New Paltz names new director of alumni relations

Shana Circe ’02 (Art Education) ’08g (Visual Arts) assumed her role as director of alumni relations at the College on Feb. 22 and is already focused on issues important to the diverse body of more than 64,000 New Paltz alumni. 

“I’m eager to get started,” said Circe. “New Paltz has been a huge part of my life for many years and I now have the opportunity to share that experience with other alumni to continue to build on the progress we’ve already made in reconnecting alumni with the College.”

A proud alumna, Circe served the College in the Office of Undergraduate Admission for 12 years as director of on-campus recruitment and director of the Welcome Center. In these roles, she implemented several new programs and managed a campus visit volume of more than 20,000 visitors each year while cultivating a staff of 22 highly trained student ambassadors as top campus leaders. In 2013, she was invited to serve on the Alumni Task Force, focused on creating a strategic plan for the Office of Alumni Relations, ultimately resulting in the founding of the official SUNY New Paltz Alumni Association and the Alumni Council. She was then appointed to serve as a member of the Council from its inception to present.

“Shana brings to her work a desire for excellence and determination,” said Erica Marks, vice president for development and alumni relations, and executive director for the SUNY New Paltz Foundation. “Her understanding of customer relations excellence, deep knowledge of institutional programs and policies, and ability to cultivate and motivate a staff, make her an excellent fit for this position.”

In her new role, Circe is charged with strategically engaging alumni, securing commitments from alumni to provide professional expertise and volunteer service to the campus and its students. As director, she will plan and implement a comprehensive program of activities that establishes and maintains relationships with alumni and the College and provides tangible benefits to alumni and current students. The director also chairs the Alumni Council, plans class reunions, implements special events to recognize outstanding alumni, and coordinates the alumni network that spans the United States and abroad.