The eighth annual SUNY New Paltz Senior Toast continued the College’s tradition of inviting members of the campus community to raise a glass with graduating seniors in tribute to their hard work and bright futures.
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“This is my favorite event of the year,” said Michael Patterson, director of Student Activities & Union Services. “We are here to congratulate you on your achievements as you prepare to graduate from SUNY New Paltz, to reflect on your journey and, most importantly, to celebrate.”
The Senior Toast has become a staple of the spring schedule at New Paltz, a rare occasion to pause and reflect on good memories and proud accomplishment. Hundreds of graduates-to-be came out to share a sunny May 12 afternoon with friends at the McKenna Theatre Lobby and Museum Patio.
They were presented with commemorative glass flutes from the Office of Student Affairs and sunglasses from the Office of Alumni Relations (“because your futures are so bright, we have to make sure you’re prepared,” said Director of Alumni Relations Shana Circe).
In keeping with College tradition, seniors were also given single orange roses. Dean of Students Robin Cohen-La Valle defined the flowers’ symbolic value.
“Bright orange is a color of warmth, enthusiasm and unlimited energy,” Cohen-La Valle said. “The orange rose celebrates all new beginnings. The orange rose also indicates pride – when a person is honored to be associated with another, and believes that person deserves to be lauded, the orange rose says, ‘I am so proud of you.’”
The Class of 2016 gave back to the College with the presentation of the Senior Glass Gift, which supports student-oriented events on campus. The $3,482 gift, the largest ever donated by a New Paltz senior class, was presented by Melissa Montero ’16 (English) and James Paguay ’16 (Marketing).
President Donald P. Christian then took the microphone to offer an official toast to the Class of 2016.
“To all that you have brought to us during your years here, and all that you are taking with you; to the faculty and staff who have shown such commitment to your education; to your futures, with wishes for every success and happiness. Congratulations, and may you make the world better!”
Members of the Class of 2016 offered their own toasts to their SUNY New Paltz classmates.
Carlo Fabros ’16 (International Relations) – “May we find our own purposes after we graduate, and leave New Paltz with high aspirations for own journeys!”
Zoe Papetti ’16 (Adolescence Ed: Biology) – “I want to toast to lifelong friends, amazing memories and continuing those on after graduation.”
Victor Nkamany ’16 (Biology – Cellular/Molecular) – “Here’s to feeling prepared to get a good job and building a good career.”
The Senior Toast is made possible by the sponsorship of Campus Auxiliary Services and the Division of Student Affairs.
