Family legacy of education, philanthropy inspires alumna to serve on the College Foundation Board

It was in a freshman public speaking class that Sue Najork ’67 ’70g (Education) learned of her father’s legacy at the College, one of education and philanthropy that would inspire her to do the same.

“Many professors seemed to already know my name because my father went to New Paltz,” said Najork. “He was always involved in a lot of community organizations and was an influence in many ways.”

An elementary school principal and proponent of the public university, Ronald Dutcher ’38 (Education) encouraged each of his four children to attend state schools, including SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Albany and SUNY Stony Brook. Many of them, including Najork, received scholarships that helped them financially and allowed them to understand the importance of the private support he found so important.

“I know that I appreciated those scholarships all those years ago,” said Najork. “It feels really rewarding to give back.”

Now retired, Najork has become an active Hudson Valley philanthropist. She has served as president of the board of Newburgh Day Nursery and has served as a member of the boards of St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital Auxiliary, Calvary Presbyterian Church, Powelton Club, Mount Saint Mary College, Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties, and the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan Counties. She has received several awards in recognition of her community involvement.

As she continues her father’s legacy of giving back, Najork was named to the College’s Foundation Board in 2015.

“It was a great honor to be asked to be on the board,” said Najork. “It’s a very diverse group from a wide geographic area, and I’m pleased to see so many students receive the scholarships they need, and deserve, to continue their education.”