Class of 1976 Gears Up for a Golden Anniversary Celebration

A Special Invitation for the Classes of 1976

As spring brings new energy and beauty to campus, it also ushers in one of Montclair’s most treasured traditions—the 50th Reunion. This year, we proudly honor the Class of 1976 as they come together once more to celebrate not only the paths they’ve taken, but the enduring bonds first formed here.

From near and far, classmates will reunite to share stories, laughter and memories—while creating new ones to cherish for years to come. It’s a meaningful homecoming and a joyful tribute to five decades of connection.

Discover all that’s planned for this extraordinary celebration on both the Montclair and Bloomfield campuses and reserve your place today—we can’t wait to welcome you back!

“Our class committee has been connecting with classmates and we are excited to reconnect and celebrate this milestone with everyone,” says Frank Alvarez ‘76, Montclair State University Reunion Chair, “It’s been 50 years since our graduation from Montclair.when we marched onto Sprague Field on a cloudy Memorial Day. After a few opening remarks and a speech or two, it began to rain. President David Dickson conferred our degrees en masse and off we went. This May, we have a chance at a ‘do over’ as we celebrate our 50th.”

Nicholas R. Grassano ‘76, Bloomfield College of Montclair State University Reunion Chair, adds, “Back in 1976, our campus was alive with energy—shaped by a time of change, meaningful conversations and a strong sense of community that made Bloomfield feel like home. Those memories have stayed with us, and now we have a wonderful chance to relive them together.”

A Celebration Filled with Festivities and School Spirit

We invite the Class of 1976 to come together to celebrate their shared pride and school spirit. Activities will take place over two days – May 12 and 13 – at the Prudential Center and on both the Montclair and Bloomfield campuses.

Reunion Celebrations begin on Tuesday, May 12

The celebration begins on Tuesday, May 12, as alumni from Montclair and Bloomfield’s Class of 1976 take center stage—leading the academic procession at the 2026 Spring Commencement ceremonies at the Prudential Center in Newark. In a powerful full-circle moment, they will process in regalia before thousands—stepping into the spotlight not just as honored guests, but as a living legacy of the university.

As they enter the arena to applause and celebration, the Class of 1976 will be recognized for the paths they’ve forged, the impact they’ve made, and the enduring spirit they carry forward. It’s a moving tribute—one that bridges generations and places them at the heart of one of Montclair’s most significant traditions.

Reflecting on this unforgettable experience, Angelo Genova, Esq. ’75, Class of 1975 Committee Chair, shared, “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 to be recognized in such a special way.”

Before the ceremony, alumni will gather for a special breakfast—an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and savor the excitement of the day ahead. Dressed in academic regalia and adorned with commemorative golden anniversary stoles, classmates will capture this milestone with photos and enjoy time with President Jonathan Koppell. Following Commencement, the celebration continues with a festive luncheon in Montclair, hosted by the Office of Alumni Engagement.

On-Campus Festivities Continue on Wednesday, May 13

The celebration continues the next day on the Montclair campus with a vibrant lineup of on-campus experiences designed to reconnect alumni with the place they once called home—while showcasing all that Montclair has become. Enjoy coffee and conversation with campus leadership, take a guided shuttle tour featuring both beloved landmarks and exciting new spaces, visit the bookstore to get your gear, and gather for a class photo to commemorate the occasion.

The day culminates in a celebratory luncheon honoring the Class of 1976, complete with a special 50th medallion ceremony—marking this extraordinary milestone in a meaningful and memorable way.

Linda Orth Perez ’75 also reflected on her visit, noting, “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.”

On the Bloomfield campus, Bloomfield College alumni from the Class of 1976 will also enjoy a heartfelt return to campus, including a guided tour of cherished spaces such as Westminster Hall, the College quad and the Library. The celebration will be highlighted by a Reunion Luncheon in the Bloomfield Library, featuring a special pinning ceremony to honor their golden milestone.

Throughout the celebrations, a spirit of joy, pride and connection will shine. Alumni will leave not only with cherished memories rekindled, but with new moments shared, lasting keepsakes and a renewed bond with the university—and with one another.

Want to take a stroll down memory lane? Check out your online yearbook:

• Montclair State University’s La Campana
• Bloomfield College of Montclair State University’s The Saga 1976

What have you been up to since graduation? Let us know.

• Montclair State University’s Class of 1976 Reunion Memory Book Survey
• Bloomfield College of Montclair State University’s Class of 1976 Reunion Memory Book Survey

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future 

As the Class of 1976 gathers to celebrate this remarkable milestone, it also marks a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the legacy they continue to shape. Giving back to Montclair is a powerful way to honor the experiences, friendships and opportunities that began here—ensuring that future generations of students can create their own stories. Whether through mentorship, engagement or philanthropy, each act of support carries forward the spirit of the Class of 1976, strengthening the university and deepening the connection between past, present and future. Join in honoring this legacy—make your commemorative gift, reconnect in meaningful ways, and help shape the next 50 years of Montclair.

A Call to the Class of 1977

Your golden moment is next—and the planning starts now.

We’re preparing to welcome the Class of 1977 back to campus for your 50th Reunion in May 2027, and we invite you to be part of the journey. By joining the 50th Reunion Committee, you’ll collaborate with fellow alumni and the Alumni Engagement team to help shape a truly memorable celebration.

Reunion is your opportunity to rediscover campus, reconnect with classmates, and experience the incredible evolution of Montclair since your time here. From leading the Commencement procession to participating in tours and sharing stories at a festive reunion luncheon, your milestone celebration promises to be unforgettable.

Questions?

To learn more or to volunteer for the 50th Reunion Committee, please contact Hannah Glynn, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, at (973)-655-7478 or glynnh@montclair.edu.