Reconnecting and Reminiscing

A heartwarming celebration unfolded as alumni from the Class of 1974 returned to campus to celebrate their 50th reunion on May 13 and 14.

“It was just wonderful seeing so many people coming out after 50 years to be together for Reunion. I’ve kept in contact with some friends, but being able to see many of them in person, after 50 years, was an incredible experience. I was smiling from the time I arrived there to the time I got home. I enjoyed every bit of it and I didn’t want it to end,” shared Earl Davis ’74.

In celebration of the milestone anniversary, members of the Class of 1974 were invited to the University’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony held at Prudential Center on Monday, May 13, and to a day of activities on campus on Tuesday, May 14, to reconnect with former classmates, fellow alumni and their alma mater.

Ahead of the ceremony, members from the Class of 1974 gathered in the Press Room at Prudential Center for a special lunch and visit from President Jonathan Koppell and mascot, Rocky, the Red Hawk! Remarking on her time with the President, Eileen Senie Bookman ’74 shared, “It was so exciting getting to meet the President considering how busy he was on that important day. He gave of his time to welcome us with his terrific sense of humor and he showed us great dignity and respect while individually meeting with each of us.”

Reunion celebrants had the distinguished honor of leading the mid-day procession during the Commencement Ceremony and were seated among the rows of graduating Red Hawks at Prudential Center. Earl Davis ’74 shared, “It was a momentous feeling walking into that arena with everyone cheering – It was awesome!” Members of the Class of 1974 donned graduation regalia and commemorative stoles signifying the 50th anniversary or their graduation.

Leading the procession to the cheers will be unforgettable for many of our alumni. Jan Snyder Price ’74 said, “Walking into the room with thousands of people cheering as they introduced our class was an experience I will never forget. The energy in the room was palpable.” Eileen Senie Bookman ‘74 said she will always remember leading the entire procession into the packed venue as one of the most exciting experiences of her life. She added, “What an amazing honor and privilege it was for us as the entire Prudential Center erupted in cheers and applause, and even gave us a standing ovation.”

Across two Commencement exercises – in the morning and the afternoon – the University awarded 3,648 graduates from 13 colleges and schools that make up Montclair State University with degrees. As the confetti rained down across the entire graduating class, the Class of 1974 stood to cheer on those who were crossing the threshold to become Montclair State University alumni.

Reflecting on the day, Eileen Senie Bookman ’74 shared, “I was blown away by Commencement – I am still telling all my friends about it! The Alumni Engagement team was so organized and did such an amazing job of making all of us feel so special and welcome.” She continued, “It meant so much to have my family be there as well to share in this honor.”

Returning to campus

The reunion festivities which were sponsored by the Office of Alumni Engagement continued back on campus on Tuesday, May 14. Participants enjoyed a number of activities, including a light breakfast, a reunion luncheon, a class photo on the steps in the Feliciano School of Business and an expansive shuttle tour of campus.

“We were thrilled to welcome the classes back to campus to share this very special celebration and to provide the opportunity to reconnect in person with each other and the university,” says Jeanne Marano, assistant vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “Alumni got to see the amazing changes at their alma mater, and it was wonderful to hear their stories of their time at Montclair.”

To kick off the day, alumni gathered for coffee and conversation, hosted by the Office of Gift Planning, where they reflected on Montclair’s past and its transformation and heard about the University’s future from President Jonathan Koppell. Alumni were able to share their experiences and ask questions of the President.

“We all were so happy to meet with President Koppell for breakfast. I believe we all came away feeling very proud of our alma mater, hearing of all the progress and success the university has made,” said Jan Snyder Price ’74.

A highlight for many was the campus tour which took place on private shuttle buses. Many alumni had not been back to campus in many years and could not believe the wonderful changes. “Seeing all the new buildings with state-of-the-art facilities on the campus tour was mind-blowing,” shared Jan Snyder Price ’74.

Possibly the most memorable part of the tour for many was stopping by Yogi Berra Stadium to take a photo with “Yogi”.

At the conclusion of the tour, alumni visited the campus BookStore to outfit themselves with the latest Montclair apparel.

As part of the luncheon program, guests shared a memory from their time as students. Many talked about how Montclair shaped their lives and made an impact that lasted a lifetime. It was a wonderful moment of reflection and an opportunity to look back nostalgically on the early 70’s.

Each attendee received their very own 50th Reunion commemorative pin presented by Rita Walters, vice president for Development and Alumni Engagement, and Jeanne Marano, assistant vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement.

Bill Bernstein ‘74 said, “The alumni who attended the reunion events felt a great deal of honor and respect from the university that was symbolized by the pin and medal that were bestowed on them at the luncheon during the second day of activities.”

Reunion Reflections

Alumni left with not only new memories but also a variety of keepsakes from their time at reunion. Commenting on how meaningful this was, Earl Davis ’74 shared, “I’m planning to work with a trophy company to preserve all the wonderful memorabilia I received over the two days so that I can remember this special experience forever.”

When asked about her experience, Jan Snyder Price ’74 shared, “I am so glad I participated in all of the 50th reunion events. It was truly exciting and memorable. The university made us all feel so special and appreciated.” She concluded, “All in all, it was a wonderful two days of sharing and making memories with old and new friends.”

Thank you to all members from the Class of 1974 who came back to their alma mater to celebrate their 50th reunion!

View photos from the reunion celebrations.

Special thanks to the Reunion Committee:

Class of 1974 Reunion Committee

• Kathleen Ragan ’74, ’80 MA
• Jan Snyder Price ’74, ’77 MA
• Michael Forcella ’74
• Thomas Milner ’74
• Bill Bernstein ’74