UAlbany Lessons of Life

Bob Herman

I studied budgeting with Robert Herman (January 2001 issue, UAlbany magazine) 20 years ago through the M.P.A. program at the Rockefeller College. I have never forgotten him and the many lessons he imparted. For me, the most memorable observation he made was the special role that government plays in our lives.He said that, through all of our differences in this country (race, religion, wealth, etc.), it is our government which is common to each person, and thereby can be a uniquely constructive and unifying vehicle for meeting our challenges. I have taken that to heart in my career and have drawn strength from it.

While I was studying for my M.P.A., I was working with the Legislative Commission on Economy and Efficiency in Government. After I received my M.P.A., I went to work in Connecticut and am now the principal budget specialist overseeing all of higher education. I do believe that I have made a difference. I feel privileged when I say that, and I believe it is due in no small part to the skills and pragmatic approach necessary for this field that Bob Herman fostered.

I am very grateful to Bob, and I am happy to know that he is still giving “gifts” to students.

John G. Noonan, B.S.’80, M.P.A.’81
Avon, Connecticut

"Fantastic" Experiences

I just wanted to compliment you on the UAlbany magazine. It’s really terrific, and I enjoy reading it. All my degrees came from the University at Albany, and I am indebted to it. The educational experiences I had at UAlbany were fantastic.

Barbara Zimmerman, B.S.’78, M.S.’81, Ph.D.’95.
Schenectady, N.Y. (via e-mail)

Woodruff: A Lifetime of Work for UAlbany

Here’s a salute to Howie Woodruff and his lifetime of work for Albany State, as it was known to us Red Devils, or members of the Class of 1965. I can remember him as a September counselor, motivating us, keeping us busy, informing us, and just being there for us in general. I also remember his induction into Myskania. Congrats on a job well done.

Bev Callahan Mitterwager, B.A’65, M.S.’87
Callicoon, N.Y. (via e-mail)

Kapa Bet: Men of Stature

Thank you for your article on Kappa Beta in the January 2001 issue. I did take some issue with your statement that the fraternity closed in 1972. I believe that it ended in 1974. The story of Kappa Beta continues with some of the post 1972-74 pledges, including George Bochetto (very active in Philadelphia politics and a former mayoral candidate) and Charles Brennon (now a former mayor in northern New York).

Thank you for reviving some of the memories of the early 70s.

Cris Sievenpiper, B.S.’75, M.S.’76
Waukesha, Wisconsin (via e-mail)

Editor’s note: Haskell Rosenberg, B.A.’40, replies: Whether the fraternity closed in 1972 or 1974, the important thing is that KB still lives in the hearts of all who were a part of it, and that it has continued to spawn men of stature.

Mail or E-mail correspondence to:

Christine Hanson McKnight
Editor UAlbany Magazine
University at Albany, SUNY
Division of University Advancement
University Administration Building, Room 209
Albany, NY 12222.
Phone (518) 437-4987,
Fax (518) 437-4990
E-mail: cmcknight@uamail.albany.edu

Letters to the Editor:

E-mail: cmcknight@uamail.albany.edu
Mail: Christine Hanson McKnight
Editor UAlbany Magazine
University Relations and Marketing Office
University at Albany, SUNY
Division of University Advancement
UAB 209
University at Albany, SUNYNY 12222.
1400 Washington Avenue
Albany, New York 12222
Phone (518) 437-4987,
Fax (518) 437-4990