Alumni News and Events – Alumni /alumni Just another 麻豆传媒在线 Sites site Fri, 01 May 2026 17:36:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 麻豆传媒在线 Celebrates 40 Years of Providing Students with a Leadership EDGE /alumni/2026/04/30/montclair-celebrates-40-years-of-providing-students-with-a-leadership-edge/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:54:25 +0000 /alumni/?p=216951 麻豆传媒在线 Celebrates 40 Years of Providing Students with a Leadership EDGE

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

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

In his remarks, 麻豆传媒在线 President Jonathan Koppell pointed to the program鈥檚 contributions to academic excellence at the University. 鈥淭he John Martinson Honors EDGE program reflects the very best of what 麻豆传媒在线 strives to be,鈥 he says. 鈥淚ts continued impact, greatly expanded thanks to John Martinson鈥檚 generous investment, will be strengthened as 麻豆传媒在线鈥檚 alumni community affirms the importance of excellence paired with access.鈥

Academic Excellence and Enriching Experiences

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

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

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

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

An Enduring Community of Scholars

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

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

Gail Yosh 鈥95, Honors alumna and current 麻豆传媒在线 professor, agrees. 鈥淭he Honors Program shaped me in ways that were both deeply personal and profoundly professional,鈥 she says. 鈥淎s a student, it gave me opportunity, confidence, and a sense of belonging at a pivotal time in my life. Professionally, it helped set me on a path that eventually brought me back to 麻豆传媒在线 as a professor, where I now have the privilege of helping to shape students鈥 lives in the same community that once shaped mine.鈥

The Power of Philanthropy and Partnership

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

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

Looking Ahead听

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

Considering a gift to support the honors experience at 麻豆传媒在线?

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

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/04/honors-11-300x225.jpeg
ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 – A Record-Breaking Day /alumni/2026/04/30/one-day-for-montclair-a-record-breaking-day/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:40:45 +0000 /alumni/?p=216968 In a powerful show of Red Hawk pride and generosity, the 麻豆传媒在线 community came together for its annual day of giving, ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线, raising over $1.1 million to empower students and support the programs that shape their futures.

鈥淥NE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is a day where our entire community 鈥 alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and families 鈥 come together to make a real impact for our students and programs,鈥 says Kara Baldwin Brennan 鈥92, senior director of Annual Giving. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a chance for everyone to feel part of something big and impactful.鈥

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

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

To celebrate the milestone, the team brought a sense of fun and nostalgia to the campaign through social media, highlighting popular trends such as the Renegade dance, the Mannequin Challenge鈥攆eaturing 麻豆传媒在线鈥檚 own Jersey Joe 鈥24鈥攁nd the Ice Bucket Challenge.



Alyssa Arroyo 鈥27 shared, 鈥淥NE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is more than just a fundraiser, it鈥檚 a celebration of Red Hawk pride and continuing the success of future generations. It has helped students like me pursue our dreams and I鈥檓 excited to see how the community came together to make an even greater impact this year!鈥

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

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

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

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

The day emphasized participation across the entire community, including strong support from the Class of 2026鈥斅槎勾皆谙哜檚 newest alumni, who will graduate in just a few weeks. Together, they raised more than $11,000 toward their class gift.

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

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

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


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

鈥淚t is important for me to give back and I always encourage others to join me,鈥 said Laura Ryblewski ’96, 鈥99MA a ONE DAY Champion.

The campus was buzzing with excitement throughout the day as the community celebrated World鈥檚 Fair Day, an annual celebration of 麻豆传媒在线鈥檚 vibrant cultural community. Hundreds of students, faculty and staff gathered on Alumni Green to sample international foods while enjoying performances by 麻豆传媒在线鈥檚 student organizations.

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

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

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/04/i-3LPJdQc-X2_Group-photo-300x225.jpg
Rita Burke 鈥73 Passes the Baton with a Legacy Gift /alumni/2026/04/28/rita-burke-73-passes-the-baton-with-a-legacy-gift/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:25:48 +0000 /alumni/?p=216944 It was an experience she had as a teenager that inspired Rita Burke 鈥73 to pursue a career as a music teacher for special needs children. 鈥淢y church鈥檚 youth group organized a visit to a special education school,鈥 she recalls. 鈥淚 brought my portable record player and some records. I saw the positive impact the music had on the children. It made a profound impression on me.鈥

Affordability and scholarship support brought Rita to 麻豆传媒在线. 鈥淚 received an award from an association of World War II veterans that my father belonged to,鈥 she says. 鈥淚 received additional support from the University through a program that rewarded students preparing for careers in teaching.鈥

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

鈥溌槎勾皆谙 provided me with an excellent foundational college education,鈥 she says. 鈥淚 am truly grateful for my professors who actively listened and inspired me to develop various ways to teach music to all students.鈥

When considering the philanthropic aspects of her estate plans, Rita thought of 麻豆传媒在线. 鈥淚 had been putting off updating my will,鈥 she says. 鈥淲hen I learned that I could use my estate to set up a scholarship for students majoring in music education, however, I got excited about the possibilities. It was a great feeling.鈥

鈥淧eople tend to look at estate planning as the end of things,鈥 she adds. 鈥淏ut when you establish a scholarship at 麻豆传媒在线, you are carrying your legacy forward, passing the baton to new generations.鈥

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/04/Throwback-Thursday-Dink-Hats-240x300.jpg
Giving Back is Second Nature to Entrepreneur Edwin Feliciano 鈥82 /alumni/2026/04/28/giving-back-is-second-nature-to-entrepreneur-edwin-feliciano-82/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:14:20 +0000 /alumni/?p=216940 Edwin Feliciano 鈥82 got his first business lessons at his father鈥檚 side. 鈥淢y dad had a little variety storefront in Passaic,鈥 he reminisces. 鈥淲hen I was five or six years old, he would take me to Mulberry Street in New York to purchase items for the store. My job was to keep quiet and listen while he negotiated with his suppliers.鈥澨

The elder Feliciano was committed to preparing his son for the real world. 鈥淲e didn鈥檛 have a lot of money, but somehow he managed to buy a cold water flat in Passaic,鈥 Feliciano says of his father. 鈥淚t had seven or eight units, and he had to do most of the upkeep. One day, he told me that it was my lucky day 鈥 that I would go in alone to collect the rent. I was only 13, but he wanted to be sure that I could take care of things if something ever happened to him.鈥澨

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

A wrestling scholarship at West Chester University sent Feliciano out of state for college, but not for long. 鈥淚 wanted to be close to home,鈥 he says. He took a break from school and six months later he enrolled at 麻豆传媒在线, leaning into full-time study alongside full-time work.听

鈥溌槎勾皆谙 was so different then,鈥 he recalls. 鈥淭here were maybe 400 students in the entire business program. My classes always seemed to be on the top floor of Partridge Hall. When the elevator wasn鈥檛 working 鈥 which was often 鈥 it was a challenge to get to class on time.鈥

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

Feliciano tried corporate life, with jobs at companies like Goya Foods and Richter Brothers, Inc., but he wasn鈥檛 cut out to work for others. By the time he was 23 Feliciano had purchased his first investment property and earned licenses to sell, appraise, and broker real estate. By 30, he was married to the love of his life, Mimi. The pair began working on a shared vision of the future. 鈥淢imi is wonderful,鈥 he says. 鈥淲e balance each other out. We make a good team. Together we started building something of our own.鈥

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

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

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

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

With those projects well underway, he is turning his attention to education there. 鈥淕uatemalan schools generally stop at the sixth grade,鈥 he explains. 鈥淚 want to change that. My goal, my vision, is to provide local access to a 麻豆传媒在线 education.鈥澨

When Feliciano is speaking with students, he often refers to what he calls the 鈥淭en Essential Vitamins of Life.鈥 They are his tips to attaining joy and, as you might imagine, hard work and giving back are high on the list. 鈥淏e present, get involved, practice contentment,鈥 he says. 鈥淎nd keep moving forward.鈥

He also encourages students 鈥 and fellow alumni 鈥 to support their alma mater. 鈥淒on鈥檛 forget where you came from once you become successful,鈥 he advises. 鈥溌槎勾皆谙 gave us an outstanding education and helped us create a solid foundation for our careers, and for our lives. It is important to give back to support the next generation. So many of our students rely on financial aid. Our contributions make a real difference in their lives.鈥

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/04/EF-profile-300x251.jpg
ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 鈥 Join us on April 23, 2026 /alumni/2026/03/31/one-day-for-montclair-join-us-on-april-23-2026/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:01:48 +0000 /alumni/?p=216892 ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is a day when the entire 麻豆传媒在线 community comes together for a day of action and celebration. Your support on Thursday, April 23, 2026, will help us create opportunities, elevate achievements and celebrate our students. Every gift supports student success and impacts far beyond a single day.

Alyssa Arroyo,听’27, expresses 鈥淥NE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is more than just a fundraiser, it鈥檚 a celebration of Red Hawk pride and continuing the success of future generations. It has helped students like me pursue our dreams and I鈥檓 excited to see how we all can come together to make an even greater impact this year!鈥

Our 24-hour day of giving returns for its 10th year, and the momentum keeps growing! Since the inaugural ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线, we鈥檝e raised more than $1.9 million, demonstrating incredible support for our students and helping them reach their dreams.听

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

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

鈥淥NE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is a day where our entire community 鈥 alumni, faculty, staff, students and parents 鈥 comes together to make a real impact for our students and programs,鈥 says Kara Baldwin Brennan 鈥92, Senior Director of Annual Giving. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a chance for everyone to feel part of something bigger than themselves.鈥

ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 will coincide with the campus鈥檚 annual World鈥檚 Fair Day, a tradition that celebrates the diverse cultures of our community through food, music, and performances. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and support our students throughout campus and beyond.

Join us on ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 where our 麻豆传媒在线 community unites for a day of action and celebration. Let鈥檚 soar, Red Hawks!

Want to learn more or make an early gift?

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

 

]]>
/补濒耻尘苍颈/飞辫-肠辞苍迟别苍迟/耻辫濒辞补诲蝉/蝉颈迟别蝉/5/2026/03/厂肠谤别别苍蝉丑辞迟-2026-03-31-补迟-1.48.44鈥疨惭-300虫169.辫苍驳
Trailblazers Honored for Impact and Inspiration /alumni/2026/03/31/trailblazers-honored-for-impact-and-inspiration/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:37:01 +0000 /alumni/?p=216884 麻豆传媒在线 History Professor Leslie Wilson, associate dean in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was honored with a Trailblazer Award at the 2026 Male Enrollment and Graduation Alliance (MEGA) Symposium, recognizing a career spent helping students understand not only history but their own power to shape it.

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

A Historian Shaped by Harlem

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

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

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

From Campus Leader to National Producer

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

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

鈥淭ommy was nominated for the Alumni Trailblazer Award for his continuous growth as a leader, from his time on campus to his thriving professional career,鈥 says Rahjaun Gordon, senior director of EOF and Success Programs. 鈥淎s a 麻豆传媒在线 student, his leadership was grounded in learning, hard work and humility. He has carried those values into his work covering marquee events and uses his experiences to guide high school and college students as they navigate their own career journeys.鈥

Inspiring the Next Generation

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

MEGA is part of 麻豆传媒在线鈥檚 broader effort to improve educational outcomes for all students by moving them from enrollment to graduation and into meaningful careers. Organizers say that honoring Foster and Wilson at this year鈥檚 symposium underscored that mission, showing students how passion paired with persistence and purpose can open doors.

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/03/03062026_58060_MEGA.jpg.5.1x.generic-300x225.jpg
A Month of Trailblazers: Women Who Lead, Create and Pivot /alumni/2026/02/27/a-month-of-trailblazers-women-who-lead-create-and-pivot/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:36:25 +0000 /alumni/?p=216701 Women鈥檚 History Month is kicking off at 麻豆传媒在线 with the annual Flag Raising and Reception on March 2. Join the Office of Student Belonging and fellow Red Hawks to collectively lift up the trailblazing women who have paved the way.

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

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

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

Women鈥檚 Initiative Network (WIN)

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

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

 

The objective of the group is to increase the number of women meaningfully engaged in University programs, empower the next generation of leaders and strengthen ties between and among alumnae and the University through a strong network of women committed to supporting 麻豆传媒在线.

鈥淲e are excited to grow a supportive network for each other and the mission of 麻豆传媒在线,鈥 says Jeanne Marano, associate vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. 鈥淲e invite you to join us on this journey. We welcome your ideas and feedback, and look forward to seeing you at future activities.鈥

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

 

Questions?

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

]]>
/alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/02/030325_3526_Womens_History_Month-Flag_Raising-LAROSA-1-300x225.jpg
麻豆传媒在线 Alumni Jason Zacher and Jeremy Brauner Make Sarasota Opera Role Debuts in Susannah /alumni/2026/02/26/montclair-state-university-alumni-jason-zacher-and-jeremy-brauner-make-sarasota-opera-role-debuts-in-susannah/ /alumni/2026/02/26/montclair-state-university-alumni-jason-zacher-and-jeremy-brauner-make-sarasota-opera-role-debuts-in-susannah/#respond Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:19:38 +0000 /alumni/?p=216688 麻豆传媒在线 proudly celebrates alumni Jason Zacher and Jeremy Brauner as they make their Sarasota Opera role debuts in Carlisle Floyd鈥檚 powerful American opera Susannah with .

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

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

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

]]>
/alumni/2026/02/26/montclair-state-university-alumni-jason-zacher-and-jeremy-brauner-make-sarasota-opera-role-debuts-in-susannah/feed/ 0 /alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/02/sarasota-300x169.jpg
Heirs and Architects of a Great Legacy: Celebrating Black Heritage at 麻豆传媒在线 /alumni/2026/01/30/heirs-and-architects-of-a-great-legacy-celebrating-black-heritage-at-montclair-state-university/ /alumni/2026/01/30/heirs-and-architects-of-a-great-legacy-celebrating-black-heritage-at-montclair-state-university/#respond Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:15:04 +0000 /alumni/?p=216555 Throughout February, the 麻豆传媒在线 community will come together for programs that blend history, culture, performance, and conversation. Signature traditions like the Opening Day Procession and Flag Raising, alumni success panels, film screenings, cultural workshops, and student-led performances invite participants to reflect on shared legacy while building pathways for the future.

“Our Black History Month theme this year, Heirs and Architects of a Great Legacy, reminds us that we have inspiring role models to guide our efforts to create equity and stand for justice. Like those we celebrate this month, we are the solutions to the challenges we face in our communities and around the globe.

We invite all to join us for cultural and educational programs and dialogues that ignite your passion for leaving footsteps that others can follow to build a world where all beings are joined in peace and harmony.” ~ Dr. Reginia Judge, president of the African American Caucus and associate professor of Justice Studies and Dr. Saundra Collins, professor of Psychology

2026 Select Events & Programs
All alumni are invited to attend the following; registration is not required for most events.

February 1 鈥 28
Black History Month: An Exhibit 鈥 Sprague Library

Sunday, February 1
8 p.m. | Leschowitz Recital Hall

Darian Clonts, Faculty Recital + Lecture – American Spirituals: Songs Birthed in Bondage and Sung Across Boundaries

Monday, February 2
11:50 a.m. 鈥 3 p.m.听

11:50 a.m. Black History Month Procession from Cole Hall
12 p.m. Proclamation and Flag Raising at the Student Center flagpole
12:30 鈥 3 p.m. Program and Reception at Student Center Ballrooms

Wednesday, February 4
1:30 鈥 2:30 p.m. 鈥 Talbott Hall, Bloomfield Campus

HBCU Impact on North America / Greek Life: Exploration of Step

Wednesday, February 4
2:30 鈥 4:30 p.m. 鈥 Talbott Hall, Bloomfield Campus

Soundtrack of the Culture

Tuesday, February 10
11 a.m. 鈥 3 p.m. 鈥 Student Center Ballrooms

Black History Month Museum and Film Festival

Wednesday, February 11
2 鈥 4:30 p.m. 鈥 Talbott Hall, Bloomfield Campus

Sports Athletes of the Movement

Thursday, February 12
7:30 p.m. 鈥 Kasser Theater

PEAK Performances: I AM: Camille A. Brown & Dancers
* tickets required

Monday, February 16
4:30 鈥 6 p.m. 鈥 University Hall, Room 1050


* registration required

Tuesday, February 24
11 a.m. 鈥 3 p.m. 鈥 Dickson Hall, 178 Cohen Lounge

Screening: All In: The Fight for Democracy

Wednesday, February 25
2 鈥 4:30 p.m. 鈥 Talbott Hall, Bloomfield Campus

Raise the Curtain on Black History

Program Collaborators and Co-sponsors are African American Studies; African American Caucus; Black Alumni Advisory Council; Office of Social Justice and Diversity; Office of Inclusive Excellence; Sprague Library; University Police; Bloomfield College; MSU Dining Services; Office of Civic and Voter Engagement.

The Black Alumni Advisory Council was created to engage Black alumni in support of the 麻豆传媒在线 mission of educational, institutional and overall university community initiatives, policies and activities that strengthen relationships with the Black community. BAAC is part of the 麻豆传媒在线 Alumni Affinity Group Network听and welcomes new members.

]]>
/alumni/2026/01/30/heirs-and-architects-of-a-great-legacy-celebrating-black-heritage-at-montclair-state-university/feed/ 0 /alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/01/020320_6873_SDCL-Black-Heritage-Month-Flag-Raising-300x225.jpeg
麻豆传媒在线 Launches Call for #1Day4麻豆传媒在线 Champions /alumni/2026/01/30/montclair-state-university-launches-call-for-1day4montclair-champions/ /alumni/2026/01/30/montclair-state-university-launches-call-for-1day4montclair-champions/#respond Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:04:32 +0000 /alumni/?p=216566 麻豆传媒在线 is calling on alumni, students, faculty and friends to step up as #1Day4麻豆传媒在线 Champions and help power ONE DAY on April 23, the University鈥檚 tenth annual day of giving designed to rally the Red Hawk community around the programs and priorities that matter most.

Champions play a key role in spreading the word, inspiring classmates and colleagues and fellow alumni, and amplifying the impact of every gift. With just 24 hours to reach as many Red Hawks as possible, the campaign relies on peer-to-peer outreach to build momentum and strengthen connections across the 麻豆传媒在线 network.

What Champions Do

As a Champion, you help create excitement before and during the campaign by:

  • Making your gift on or before April 23. Alumni who have already given this year can participate by making an additional gift of $5 or more during the 24-hour campaign.
  • Engaging your workplace. Encourage colleagues and fellow alumni at your company to support 麻豆传媒在线 and explore opportunities for corporate matching gifts.
  • Reaching out to your network. Use email and social media to invite friends, classmates and family to join you in giving.
  • Sharing on social platforms. Post on , , , and using your personalized
    Champion link to track the impact of your outreach.

Registered Champions receive access to a digital toolkit with sample messages, graphics and a suggested outreach timeline to make sharing easy and effective.

Each Champion receives a personalized dashboard to monitor gifts generated through their unique link in real time. Throughout the day, participants can see how many donors they鈥檝e inspired and how their efforts are helping move 麻豆传媒在线 closer to its campaign goals.

鈥淥NE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 is when our entire community comes together to elevate our students and support their success across campus,鈥 says Kara Baldwin Brennan 鈥92, Senior Director of Annual Giving.

鈥淥ur Champions are our most passionate advocates, helping spread the word and inspire others to take part. It鈥檚 a fun, meaningful way to be part of ONE DAY and make a difference for current and future Red Hawks.鈥

Email Kara Baldwin Brennan ’92 to Become a Champion

A Decade of Impact

Since its launch in 2016, has demonstrated the power of the Red Hawk community and reinforced the collective impact of alumni and friends working toward a stronger, brighter future. Across a decade of impact, more than 8,000 individual donors have raised more than $1.9 million.

Champion Incentives

To recognize and thank Champions for their leadership and outreach, 麻豆传媒在线 offers a series of incentives and rewards:

  • 麻豆传媒在线 tech stickers for all registered Champions.
  • YOU + TWO challenge: Make your own gift and inspire two additional donations to receive a 麻豆传媒在线 T-shirt.
  • Top Champion recognition for those who raise the most dollars and secure the most gifts.

Alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends interested in becoming a #1Day4麻豆传媒在线 Champion can sign up to receive their personalized link, toolkit and dashboard access. Together, Champions help ensure that ONE DAY for 麻豆传媒在线 reaches every corner of the Red Hawk community and fuels the programs, scholarships and initiatives that shape the University鈥檚 future.

For more information and to register, email Kara Baldwin Brennan ’92, Senior Director of Annual Giving, at brennanka@montclair.edu or call her at 973-655-7492.

]]>
/alumni/2026/01/30/montclair-state-university-launches-call-for-1day4montclair-champions/feed/ 0 /alumni/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/03/March-Enews-One_day-300x169.jpg