First, a big thank you to those helping to organize our 50th reunion. It has been truly enjoyable reading through these biographies. I’m delighted to learn that so many classmates have done well, and I was especially moved by those who, when faced with adversity, were able to overcome life’s obstacles and succeed nonetheless.
My own story is more mundane. I graduated from SUNY Albany majoring in Physics and went on to earn an engineering master’s from USC. My 42 year career in aerospace was very rewarding, focused mostly on commercial satellite and rocket systems—with one hypersonic test vehicle thrown in for good measure. (Actually, launching an orbital rocket is very dramatic… for at least ten minutes!)
Most importantly, of course, has been my marriage and family. My wife and I have been together for 36+ years and raised three kids, now adults who are either married or engaged. We are very much looking forward to “morphing” into grandparents.
I’ve remained very active in retirement with home construction projects, hobbies, and daily exercise—usually running, cycling, or skiing. (For my 60th, we rode our old-fashioned, non-motorized touring bicycles, unassisted, from coast to coast, camping along the way). Travel fills the rest of our time; so far, I’ve hit all 50 states and 30+ countries across six continents.
I’m sad that we won’t be able to attend the reunion in person, but I look forward to reading the 350 or so stories yet to be submitted!