College | Long Read
Celebrating Half a Century of Community Impact:
The Friends of Ramapo 50th Anniversary
Left to right: Margaret Mullen-Gensch and Peggy Capomaggi
Excerpted from “A History of the Friends of Ramapo” by Margaret Mullen-Gensch and Peggy Capomaggi, edited by Ariana Rivera | Winter 2024
Founded in 1973, the Friends of Ramapo emerged from a shared vision of fostering community engagement, supporting local initiatives and enhancing the overall well-being of Ramapo College students. “The Friends were a ‘grass roots’ group of local townspeople who rolled up their sleeves and encouraged others to address whatever challenges were facing the college,” said William F. Dator, the Friends of Ramapo’s founding president, who is a past chair of the Board of Governors and immediate past chair of the Board of Trustees. What began as a small group of passionate individuals has evolved into a dynamic force that has left an indelible mark on the community. The Friends of Ramapo membership is now over 225, from the original 30 members in the fall of 1973.
Its commitment to community engagement and empowerment is evident in a myriad of programs, events and initiatives designed to bring people together, encourage collaboration and celebrate the diverse tapestry of Ramapo College. Throughout the years, the Friends of Ramapo has hosted events such as classical music performances, art auctions, film and lecture series and student productions. “Friends of Ramapo has been a truly vibrant and meaningful part of CantaNOVA and the Ramapo College Choral Program. The annual Friends of Ramapo concert not only raises funds for student scholarships, but also inspires our singers to value and give their best in service of community,” stated Lisa Lutter, Ph.D., associate professor of vocal music performance. Through events like these, the community gets a chance to view the talents of the students as well as support them.
Left to right: Friends of Ramapo President Bill Dator presents President Potter with a check for scholarships circa 1978.
“The Friends were a ‘grass roots’ group of local townspeople who rolled up their sleeves and encouraged others to work whatever challenges were facing the college.”
— William F. Dator
Founding President of the Friends of Ramapo, Past Chair of The Board of Governors and Immediate Past Chair Board of Trustees
The mission of the Friends of Ramapo was and still is to expand communications and foster a greater understanding between the college and neighboring communities by sharing the college’s cultural and educational resources while raising scholarship money. “Friends of Ramapo has been a truly vibrant and meaningful part of CantaNOVA and the Ramapo College Choral Program. The annual Friends of Ramapo concert not only raises funds for student scholarships, but also inspires our singers to value and give their best in service of community,” stated Lisa Lutter, Ph.D., associate professor of vocal music performance. Through events such as the Friends of Ramapo concert, the community gets a chance to view the talents of the students as well as support them.
The organization’s flagship contributions have been the multiple scholarships that they have established throughout the years. By 1975, they had already begun awarding scholarships to eligible students and awarded over $3,000 in their first year. Major fundraising activity began in 1980, when they hosted the Ramapo Raffle during women’s tennis tournaments. These raffles raised over $10,000 per year, which was deposited in an endowed fund. By 1985, the Friends’ endowment reached $100,000 and was at the time the largest single endowment at Ramapo College. To commemorate the historic 50th Anniversary, a new endowed scholarship, “Friends@50,” was established. On the 50th Anniversary of the Friends of Ramapo, to commemorate this historic occasion, a new endowed scholarship, “Friends@50,” was established. This new scholarship enhances the Friends’ strong commitment to Ramapo College, solidifying their impact on Ramapo students for years to come. Megan Woods ’23, a 2023 recipient of the Friends of Ramapo Scholarship for the Arts said, “I am grateful for the opportunities the Friends of Ramapo provide to students and their encouragement of students pursuing their goals.” Ramapo College and its students are forever grateful for all of the support and contributions that the Friends of Ramapo has provided throughout the years.
Left to right: Chris Romano, Executive Director of the College Foundation and Robin Keller, President of the Friends of Ramapo
The Friends of Ramapo’s 50th anniversary is not just a milestone; it is a testament to the power of community, collaboration and unwavering dedication. As they reflect on the past five decades, the organization stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all of the profound impact that a group of committed individuals can have on a college’s growth and prosperity.
To learn how to get involved, visit the Friends of Ramapo website.