What is the most valuable lesson you learned at New Paltz?

Even though New Paltz is a small college, I feel like I was able to get a glimpse of the whole world through it. At New Paltz, I was exposed to so many different cultures, subcultures and ideas. My college experience altered the way I view the rest of the world, and my role in it.  Learning inspires me – whether it is about art, technology, cultures, religion or language. Learning makes me stretch myself. It challenges me to do better, to be better and makes me appreciate what I’ve been given.

What keeps you connected to the college?

My husband, Everton, and I met in my first calculus class in 1974. We married in 1978 after graduation and had two children. Our daughter, Jeannie, graduated from New Paltz in 2007 and our son, Everton, is thinking about attending New Paltz to pursue a graduate degree. My husband and I have stayed in the area. We continue to take advantage of the many things the college has to offer – theater, music, art, film, lectures, etc. And because we have greatly benefited from the college and believe that New Paltz offers an outstanding education, we support current students with scholarships made through the SUNY New Paltz Foundation, of which Everton is the current chair.

Extras:

A degree that counts:
Before there was a computer science major, the Math Department offered a specialization in computer science, which I took advantage of. The degree I earned from New Paltz allowed me to work for IBM for 15 years as a computer programmer.

Hobbies:
I am a member of the American Sewing Guild. I sew garments, make quilts, take sewing classes and occasionally teach sewing. I love to travel, especially outside the United States, and that is one of the reasons I have been studying Spanish for the past year.

Community and civic involvement:
I teach Bible classes and volunteer for community programs at the Mid-Hudson Church of Christ in Poughkeepsie.