Dear Campus Community:
I write to share my congratulations and thanks to the many hands who supported Alumni Reunion 2026 and Fall Open House over the last two weekends. These were outstanding events for the extended SUNY New Paltz community, not only because we had great weather, but because of the phenomenal enthusiasm that could be felt by everyone who attended.
From the first moments at the Sojourner Truth statue unveiling, through the Beyond the Ridge Campaign launch and the closing dedication of our new Contemplative Space, Reunion was an outstanding demonstration of the strong bonds that tie together students, faculty, staff, alumni and all who have ever made this campus a home away from home. My sincere gratitude to the team members, especially the leaders in Development & Alumni Relations, who made this event a success.
And this past Saturday, New Paltz welcomed about 2,000 prospective students and their families and loved ones for one of the most important recruitment events of the year. The perfect fall weather at Fall Open House made the campus glow, but just as important was the energy and passion brought by the community members who gave their time to make this a memorable occasion for our guests. I spoke with numerous prospective students – many of whom had already submitted applications for fall 2027 – who were buzzing with excitement to learn more about the academic, creative and social environment that makes SUNY New Paltz one-of-a-kind. My thanks to the Enrollment Management teams for their leadership in coordinating this event, and to the many others across the institution who gave their all to make it the best Open House ever.
A third, important October event for our institution is right around the corner. Just like we came together as one team at Reunion and Open House, I encourage you all to take the opportunity to join us at the annual Budget Forum tomorrow, Oct. 28, beginning at 2 p.m.
Sincerely,
Darrell P. Wheeler
President
