Golden Memories: A Journey Through Time

A heartwarming celebration unfolded as alumni from the Class of 1975 returned to campus to celebrate their 50th reunion on May 8 and 9.

“Coming back to campus to celebrate our 50th was a tremendous experience. I was so moved by the enthusiastic greeting and cheers we received as we led the Commencement at the Prudential Center. What an honor for the Class of 1975 to be recognized in such a special way”, shared Angelo Genova, Esq, ’75 and Montclair Reunion Committee Chair. 

In celebration of the milestone anniversary, members of Montclair State University and Bloomfield College of Montclair State University Class of 1975 were invited to the University’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony held at Prudential Center on Thursday, May 8. Dressed in academic regalia and adorned in commemorative golden anniversary soles, the alumni walked in the procession, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the university’s graduates.

Ahead of the ceremony, members from the Class of 1975 gathered in the Press Room at Prudential Center for a special breakfast and visit from President Jonathan Koppell and mascots Rocky the Red Hawk and Deacon the Bear!

Reunion celebrants had the distinguished honor of leading the morning procession during the Commencement Ceremony and were seated among the rows of graduates at the Prudential Center. Leading the procession to the cheers will be unforgettable for many of our alumni.

The University awarded degrees to 3,839 graduates. The Class of 1975 was so proud to stand and cheer on those who were crossing the threshold to become our newest Montclair State University alumni.

Bloomfield College: Reuniting the Deacons

Following Commencement, Bloomfield College Alumni returned to campus for a celebratory luncheon held in honor of the Class of 1975. This year marked the start of the tradition of inviting members of the 50+ classes to join in the celebration each year. Members of the Class of 1971, 1973, 1974 and 1977 came to cheer on members of the 50h reunion class.

The luncheon provided space for alumni to connect and reflect on their time at Bloomfield College while looking ahead to the legacy they continue to build. During the meal, a special Golden Pinning Ceremony took place — each alum was presented with a commemorative pin, symbolizing 50 years of pride, perseverance and personal growth.

The pinning was met with emotional expressions of gratitude. “This campus brought so many memories,” said Ron Williams ’87. “It reminded us of whom we were and whom we’ve become.”

Montclair State University: Bringing Back Memories

Montclair State University Alumni who participated in Commencement were treated to a luncheon at a local Montclair establishment, Tierney’s Tavern. “After marching at Commencement and cheering for the current graduates, we were treated to lunch at Tierney’s by the Office of Alumni Engagement where we got to relive many happy college memories,” says Linda Orth Perez ’75.

Returning to Campus

The reunion festivities, sponsored by the Office of Alumni Engagement, continued back on campus on Friday, May 9. Participants enjoyed a number of activities, including a light breakfast, a reunion luncheon, a class photo on the steps in the Feliciano School of Business and an expansive shuttle tour of campus.

“We were thrilled to welcome our alumni back to campus to share this very special celebration and to provide the opportunity to reconnect in person with each other and the university,” says Jeanne Marano, assistant vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “Alumni got to see the amazing changes at their alma mater, and it was wonderful to hear their stories of their time at Montclair.”

To kick off the day, alumni gathered for coffee and conversation, hosted by the Office of Gift Planning, where they reflected on Montclair’s past and its transformation and heard about the University’s future from President Jonathan Koppell. Alumni were able to share their experiences and ask questions.

“Hearing from the President about the growth of the University and about some of the challenges in today’s environment was interesting and gave me an even better perspective,” says Peter Nicolas ’75.

Seeing the Campus Sites

A highlight for many was the campus tour which took place on private shuttle buses. Many alumni had not been back to campus in many years and could not believe the wonderful changes. Linda Orth Perez ’75 commented, “The campus tour was an eye-opener. If you have not been to campus lately, you would be amazed by how much it has grown and how beautiful it is. In all, it made me proud to be a Red Hawk and ever grateful to Montclair for giving me a great education.”

At the conclusion of the tour, alumni visited the campus BookStore to outfit themselves with the latest Montclair apparel. “I felt so special the entire two days, and the feeling continues every time I see all the Montclair items I brought home!   Two t-shirts may be over the top, but I’m glad I got them while there on the tour,” says Peg Van Derlyn ’75.

A Memorable Luncheon

As part of the luncheon program, guests shared a memory from their time as students. Many talked about how Montclair shaped their lives and made an impact that lasted a lifetime. It was a wonderful moment of reflection and an opportunity to look back nostalgically on the early 70’s.

Each attendee received their very own 50th Reunion commemorative pin and medallion presented by Rita Walters, vice president for Development and Alumni Engagement. 

“Our time on campus was highlighted by the Reunion luncheon. It was such a great experience to be with friends, reconnect with old classmates, and share stories about professors and our time at Montclair,” added Angelo Genova, Esq. ’75.

Alumni left with not only new memories but also a variety of keepsakes from their time at reunion. 

“I’ve always been proud of my time at MSC resulting in a BA (Major in Political Science, Minor in Public Administration) and watching it grow into the thriving University it is now, says Peter Nicolas ’75. I’m glad I called you to learn more about the event after learning of the planned reunion and that after speaking with you I registered.”  

Thank you to all members from the Class of 1975 who came back to your alma mater to celebrate your 50th reunion!

View the photo albums!

Calling the Class of 1976!

We’re getting ready to welcome you back to campus to celebrate your 50^th Reunion and we need your help to plan an unforgettable celebration. Interested in joining the 50th Reunion Committee? As a committee member, you will work with members of the Alumni Engagement team as well as fellow alumni to plan a successful reunion celebration.

Reunion is a great opportunity to rediscover your alma mater and see all of the exciting changes at Montclair since your time on campus. Celebration for the Class of 1976 is planned for May 2026. You’ll have an opportunity to lead the procession at the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, take part in campus tours and share memories of your time at Montclair at a festive and memorable Reunion luncheon.

Your reunion will be filled with opportunities to reconnect with your alma mater and fellow classmates.  If you have questions or would like to volunteer for the 50th Reunion Committee, please contact Kara Baldwin Brennan ’92, Director of Annual Giving, at (973) 655-7492 or brennanka@montclair.edu.