Retirement Profile: Richard Bodenschatz

[With the end of the 2017-18 academic year comes the end of some of the most distinguished SUNY New Paltz careers. Throughout the summer we’ll share brief profiles of these retirees.]

Over the course of his 40-year career at SUNY New Paltz, Rich Bodenschatz has served the Office of Undergraduate Admission in positions of increasing responsibility, from his hire as an Admissions Advisor in 1978 through roles as Assistant to the Vice Present for Enrollment Management, Interim Coordinator of Graduate Admission and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Admission.

Throughout the years, Rich has been at the forefront of New Paltz’s efforts to distinguish itself as one of the most selective public institutions in the Northeast. He has played a significant role in the College’s recruitment and marketing initiatives, bringing the message of New Paltz’s quality to an ever-expanding audience of prospective students and making key contributions to the College’s print publications and electronic media efforts.

Bodenschatz has also been a valued member of the campus community of faculty and staff. He’s served on numerous campus-wide and faculty governance committees, including the Campus Retention Committee, the Campus Image Committee, and the Branding Committee. In his earlier days at New Paltz, Rich also worked as assistant soccer coach to Roland Hess and assistant to basketball coach Joseph Donovan.

He has enjoyed productive relationships with units across campus. Highlights include his work with the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), which dates back to his first days at New Paltz, and his more recent work with the Office of Veteran & Military Services.

Rich’s work as a representative of the entire State University of New York system has brought him acclaim throughout his career. He has served as President of the State University of New York College Admission Professionals and has been the recipient of two of SUNYCAP’s most prestigious awards, the SUNYCAP Admission Profession Award and the SUNYCAP Distinguished Service Award.

In 2013, SUNY New Paltz and the State University of New York presented Rich with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service.

Rich is proud to have shared his professional experiences and mentored dozens of young admission professionals, both here at New Paltz and within the greater admission community. Several have gone on to outstanding careers as directors of admission, vice presidents for enrollment and even a provost and a college president.

Please join the Office of Undergraduate Admission in congratulating Richard Bodenschatz on his retirement at a reception and friendly roast on Wednesday, Aug. 15, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the College Terrace.