in the summer of 2026 and graduate in 2027. Dalhousie has a very intensive MPA program, it requires 54 credits in two years.

Wendy Torres, Rutgers College 1991

My husband and I met on the first day of our freshman year at Rutgers in 1987. We both had been assigned to the 5th floor of Frelinghuysen Hall. We quickly discovered that we were from bordering towns, and we both had gone to his high school’s senior prom. We got to know each other by walking to our classes in Voorhees Mall, playing tennis behind our dorm in Deiner Park, and going on late-night trips to get gyros from the grease trucks on College Ave. Our first date was on campus at Old Man Rafferty’s in October of 1987. We graduated in 1991 and got married in 1993, with many of our Rutgers friends participating in the ceremony. We are still married to this day, with three adult children.

Winter 2025

Larry Ladutke, Rutgers College 1991

I never expected to be listed as a coauthor of an epidemiology study published in the Lancet. The article is about mass incarceration as a driver of tuberculosis in Latin America. It is available at https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(24)00192-0/fulltext. An interview with principal investigator Yiran Liu and me is at https://soundcloud.com/wrfihumanrightsshow/yiran-liu-and-larry-ladutke.

Luis Freire, Livingston College 1991

Substitute Teacher, NJ Public School.

Summer 2025

Karen Bryant, Rutgers College-School of Business 1992

I am employed at UnitedHealth Group as a Project Manager, and I recently discovered a new passion for being published as a children’s author. It’s my first book, and it’s available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble under my pen name, “Marie Jones - The Adventures of Opal and Ruby”. This book is a dedication to my pets, and I hope to have more stories to share as I explore this new chapter of developing stories for kids to read.

Leni Paquet-Morante, Mason Gross School of the Arts 1992

I'm pleased to announce my solo exhibition "Extract/Abstract: Landscape and the Architecture of Memory" at Princeton University Art Museum Art@Bainbridge, July 19-November 9, 2025. Primarily a painter, I also work in sculpture and print media and have a studio at Grounds For Sculpture. I came to Mason Gross in my late twenties, newly married, and worked full-time while getting my degree. My time there was very rewarding, and I'm still in touch with several classmates. I live in Hamilton, NJ with my sculptor husband; we have three adult children. My work can be seen on www.lenimorante.com.

Mary Beth Paradise, Cook College 1992

From a letter winner as a student athletic trainer to an anatomy professor to an Independent Medical Concussion spotter for the Big Ten, MB is #makingrutgersproud. “My involvement in the RU Sports Medicine club was life-changing. Rutgers was way ahead of the curve, offering opportunities for women to work with men’s sports. (Not many other schools were doing that at the time) Each day was a chance to apply the things we were learning in the classroom. But the biggest gift was the incredible mentorship. The docs and ATs have remained mentors to this day”. 

For the past six seasons, I served as an independent medical concussion spotter for the Big Ten.  Now an author, I stepped down this year to focus on sharing my children’s book which promotes disability inclusion in children’s lit and gives back to Team LeGrand.

Spring 2025

Stacey Palant (Nemerson), Livingston College 1992 

I co-presented at the March 2025 New Jersey Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NJSHA) State Convention "Leading the Way to Empowered Communication" in Atlantic City, NJ. My session, *Enhancing Classroom Collaboration: Push-In Strategies for Speech-Language Specialists*, focused on effective approaches for integrating speech-language support within the classroom setting. I am a Speech-Language Specialist at Princeton High School, where I work with students to develop their communication skills and support their academic success.

Erik and Beth Kent, Rutgers College 1992 

Beth and I met on campus during our Rutgers College as Communication majors and Art History minors in 1992. We were married on April 17, 1994, at Kirkpatrick Chapel on the Old Queens campus. We decided to start a business publishing websites (NJWedding.com and NJParenting.com) which continue to grow. We recently celebrated 30 years of marriage and live in Montgomery Township, NJ, with our 3 children, Ellie, Zoe, and Ian.

Winter 2025

Edward Aboufadel, Graduate School of New Brunswick 1992

I am the inaugural recipient of the T. Christine Stevens Award for Leadership Development from the Mathematical Association of America. This award recognizes significant, sustained work to develop leadership within the mathematical sciences, across the full range of professional activities. (Webpage with more details: https://maa.org/news/maa-announces-2023-t-christine-stevens-award-for-leadership-development-winner/).

Spring 2025

James Sahagian, Rutgers College 1993 

Subject: Exciting Recognition for Ramapo Wealth Advisors Dear Class of '93 Scarlett Knights: I'm thrilled to share that my financial advisory team has been named to the Forbes 2025 Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list for New Jersey! This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional financial guidance and building meaningful client relationships. As a proud Rutgers graduate, I appreciate the foundation my education provided in shaping my career. Go Scarlet Knights!

Glen Tobias, Cook College 1993 

I graduated with a degree in Nutritional Science in 1993 and went on to get my Masters in Clinical Nutrition from NYU. I am a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics and a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. I was the team Performance Dietitian for the NY Jets from 2013-2016 (4 seasons) Then the team Performance Dietitian for the Boston Red Son from 2017-2020 (4 seasons). 2018 World Series champs.

Winter 2025

Niranjana Rajan-Mohandas, New Jersey Medical School-Newark 1994

I am a Pediatrician and have combined my passion for medicine and mysteries in my recently published my debut novel, entitled A Pre-Med(itated) Murder. It is in the Cozy Mystery genre and follows a third-year Medical student, Neena, as she starts her first clinical rotation and becomes an accidental sleuth. Please see my website, nirumohandas.com for further information.

Dr. Kristyn Corace, Rutgers College Graduate School of Education 1994

I completed my doctorate in Education - Organizational Leadership in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. My dissertation title was, "Transition Planning Team Membership for Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities: A Qualitative Descriptive Study".

Summer 2025

Cyndy Mamalian, School of Criminal Justice 1995

I am very excited to announce the publication of my first book, "Scratch My Itch: A Caregiver’s Honest, Humorous, and Healing Stories About the Horrors of ALS" (Wipf and Stock Publishers). This memoir shares engaging stories about lessons learned and the resilience and humor I discovered while caring for my mother, who had ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), while also sharing the frustrations and horrors of this disease. This authentic and uncomfortably honest story is equal parts love letter, confession, and comedy, and is good company for anyone who has loved and cared for another person. Proceeds from each book sold are being donated to support much-needed ALS research, which I believe is one small way the world can infuse hope into a disease that currently offers none. Please visit my website (www.cyndymamalian.com) to learn more!

Spring 2025

Kristyn Corace, Rutgers College 1995, Graduate School of Education 2006

In October 2024, I completed my Ed.D. in Organization Leadership with an Emphasis in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. My dissertation title is Transition Planning Team Membership for Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities: A Qualitative Study. I have been teaching in the Middletown Township School District in Middletown, NJ for 31 years as a special education teacher.

Phil (Young) Cha, Cook College 1995, School of Law, Camden 1999 

Phil was appointed as the new managing partner of Duane Morris LLP - Southern New Jersey office. He is a member of Duane Morris’ governing Partners Board and serves as a team lead for the firm’s Energy Industry Group. He litigates complex and high-stakes disputes in state and federal courts across the United States. His diverse client base spans industries such as oil and gas, renewable and sustainable energy, manufacturing, transportation, wholesale, retail and healthcare.

Spring 2025

Lizzett Cuervo, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1997

I am an experienced educator, entrepreneur, and executive function specialist dedicated to empowering individuals with ADHD. With 15 years as a special education teacher, I have firsthand knowledge of the challenges neurodivergent students face in traditional learning environments. I hold a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, equipping me with the expertise to design effective strategies that bridge the gap between intention and performance. 

As the co-founder of a nonprofit organization, Circle Match, where underrepresented students gain access to elite colleges from marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the guidance and opportunities they deserve. This passion for advocacy and education led me to establish Chispa Consulting, where I serve as CEO. At Chispa, I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD develop executive function strategies that enhance productivity, organization, and overall success in both academic and professional settings. 

My work focuses on translating research-based executive function techniques into practical, actionable solutions tailored to the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Whether through one-on-one coaching, dynamic workshops, or corporate training, my mission is to foster a deeper understanding of ADHD and equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive.

Winter 2025

Jeremy Fisher, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1997

Television producer/editor; Winner of four Suncoast Regional Emmy Awards in Sports Television (2005, 2007, 2023), two Edward R. Murrow Awards (2005, 2007), and two Green Eyeshade Awards (2005, 2007.) Living in Miami, FL.

Shanell Mainor, Livingston College 1997

26-year Special Educator/Autism Specialist.

Spring 2025

Benny Rausa, Newark College of Arts and Sciences 1999

Benny has been elected to the partnership at CohnReznick. Effective February 1, 2025, his title is Partner and Chief Accounting Officer.

Summer 2025

Wally Marzano-Lesnevich, Mason Gross School of the Arts 2000

I co-wrote with actor/comedian Paul Reiser the feature film "The Problem With People," now streaming on Prime Video and available on other platforms. Filmed on location in Ireland, the film co-stars Reiser and Irish actor Colm Meaney.

Summer 2025

Robert Pitkofsky, School of Law, Camden 2001

I serve as Section Chief for the Office of the New York State Attorney General. I represent five New York State Department of Health facilities in the NYS Supreme and Surrogate's Courts. 
Graduated from the University at Albany with his Master of Public Administration degree in May 2025. I will begin to study for a Master of Public Health degree at the University at Buffalo in the fall semester. 
I live with my wife and three children in Rockland County, NY.

Winter 2025

Carmen Perez-Rojas, Rutgers College 2001

My husband and I met at RU (he’s SOE class of 2000). We got married at Kirkpatrick and took our wedding photos at Passion Puddle. Years later, I came back and received my MSW in 2010.

Julieanne Chazotte, Douglass College 2001

In 2001, when I graduated Rutgers, I felt scared about the journey into the world ahead of me. The one thing I had to lean on was I had graduated from Rutgers University, a university I loved so dearly. I had studied sociology, but no longer planned to go on to study that at higher levels. I moved across the country to Phoenix and hoped a new plan would occur to me. It did.

I went on to get my masters in education in Education and then spiritual psychology.

All of my degrees have led me to where I am today. I am the Founder and CEO of SimpleSHIFT, a platform that brings people together and helps them to heal and to wake up to the gifts, power and purpose that lives within them. I use every single one of my degrees and more. And I know that my time at Rutgers helped to forge a strength, determination, curiosity and fortitude that lives through me to this day. Everything I have accomplished and will accomplish has seeds that started on those very grounds.

Fall 2024

Michelle Bergamo, Rutgers School of Communication & Information 2001

Michelle recently wrapped filming for "Jersey Birdies," an independent feature film she wrote and produced with RufCut Pictures. An homage to the Garden State, the film takes place in NJ and was shot entirely in state. Coming in 2025, the story follows Maria Romanelli (played by Samantha Simone), who must overcome her own life-struggles to try to save her late sister's softball team. Fun fact: One of the young stars of the movie, Lena Josephine Marano, is the daughter RU professor & alumna Dr. Melissa Rivera Marano. Jersey pride!

Winter 2025

Thomas Culotta, Rutgers Camden Graduate School of Business 2002

Recently joined the Elwyn Foundation as Executive Director of Risk Management. The Elwyn Foundation, founded in 1852, is the leader in education, treatment, and support services to children and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and related behavioral health challenges.

Summer 2025

Rosanna Ferro, Rutgers College 2003, School of Social Work 2006, and Graduate School of Education 2012

I joined Bates College as vice president for student affairs, effective Dec. 2, 2024. I have over two decades of leadership experience in higher education, driving initiatives that enhance both the academic performance and social-emotional development of college students. Before Bates, I served as the inaugural chief of education at College Track, a comprehensive college access and completion nonprofit based in Oakland, Calif. In that role, I provided strategic oversight for a division comprising some 190 professional full-time staff members, delivering an integrated 10-year program serving more than 4,000 high school and college students across 12 U.S. centers and 300 colleges and universities.  Prior to College Track, I served in student affairs leadership roles at Rutgers University, Williams College, and Ithaca College, where I was vice president for student affairs and campus life.

Winter 2025

Melissa Magyar, Rutgers College 2003

Me and my husband, Joseph Cheung (Cook College 2003), met at Rutgers in the summer of 2001. We loved our time at Rutgers together and continue to visit when we can. We even had season tickets for the football games for a few years and now try to tailgate with friends at least once a season. We welcomed our son, Benjamin, in 2023 and hope to show him the Rutgers we love very soon! 

Summer 2025

Erin Medley, Douglass College 2004

I was recently promoted to Director, Global Digital Strategy and Content Ecosystem at Kenvue, the Fortune 500 consumer health spinoff of Johnson & Johnson’s.

Winter 2025

Kaity Friedmann, Rutgers College 2004

I met my husband, Brian, in 2002 when I was introduced to him by a friend who was his fraternity brother at Sigma Chi. He always made me laugh and I would see him sometimes at Rutgers Club student nights, where I worked as a server. A few weeks later, we started dating after a fun night dancing at one of Sigma Chi’s parties. He called me the next day and asked to take me on a “proper date” and we decided of course to go to Stuff Yer Face. Our first date felt like we had known each other forever and we stayed for hours just talking. We’ve pretty much been inseparable ever since. We celebrated 17 years of marriage in June and have been together for 22. We have been Rutgers football season ticket holders for 15 years. We have two amazing boys who have grown up going to Rutgers football games their whole lives and graciously listen to our stories of the “old days” at RU.

Summer 2025

Mary Beth Koniecki, Camden College of Arts and Sciences 2005

As a two-time Melanoma survivor, I started The Sunscreen Project, a New Jersey nonprofit Organization, to spread awareness about Melanoma. Each year, I collect sunscreen to deliver to local police departments across Gloucester, Camden, and Cape May Counties. This year, I was able to deliver a little over 1,000 sunscreen packages! I even received a proclamation from the mayor of Mantua Township, NJ, for my efforts. Please read more about my "why" on my website, www.thesunscreenproject.org.

Spring 2025

Bryan Epps, Rutgers College 2005 

I was recently appointed Chief Programs and Impact Officer at Sojourners, a leading faith-based organization dedicated to advancing justice across issues. In this role, I will lead national initiatives focused on democracy and the common good, work rooted in the values of the beloved community that I cultivated during my time at Rutgers. Reflecting on this new chapter, “Rutgers taught me the power of public service through world-class instruction and valuable real-life experiences. I’m excited to carry these lessons forward as we work toward a more just and unified world.”

Winter 2025

Danny Phan, Cook College 2005

Dr. Danny Phan, DPM, MBA, MPH, MS, FACPM, FASPS, FFPM RCPS (Glasg) is the owner of 5 medical offices in Central Jersey. I am currently a board member (Secretary/Treasurer) for the NJ Podiatric Medical Society, board director for the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons, communication director on foot care for the American Diabetes Association, board for the NJ Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, and 2nd Vice President for the Rutgers Touchdown Club. I have mentored numerous aspiring Rutgers students on their journey to medical school.

Winter 2025

Kelly Harrigan, Cook College 2006

Broke 3 masters swimming world records in 2024 (women's 40-44 LCM 200 back, SCM 200 back, SCM 100 back). Was the first and still only female to complete the Lake Wörthersee 34km swim without a wetsuit in 2023.

Summer 2025

Andrew Egan, Rutgers College 2007

I have been recognized in the Chambers High Net Worth 2025 Guide and in the Private Wealth Disputes category, placing me among the top 2% of lawyers and advisors globally. The Chambers High Net Worth Guide covers private wealth management and related specialties in key jurisdictions worldwide. I am a principal at Bressler, one of New Jersey’s premier fiduciary litigators, focusing my practice on navigating emotionally charged and high-stakes probate, trust, and guardianship litigation. I have significant experience representing individual and charitable beneficiaries, fiduciaries—including executors, trustees, guardians, and individuals acting under powers of attorney—and am frequently appointed by courts to handle complex or contentious matters.

Spring 2025

Kelley Eccles (DaCunha), Newark College of Arts and Sciences 2007 

KRS CPAs is proud to announce the promotion of Kelley Ann Eccles (DaCunha), CPA, to partner. She joined KRS 17 years ago as an entry-level accountant. She has advanced through various roles due to her leadership in business development, staff recruitment and training, and her success in building strong client relationships, particularly within professional service firms. 

Her dedication and passion have been instrumental in growing the team and ensuring top-tier client care,” says Managing Partner Maria Rollins, CPA, MST. Partner Jerry Shanker, CPA/ABV, MST, highlights her contributions to the firm’s law firm clients and her mentorship to younger staff, especially during tax season. 

Reflecting on her promotion, she shared, “I’ve grown alongside KRS over the years and have always been committed to making it a great place to work and delivering outstanding client service.” Her promotion coincides with KRS’s 20th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for both Eccles and the firm. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Rutgers University, Newark, NJ. 

She lives in Wood-Ridge, NJ, with her husband and two children, Ella and Liam.

Winter 2025

Ashley Waldman, Rutgers College 2009

My husband and I met at the homecoming football game in 2010 as alumni. We both attended our Greek life tailgate events and met through mutual friends. We married in 2014, and our wedding colors were Rutgers colors.

Summer 2025

Shari-Ann Sasu, School of Law, Camden 2010

In May, I was certified by the NJ Supreme Court in Criminal Trial Law in Cumberland County. I am the only black and female attorney in Cumberland County with this designation, as well as the youngest. I was featured on Insider NJ and on the national Jamaican news channel TVJ for this designation. My backstory is that back in 2006, Rutgers sent me a letter of invitation to join a pilot program to accept potential law students who had taken the GRE instead of the LSAT for admission. I mentioned this part of my journey in the interview. I still have the letter. The rest of my achievements are available on my LinkedIn. 

Winter 2025

Lara Santoro, Graduate School of New Brunswick 2011

I found my sweetheart at RU. We have been married 10 years!

Nicholas Wright, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences Graduate School of Education 2011

Recently appointed Instructional Supervisor (K-12 Science) at Gloucester City School District in Gloucester City, NJ.

Spring 2025

Tatyana Patel, University College - Camden 2012

Growing up in a lower-middle-class family in Bulgaria, it was somewhat hard for me to set long-term goals and have big dreams even though my future was often on my mind during calm times of my day. Luckily, my circumstances allowed me to discover the broad world of education. Fast forward to age 28, I graduated with a BA degree in psychology from Rutgers Camden, and after a year of reflection, I went on to graduate school earning an MSW degree. Academia inspired me to pursue goals I did not imagine and pay it forward to my community and my own children. I credit RUC education for the transformational processes I experienced, and for that, I have a better quality of life, self-fulfillment, and a sense of belonging and gratitude to the world around me. RUC has a special place in my heart because it is tied to my family, where my husband is an alumnus, and my firstborn child is a freshman. I am positive this will not be my last connection to the Rutgers community. Together (with my RUC family) I have been able to expand my horizons and cultural experiences either through the classes I attended or the events and truly remarkable empowering people I met. The most exciting thing I would like to highlight in this class note is that everyone has their own measure of success and mine is being able to be on this journey called life with my family and with my pride of being a Rutgers alumni.

Jonathan Carrillo, School of Law, Newark 2012

As an attorney in the Newark office of Littler, the largest employment and labor law practice he has been elevated to shareholder, effective January 1, 2025. 

“Jonathan is an exceptional attorney who has consistently demonstrated the qualities needed to be a successful shareholder through his deep knowledge and experience in labor and employment law, combined with his strong leadership and unwavering dedication to client service,” said Peter B. Ajalat, Newark office managing shareholder. “On behalf of Littler, I congratulate him and look forward to his continued success as shareholder.” 

He focuses on workplace safety and health and assists employers who have experienced workplace injuries or are subject to federal or state OSHA inspections. He has appeared before various appellate courts and has written briefs in the United States Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, among others. Hr earned his J.D. from Rutgers School of Law and his B.A., summa cum laude, from Saint Peter’s University. 

For a full bio, visit https://www.littler.com/people/jonathan-carrillo.

Fall 2024

Jacqueline Olsen, Rutgers New Brunswick School of Arts & Sciences 2013

In Memory of Berne Rolston, '42. In 2015, I "met" Berne via a "call to action" class note which sought engagement amongst our Alumni network in hopes that he could connect to old and new Rutgers Alum. I was fortunate enough to read his note and embark on a friendship with my favorite pen pal. Here are some things I learned about Berne over the years. Berne became a Scarlet Knight in 1938 having attended Rutgers when there were only 1600 men at the time! He graduated in 1942 right before he was drafted into WW2. After the war, he went on to graduate from USC Law in 1952. He settled in California with his family and had a very accomplished career as a lawyer in private practice and passed his love for the law down to his son. One of his favorite things to do was watch the ocean. I would often get photos of it when New Jersey was having a particularly cold day or snowstorm. Even long past his retirement, he devoted his time pro bono to assisting his community, including serving as a municipal judge up until the pandemic. He was passionate about mentorship and helped me throughout law school and well into my legal career. We shared stories of old and new relationships, travels and hobbies, which included a passion for watching movies and sharing a love of wine. Berne led every conversation with wit, intelligence and humor as a reminder that despite day-to-day challenges with health, work, studying or romance, there was always something to be celebrated. He celebrated every little win and every little update. His legacy in life was to spread positivity and encourage it among others, and he did just that. Sadly, I learned of Berne's passing last year, and I am heartbroken at the loss of a very dear friend and fellow Scarlet Knight. Berne's call to action back in 2015 is a testament to the fact that our Alumni network does not just extend geographically, but also generationally. We can learn so much by connecting within our community. To whoever is reading this, I encourage you to endeavor to do the same. You never know who you will meet and what you can learn. As I write this, I am reading back through my communications with Berne and it has brought me so much joy and laughter. Each communication serves as a time capsule for the many phases of the last 8 years of our lives. I have grown and learned so much, and it is all because I reached out a fellow Rutgers Alum back in 2015. I think Berne would have liked to have known that. If anyone else had the opportunity to connect with Berne, please share a memory. Thank you for reading.

Spring 2025

Mariel Mercado-Guevara, Esq., School of Law, Newark 2015 

I am pleased to announce my new position as an experienced Attorney in the insurance coverage department in the Marshall Conway Bradley & Gollub law firm in downtown New York City office. My focus is on insurance coverage issues in NY and NJ, and I represent domestic and international insurers and re-insurers in a wide range of complex insurance coverage disputes arising from commercial general liability, construction defects, builder’s risk, and professional liability policies, among other things. I have extensive experience in advising clients on claims handling issues and developing cost-effective strategies in coverage disputes. I have also counseled a wide array of clients from mid-sized businesses to Fortune 500 companies, in a variety of complex and sophisticated legal matters.

Summer 2025

Jill Azzolini, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences 2016

I earned my Ph.D in Evolutionary Biology from Arizona State University in December 2023. My dissertation examined how limited water resources influence temperature selection during crucial physiological states using a captive breeding colony of Children's pythons (Antaresia children).

Winter 2025

Caitlin Kober, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences 2016

My fiancé and I met at Rutgers in the marching band! We have been inseparable ever since. He followed me to Colorado in 2016 so I could go to vet school at Colorado State University, and he has been my biggest supporter since I graduated in 2020. Even though we live in Colorado, we support Rutgers football and basketball every chance we get from afar!

Summer 2025

Shahé Sanentz, School of Communication, Information, and Library Sciences 2019

On April 27, 2025, sharing the stage with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Congressman Frank Pallone, co-founder and chairman of Moderna Noubar Afeyan, His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, and other dignitaries, I delivered a speech in Times Square at a commemorative gathering marking the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Winter 2025

Danielle Nicolosi, School of Arts and Sciences 2019

My fiancé and I met through our pre-calculus class on Cook/Douglass and have been together ever since! We also got engaged on College Ave❤️

Henggao Cai, Rutgers Business School 2019

Recently married

Summer 2025

Francesco Catalano, Rutgers Business School Newark & New Brunswick 2020

As a Financial Consultant with Equitable Advisors, I work with clients to help develop strategies for protecting and growing their Wealth.
I have years of experience within the Financial Services industry, previously working for an Asset Management firm in the Investment Management Operations area. My background and experience make me uniquely qualified to help individuals, households, and small businesses with their Financial Planning and Wealth Management needs.

Fall 2024

Shamali Nitin Shah, Rutgers Business School 2021

From India to the USA: My Journey in IT and Analytics at Rutgers Business School As an international student from India, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in information technology began a transformative journey that led me to where I am today. During my time at Pune University along with my technical capabilities I was deeply involved in the Entrepreneurship Cell, where I had the opportunity to grow my entrepreneurial skills by meeting business leaders and participating in events that fostered innovation and leadership. Additionally, being part of the TEDx event organizing team was a remarkable experience that honed my event management and organizational skills. Seeking to expand my knowledge, I pursued a Master’s in IT and Analytics at Rutgers University. This program introduced me to pivotal subjects like Business Data Management, Project Management, and advanced technical skills in R and Python. A standout experience was my capstone project on stock market analysis for airlines, under the mentorship of Professor Sergei Schreider. I applied advanced techniques such as the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model and conducted text sentiment analysis using Hugging Face algorithms. This project was instrumental in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The guidance from esteemed faculty, including Directors of the MITA program Vijaya Atluri and Farid Alizadeh, and Professor Teymourian, was invaluable.
Additionally, working part-time with the P3 Collaboratory at Rutgers allowed me to demonstrate my data analytics skills and contribute to website development. Post-graduation, I joined Slalom as a Data Analyst, where I have spent the past three years working with technologies like Databricks, PowerBI, and Tableau. This role has been immensely rewarding, allowing me to apply my academic learnings in a professional setting and contribute to various impactful projects.
Reflecting on my journey, the experiences and opportunities at Pune University and Rutgers University have been crucial in shaping my career. I am proud to be an alumni of these institutions and look forward to staying connected with the alumni network to support and inspire future students.

Summer 2025

Jay Yeung, Rutgers Business School - New Brunswick 2022

Allocation Analyst.

Winter 2025

Kaila Crozier, Rutgers Camden College of Arts and Sciences 2022, 2024 Graduate School - Camden

It's hard to believe that I graduated a mere seven months ago because it feels like a century! Since graduating from GSC, I have been working full-time at various places and job searching for roles in either college athletics or higher education. With my degree in teaching and thanks to the wonderful professors at Rutgers-Camden, I hope to inspire the next generation of leaders, helping them navigate their life in college either as a counselor or an administrator. Additionally, I had been training and finished the City Invincible Track Ultra on the same track where I used to work when I was employed at Rutgers-Camden athletics. It felt like a full circle moment to cross the finish line after spending twelve hours in the rain around a track with some highly motivated people in a place I call home. To see the bridge behind me as I finished felt so rewarding! I am thankful for my Rutgers family, who motivated me every day in undergraduate and graduate school.

Summer 2025

Arleny Valdez Torres, Camden College of Arts and Sciences 2023

After earning my B.A. in Health Science in May 2023, I’m proud to share that I’m continuing my education at Rutgers University–Camden, pursuing a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Public and Nonprofit Management. I began this journey in September 2024 and have completed 30/42 credits within my first two semesters. As someone deeply committed to community empowerment, equity, and public service, this next step is more than just an academic achievement—it’s a reflection of my purpose. From working directly with families as a Family Partner to advocating for underserved populations, especially veterans and low-income communities, I’ve seen the power of effective leadership and compassionate policy firsthand. This journey at Rutgers is preparing me to lead with integrity, serve with impact, and continue fighting for the systems-level change our communities deserve.

Winter 2025

David Garner, College of Engineering 2023

It started with being just two doors apart freshmen year in Allen hall. She commented on my band posters, I helped fix her TV. We were just going to be friends, but that didn't last for long. We went from in-person to COVID lockdown to hybrid to one final year in-person at Rutgers, and none of it slowed us down. Over the years, Lexy wrote down poems on dining hall napkins or in between pages of notes that I would be overjoyed to find. She always saw herself becoming an author one day. I always wanted to be an artist. Alas, hobbies got put aside and priorities changed as we entered our careers in engineering and supply chain management. But some dreams are too special to let go. A year ago, I surprised her with her first published book, "Here's To Many More"—a collection of her poetry intertwined with illustrations I created, capturing moments from our time at Rutgers. It's a testament to how love can endure in college, even through the ups and the downs, and how all those moments can grow into something truly lasting. We will forever be grateful for Rutgers as our journey continues.

Spring 2025

Katherine Zsorey, School of Arts and Sciences 2024 

Under my pen name, Delilah Erosa, I have officially published my first book, ""How To Summon A Prince."" It debuted as a Top Release on Amazon, hitting #1 in its genre and #42 in the top 100 on Amazon. 

Since releasing my book, I have also received a full-time job with Pepelwerkfull time job with pepelwerk, a software system that uses AI to help people find jobs, educators teach in-demand skills, and organizations build their workforce.

Winter 2024

Tasha Schley, Rutgers Business School - Newark 2024

Since graduation, life has been a journey filled with growth, learning, and new opportunities. I’m still working in the insurance and financial industry where I’ve been able to apply and expand on everything we learned back in college. I’ve also been exploring attending law school and becoming more active in my local and state government working with legislators to influence change.

Summer 2025

Veer Yadav, School of Arts and Sciences - New Brunswick 2025

I am a Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences graduate who runs a non-profit children’s organization called Fun For Fighters. The purpose of this non-profit is to hand-deliver brand-new toys to sick children in hospitals and pediatric centers all across the state. I have been recognized by several news platforms such as NBC & Asbury Park Press. I have donated to Bristol Myers Children’s Hospital in New Brunswick as well! I have also donated to Toms River Specialized Children’s Hospital, Cooper Medical Center in Camden, Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, and countless others in NJ. The grand total donated is close to 3,800 brand-new toys to date, all across hospitals in NJ. I also ran this non-profit all throughout my four years as an undergraduate student at Rutgers while being deeply involved with the university both academically and socially. I could not have done it without my friends, who have supported me with collecting donations as well as assisting with drop-offs to the hospital. I  enjoy making a difference in my community and believe that every child deserves to enjoy their childhood and should be focused only on being happy and making memories. I have recently graduated from Rutgers University this past May with a bachelor's degree in Biology with a very strong GPA, and I hope to continue my nonprofit for many more years to come.