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, �ǿ����޴�ý 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 �ǿ����޴�ý 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:

• �ǿ����޴�ý University’s
• Bloomfield College of �ǿ����޴�ý University’s

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

• �ǿ����޴�ý University’s
• Bloomfield College of �ǿ����޴�ý University’s

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.

“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 �ǿ����޴�ý University and Bloomfield College of �ǿ����޴�ý 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 �ǿ����޴�ý 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.”

�ǿ����޴�ý University: Bringing Back Memories

�ǿ����޴�ý 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 , 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.

“Campus may have changed since their time here, but what hasn’t changed is the great sense of community that is still shared by alumni and current students alike,” says Jeanne Marano, assistant vice president for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “We are thrilled to be able to celebrate in person and have the opportunity to invite the reunion classes back to campus to reconnect with each other and the College.”

The 2024 Reunion Celebration will take place on Friday, May 17. Members of the classes of 2013, 1998, 1973 and 2014, 1999 and 1974 will have the opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and fellow alumni at the celebration marking their 10th, 25th and 50th milestone anniversaries. Alumni are invited to come home to the Bloomfield campus for a special reunion pinning ceremony and reception. The celebration will include a tour of campus to discover all the exciting changes since their time as a student.

As a special tribute to members of our 50th Reunion classes of 1973 and 1974, members are invited to walk with the current graduating class at the 2024. Commencement ceremony, which will take place on the Bloomfield campus on Saturday, May 18.

Check your inbox! Full details, including registration, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Join the Committee
Members of the reunion volunteer committee have been working hard to plan a memorable reunion this May. Many thanks to this fabulous team: Emily Hall ’13, Dre’Shonda Williams ’13, Da’Cheray Thomas ’14, Cynthia Jordan ’13, and John Murdock ’73.They are looking forward to reconnecting and celebrating with friends and classmates.

“Being on the reunion committee keeps me connected to Bloomfield College,” stated Dre’Shonda Williams ’13. “I loved Bloomfield College as a student, so naturally as an alumna, staying connected is really important to me. Connecting with classmates is like stepping into a time machine where all the friendship, nostalgia and memories come together. I’m excited for this reunion and to continue to be a part of the university community.”

If you are interested in assisting with planning an unforgettable celebration, we invite you to join the planning committee. We are reaching out to all members of the Classes of 2013, 1998, 1973 and 2014, 1999, 1974 to ask for your help in spreading the word. Committee members participate by calling or emailing classmates to encourage them to attend the reunion, to dig out their yearbooks, gather memorabilia and get ready to reconnect and celebrate in May.

If you are interested in serving on your Reunion Committee or would like more information, please contact Briana Curtis, associate director of Alumni Engagement, at curtisbr@montclair.edu or 973-655-7478.