One of the many ways alumni stay connected to Montclair State University is through affinity groups. Alumni affinity groups consist of alumni who come together based on a shared common bond or mutual interest. These groups not only allow alumni to connect with one another, but also can provide a way for students to relate to alumni in a meaningful manner. During last semester, many of these groups attended activities here on campus.

Department of Broadcasting

The 18th Annual Broadcasting Alumni Reunion on October 6 was a great success, thanks to the dedication and hard work of Patty Piroh, producer/director in the Department of Broadcasting. Alumni representing a wide range of class years, from 1978-2011, returned to the DuMont Television Center to mingle, network, and reminisce with undergraduate students, and department faculty and staff members. This year’s event was particularly special, as guests paid tribute to Larry Londino, who, after more than 20 years of serving as department chair, recently stepped down from the position to return to teaching.

Equal Opportunity Fund Program
Even a historic October blizzard couldn’t stop loyal alumni and friends from gathering to celebrate at the Equal Opportunity Fund Program (EOF) Homecoming Open House on October 29. Alumni mingled with current students and EOF staff, and reunited with old friends. EOF alumni help provide a critical support network for current students by speaking with students, serving as mentors, and demonstrating the path to success beyond Montclair State. Alumni can remain involved by participating in the Alumni Mentor Corner and various program activities planned for the academic year.

Department of Philosophy and Religion
Through the leadership of David Benfield, chair of the Philosophy and Religion Homecoming Planning Committee, and Department Chair Dorothy Rogers, department alumni were able to get together for a Homecoming Open House on October 29. Despite the weather, the group had a large turnout and enjoyed networking, meeting Dean Marietta Morrissey, and hearing more about the department’s continuing history of academic strength and commitment to students. Professors Benfield, Stephen Johnson, and Michael Kogan shared inspiring recollections.

Attorney Alumni Network
The first gathering of the newly formed Attorney Alumni Network took place on November 15 through the leadership and support of Professor Marilyn Tayler and Adjunct Professor Avram Segall of the Department of Political Science and Law. Guest speakers Joyce M. Smith, Esq. ’94, chief legal officer of Prudential Trust Company, and Steven M. Resnick, Esq. ’93, shareholder at Budd Larner, P.C., each spoke about their experience as Montclair State students. They credited faculty with providing the inspiration to pursue a legal career and the tools they needed to succeed. They also encouraged attorney alumni and current law students to remain connected with the Department of Political Science and Law, and the faculty they know and admire. The goal of this group is to provide opportunities to meet and network with fellow alumni, as well as to share experiences and successes with current political science, jurisprudence, and pre-law students through mentoring activities, speaking to a class, or serving as a resource for faculty. During his talk, Resnick announced his intention to set up a scholarship in honor of two admired faculty: The Dr. Marilyn Tayler and Dr. David Benfield Scholarship will assist a full-time undergraduate student currently enrolled in the Department of Political Science and Law or the Department of Philosophy and Religion who intends to attend law school.

Recent Alumni Network
The Recent Alumni Network represents graduates from the class of 2000 forward and current students. The Network focuses on programs designed to help the current graduating class transition to alumni; address the needs and interests of recent graduates; and provide networking, community service, cultural, and reunion activities. In November, alumni and students gathered for an informative and fun-filled chocolate-tasting event that explored the history and flavors of chocolates from around the world.

Get involved
For more information on any of these programs and to learn how you can become involved, call the Office of Alumni Relations at 973-655-4141 or visit the website at montclair.edu/alumni.