Last Monday, the New York Mets faced off with the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field in Flushing, Queens, and won 4-0 as they continued on their way to a division title and playoff spot. More importantly, it was also the 4th Annual SUNY Alumni Event at Citi Field – SUNY’s biggest Mets event to date with 315 attendees. Before the game, the group gathered at McFadden’s Restaurant for a reception to reconnect with classmates and other alumni from various SUNY campuses.
“As young SUNY alum, it’s a good reunion for college friends to get together,” said Hayley Roher (SUNY Oneonta ’14). The two-hour reception not only reunited former classmates, but also fostered a space where alumni from different classes could meet one another. The DJ in McFadden’s Restaurant gave a big shout-out to SUNY alumni, calling out the names of various SUNY schools to enthusiastic replies from the crowd. Attendees mingled with SUNY alumni as well as SUNY staff members and campus alumni directors and professionals.
Following the reception, alumni watched the Mets defeat the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field, showcasing their pride for their alma maters by decking out in campus gear and chanting “SUNY!” in the stands. “I love and miss UAlbany,” said Joey Soren ’05, “So I’m excited when I get a chance to reconnect with my college experience.” At the game, it was announced that various groups were in attendance, and “SUNY Alumni” was put up on the scoreboard. The event concluded with the Mets winning the game 4-0. Richard Bentley (’80) of Stony Brook University summed up the night perfectly: “Just like SUNY, the Mets are on top of the world!”
Attending SUNY-wide alumni events are a great way for people to build their identities as SUNY alumni. “It’s certainly nice to be among SUNY comrades,” said Raphael Wakefield, ’08, of Maritime College. “I lived in Texas for five years and moved back to New York, so any connection to meet people – like a SUNY connection – is a good opportunity for me.” Making connections is just one reason why being an active SUNY alumni is so valuable. It also gives alums opportunities to network and opens up the doors to new experiences, creating lasting memories even after graduation.
If you’d like to stay updated on future SUNY-wide alumni events and learn how to engage and network with other alumni, fill out our reconnect form today!
