Upcoming Events for 2025
Alumni Florida Receptions: March 4–6
Buffalo State will celebrate its Alumni Florida Receptions in The Villages (Tuesday, March 4, 5:00–7:00 p.m.), Sarasota (Wednesday, March 5, 6:00–8:00 p.m.), and Naples (Thursday, March 6, 6:00–8:00 p.m.). Visit alumni.buffalostate.edu for more information.
A Look Back at 2024 Events
Alumni Florida Receptions: March 5–7
Buffalo State celebrated its Alumni Florida Receptions in Naples, The Villages, and Sarasota. Each event welcomed a vibrant gathering of alumni who reminisced about their time at Buffalo State while soaking up the warmth of the Sunshine State. These receptions provided a perfect opportunity for alumni to reconnect and strengthen their bond with the university from afar.
Alumni Solar Eclipse Brunch and Tour: April 7
On April 8, Buffalo experienced a total solar eclipse. The day before the eclipse, the Alumni Engagement Office hosted a brunch and tour. The event welcomed over 100 alumni, faculty, staff, and community members who gained fascinating insights into the rare celestial event. The gathering not only offered an enriching experience but also set the stage for an unforgettable moment in Buffalo’s history.
Alumni Soccer Reunion Weekend: April 27
The Buffalo State soccer team and coaches hosted their annual Alumni Soccer Reunion Weekend. The event kicked off with an alumni soccer game, showcasing both friendly competition and lasting camaraderie. The festivities concluded with a celebratory gathering, leaving attendees with lasting memories of their shared love for the game.
Rugby Reunion Weekend: May 3–5
The annual Rugby Reunion Weekend united former players for three days of camaraderie, nostalgia, and celebration. Hosted at the LoRusso Alumni and Visitor Center, this cherished tradition gave rugby alumni the chance to reconnect, relive their glory days on the field, and honor the program’s enduring legacy. The weekend was filled with memorable moments that strengthened the bonds among the Buffalo State rugby family.
National Teacher Appreciation Week: May 6–10
Over 600 alumni submitted requests for the Alumni Engagement Office’s “Proud Buffalo State Alumni Teacher” pennants and about 350 additional pennants were shared with the School of Education to distribute to faculty, community partners, and graduating seniors. About 60 alums participated in the corresponding social media contest in which they posted pictures of themselves in their classrooms with their Buffalo State pennants.
Senior Send Off: May 16
This celebration for graduating seniors attracted over 250 graduating students, introducing them to their new home on campus, the LoRusso Alumni and Visitor Center. The event featured music by DJ Jett, B.A. ’19, a photobooth, free food and drinks, and a commemorative t-shirt for each attendee which were printed onsite by Buff-a-logo, co-owned by Erik Westfield, B.S. ’11
Commencement: May 18
Buffalo State University’s Commencement is the largest celebration on campus each year, with alumni taking center stage as the keynote speakers for each ceremony. Anne Constantino, ’80, Sheila Rayam, ’90, and Darren Brown-Hall, ’96, ’98, were honored with the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award and delivered inspiring speeches reflecting on their journeys and the impact of their Buffalo State education. Alumni Association Board President Stacy Lewis Beauford, ’01, and Vice President Jane Gilbride, ’91, concluded the ceremonies with a heartfelt alumni charge. They emphasized the value of leveraging the alumni network for professional growth and encouraged graduates to remain connected with their alma mater.
Alumni Legacy Tree Family Cookout: June 20
The Alumni Engagement Office hosted its third annual Alumni Legacy Tree Family Cookout at the LoRusso Alumni and Visitor Center. This event honored families with multiple generations of Buffalo State alumni and is a new tradition that was started during the university’s 150th anniversary.
Class of 1974 50th Reunion: July 20
The Class of 1974 gathered at the Burchfield Penney Art Center to celebrate 50 years since graduation. The program consisted of a tour of the facility, brunch, and a “pass the mic” opportunity where alumni shared stories about their time at Buffalo State.
50-Plus Club Luncheon: July 21
Alumni who passed their 50th graduation anniversary were invited to attend this annual luncheon. Attendees were welcomed by Interim President Durand and received an update on campus news from this past year, including Buffalo State’s new university designation. They reconnected with past classmates and shared stories of their times at Buffalo State, ending with a singing of the alma mater. The Senior Service Award was presented at this event to Karen Penfold, ’69, for her years of philanthropic gifts, active volunteerism, and community service as a trustee and board member in support of Buffalo State’s mission.
Sigma Phi Epsilon 45th Reunion Weekend: August 9–11
The fraternity of Sigma Phi Epsilon celebrated its 45th reunion with a weekend full of fun at Buffalo State University. The weekend consisted of a campus tour, dinner at the LoRusso Alumni and Visitor Center, and a stroll down memory lane with many shared stories.
Homecoming Week: September 23–29
Buffalo State’s Homecoming 2024 brought alumni together to celebrate Bengal pride through a series of dynamic events. The festivities kicked off with the annual Homecoming Happy Hour, reconnecting graduates with their classmates in a lively atmosphere. Alumni also were invited to the Alumni and Family Tailgate held at the Sports Arena, where over 300 alumni, friends, family, and community members enjoyed food, games, and camaraderie before cheering on the Bengals football team. Special highlights included a presentation by Lazarus Lynch, ’16, in partnership with the Anne Frank Project, showcasing the talent of one of our accomplished graduates; and the EOP Alumni Reunion, with over 100 alumni representing their EOP roots.
This year’s Homecoming proved to be a memorable weekend of connection, celebration, and nostalgia for our Bengal family.
California Alumni Reception: October 15
The Buffalo State spirit made its way to the West Coast for the California Alumni Reception. Alumni from across the region gathered to reconnect and share stories about their time at Buffalo State.
Alumni Represent at Buffalo State’s Open House: October 26
Two members of the Buffalo State Alumni Board—Vice President Jane E. Gilbride, ’91, and Secretary Maureen Hammett, ’85, ’88, ’92, represented the Buffalo State Alumni Association at the university’s Fall Open House for prospective students.
Rugby Reunion: October 26
The annual Rugby Reunion brought together former players and coaches for a day of camaraderie, competition, and celebration. Alumni returned to relive their glory days on the field, participating in spirited matches and cheering for current players. The event offered an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and honor the legacy of Buffalo State rugby.
NYC Alumni Reception: November 12
The Alumni Association visited the “Big Apple” to celebrate an Alumni Reception. Hosted by John Murphy, ’87, the event welcomed over 75 alumni who shared memories, networked, and strengthened their ties to their alma mater. The vibrant atmosphere reflected the enduring Bengal spirit, and attendees are eagerly looking forward to the next New York City gathering.
Texas Alumni Reception: November 14
Alumni in the heart of Dallas, Texas, reunited for another lively reception, celebrating their shared Buffalo State connection. The event provided a warm and welcoming space for alumni to network, reminisce, and share their experiences. This just proves that no matter the distance from campus, there is always a connection to Buffalo State