Alumni Association 100th Anniversary Celebration

Friday, October 3, 2025
6:00 p.m.

Southern Connecticut State University
Adanti Student Center

This event is over.

We are kicking off Homecoming and Family Weekend in style, as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Alumni Association! In honor of the remarkable milestone, we are going all out with a 1920s theme, speakeasy vibes, dinner, cocktails, dancing.. You name it! We are also taking the opportunity to recognize alumni whose achievements, leadership, and service have shaped our legacy and inspired generations to come.

All proceeds will go to the Southern Scholarship Fund, continuing the Alumni Association’s legacy of student support and advocacy!

Tell a friend, and come dressed to impress!

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Photos

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Our Awardees

Join us as we celebrate the remarkable alumni whose achievements, leadership, and service have shaped our legacy and inspired generations to come.

Mike Arias ’81

Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation

Ruth Eren ’71, MS ’84

Paul McKee ’21

Eight to the Bar

Get ready to hit the dance floor with Eight to the Bar, the high-energy swing band featured during the evening’s live entertainment. Known for their infectious blend of swing, boogie-woogie, and Motown soul, the band brings a vibrant, retro-inspired sound that’s impossible to resist. With rich harmonies, slick choreography, and a rhythm that keeps the party moving, Eight to the Bar will set the perfect tone for a night of celebration, connection, and dancing.

Keep the Party Going

DJ Santo

DJ Santo brings an electrifying energy to the dance floor to keep the celebration alive. With DJ Santo, the party never stops.

About the Alumni Awards

Recognizing excellence in a way that reflects the energy, values, and future of Southern, the Alumni Association has worked diligently to revitalize its awards program—adopting new, inclusive selection processes and introducing additional honors to celebrate the broad and inspiring impact of our alumni and friends.

James Barber Distinguished Alumni Award

The James Barber Distinguished Alumni Award is the Association’s most prestigious award. Since 1962, this honor has been conferred on alumni who have achieved professional recognition for exemplary performance and whose extraordinary achievements have enhanced the image of the University.

Charlene Hill Riccardi Service Award

The Charlene Hill Riccardi Service Award is presented to alumni who have made significant, tangible contributions to the betterment of the University’s and/or Alumni Association’s physical, social, and/or academic environment.

Young Alumni Professional Award

The Young Alumni Professional Award is presented to alumni, age 40 or under, who have been acknowledged by their peers for outstanding work in their chosen field and have significant career achievements.

Dorothy Martino Alumni Appreciation Award

The Dorothy Martino Alumni Appreciation Award is bestowed on an individual or organization in recognition of significant contributions to the University and/or the Alumni Association.

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact us.

Greg Bernard ’04
Director of Alumni Relations
bernardg2@southernct.edu

Michelle Johnston
Director of Donor Engagement and Events
johnstonm2@southernct.edu