By Matt Youngfrau
LOCH SHELDRAKE — May 21, 2002 – Sullivan County Community College (SCCC) held its 38th Annual Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 18.
The ceremony saw 230 students graduate. More than 600 people came to the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse to witness the ceremony.
"The graduates have chosen the road to success," remarked SCCC President Dr. Mamie Howard Golladay. "That road is not a straight one. Now you will find opportunity and change."
"The county is pleased to partner with the college. The two are closely intertwined," Sullivan County Legislady Leni Binder said. "I hope you will continue to strive for growth.
“The time to learn never ends. The door never closes. You can succeed. Sometimes, life interferes with your plans."
"It is an honor to see the many parents, family, friends, and guests of the students graduating at this ceremony," stated SCCC's Board of Trustees Vice Chair Robert Ernst. "On this occasion, everyone has a reason to pause and celebrate his or her accomplishments.
“We on the Board of Trustees know the value and commitment invested by not only the students, but also the supporters of those graduating today,” he continued. “Your belief in these students should make this occasion a special one for you."
This year's graduation had a bit of an international flavor to it. Some of the students graduating were from South America, Japan, Russia and the West Indies.
Many were honored at the ceremony. Student Trustee Francis Williams received the SCCC Board of Trustees Civic Award. The Award for General Excellence was given to class speaker Andrew Schauer.
"We will build a foundation on this education," Schauer said. "We have to look to the future ahead. This is to the fulfillment of dreams."
Also handed out were the Chancellor Awards for Excellence. It is the highest honor the State University of New York can give to a professor, staff member, or a student. Those honored were students Jack Etter and Jani Myshtari; professor in the Nursing Department, Division of Natural And Health Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Education, Catherine Romain; Associate Professor and Public Services Librarian Richard Arnold; and Professor and Chair of the Liberal Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Division Robert Glatt.
Graduation was also day of goodbyes. The college honored five of its retiring faculty and staff. Those retiring were Hospitality Professor Friedrich Klostermeier, former Associate Dean of the Faculty Paul Goldstein, Assistant Director of Financial Aid Rosemary Rosenberger, former Registrar Rhoda Epstein, and Director of Admissions and Registration Services Dan Baldo.
"Graduates, your journey to this point in your life has not been alone," Golladay said at the end of the ceremony. "There have been those who provided advice, emotional support, encouragement – maybe even criticism, but with the idea you would succeed to get your degree. Give them thanks for helping you to get where you are today."