SUNY Ulster bids hail and farewell to graduates
Ranging in age from 17 to 63, 265 students graduated Saturday, May 18, from SUNY Ulster.
Alan P. Roberts, the college’s president, presided at the ceremony. Michael Hein, former county executive and current acting commissioner of the state Office of Temporary & Disability Assistance, was the keynote speaker.
“I love SUNY Ulster for millions of reasons,” said Hein, adding that he attended SUNY Ulster 30 years ago. The college, he said, provides “easy access to life-altering education.”
Margarette Jorge, student representative from the class of 2019, quoted President Donald Trump and former first lady Michelle Obama.
“When you feel defeated, try a different angle until you succeed,” she said.
Tracey A. Bartels, Ulster County Legislative chair, said SUNY Ulster was known as “the jewel of Ulster County.” She added that, “You, the graduates, are the reason it shines.” Bartels said she was moved by the success stories returning graduates told.
“Do what you love,” she advised. “Scare yourself. Breathe deep.”
Many students decorated their graduation caps with colors, flowers and slogans. Tina Mitchell, a nursing graduate, wrote on hers, “Cute enough to stop your heart. Skilled enough to restart it.” Mitchell plans to take the nursing boards after graduation, work for a year, then return to school for her bachelor of science degree in Nursing.
Casie Kleingardner, 27, a vet tech student who is graduating with Phi Theta Kappa honors, wrote on her cap, “Yes, I talk to animals.”
Of the class, 89 graduated with highest honors. Fortythree students are members of the national honors society Phi Theta Kappa, and 11 were recognized for achieving a 4.0 grade point average while at SUNY Ulster.