By Gina Martinez
Queens College kicked off its 80th anniversary celebrations by honoring its alumni.
The reception, held at the campus’s Aaron Copeland School of Music Building, launched a yearlong series of special events, exhibitions, and performances celebrating Queens College’s eight decades.
Queens College President Félix V. Matos Rodríguez honored 98-year-old alumnus John Kinder, a member of the school’s inaugural class, as well as award-winning TV reporter Juliet Papa Oct. 11, which marked the first day of classes all those years ago.
Borough President Melinda Katz was joined by CUNY Chancellor James Milliken and Queens College Foundation Chairman Barry Bryer in issuing a proclamation officially declaring Oct. 11 “Queens College Day.”
“Queens College has been an amazing anchor to the people of this great borough,” Katz said.
Mayor Bill de Blasio sent a congratulatory letter praising the school for its mission and accomplishments, while Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a state proclamation for the event, highlighting the rich heritage of the school, its academic successes, and its impact on the city and state.
Milliken reminisced about the last 80 years and said he looks forward to what the school will achieve in the future.
“In 1937, Queens College opened to an amazing pool of talented, energetic, young students who helped transform the City of New York,” he said. “What Queens stood for in 1937 is what it stands for today: optimism, vision, and a passion to succeed. I am delighted to know that Queens College will be strong for another 80 years.”
Papa, who received the President’s Medal, the highest administrative honor awarded by Queens College, said attending the college was what set her up for her future success.
“I am truly grateful for this — this is where it all started for me,” she said. “Queens College was a great launching pad for me, and the CUNY experience has meant the world to me as well.”
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