Keuka College welcomed more than 400 alumni and guests for its annual Green & Gold Celebration Weekend, a vibrant event filled with reunions, awards, and celebrations of the College’s enduring spirit. The weekend, held from Friday to Sunday, brought together alumni from various graduating classes to reconnect with one another, commemorate milestones, and celebrate their alma mater.
The festivities began Friday with the Pathfinders Luncheon and Medallion Ceremony, where alumnae from the Class of 1974 were honored as Pathfinders, marking 50 years since their graduation. President Amy Storey addressed the luncheon, recognizing the progress women have made over the decades, particularly in leadership and business, while acknowledging ongoing challenges to achieving equal representation. The Class of 1974 also presented a generous class gift—a scholarship fund totaling more than $60,000—and received the inaugural Class Plaque for their continued dedication to Keuka College.
A bonfire at Point Neamo capped off the first day’s welcome party, as alumni gathered around to share stories and rekindle old friendships. Throughout the weekend, guests enjoyed a variety of activities, including a campus barbecue, tours, a Field Period® expo, an outdoor movie screening, and sporting events, all offering opportunities to connect with current students, faculty, and staff.
Saturday’s highlight was the Alumni Association Award Presentations and the Dr. Arthur F. Kirk, Jr. Hall of Fame Inductions, held during an evening dinner. President Storey updated attendees on the College’s latest developments, including a promising incoming class and significant campus renovations. She also provided a sneak peek of Keuka’s upcoming television commercial, part of its “Small on Purpose” campaign.
Several distinguished alumni were honored during the ceremony. Dr. Daniel Riggs ’02 received the Professional Achievement Award, while Dr. BettyLou Koeffel ’74 was recognized with the Eleanor Judd Wilkes ’35 Service to Keuka Award. Sue Ellen Bordwell ’67 earned the Effective Use of Retirement Award, and Shadayvia Wallace ’15 was celebrated as the Graduate of the Last Decade. Hall of Fame inductees included Dr. Nicole Zahtilla Zell ’07, Jessica Bandrowski Smith ’14, and Austin Gerber ’15, who were acknowledged for their exceptional achievements both on and off the field.
Reflecting on her time at Keuka, Hall of Fame inductee Jessica Bandrowski Smith remarked, “I am grateful for the opportunities I had to grow and develop as a student-athlete at Keuka College. The lessons I learned on and off the field have shaped me into the person I am today.”
Sue Ellen Bordwell, who was honored for her community service in retirement, added, “Without Keuka College, there would be no me. Thank you!”
The weekend also saw a lively women’s field hockey match on Saturday, as the Keuka Wolves faced off against Nazareth College, providing alumni and guests another way to celebrate school pride.
The Class of 1974 continued to play a central role in the celebrations, with members receiving medallions during Friday’s Pathfinders Luncheon and later showcasing their Class Plaque, which recognizes their generosity and contributions to Keuka College over the years.
As the event concluded, alumni left with fond memories of their time on campus, a renewed connection to the College, and a sense of pride in Keuka’s enduring legacy. The Green & Gold Celebration Weekend once again brought the College community together, celebrating past achievements while looking forward to future successes.
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