Felix Chevalier ’93 (Political Science, Black Studies) credits personal connections and the power of networking with finding professional fulfillment.
“Connections are key,” said Chevalier. “Whether it’s through relationships built in college or a professional career, relationships make all the difference.”
During his time as a SUNY New Paltz student, Chevalier pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, a decision that led to an important connection. A fraternity brother and St. John’s University School of Law student, Reginald Rasch ’91 (Business Administration), eventually helped Chevalier get into law school.
“Through the fraternity connections I made, I was offered my first post-college job and countless other opportunities,” said Chevalier.
Now the managing counsel of The Chevalier Law Firm in Houston, Texas, Chevalier serves as a transactional and government affairs attorney representing Fortune 500 Companies. He facilitates commercial transactions; structures public and private business deals; and navigates corporate clients through city, state and federal bureaucracies.
But Chevalier still finds time to connect with the community through multiple volunteer efforts. He is as a board member for the Sam Houston Area Council, the largest council in the Boy Scouts of America which serves 60,000 youth. He serves as co-chair of the finance committee for the 2015 First World Reunion and in spring 2014 he was appointed by President Donald P. Christian to the College’s inaugural Alumni Advisory Council.
“The seeds of service were consistently planted in me while I was a student at New Paltz,” said Chevalier. “When I was invited by my alma mater to serve on the Alumni Advisory Council, I considered it an honor.”
As a council member, Chevalier hopes to remind alumni of their inherent value and the significance of connecting with current students.
“No one is truly self-made. We were all provided some form of assistance,” said Chevalier. “Alumni can create and share opportunities, re-connect with friends and faculty, and speak about their area of expertise.”
Chevalier attributes both his desire to serve and his appreciation for the power of networking to his time at the College.
“The world opened up for me at New Paltz, so it is an honor for me to give back to the school that afforded me so much,” said Chevalier. “My schoolmates and fond memories bring me back. Many of the relationships I developed while a student have lasted for more than two decades and I know they will last a lifetime.”
