SUNY Orange marked its 75th anniversary in grand style this past weekend, hosting a trio of events that brought together alumni, retirees, faculty, staff, and friends of the college in celebration of its rich history and enduring impact on the region.

On Friday, May 16, the milestone weekend kicked off with a sold-out Return to the Mansion event, followed by a gala at West Hills Country Club on Saturday, May 17, and concluded Sunday, May 18, with a Cheers to 75 Years breakfast on the Newburgh campus.

The SUNY Orange Foundation, led by Executive Director, Dawn Ansbro and Alumni Engagement Manager, Carly Glassé, played a central role in organizing and supporting the weekend’s festivities, continuing its work to strengthen the college through philanthropy and community partnerships.

Approximately 175 guests gathered at Morrison Hall on the Middletown campus on Friday. Descendants of the Morrison family, including Will Morrison (photo above), viewed the newly updated Morrison Family Tree that now hangs on the mansion’s second floor. Visitors also enjoyed the evening’s festivities, including live music, delicious refreshments and meaningful reconnections. Jessea Greenman and her sister, Sara Hill, daughters of the late Dean Robert Greenman, were thrilled to have their photo taken beside their father's portrait, which hangs outside Dr. Hackman’s office (photo left).

On Saturday, the celebration reached new heights at the anniversary gala at West Hills Country Club in Middletown. More than 240 guests enjoyed an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and commemorative tributes. The program included remarks from SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr., a video message from Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, and a compilation of celebratory messages from the college community.

SUNY Orange President, Dr. Kristine Young was presented with a Congressional Record from U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, delivered by Middletown Mayor Joseph DeStefano, recognizing SUNY Orange for its educational impact and student success. Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson and Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey also honored the college with a Citation and Certificate of Recognition, respectively.

Met with a standing ovation, Young addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude for the many individuals and partnerships that have shaped SUNY Orange over the past seven and a half decades.

A Transformed Tiles auction was also held. Professors Martin Dominguez and Bruce Bleach coordinated with their art students to create artwork using the green roof tiles removed from Morrison Hall. The Foundation will split the proceeds, with half benefiting the Transforming Spaces Fund and the other half supporting the student artists.

Architecture Professor Charles Passarotti and his students contributed to the event by providing 3D-printed keychains to attendees featuring the SUNY Orange Colt logo.

The weekend concluded on Sunday morning at the Newburgh campus with Cheers to 75 Years, a festive breakfast and campus showcase. The event was emceed by Executive Director of Workforce Development, Dr. Stephanie Compasso-Geyer, featured remarks from college leadership including Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs & Student Services, Dr. Erika Hackman, Vice President of Workforce, Strategy and Innovation, Dr. Jean Leandre and President, Dr. Young. Attendees were given guided tours of the Tower Building and Kaplan Hall. The program highlighted the College’s growth, impact, and bright future in both Newburgh and Middletown.

“This weekend was a celebration not just of our history, but of the people who have built and sustained SUNY Orange over the past 75 years,” said Young. “From our dedicated faculty and staff to our students, alumni, and community partners, this College has always been powered by people who believe in the transformative power of education. The energy, the stories, and seeing people reconnecting--it was all deeply moving. I would like to thank the 75th Anniversary planning team and all the volunteers who made this weekend so special. I am honored to lead this institution and excited for the next chapter in our shared journey.”

The anniversary weekend was part of a yearlong celebration recognizing SUNY Orange’s contributions to education, workforce development, and community engagement throughout Orange County and beyond. A Founder’s Day observance is scheduled for June 9 on both the Middletown and Newburgh campuses to cap off the 75th anniversary commemorative events.

Photos from Friday evening are available here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/sunyorange/albums/72177720326229282/

Photos from Saturday night are available here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/sunyorange/albums/72177720326222905/

Photos from Sunday's breakfast are available here:

https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCf6su