What's New?

Knapp appointed to president of the Mohonk Preserve

Ronald G. Knapp (Emeritus, Geography) was recently elected president of the Mohonk Preserve, the largest member-and visitor-supported nature preserve in New York state. Knapp succeeds Sara S. Senior, who was first elected to the preserve's board in 1969 and has served as president for the past 30 years. Knapp has been a board member for the past 18 years and has served in many capacities -- as board vice-president, chair of the executive committee and as a member of most board-level committees.

Named Distinguished Professor by SUNY in 1998, Knapp is internationally known for his pioneering achievements in the study of cultural and historical geography. He has published more than a dozen books on Chinese folk architecture, symbolism and the history of China's frontiers. In addition to teaching, he served as coordinator of the Asian Studies Program, chair of the SUNY Chancellor's China Coordinating Committee and director of the Office of International Education. Congratulations, Ron!

Golf tournament tees of June 27

The SUNY New Paltz Foundation will hold the 7th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on Monday, June 27, at the Wiltwyck Golf Club in Kingston. The golf tournament registration fee of $200 supports students by endowing a scholarship fund at SUNY New Paltz and includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, refreshments on the course, barbecue lunch, award banquet dinner, event logo hat and Greg Norman wind shirt. Registration and breakfast begin at 8 a.m., followed by a 9 a.m. start (scramble format). A barbeque lunch will be provided at the turn. After the tournament, appetizers and beverages will be served at 4 p.m. at the College Terrace, compliments of Sodexho Campus Services, followed by an award banquet dinner at 5 p.m. This event is being sponsored by M&T Bank, SUNY New Paltz Campus Auxiliary Services, Follett Higher Education Group, Shop Rite of New Paltz and Kolram Access Services. Pepsi will provide beverages. For more information and to register online, visit www.newpaltz.edu/golf or call x3370.

Annual New Paltz Gala set for Nov. 20 at Mohonk Mountain House

Greater New Paltz Chamber of Commerce President Joyce Minard will be the guest of honor at the 2005 New Paltz Gala Celebration at Mohonk Mountain House on Nov. 20.

The Gala Steering Committee will recognize Minard for her belief that the strength and success of the community depends upon the continued collaboration between the college and area businesses.

This event builds upon the past two years of sold-out galas, which raised more than $50,000 in scholarships for students from New Paltz High School who attend SUNY New Paltz.

The evening features a reception with hors d'oeuvres, dinner, dancing and an auction. In honor of Minard's heritage, the menu will feature foods of Italy, served with the finest local and Italian wines, as well as a special beer brewed for the occasion by The Gilded Otter. Tickets for the black tie event are $125 per person. Tables of ten are also available. Contact Sally Cross (Development) at x3238 for information and tickets.

Tennis courts closed for renovation

The north tennis courts on campus are now closed. The work includes a new playing surface, new fencing and lighting. The refurbished courts will reopen for community use in August at the conclusion of the Hudson River Valley Empire State Games, to be held July 27-31.