Learn how to celebrate and join Rochester’s first-generation community.

While First-Generation College Celebration Day is celebrated annually on November 8, the University of Rochester celebrates our first-generation population throughout their academic journey and beyond.

Through resources and outreach to students and families beginning their college search, training and mentoring opportunities for current students, and networking events for first-generation alumni, the University is dedicated to empowering and equipping its first-generation community members. These relationships culminate and come full circle when first-generation alumni mentor current first-generation students and connect with their relatable experiences.

What does it mean to be a first-generation student?

At the University of Rochester, a student is identified as a first-generation college student if neither parent/guardian obtained a bachelor’s degree.

Why is this celebrated on November 8 each year?

The Higher Education Act of 1965 was signed into Law on November 8, 1965. This law expanded college opportunities for low-income and first-generation populations. November 8 is observed as National First-Generation Celebration Day.

How can you get involved with the First-Generation Network?

Participate in an upcoming first-generation event on November 8 in Rochester/online or on November 13 in Washington, D.C.

Join the First-Generation Network to volunteer, mentor, and network with other alumni and resources. Contact Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison, ’10W (MS), ’17W (EdD) to get started or with any questions.

The Alumni Relations & Constituent Engagement office facilitates affinity networks to build stronger connections throughout the University community.

Bob and Mabelle Pizzutiello have found joy and purpose in supporting collaborative programs at the University of Rochester.

As a musician for the Eastman Performing Arts Medicine Center (EPAM), Bob Pizzutiello ’77, ’78 (MS) plays the Chapman Stick in the lobby of Strong Memorial Hospital.

“Most human beings are not monolithic,” says Bob Pizzutiello ’77, ’78 (MS), “They enjoy different perspectives.” He and his wife Mabelle Pizzutiello ’63N, P’89 support many programs at the University of Rochester, with their interests spanning the arts, sciences, and healthcare, as well as those focused on equity, diversity, and inclusion, but the Eastman Performing Arts Medicine Center (EPAM) is one of the most unique.

Finding intersections between music and science comes naturally for Bob who pursued a degree in electrical engineering but also made time to study the physics of music. His education at the University of Rochester allowed him to explore the interconnection between his broad interests. When he first came to Rochester in 1973, a teenage Bob had the impression that he would be done learning at the end of college. Instead, those years launched a lifelong career of discovery.

Bob recognizes the valuable life skills that he gained at Rochester—how to think and solve problems. As a Joseph C. Wilson Scholar, Bob had the opportunity to take any course across the University, and he made the most of it. In addition to his undergraduate workload, he took classes in the School of Medicine and Dentistry, which were foundational for him and his future work.

He credits his full scholarship for not only making it possible to pursue his education, but to find a career. At the age of 23, he completed a master’s degree, and he started his first real job at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Bob spent his career working in community hospitals as a medical physicist, while also bringing his learnings about physics and technology into the national discussion, as an advisor to the Food and Drug Administration. He founded and led Upstate Medical Physics, a regional practice, and was the senior vice president of Landauer Medical Physics, a national organization, collaborating with medical physicists to deliver services to individual health care facilities and larger integrated delivery networks. He is also a past president of the New York State Radiological Society.

How a golf cart captured the essence of Meliora Weekend

For those unfamiliar with Meliora Weekend’s scale, thousands of Yellowjackets swarm the University every fall for a weekend of reunions, lectures, family fun, and connections.

It’s a huge orchestration that would not exist without the dedication of staff, faculty, students, volunteers, and vendors. The weekend acts as a love letter to the University written by and shared aloud by the many people behind the scenes.

Many things make Meliora Weekend so special. The traditions (Ferris wheel, anyone?). The food. The breakout sessions. The concerts. The biggest “thing,” however, is the people. From alumni celebrating their 50^th reunion to prospective students and their families touring the campus for the first time, all the Rochester campuses are abuzz with people who either love this University or who are about to learn they will love this University.

The golf carts zipping around campus and offering passersby rides perfectly reflected this range of campus visitors. One golf cart, in particular, experienced this unique cross-section of Meliora Weekend guests, highlighting the reach and impact the University makes across lives and generations. Riders represented graduates from the School of Arts & Sciences, Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Eastman School of Music, School of Medicine and Dentistry, School of Nursing, Simon School of Business, and Warner School of Education, reinforcing that no matter the building or campus considered “home,” Rochester is One University.

Meet some of the faces (and smiles) that were caught by Karina Anderson, director of regional advancement, who volunteered to drive a golf cart during Meliora Weekend.

Students, parents, and alumni are united to make the world a better place, with the University at the heart of their efforts. Together, we are deepening our commitment to Meliora–ever better.

Save the date for next year’s Meliora Weekend, September 18-21, 2025. We can’t wait to see you.

Meet Latin Alumni Network member Sean Dozier ’21S (MBA)

We’re kicking off our Latin Alumni Network Spotlight series, featuring a new alumnus every month, to highlight the professional achievements of our members and their connection to the University.

Name: Sean Dozier
Class Year: 2021
Job Title: Project Manager
Industry: Technology Consulting

Who is someone that inspired you during your time on campus?
All of my fellow MBA students inspired me during my time on campus; they were accomplished and motivated to succeed. Whenever I needed a boost in my morale, I only had to look around the room for examples to draw upon for strength.

What are you most proud of about your University of Rochester education?
Honestly, I’m proud to simply have been admitted and graduated from the University of Rochester. This is a level of personal success that I never could have believed possible based on my starting point in life.

What advice would you give a current or incoming student?
Be bold enough to ask for help. Ask early. Ask often. The University of Rochester is an amazing place filled with some of the world’s top minds. They want you to succeed and help is available from a plethora of sources.

Gifts from Ron Fielding ’73 (MA), ’76S (MBA), ’18 (Honorary) and University Trustee Juan Jones ’88S (MBA) will support education and career success.

Ron Fielding ’73 (MA), ’76S (MBA), ’18 (Honorary) and University of Rochester Trustee Juan Jones ’88S (MBA) have each made new $1 million gifts to support students at Simon Business School, advancing their ongoing commitment to education and student success.

“We are grateful for these exciting investments in Simon’s future and offer our sincere gratitude to Ron and Juan for their unwavering support over the years,” says Simon Dean Sevin Yeltekin. “Both have consistently expressed how impressed they are with our students and recognize the importance of nurturing the impact they will have on our future. Their generous contributions reflect their belief in our students’ potential and their dedication to fostering the next generation of business leaders and innovators.”

Ron Fielding ’73 (MA), ’76S (MBA), ’18 (Honorary) has committed $1 million to the Ronald H. Fielding Scholarship, which complements the Fielding Leadership Fellows program he established in 1996—a program that provides full tuition to qualified MBA candidates. Fielding’s new gift builds upon the growing list of Simon students who become successful alumni in the Rochester community and around the world.

“Simon taught me to connect economic concepts with business realities,” says Fielding. “That knowledge proved crucial throughout my career, so I’m happy to give back to the institution that laid such an important foundation.”

Yeltekin adds, “Simon alumni have long been recognized for their outstanding academic and professional credentials and, like Ron, are interested in making a significant impact in the world. We are grateful to him for providing such important additional support.”

Juan Jones ’88S (MBA) has committed $1 million to Simon in support of various initiatives that will contribute to the school’s success. His gift will establish the Juan C. Jones Scholarship Challenge, a matching gift fund that Simon will use to create new scholarships for qualified students, with a preference for those with financial need. The Jones Challenge is designed to encourage others to establish up to 10 new George Eastman Circle (GEC) scholarships and up to 13 new endowed scholarships. Regarding the Jones Challenge, Yeltekin says that it is a “great example of how philanthropy can be directed to address and support some of Simon’s biggest priorities—accessibility and education innovation—while inspiring others to get involved.”

Jones’ gift will also establish the Juan C. Jones Innovation Fund to provide unrestricted, immediate support of innovative programs that Simon leadership deem crucial to the school’s success. Additionally, Jones has designated part of his gift to his existing Juan C. Jones Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2020, this was Simon’s first endowed scholarship supporting students recruited to the school through the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management. Amending his original gift makes it possible for Simon to provide additional scholarships each year.

“As the first in my family to attend college and graduate school, and coming from a modest military background, I understand the transformative power of education,” says Jones. “The accessibility and affordability of my education at Simon and through the Consortium were life-changing and put me in a position to be successful. The rest was hard work, dedication, the support of my family, and some luck. I created this challenge to inspire others to give, ensuring students with limited means have the same opportunities I did.”

Serving as the administrative body representing all alumni of the School of Medicine and Dentistry, the Alumni Council is an important advisory group to the dean in support of the faculty, administration, students, and alumni. Led by Jill Weimer ’97, ’04M (MS), ’06M (PhD), the Council, made up of more than 20 graduates, welcomed three new members earlier this year:

David Bernstein ’16S (MBA), ’20M (MD)

David N. Bernstein, MD, PhD, MBA, MEI is an orthopaedic surgery resident physician in the Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Residency Program (HCORP) at Massachusetts General Hospital, and a senior researcher at Harvard Business School, where he works on health care transformation initiatives. He also holds an appointment as a visiting professor at Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary.

Bernstein is a prolific health services scientist and sought after key opinion leader, advising several think tanks and governments. To date, he has published more than 130 manuscripts in top scientific journals and has co-authored a variety of opinion and commentary articles in mainstream media outlets. Bernstein received his doctor of medicine degree­—with distinction—from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, a doctor of philosophy degree in value-based health care from the University of Leiden in The Netherlands, and a master of business administration degree from Simon Business School at the University of Rochester, where he was elected to the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society. Bernstein also holds his master’s in entrepreneurship and innovation—with distinction—from the University of Luxembourg as a Fulbright Scholar and a bachelor of arts degree in economics from Bowdoin College.

Patrick Milord ’12S (MBA), ’12M (MD)

Patrick Milord, MD, MBA currently serves as the vice-chief of anesthesiology at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and is a clinical assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. From 2022-2023, Milord was a NYC Health + Hospitals clinical leadership fellow in the Office of Managed Care and Patient Growth. Prior to this, Milord completed his anesthesiology residency and fellowship at NYU Langone Health, and subsequently worked in private practice as an anesthesiologist and interventional pain management physician for the Brooklyn and Queens communities. In 2012, Milord earned his doctor of medicine degree­—with distinction—in research and community service from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He concurrently received a master of business administration degree in healthcare sciences management and competitive and organizational strategy from the Simon Business School at the University of Rochester.

Patricia Sheridan ’01M (MS), ’03M (PhD)

Patricia Sheridan, PhD is a research and development professional in the biotech industry. In her most recent position at Metabolon, she led a team of multidisciplinary researchers utilizing metabolomics and multi-omic integration to improve human health. Prior to joining Metabolon, Sheridan was a faculty member in the Gillings School of Global Public Health at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, researching the impact of nutritional status on the immune response to infectious disease. Sheridan remains actively involved in mentoring students in public health and engages in scientific communication for the public to help foster understanding of important topics in health research. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

This optics leader and entrepreneur’s generosity is helping to shape scientific progress and advance the field of optics.

Krupke’s career has benefited from the interplay between personal drive, professional opportunities, and broader technological trends. He says that seizing opportunities, fostering collaborations, and maintaining a forward-looking perspective in both scientific research and business ventures are keys to success.

Bill Krupke, a physicist, laser scientist, technology entrepreneur, and a former program director at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), has established the William F. Krupke Distinguished Professorship in Optics at the University of Rochester. Krupke’s generous $800,000 gift will be matched with $1.2 million from the Wyant Challenge, established in 2022 by the late trustee emeritus James C. Wyant ’69 (PhD) and his wife, Tammy, to create 10 endowed professorships at the Institute of Optics.

Krupke’s gift marks the third distinguished professorship and fourth gift inspired by the Wyant’s generous challenge. In 2022, Optica, a leading society in optics and photonics, established the first distinguished professorship in recognition of Nobel Prize recipient Donna Strickland ’89 (PhD). In 2023, Tina E. Kidger and Emery L. Moore, long-time optics innovators and leaders in the optics field, created the second one, which bears the couple’s name. That same year, Optimax, an optics and technology manufacturing company, became the third to join the Wyant Challenge.

“Jim Wyant was a contemporary of mine and a true pioneer in the field of optics,” says Krupke. “By establishing this challenge, Jim and Tammy made it possible for people like me to have an enduring role in the future of optics. The Institute of Optics is a leader in the field and the ideal beneficiary of their forward-thinking philanthropy.”

Dean of the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences Wendi Heinzelman says Krupke’s generous gift further strengthens the Institute of Optics at Rochester and will help advance innovations that are crucial to sectors such as energy, healthcare, and manufacturing, with research progress in laser science, photonics, and quantum optics. “With every professorship in the Wyant Challenge, we shape the future of the field as a whole and create a lasting legacy—all of which will propel optics education and research for years to come,” she says.

Right place, right time

Krupke has dedicated his life to science and technology. Growing up, he could always be found tinkering in the garage, taking apart radios and music amplifiers, and putting them back together. He took his curiosity to college and earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and his master’s and PhD from the University of California at Los Angeles, also in physics. He began his career at Hughes Aircraft, witnessing Theodore Maiman lead the company’s demonstration and development of the world’s first laser.

“That was a pivotal time for me,” says Krupke, who was awarded the prestigious Maiman Laser Award from SPIE—the international society for optics and photonics—in 2022. “If the 20th century was the century of the electron, then the 21st century is the century of the photon. We are at a similar turning point, and I am thrilled I can be a part of it. Photons, and laser science and technology, have vast applications in nearly every field, from communications to climate change and beyond. I’m excited to know that this gift will grow the reach of this important, fast-moving work and help amplify the vital role of the institute.”

Laser-focused career

Krupke’s career took him to Honeywell Corporation, Aerospace Corporation, back to Hughes, and then to LLNL, where he was recruited to work on high-peak-power lasers. During his 27 years at LLNL, he cofounded its laser program and became its chief scientist, deputy division and program leader.

After LLNL, Krupke started consulting for a number of venture capital-backed startups, for established laser companies such as Uniphase, and served on the board of the leading fiber laser company IPG Photonics. A windfall related to a patent judgment prompted him to set up a Donor Advised Fund. This type of fund provides immediate tax benefits while allowing strategic charitable giving over time, combining philanthropic intent with financial efficiency.

Lessons learned

Throughout his career, Krupke has learned the importance of asking questions, working collaboratively, taking a multidisciplinary approach, and thinking critically about research directions. He values the crucial role of basic science in building the foundation for applied research, and he thrives on making real-world impact. According to Krupke, that impact fosters innovation and addresses complex issues in new ways, and it expands through professional connections and networks.

Tom Brown, director of the Institute of Optics and the Mercer Brugler Distinguished Teaching Professor, echoes this. “Bill’s many years of contributions to laser science, laser technology, and the laser industry have already had an enormous impact on our students, our alumni, and the success of the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. His leadership underscores a deep commitment to the field and future of optics that reflects well on both the legacy and the future of the institute. Because of people like Bill, and the leadership of Jim and Tammy Wyant, our programs will grow, and we will continue to educate future leaders and innovators who will address and solve some of the biggest scientific and technological challenges facing our world.”

At 87 years young, Krupke continues to consult and develop concepts for laser solutions that address emerging commercial and industrial laser-based applications. He stays active in his field and in life and even walks five miles a day. “I flunked retirement,” he says.

Meet Los Angeles Alumni Network Leadership Council member and Meliora Collective Mentor Tim Marler ’91

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

My wife and I live in Los Angeles, and I work at RAND Corporation, an international think tank, where I study emerging technologies like machine learning, virtual reality, and biotechnology. I am also a professor at the Pardee RAND graduate program in public policy. During my downtime, I enjoy sailing, pickleball, jazz, and fly fishing.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

Just walking into the Eastman School of Music never gets old. Not only the appearance but the culture and inescapable tone were at once soothing and exciting. On the other end of the spectrum, the collective efforts to solve engineering problems were extremely rewarding. And, in between, long hours playing pool in the student union provided yet another form of education.

How did campus life and any co-curricular involvement (clubs, organizations, teams, etc.) impact your personal and professional growth?

I met some of my best, life-long friends at Rochester. The holistic campus life facilitated this, and it is often under-valued as part of the college experience. Working as a pool room attendant and then a manager at the student union, and volunteering on the Rochester radio station jazz show fueled interests that remain today.

What University resources or initiatives were most impactful to your next steps after graduating?

The accessibility to undergraduate research gave me the opportunity to participate actively in graduate-level research studies. This interest in advanced education and research has continued throughout my career.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

It was not clear until later in life, but Rochester provided a freedom to explore beyond a singular focus. For me, this manifested as a minor in music and a certificate in finance and accounting. The culture that encouraged multi-disciplinary studies taught me to approach problems from different perspectives and spurred a theme that has continued professionally. Furthermore, what defines any organization or experience is often the people. Some of the people I met at Rochester continue to influence my life in immeasurable ways.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

I love to learn, and I love to teach (or at least try to). Mentorship satisfies both of these interests concurrently. I continue to volunteer at Rochester via the Meliora Collective Mentorship Program, the Alumni Network Leadership Council, the Real Reader Program, and interviewing undergraduate applicants. Speaking with students is even more rewarding than expected and is often inspiring.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

When time allows, giving back in some capacity is always rewarding and fun. The University of Rochester is supportive and well-organized in facilitating ways you can give back to the community. The UR outreach efforts over the last decades have been impressive, and they have often helped my wife and me discover new corners of Los Angeles.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

The students! Whether I am talking to a current student, who is exploring next steps, or a high school student, who is applying to the University, their interests, efforts, and accomplishments are humbling.

Meet Alumni Interviewer, Class of 1994 Reunion Committee member, and Hillel Board of Directors member Louise Litt ’94, P’27

Tell us about your time as a student (favorite classes, clubs, memories, etc.)

I was a Rochester student in the early 1990s and had a robust academic and social experience. As an English major with a journalism minor, I had so many memorable classes. I was privileged to learn from some of the most esteemed professors, including Russell Peck and George Grella who transformed my way of thinking. Their energy in the classroom stayed with me and showed me the importance of truly loving your job. Outside of the classroom, I spent many long nights in the Campus Times office fueled by Ray MacConnell’s dirt cake and enveloped in the camaraderie that can only be achieved in the early morning hours. I cherish my memories with my Alpha Phi sisters on our hall in Gilbert basement, and later in Burton. I was a member of the Meridian Society and enjoyed sharing my enthusiasm for the University as a tour guide.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

I was lucky to be at the University of Rochester with the legendary Paul Burgett. He was both my Dean of Students and my professor. He connected deeply with me, as was this way with all students. His words gave me the confidence to know that with my Rochester education, there was nothing I could not do. He made it clear that he believed in me. These words propelled me through law school and have stayed with me through every challenge I have faced. I feel grateful to have been in the community with him.

What inspired you to get involved and volunteer? Feel free to touch on your most recent roles (Admissions volunteer, etc.)

My mother, Mina Aprill Aibel, Class of ’68 started doing Alumni Interviews the year I was born. Over 50 years later, she has interviewed thousands of students. No matter how busy she was, she always made time to give back to her alma mater. Inspired by her dedication, I began conducting Alumni Interviews as well, and have enjoyed sharing what I love about the University and getting to know each cohort of applicants. This past year, I joined the University Hillel Board of Directors and am on the 30th Reunion Committee with other members of the Class of 1994. My appreciation and affection for the school motivates me to take on volunteer roles and continue to stay connected to the University.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

Volunteering has not only kept me connected to my alma mater, but it has also kept the principles of Meliora in the forefront of my mind. Hearing about the latest advances at the University is always inspiring and I am proud to call Rochester my college home every single day.

What are you looking forward to next?

In 2023, I had the chance to return to campus as a parent. My connection with Rochester deepened when my daughter, Zoe Litt ’27 began her first year. It has been a thrill to see her thrive in a place so close to my heart. So much has changed (the Game Room in Wilson Commons is now a Starbucks!) but so much has stayed the same. Despite social media and other technological advances, the bulletin boards are still full of flyers and the spirit of Meliora still permeates the campus. I am looking forward to watching Zoe explore the many different facets of the University and am excited to see how she will make her own mark.

What advice do you have for others looking to get involved?

Go for it! There are many opportunities, big and small, and it is always enjoyable to meet other volunteers and learn about their Rochester experience. I have connected with alumni of all ages and it’s a lot of fun to hear about their favorite memories and share my own. Global Days of Service are a wonderful way for alumni to take one day to give back to their community and work together while doing good.

Meet Chicago Network member and Alumni Interviewer Colin Theis ’04

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

For the last eighteen years, I’ve worked for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31 representing unionized employees across a variety of public and private sector employers. I live in Chicago with my spouse, two young children, and our overly anxious dog.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

There are so many things that I remember fondly from my time at the University. Everything from all-morning Saturday breakfasts at the Mt. Hope Diner, to my senior year living in the Community Living Center, Dandelion Day, and so many long nights in the depths of Rush Rhees.

How did campus life and any co-curricular involvement (clubs, organizations, teams, etc.) impact your personal and professional growth?

It was an amazing thing to have a diversity of clubs and activities to choose from. From Greek life, drama productions, and the UR Antiwar movement during my senior year, I was able to participate in so many activities that helped broaden my horizons. I was exposed to many new ideas and concepts that still inform some of my most fundamental beliefs.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

I grew up in a very small town in upstate NY. Coming to Rochester was truly eye-opening. Through my four years, I developed invaluable critical thinking and writing skills that have allowed me to pursue and thrive in my career. Living in Chicago was not one of my plans but after twenty years it is truly home, and I owe that to Rochester.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

After I had children, I was reflecting on the outsized impact of where one attends college has on future life choices. After navigating the college application process with little support, I thought if I could help prospective students find out whether Rochester was a good fit for them would be a good way to give back to a place that means so much to me. I’ve been a volunteer alumni interviewer for around five years, and it’s been great!

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

I absolutely encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to get involved! There are so many ways that you can get involved no matter how much time you have to spare.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

It’s a great feeling to give back to a place that’s done so much for me. I like feeling like I’m helping to shape the next freshman class to add to Rochester’s storied legacy.