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20 Things to know when planning a cruise ship wedding

August 01, 2020 6 min read

Cruise ship weddings can be fun, simple, and affordable. Check out the things you should know before planning a cruise ship wedding!  Did you know that the average wedding in the United States cost over  $20,000?  I personally had my wedding on a cruise ship and I loved it! A cruise wedding can be as cheap as  $1500-$7000  depending on what you want and how many people will be attending. You can also add things and still have an amazing wedding on a budget.  A wedding on a cruise ship is a great way to save money, time, and is a very unique way to tie the knot!   I have created this cruise ship wedding guide for anyone looking for perspective and tips on tying the knot on board a cruise ship.  

1.) Reserve in advance  

With any wedding whether land or sea, reserve in advance because you may not be the only couple considering a certain wedding date. Also, you want to book your cruise vacation in advance to avoid it being sold out.  

2.)Your Wedding can be at a port or destination venue 

I had my wedding in Miami before the cruise set sail. You can choose to have your wedding on the ship in your home port before it sets sail or at another port like the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii etc. Keep in mind that you can not have your wedding while the cruise is actually sailing on the ocean because a legal marriage has to be within a country. Also, know that you can renew your vows on a cruise if you are already married!  

3.)Pick the right cruise for you  

For most ships they will require you to book your cruise vacation first before starting any wedding planning so keep this in mind. Also, every ship is different with different cruise lengths and things to offer so you will want to pick the cruise ship that matches your personality. I personally chose to have a wedding on Carnival cruise because it offered affordable wedding packages compared to other ships and I chose a 7 day cruise because it was not too long or too short. A 4 day cruise is also a great option.  

4.) Get the balcony suite  

You will be saving some major bucks on your wedding, so you will have some extra cash to get an ocean view suite with a balcony. I would highly recommend getting a balcony suite because it is more spacious and waking up to different views every morning will be very romantic.  

5) Bring marriage license  

You will need to get your marriage license prior to the wedding. After the wedding ceremony the newly married couple, their witnesses, and clergy will sign the marriage license. It will be up to the couple to file it with the courts after the wedding so that it will be legal.  

6) Non-cruising family members can attend wedding  

   Even if your family members will not be passengers on the ship, they can still be in attendance to your wedding when the ship is in port. When I had my wedding with Carnival cruise line I was able to get onto the ship with all of my family members and friends before the ship was to set sail from Miami, FL and have my wedding. Also, keep in mind there will be no other people on the boat besides you, your wedding guest, and the cruise staff at the time of your wedding because you will be given priority boarding and get on the ship earlier than others for your wedding.  

7.) Honeymoon will still be amazing even with cruising family members  

Speaking of family members, don't worry about your honeymoon being less romantic with family or friends cruising with you. The ships are so big and full of different activities that you are not likely to run into them. However, if you do want to hang out with them it can be very fun. 

8.) Let your guest know your plans ASAP  

When planning a cruise wedding you will want to let your guest know your plans as soon as possible, so that they can have time to prepare or take off from work. You can do this  BEFORE  sending out invitations by simply emailing, calling or texting your guest to give them a heads up of your plans.  

9.) Make a wedding website & registry  

When it comes to a cruise wedding there are a lot of little details that your guest will need to know and understand. On your wedding website or facebook page be sure to include hotel information, directions to the cruise port and where to meet for the wedding. You will also want to let them know that if they are a non-sailing wedding guest they will need to bring I.D and if they are a sailing guest to bring their passport.   Check out how I set up my wedding website  here .  

10.)Try to get group rates  

Try to book accommodations as a group so that your wedding guests and you can get better rates and save money on your cruise booking.  

11.) Wedding planners will assist you  

The great thing about having a wedding on a ship is that it will be a lot less stressful. The cruise wedding coordinators take care of everything, you just let them know what you want. Wedding packages offered on the ship also help to take a lot of the work out of the wedding planning. Packages will include cake, food, flowers, and entertainment..  

Tip:  A great company to get some beautiful themed wedding invitations is the  stylishscribe.com  and you can get real looking artifice flowers looking online.  

12.) When or when not to have your wedding cruise...  

Avoid summer and spring breaks:  if you choose to have your wedding during these times you may be sharing your cruise vacation with college spring breakers and families on vacation with their kids However, do book your cruise during these time if it fits into your wedding plans and guest schedules.     Avoid holidays: keep in mind when planning your wedding and cruise vacation that it may be more money during holidays.     Consider the season & weather: of course you will want to try your best to avoid bad weather months. For example I avoided having my wedding during hurricane season in Florida  

13.)Come at least a day prior to wedding cruise  

If you do not happen to live conveniently near the cruise port and are driving or flying in for the wedding, do yourself the favor and stay in a hotel prior to your big day. This will save you from running around like a crazy person and from getting stressed out. It also gives you more time to spend with family and friends prior to your wedding as wedding cruises typically are shorter.  

  14.)Get reliable transportation  

  Be sure to get reliable transportation to the cruise ship for your big day and preferably get a hotel near the cruise port. You may want to consider getting a shuttle from your hotel for you and your wedding party.  

15.) Arriving to cruise port...  

  you will be met outside by a cruise coordinator in a designated area. They will escort you and your wedding party into the ship in order to get ready. For your wedding you and all your guest will have priority boarding and check in. I boarded the ship at 10:00 a.m with all of my wedding guest.  

16.) Getting ready for your wedding  

  Makeup:  On the boat they can do your wedding makeup for you or you can be sure that your makeup artist comes with you into your cabin along with your wedding party.     Hair:   I would recommend having most of your hair done prior to getting on the boat and leave any minor finishing touches for the boat in order to save time in getting ready for your big day.     Clothes: Dress for the occasion, yes it is a cruise wedding and can be laid back but I would recommend to still dress to impress.       Cabins:   Your cabin will be ready early for you and your wedding party to get ready in.   I would recommend that you request a second cabin be opened so that the groom and the bridal party can get ready in separate locations.  

17.)Wedding ceremony  

keep in mind that  the ceremony room you get will be based off of the number of guest that you have attending your wedding. During your big day your guest will be directed to the ceremony room by your wedding coordinator.  

18.)Wedding Reception  

I would recommend that during the reception you just try and mingle with your wedding guest, with the exception of some candid shots and the standard wedding cake cutting photo. The time you have is short and it is better to pick up the professional picture taking after the reception where you will be able to go around the boat and outside to take plenty of photos by the photographer.  

19.) Photos and videography  

You can not bring your own photographer. Also, be aware that with any wedding that the professional photos and videos may be expensive. I personally would recommend getting the professional photos and video of your wedding and try to get the photo package that is right for your budget.     See example wedding video:  here  

20.) Honeymoon  

Time to sit back, relax and enjoy your honeymoon! My honeymoon was spent in Belize, Mexico, Honduras and Grand Cayman on the ship Carnival Glory. We had a balcony suite and really enjoyed every part of our honeymoon cruise from ordering room service in our cabin to snorkeling in the crystal blue waters of Mexico and riding around on a scooter.  

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Sail Away To Love – The Ultimate Guide To A Dream Cruise Wedding

There’s no better way to start your journey of love than by saying “I do” amidst the beautiful backdrop of the open sea. A cruise wedding offers couples a unique and unforgettable way to tie the knot, with stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities at your fingertips. However, planning a cruise wedding comes with its own set of challenges and considerations to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch.

From choosing the perfect cruise line and itinerary to navigating the legal requirements of getting married at sea, this ultimate guide will walk you through every step of planning your dream cruise wedding . We’ll cover everything from booking your wedding package and coordinating with the onboard wedding coordinator to selecting the ideal ceremony location and reception venue. Whether you’re looking for a romantic intimate affair or a grand celebration with all your family and friends, a cruise wedding can cater to your needs and exceed your expectations.

With our expert tips and advice, you’ll be well-equipped to make your cruise wedding dreams a reality. We’ll also provide insights on how to make the most of your special day, from pre-cruise preparations to post-wedding celebrations. So initiate on this romantic journey with us as we examine into the world of seaside nuptials and help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

• Unique Experience: A cruise wedding offers a unique experience that combines the excitement of a wedding with the adventure of a cruise.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Cruise lines offer all-inclusive wedding packages that make planning a breeze and include everything from the ceremony to the reception.
• Scenic Backdrops: Imagine exchanging vows with the stunning backdrop of the ocean or a beautiful port as your backdrop.
• Guest Entertainment: Guests can enjoy various activities and entertainment on the cruise, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
• Professional Assistance: Cruise wedding coordinators are experienced in planning weddings at sea and will help you every step of the way.
• Customizable Options: Couples can personalize their cruise wedding with custom decorations, music, and even themed ceremonies.
• Honeymoon Included: Start your honeymoon immediately after the wedding with a cruise that can take you to exotic destinations around the world.

Understanding Cruise Weddings

Any couple dreaming of a unique and romantic wedding experience should consider a cruise wedding. Combining the magic of a wedding ceremony with the luxury and adventure of a cruise vacation, cruise weddings offer an unforgettable experience for both the couple and their guests. Understanding the ins and outs of cruise weddings is necessary for planning the perfect event that suits your style and preferences.

Definition of a Cruise Wedding

Understanding the definition of a cruise wedding is the first step towards planning your dream celebration. A cruise wedding typically takes place aboard a cruise ship, either while docked at a port of call or while at sea. Couples can choose from a variety of wedding packages offered by cruise lines, which can include everything from the ceremony venue to catering and entertainment. Most cruise weddings also come with the services of a dedicated wedding coordinator to help plan every detail of the event.

Types of Cruise Weddings

There are several types of cruise weddings to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget. Some common options include onboard weddings, where the ceremony takes place on the ship, and destination weddings, where couples get married at a port of call. Other choices include vow renewals, commitment ceremonies, and even full ship charters for a more exclusive experience. Understanding the different types of cruise weddings will help you determine the best fit for your special day.

The Legal Landscape of Cruise Weddings

Understanding the legal aspects of cruise weddings is crucial before you set sail for your big day. The laws and requirements for getting married at sea or in international waters can vary depending on the cruise line, the ship’s nationality, and the ports of call. It’s necessary to research the legalities and ensure you have all the necessary documents and approvals in place to avoid any potential issues on your wedding day.

For instance, some countries may have residency requirements or specific documentation that you need to meet before getting married. It’s also important to consider how the marriage will be legally recognized in your home country and any other relevant jurisdictions. While cruise weddings offer a unique and memorable experience, navigating the legal landscape is a critical aspect of ensuring your special day goes off without a hitch.

Planning Your Cruise Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Despite the challenges that come with planning a wedding, opting for a cruise wedding can streamline the process and make your special day one to remember. To ensure everything goes smoothly, it’s important to follow a step-by-step guide that will help you plan every detail with ease.

Setting The Date

You first need to decide on the perfect date for your cruise wedding. Consider factors such as weather conditions, availability of your desired cruise line, and the schedules of your guests. It’s important to choose a date that works for you and your partner, as well as your loved ones who will be joining you on this special occasion.

Once you have a few potential dates in mind, reach out to the cruise line to inquire about availability and pricing. Keep in mind that certain times of the year may be more popular for weddings, so it’s best to book well in advance to secure your preferred date.

Finally, confirm the date with the cruise line and send out save-the-dates to your guests. This will give everyone ample time to make travel arrangements and ensure that your wedding day is a celebration to remember.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Wedding cruise lines offer a variety of packages and services to suit different tastes and budgets. It’s important to research and compare different cruise lines to find one that meets your specific needs. Consider factors such as destination options, onboard amenities, and wedding packages offered by each cruise line.

Wedding cruise lines also have dedicated wedding coordinators who can help you plan every aspect of your special day, from the ceremony to the reception. They can assist with choosing the perfect venue onboard the ship, customizing your wedding package, and coordinating with vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly.

When choosing the right cruise line for your wedding, make sure to consider the overall experience they offer. Look for reviews from other couples who have had their weddings on the same cruise line to get an idea of what to expect and ensure that your dream cruise wedding becomes a reality.

Budgeting and Finance Tips

Planning a wedding can be expensive, but there are ways to save money and stick to your budget when opting for a cruise wedding. Start by setting a budget and determining how much you are willing to spend on each aspect of your wedding, including the cruise package, decorations, and entertainment.

• Research discounts and promotions offered by the cruise line to save money on your wedding package.
• Consider booking during the off-peak season to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Opt for all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, and entertainment to help control costs.

Perceiving these budgeting and finance tips while planning your cruise wedding can help you create a memorable and magical experience without breaking the bank. By carefully managing your finances and making informed decisions, you can have the dream wedding you’ve always imagined.

Factors to Consider When Planning a Cruise Wedding

Many couples dream of exchanging vows on a luxurious cruise ship, surrounded by breathtaking ocean views and pampered with top-notch services. However, planning a cruise wedding comes with its own set of unique considerations. From guest accommodations to selecting the perfect venue on the ship and arranging catering and dining options, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch.

Guest List and Accommodations

For a cruise wedding, it’s crucial to consider the size of your guest list and their accommodations. Ensure that the cruise ship you choose has enough cabins to accommodate all your guests comfortably. You’ll also need to factor in special room rates or group booking discounts for your wedding party and guests. Remember to provide your guests with all the necessary information regarding passports, visas, and any other travel documents required for the cruise.

When planning accommodations, consider whether you want your guests to stay near each other or if you prefer specific room arrangements for your close family and friends. Discuss room preferences with the cruise ship’s staff to ensure everyone has a pleasant stay during the wedding festivities. Recognizing your guests’ needs and preferences will contribute to a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Selecting the Perfect Venue on the Ship

Inviting your guests to a dream cruise wedding means choosing a venue on the ship that perfectly encapsulates your love story. Your options may include a romantic outdoor deck overlooking the sea, a elegant ballroom with panoramic views, or a chic lounge for a more intimate affair. It’s crucial to work closely with the cruise wedding coordinator to select a venue that aligns with your vision and accommodates your guest list.

It’s important to consider the flow of events during your wedding day when selecting a venue on the ship. Whether you envision a sunset ceremony on the deck followed by a lavish reception in a grand ballroom, or a more relaxed celebration in a lounge with cocktails and dancing, the venue should cater to your desired timeline and atmosphere. Remember to factor in any technical requirements, such as sound systems or lighting, when choosing the perfect venue for your dream cruise wedding.

Catering and Dining Arrangements

Some of the most memorable moments of a wedding revolve around food and dining experiences. When planning a cruise wedding, work closely with the ship’s culinary team to design a menu that reflects your tastes and preferences. Whether you opt for a formal sit-down dinner, a casual buffet, or themed stations serving your favorite cuisines, the catering and dining arrangements should align with your wedding theme and guest preferences.

Cruise ships offer a wide range of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual cafes, and even room service for a more intimate dining experience. Consider hosting a welcome dinner or farewell brunch to extend the celebrations and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Cruise weddings offer the unique opportunity to tailor your dining experiences to suit your preferences and create a culinary journey that complements your special day.

The Bridal Guide to Cruise Wedding Fashion

Dressing for the occasion.

Once again, when it comes to planning your dream cruise wedding, one of the most important aspects is choosing the perfect outfit for your special day. Little details can make a big impact, so it’s vital to consider the unique setting of a cruise ship when selecting your wedding attire. The key is to strike a balance between elegance and practicality, as you’ll want to look stunning while also being comfortable and able to navigate the ship easily.

For brides, a lightweight and flowy gown is a popular choice for a cruise wedding. Opt for fabrics like chiffon or organza that move gracefully in the ocean breeze. Consider a mermaid or A-line silhouette that will be flattering and easy to move in. Remember to choose shoes that are not only stylish but also practical for walking on the ship’s deck .

In the matter of groom’s attire, a light-colored suit or tuxedo in breathable fabrics like linen is an excellent choice for a cruise wedding. Consider adding nautical elements like a striped tie or anchor cufflinks to tie in with the ocean theme. Accessories like a stylish watch or a pocket square can add a touch of sophistication to the groom’s look .

Nautical Themes and Accessories

Occasion: The nautical theme is a popular choice for cruise weddings, and your choice of accessories can help enhance this theme and add a touch of whimsy to your wedding ensemble. Incorporate details like anchor motifs, navy stripes, or seashell accents into your accessories for a cohesive and elegant look.

With nautical-inspired accessories , such as a starfish hairpin or a seashell necklace, you can add a subtle touch of seaside glamour to your wedding outfit. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your accessories and embrace the maritime theme to create a memorable and unique look for your cruise wedding.

The Ceremony and Celebrations

Not every couple dreams of a traditional wedding on solid ground. For those looking for a unique and memorable experience, a cruise wedding offers a romantic and picturesque setting to say “I do.” Imagine exchanging vows under the open sky, surrounded by the vast expanse of the ocean. A cruise wedding allows you to combine your ceremony and celebrations with a luxurious vacation for you and your guests.

Personalizing Your Ceremony

While some may think a cruise wedding limits personalization options, the reality is quite the opposite. Many cruise lines offer various wedding packages that allow you to tailor your ceremony to reflect your style and preferences. From choosing floral arrangements to selecting music and decor, you can personalize every detail to make your wedding truly unique. Consider exchanging vows on a private beach during a port of call or hosting a themed reception on board the ship to add a personalized touch to your special day.

When planning your cruise wedding, don’t forget to incorporate elements that reflect your love story. Consider writing your own vows or including special readings that hold significance for you as a couple. Work with the onboard wedding coordinator to customize your ceremony and create unforgettable moments that speak to your relationship. Whether you opt for a traditional ceremony or a more modern approach, personalizing your cruise wedding will make it an event to remember.

Reception and Entertainment

If you’re worried about the reception and entertainment options on a cruise wedding, fear not. Most cruise lines offer a variety of venues and entertainment choices to suit every taste. From elegant dining rooms to lively nightclubs, you can find the perfect setting for your reception. Dance the night away under the stars on the deck or enjoy a gourmet meal in a sophisticated restaurant. The onboard entertainment options, such as live music, DJs, and performers, will ensure that your guests have a fantastic time celebrating your union.

Considerations: When planning your reception and entertainment, consider the size of your wedding party and guests. Some cruise ships may have limited capacity in certain venues, so it’s vital to book early and ensure all your guests can join in the celebrations. Additionally, discuss any specific requirements or preferences with the cruise line to guarantee a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Pros and Cons of Cruise Weddings

After deciding to have a cruise wedding, it is vital to weigh the advantages and possible challenges that come with this type of ceremony. Below is a breakdown of the pros and cons of choosing a cruise wedding:

Advantages of Choosing a Cruise Wedding

Weddings on cruise ships offer a combination of luxury, convenience, and stunning views that are hard to match with traditional land-based weddings. The all-inclusive packages not only simplify the planning process but also provide excellent value for money. Couples can enjoy a stress-free wedding experience with experienced cruise wedding coordinators handling all the details.

Moreover, cruise weddings offer unique venues at sea or exotic ports of call that create unforgettable memories for the couple and their guests. The onboard activities and entertainment ensure that there is never a dull moment, making it a truly immersive experience for everyone involved. Additionally, the honeymoon starts immediately after the ceremony, allowing the newlyweds to relax and enjoy quality time together.

For couples looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience that combines adventure, romance, and luxury, a cruise wedding is the perfect choice. The picturesque backdrops, top-notch services, and seamless planning process make it an attractive option for those seeking a memorable and stress-free celebration.

Possible Challenges and Solutions

Solutions must be considered to address the potential challenges that may arise when planning a cruise wedding. Issues such as limited guest lists due to travel costs can be mitigated by providing guests with early notice and assistance in finding affordable travel options. Unpredictable weather conditions can be managed by choosing the right season and destination for the cruise wedding.

Additionally, seasickness among guests can be alleviated by offering motion sickness remedies and choosing larger, more stable cruise ships. Legal requirements at different ports can be navigated by working closely with the cruise line and local authorities to ensure all necessary documents and permits are in order. By proactively addressing these challenges, couples can ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise wedding experience for all involved.

This comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of cruise weddings highlights the important factors to consider when planning a romantic and unique wedding at sea. By weighing the advantages against the potential challenges and being prepared with proactive solutions, couples can make informed decisions and create unforgettable memories on their special day. Ultimately, the allure of a cruise wedding lies in its ability to offer a one-of-a-kind experience that combines luxury, adventure, and romance in a picturesque setting.

Finalizing the Details and Preparing for Departure

Your Cruise weddings: Everything you need to know about… dream is about to become a reality as you finalize the details and prepare for your departure. This part of the process is crucial to ensure a smooth sailing towards your magical cruise wedding. Let’s explore into the necessary documentation and legalities you need to consider before setting sail.

Necessary Documentation and Legalities

Details like passports, birth certificates, and visas are crucial for a cruise wedding, varying depending on your destination. Make sure to research and comply with all legal requirements specific to the ports of call on your itinerary. Some countries may have specific rules for marrying non-residents. Double-check all documents and deadlines to avoid any last-minute issues.

When planning a cruise wedding, it’s important to keep in mind that some cruise lines require couples to have been legally married before the ceremony on the ship. Understanding the cruise line’s policies and requirements is imperative to avoid any disappointments. Also, consider obtaining a marriage license from your port of call if necessary, following all legal procedures to ensure your marriage is valid.

Packing and Preparations

Finalizing your packing list and preparations is key to a stress-free cruise wedding experience. Pack your wedding attire, necessary documents, and any special items you may need for the ceremony. Consider the weather conditions at your destinations and pack accordingly. Don’t forget to inform your guests about any dress code requirements or special instructions for the wedding celebration.

When preparing for your cruise wedding, think about any additional decorations or personal touches you want to add to your special day. Organize your luggage efficiently to avoid any last-minute scrambling. Remember to also pack any practical items like sunscreen, medications, and travel adapters. By taking care of these details in advance, you can relax and enjoy your cruise wedding to the fullest.

Tips for a Memorable Cruise Wedding Experience

For a truly unforgettable cruise wedding experience, it’s imperative to consider every detail carefully. From the ceremony to the reception and everything in between, planning is key to ensuring a smooth and seamless event. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your special day at sea:

Photography and Videography Tips

• Hire a professional photographer and videographer to capture every moment of your cruise wedding. Look for professionals with experience in capturing events at sea to ensure they understand the unique challenges and opportunities of a cruise wedding.
• Scout out the best locations on the ship for stunning photo backdrops. Whether it’s the ship’s deck at sunset or a secluded spot with ocean views, take advantage of the ship’s amenities for your photos and videos.
• Discuss your vision with your photographer and videographer ahead of time to ensure they understand your style and expectations. Communication is key to getting the perfect shots that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Recognizing the importance of preserving your wedding memories, investing in quality photography and videography services is a decision you won’t regret.

Guests’ Guidance and Comfort

• Provide detailed information to your guests about the cruise itinerary, onboard activities, and any special events related to your wedding. Clear communication will help guests feel prepared and excited for the celebration.
• Consider guest accommodations and ensure that everyone’s needs are met. Whether it’s dietary restrictions, mobility issues, or simply preferred activities, make sure your guests are comfortable and well taken care of throughout the cruise.
• Plan group activities to bring your guests together and create memorable experiences. From welcome cocktails to group excursions, providing opportunities for guests to connect will enhance the overall wedding experience.

The comfort and enjoyment of your guests are crucial to a successful cruise wedding celebration.

On top of the aforementioned tips, remember to communicate regularly with your cruise wedding coordinator to ensure that every aspect of your special day is planned to perfection.

Another important aspect to consider is travel arrangements for your guests. Providing clear instructions on launchation procedures and any necessary travel documents will help avoid any last-minute confusion or delays.

By taking proactive steps to address your guests’ needs and ensure their overall comfort, you can focus on enjoying your cruise wedding to the fullest.

Navigating Post-Wedding Logistics

Thanking your guests.

Any couple who has begined on the beautiful journey of a cruise wedding knows the importance of thanking their guests for being a part of their special day. Whether your guests traveled near or far to witness your nuptials at sea, expressing your gratitude is imperative. Handwritten notes, personalized messages, or small tokens of appreciation can go a long way in showing your guests how much their presence meant to you on this unforgettable occasion. Note, it’s the little gestures that make a big impact and leave a lasting impression.

For those guests who went above and beyond to make your cruise wedding a truly memorable experience, consider sending them a special gift or arranging a post-wedding get-together to express your gratitude in person. Your guests will appreciate the effort you put into acknowledging their presence and participation in celebrating your love.

Thanking your guests not only shows good manners but also strengthens the bonds between you and your loved ones, creating cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Legal Matters After the Wedding

For couples who have tied the knot on a cruise ship, there are some legal matters to attend to after the wedding ceremony. It is imperative to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized in your home country. This may involve obtaining an official marriage certificate or license from the cruise line or the port where the marriage took place. Additionally, you may need to update your legal documents, such as your passport or driver’s license, to reflect your new marital status.

Consulting with a legal advisor or wedding coordinator who specializes in cruise weddings can help you navigate the post-wedding legalities smoothly. They can provide guidance on the necessary steps to take to ensure that your marriage is valid and legally binding. Taking care of these legal matters promptly will allow you to focus on enjoying the beginning of your married life without any concerns about the paperwork.

By addressing the legal aspects of your cruise wedding promptly and accurately, you can start your new chapter as a married couple with peace of mind, knowing that all the necessary formalities have been duly attended to.

Recapitulating the Voyage of Love

Appreciation for the experience of a cruise wedding goes beyond the wedding day itself. It’s imperative to recapitulate the entire voyage of love, from the moment you said “I do” to the final sunset on the horizon. Reflect on the moments shared, the memories created, and the love that blossomed amidst the vast ocean. Write a journal, create a photo album, or simply sit together and reminisce about the beautiful journey you begined on together.

Celebrate the milestones of your cruise wedding by reliving the magical moments and appreciating the challenges you overcame together. By recapitulating the voyage of love, you reaffirm your commitment to each other and honor the incredible journey that brought you to this point of marital bliss.

Cherish the memories of your cruise wedding and let them serve as a beacon of love and joy as you sail into the future together, hand in hand, ready to embrace all that married life has in store for you.

Q: What is a cruise wedding?

A: A cruise wedding is a ceremony that takes place aboard a cruise ship while sailing to exotic destinations, combining the joy of getting married with the adventure of travel.

Q: Why choose a cruise wedding?

A: Cruise weddings offer a unique and romantic setting, with the opportunity to exchange vows against breathtaking backdrops, all while enjoying the amenities and services provided by the cruise line.

Q: How do I plan a cruise wedding?

A: To plan a cruise wedding, you will first need to book your cruise package with the chosen cruise line, select a wedding package that suits your preferences, and work closely with the cruise line’s wedding planner to customize your special day.

Q: What destinations are popular for cruise weddings?

A: Popular destinations for cruise weddings include the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, Mediterranean, and the Bahamas, among others, offering a range of scenic settings for your nuptials.

Q: What are the benefits of a cruise wedding?

A: The benefits of a cruise wedding include a stress-free planning process, all-in-one packages that simplify arrangements, a built-in honeymoon as you sail to different ports, and the opportunity for a memorable and unique wedding experience.

Q: Can I have guests at my cruise wedding?

A: Yes, most cruise lines offer wedding packages that accommodate guests, allowing your loved ones to join you for the ceremony and festivities while enjoying the amenities and activities available on the ship.

Q: What should I consider when planning a cruise wedding?

A: When planning a cruise wedding, consider factors such as the marriage license requirements of the port of initiateation, the onboard wedding venues and reception options, guest accommodations, and any additional services or amenities you may want to include in your wedding package.

Related posts:

• Set Sail For Love – The Ultimate Cruise Wedding Experience
• Setting Sail – A Guide To Your Dream Cruise Wedding
• Capture Your Love Story In Breathtaking Locations With Pre-Wedding Photography! From The Charming Streets Of Paris To The Golden Cliffs Of Santorini, Eternalize Your Love Before The Big Day!
• Embark On A Luxurious Journey With A Cruise Wedding! Say 'I Do' Amidst Stunning Ocean Views And World-Class Amenities!

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Thinking of a wedding at sea? Princess Cruises and other cruise lines offer everything from a Wedding Ceremony to a Renewal of Vows Ceremony or Commitment Ceremony.

Top 12 cruise lines for weddings

Best options for getting married on a cruise ship in 2017-2018.

Cruiseable team

On a cruise ship

CruiseClout score: 95.0

June is high tide for weddings and romantic honeymoons. In increasing numbers, thousands of couples are turning to cruise ships each year for everything from a formal Wedding Ceremony to a Renewal of Vows Ceremony, Commitment Ceremony or Celebrations program. 

The reason? It's more convenient, with the cruise lines' wedding planners and event organizers taking the hassle out of the process. It's generally less expensive than ceremonies on land. (A few years ago, Holland America did a price comparison and found that a wedding that cost $10,250 on land cost just $2,500 at sea .) And it adds a distinctive touch of adventure, with wide-ranging itineraries that provide a ready-to-go honeymoon. 

Here are 12 cruise lines that offer wedding ceremonies  at sea or on land. If you're thinking of a wedding or commitment ceremony for 2017 or 2018, now's the time to start planning!

Cruise line wedding services

• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Windstar Cruises
• SeaDream Yacht Club
• MSC Cruises
• Cunard Line

Norwegian Cruise Line

Holland america line.

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line

Princess Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines for shipboard weddings because of their wide array of options, services and venues.

Princess offers three different options for couples who want to get married. For the Tie The Knot At Sea package ($2,998), Princess can provide the couple with a venue (i.e., onboard wedding chapel), a captain to perform the legal ceremony, a bouquet made with a dozen roses, a wedding cake and bottle of champagne, two Princess logo toasting flutes, a champagne breakfast for two and dinner for two at a specialty restaurant. Several of its ships, including  Caribbean Princess , Diamond Princess , Grand Princess , and Star Princess , have dedicated wedding chapels. Nice added touch: In many cases, technology allows you to broadcast the ceremony via live webcam to friends and family back home.

For couples with guests who are not sailing on the ship, Princess offers its Tie The Knot Harborside package for ceremonies on the ship while it’s docked at port. The ceremony is performed by a local officiant and you get a half dozen roses bouquet, boutonniere, 9-inch single layer wedding cake, bottle of sparkling wine and wedding certificate. Prices vary depending on the destination.

A final option, the  Tie The Knot Ashore package (prices vary), is for couples who want a wedding ashore at one of the many destinations where Princess sails. It includes a beach or garden setting, an officiant to perform the ceremony, a photographer, a wedding cake for two and round-trip transportation service for guests. Princess also offers a range of special photography packages.

Where to sail

Princess ships sail all over the world. Here are some Princess cruises as a starting point as you plot your wedding route or honeymoon escape. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of experience you're after, then contact a Cruiseable travel advocate at 1-877-322-3773 . It's free, and you'll want someone on your side to help with the planning.

Some itinerary ideas:

• 7 Night Alaska Inside Passage With Glacier Bay (Seattle Roundtrip)  (Ruby Princess)
• 11 Night Scandinavia & Russia (Berlin Roundtrip)  (Regal Princess)
• 10 Night Panama Canal  (Caribbean Princess)

Each year, more than 300 couples exchange vows on board a Celebrity Cruises ship. Celebrity offers couples all-inclusive wedding packages, coordinated by the line’s specialist partner, The Wedding Experience. They also organize in-port weddings. Engaged couples can tie the knot on board a ship or while docked in ports such as Aruba , Cozumel , Cabo San Lucas , Civitavecchia (near Rome ), Hawaii , Alaska , Seattle  or Santorini , Greece.

On Celebrity Reflection , weddings and receptions can be held at the ship’s conference center, a 2,853-square-foot venue that can hold up to 220 guests. Expect prime catering from the ship’s James Beard-awarded chef cooking up pre-set appetizers, entrees, soups/salads and dessert menus for the wedding guests. If the guest list doesn’t reach triple digits, a cozy alternative is the half-acre Lawn Club (with real grass) located on the upper deck of the Solstice-class ships.

Receptions can also be held at the specialty restaurants on all Millennium -class ships; a minimum of 25 guests is allowed for private functions with either a set menu or buffet.

Here are some Celebrity cruises as a starting point as you look into romantic escapes. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of experience you're seeking.

• 7 Night Alaska Tracy Arm Fjord  (Celebrity Solstice) 
• 10 Night Italy & Greek Isles (Rome Roundtrip)  (Celebrity Reflection)
• 10 Night Southern Caribbean (Miami Roundtrip)  (Celebrity Equinox)

Since 2013, luxury cruise line  Crystal Cruises has been featuring a Crystal Celebrations program, offering cruise passengers top-notch service for any occasion they wish to host on board Crystal Serenity  or Crystal Symphony . Crystal partners with Imagine VIP, a global event-planning company, to create special tailor-made events for guests looking for a wedding or other celebrations, such as birthdays, reunions or anniversary parties — all with the assistance of an Imagine VIP Crystal Celebrations consultant.

Services include reserving an ideal location on the ship, or at a venue in or near a port of call, to host the ceremony. (There are no onboard ceremonies.) As a pre-event offering, the couple receives a tailor-made wedding website, a wedding registry and 25 save-the-date cards. Additional wedding amenities include a specially decorated stateroom, live music, an 18-rose bouquet hand-tied with Swarovski crystals for the bride, a specialty cake for two, keepsake toasting flutes, bottle of champagne, an hour of photography service, dinner reservations for two in one of the ship’s specialty restaurants, and a 20% spa voucher.

Pricing : The Wedding Ceremonies package starts at about $3,500. Choose from a choice of four classy themed reception decor packages (black and white, beach, tea party, traditional white). To be married on shore, the ceremony includes pre-planning with an event consultant, a wedding website, wedding registry, local wedding venue and officiant, commemorative certificate, on-site coordinator and your choice of amenities from a set list; rates start at $4,295. 

Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of romantic Crystal Cruises voyage you're seeking. Remember that Crystal now has two ocean ships, an expedition ship that launches in 2018 and a small fleet of luxury river yachts.

• Grand Panama Canal (Crystal Symphony)
• Best of Paris, Seine River & Normandy (Crystal Debussy)
• Mediterranean Images (Crystal Serenity)

Royal Caribbean , which boasts the largest, most technologically advanced ships in the world, offers an Ultimate Love Story package that includes a personal Wedding Planner, day-of-wedding coordinator, private wedding venue, nondenominational wedding officiant, wedding photographer, pre-recorded music, three-tier wedding cake, bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, mimosa breakfast in bed for the betrothed, decorated honeymoon room, honeymoon dinner for the couple at a specialty restaurant, gift registry and more. Cost: $3,800 for up to 50 guests; $4,600 for 51 to 100 guests. 

You can get married on the ship or on shore, with a wide variety of options for a shoreside ceremony, ranging from a beach in San Juan to a glacier in Juneau, Alaska. Prices vary by itinerary and by time of year.

Another option is the Royal Proposa l package, where Royal provides a private location, event planner and event coordinator when you want to pop the question. Cost: Starting from $450.

Here are some Royal Caribbean cruises as a starting point as you look into romantic escapes. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of experience you're seeking.

• 9 Night Greek Isles (Rome Roundtrip) (Jewel of the Seas)
• 12 Night Northern Delights (Southampton Roundtrip) (Navigator of the Seas) 
• Southern Caribbean (Adventure of the Seas)

One of our favorite cruise lines, Windstar Cruises , offers an intimate small-ship experience, whether you're looking for a wedding, honeymoon or commitment ceremony. On Windstar’s private yacht style sailings, you'll be joined by 148 to 310 passengers on board as its ships access small, out-of-the-way ports with a crew that delivers exceptional personal service and unique experiences on shore.

Honeymooners will swoon on a Windstar Cruises sailing yacht: the sound of the billowing sails, an idyllic sunset and itineraries that have won it awards as “The World’s Most Romantic Cruise Line” year after year. Three of the ships are computer-powered sailboats and three are power yachts. From a romantic breakfast in bed to a relaxing massage to dining on gourmet cuisine at an intimate table for two, Windstar yachts offer an unforgettable experience.

A top wedding and honeymoon destination for Windstar is Tahiti , where guests sail from one picturesque island to another for some snorkeling and exploring the island’s rainforests. In Bora Bora , Windstar offers a romance package that includes a night in a secluded overwater bungalow, a private beachside dinner for two, and breakfast the next morning delivered by canoe and served on the bungalow’s private deck. Other popular choices include sandy beaches in the Caribbean and classically beautiful Greek Isles. Each wedding and special event is priced individually.

Here are some Windstar cruises as a starting point as you look into romantic escapes. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of experience you're seeking.

• 7 Night Treasures Of The Greek Isles (Athens Roundtrip) (Wind Star)
• 7 Night Dreams of Tahiti (Wind Spirit)
• 7 Night Best Of The Abc Islands (Oranjestad To Bridgetown) (Star Pride)

Another phenomenal small-ship cruise line that makes us swoon, SeaDream Yacht Club ("it's yachting, not cruising"), also offers yacht-like cruise options for engaged couples. SeaDream's two ships, which sail mostly in the Caribbean and Mediterranean at small, off-the-beaten-track ports, carry 112 passengers and 95 crew members, guaranteeing a high level of personal service for your wedding party.

SeaDream has a Couple's Package for a wedding ceremony officiated by the ship's captain, at sunrise or sunset. It includes flower arrangement and lapel florals, live musical accompaniment, champagne toast with the captain following the ceremony, bottle of chilled champagne and canapés, private breakfast (Sunrise option), SeaDream wedding certificate, single tier cake, and more. Cost: $750 (plus the itinerary cost, of course). 

Assuming you want additional guests to attend, the Friend’s Package includes a Champagne Breakfast or Cocktails & Canapes at sunet, a large cake/special dessert, and more. Cost: $85 per additional guest.  For parties larger than 18 total attendees, contact Cruiseable to get additional savings on your group's cruise fare. 

Here are some options for you on SeaDream if you use our Bliss Filters. You'll notice that SeaDream's yachts have dozens of unique itineraries throughout the year.

Two itinerary ideas we like:

• From Malaga to Nice cruise (SeaDream II)
• From Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome) cruise (SeaDream I)

The only MSC Cruises ship to home port in the United States (in Miami), MSC Divina now gives couples the option to have a legal wedding shipboard or ashore while docked in Miami , Cozumel , Grand Cayman , San Juan , St. Maarten or Falmouth , Jamaica. But she'll soon be joined by MSC Seaside , debuting in December 2017. Other MSC ships sail the Mediterranean and around the world. 

MSC offers:

• Onboard Wedding package with wedding venue, local non-denominational wedding officiate, special destination vows, wedding day Ceremony Coordinator, traditional ceremony music, modern bridal bouquet, matching boutonniere, t raditional cake for two, wedding photographer, deluxe in-cabin breakfast for the newlyweds the morning after and more. Prices varies with itinerary. 

• Shoreside Wedding package with Pre-sailing Event Manager, romantic wedding ceremony at an exotic location (most ports offer a beach or garden setting), local non-denominational Wedding Officiate, wedding day Ceremony Coordinator, bridal bouquet, matching boutonniere, artistic wedding cake for two, wedding photographer and more. Price varies with location.

Here are some MSC cruises as a starting point as you look into romantic escapes. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to get matched with the kind of experience you're seeking.

• 11 Night Southern Caribbean (Miami Roundtrip) (MSC Divina) 
• France, Spain, Italy (MSC Orchestra)
• 14 Night Eastern/Western Caribbean (Miami Roundtrip) (the new MSC Seaside)

Couples looking for either a large wedding celebration or an intimate commitment ceremony with only their closest family and friends can opt for any of  Cunard ’s three high-end ships, Queen Mary 2 , Queen Elizabeth  or  Queen Victoria .

The history-rich, British-accented cruise line’s  Wedding Ceremony package includes a list of nuptial services, from a wedding coordinator helping the bride and groom with all the logistics and a romantic reception, to floral arrangements and wedding music, a wedding certificate, bottle of champagne and a White Star Bellman to escort the bride to the ceremony.

Pricing : Package pricing varies. On Queen Mary 2, pricing starts at $3,900, and the cost aboard Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth is $3,300. 

Here are some Cunard sailings  as a starting point as you research romantic getaways. Adjust the Bliss Filters sliders to find the kind of experience you're looking for. 

• 7 Night Norwegian Fjords (Southampton Roundtrip) (Queen Mary 2)
• 14 Night Baltic Highlights (Southampton Roundtrip) (Queen Elizabeth)

Norwegian Cruise Line  now offers legally recognized weddings at sea — performed by the ship’s captain with the couple’s marriage license issued by the Bahamas — on three of its ships:  Norwegian Escape ,  Norwegian Breakaway  and Norwegian Getaway . 

The cruise line’s Wedding at Sea package starts at $2,995 and includes the wedding essentials, from an onsite coordinator to a wedding cake and champagne toast. In addition, Norwegian is offering couples a chance to select a Harborside Ceremony , which is performed on board the ship while docked in select ports of call, or a Destination Ceremony , which is performed ashore. Destinations include Canada, Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean, and prices vary depending on the port or destination.

Additional enhancements and services available include spa and beauty treatments, flowers (including custom orders), professional photography and videography, transportation to and from the ship or wedding location, priority check-in, and a variety of wedding reception options, ranging from a cocktail reception with gourmet selections and open bar to a four-course sit-down luncheon with wine service.

LGBT couples can also exchange vows with Norwegian, which is now offering legal same-sex ceremonies in stops where the union is recognized, including Hawaii, Los Angeles, Tampa, Miami, Port Canaveral, New York, Seattle and Vancouver.

Use Cruiseable's Bliss Filters to find a cruise  that looks like a perfect match.

• 7 Night Hawaii (Pride of America)
• 9 Night Baltic Capitals (Copenhagen Roundtrip) (Norwegian Getaway)
• 7 Night Western Caribbean (Miami Roundtrip) (Norwegian Escape)

10 Wedding cruise packages are available on every ship in Holland America Line ’s fleet. For those not in the know, Holland America has one of the richest histories of any cruise line, harking back to the 19th century and the era of ocean liners. Choose to get married on board, under the palms on an exotic Caribbean island beach or on top of a grand Alaskan glacier.

Wedding packages include a personalized ceremony, wedding coordinator services, cake, champagne, a photo album and a keepsake wedding certificate. Additional services from photography to music, receptions and pampering appointments can be added to the package. And group bookings bring added incentives for couples who say “I do” with Holland. If eight or more staterooms are booked, the couple gets a free upgrade and a complimentary wedding cake for up to 16 guests. Guests benefit, too, with a Pinnacle Grill lunch, chocolate-dipped strawberries per stateroom, a bottle of Pierre Larousse Brut sparkling wine and a private one-hour wine tasting per guest.

Rates vary from $795 for a simple ceremony sailing for two (no guests) on North America and Caribbean itineraries as well as a wide variety of packages at other price points, depending on number of guests, itinerary and ceremony add-ons. A word of caution: Don't expect waterslides or similar big-ship activities on Holland America, where the vibe is more laid back. But it's a good choice for a multigenerational event. 

Here are some Holland America cruises as a starting point as you look into romantic escapes. Use the Bliss Filters sliders to zero in on the kind of experience you're seeking.

• 14 Night Bermuda & New England/Canada Collector (Boston To Montreal)  (Veendam)
• 14 Night Northern Isles (Amsterdam Roundtrip) (Koningsdam)
• 7 Night Alaska Inside Passage (Vancouver Roundtrip) (Westerdam)

11 Carnival Cruise Line , the world's largest cruise line, offers wedding programs that give couples a cost-effective, hassle-free way for couples to begin their lives together on a vast variety of ships. In addition to affordable prices, Carnival offers a wide variety of dining, bar and venue choices.

On average, Carnival hosts about 2,600 ceremonies a year, and that number could increase now that the cruise line recently completely revamped its wedding program by offering upgraded amenities from floral arrangements to new multi-tiered wedding cake options — coconut cream, red velvet and chocolate ganache — baked on board.

The  Just You & Me package (starting at $1,355 for eight guests) includes the wedding ceremony, bouquet and boutonniere, the tiered wedding cake, champagne toast, photography services, decorated aisle and officiant. If a party of eight is just too small for the couple, there is the Time to Celebrate…Big! package (20 guests; $1,975 for 20 guests) that includes all amenities from the “Just You & Me” package, but adds a 1 1/2-hour reception, open bar, hors d’oeuvre and a custom-designed ice carving. Packages for larger parties are available as well. 

Wedding ceremonies can be held both on and off the ship. Recently, Carnival added Grand Turk and Freeport to the list of ports of call where couples can tie the knot; other Caribbean locales include Barbados , Grand Cayman , St. Thomas , and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas .

Use Cruiseable's Bliss Filters to find the right Carnival sailings for your wedding party. Some itineraries you might like: 

• 8 Night Southern Caribbean (on the new Carnival Vista)
• 7 Night Western Caribbean (Galveston roundtrip) (Carnival Freedom)
• 7 Night Eastern Caribbean (Port Canaveral Roundtrip) (Carnival Magic)

12 For couples who are truly kids at heart, and hoping to have Donald Duck bust a move at their wedding reception, Disney Cruise Line  is a fun option for a wedding or honeymoon at sea. Couples can decide to exchange vows on board the ship at locations such as the Outlook, a private party space with ocean views on Disney Fantasy , Disney Dream  or Disney Wonder . 

The couple can opt for a beachside ceremony on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay — all arrangements can be made with a Disney wedding planner.

Prices for an onboard wedding begin at about $3,000, and $4,000 for a ceremony on Castaway Cay.

Although Disney Cruise Line is made for families, honeymooners can find some private and romantic time on board one of the line’s ships. The Quiet Cove Pool is an adults-only space with whirlpool spas and a poolside bar, while the Senses Spa & Salon on Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream and Disney Magic , and the Vista Spa & Salon on Disney Wonder, are perfect for some alone time.

Newlyweds can also indulge in a couples massage in a Spa Villa featuring an indoor spa treatment suite with a private outdoor veranda, whirlpool , open-air shower and chaise longue. While on Castaway Cay, the newlyweds can stretch out on Serenity Bay, a section of beach only for adults and located about a mile from the family beach.

Use Cruiseable's Bliss Filters to find Disney sailings that are high on romance .

• 7 Night Eastern Caribbean (Port Canaveral Roundtrip) (Disney Fantasy)
• 7 Night Bahamas (Galveston Roundtrip) (Disney Wonder)

Use a Cruiseable travel advocate — for free

Use Cruiseable's ship write-ups  and travel guides  for details about each ship, the itineraries they sail and the ports they call on. 

And, when you've discussed it with your special someone, contact a Cruiseable travel advocate  to find you the best cruise at the best rate — at no charge to you.

In our Travel Romance series

Guide to honeymoon cruises, vow renewals on a cruise: 15 top choices.

• 9 top honeymoon retreats in the Caribbean

10 heavenly honeymoon havens in Mexico

• 7 steps to plan the perfect couples cruise

7 top dream romantic escapes

Cruiseable team The Cruiseable editorial team consists of award-winning travel writers, cruise bloggers and journalists.

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Cruise Wedding: How to Plan Your Perfect Wedding at Sea

Ahoy, lovebirds! Are you ready for a wedding at sea that will make waves of excitement? Picture this: a cruise wedding ceremony surrounded by the vast ocean, breathtaking destinations, and non-stop fun. A wedding is a momentous occasion that calls for a unique and memorable celebration. For couples seeking an extraordinary experience, having a cruise wedding offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and luxury. Get ready for a quick and quirky guide on how to plan the most epic wedding at sea.

Choose the Perfect Cruise Line and Ship For Your Wedding at Sea

Time to channel your inner explorer and find the cruise line and ship that tickle your fancy. Start by researching different cruise lines and ships to find the one that aligns with your vision and requirements. Consider factors such as onboard amenities, destination options, wedding packages, and available dates. Look for cruise lines that specialize in weddings or have dedicated cruise wedding coordinators to assist you throughout the planning process. Having trouble deciding? That’s what the travel experts at Cruises.com are here for! We can help you choose the best cruise line and ship for your wedding at sea if you are torn between all of the different options.

Trim the Guest List, Pump Up the Fun

Whether you want an intimate ceremony or an all-out extravaganza, choose a package that suits your style and budget. Remember, a cruise wedding often includes a set number of guests, but you can always add more for an extra splash of fun.

Select The Right Itinerary for Your Wedding at Sea

Cruise weddings offer the opportunity to combine your wedding celebration with a breathtaking destination. Check out the itineraries and choose one that floats your boat. Do you fancy exploring exotic islands, dazzling beaches, or cultural hotspots? Keep in mind the duration of the cruise and the exciting ports of call to make your wedding voyage an unforgettable adventure.

Cruise Wedding Planner Extraordinaire

In addition to your amazing Cruises.com travel agent that will be there to help you along the way, most cruise lines provide dedicated cruise wedding coordinators to help you plan and execute your special day! They’ll be your trusty first mate, navigating the planning process for your cruise wedding with ease. From paperwork to legalities, they’ve got your back. Reach out to them early on to discuss your wildest dreams, ceremony ideas, reception must-haves, and any crazy customizations you desire.

Spice Up Your Cruise Wedding Package

Cruise lines typically offer a range of cruise wedding packages to suit various tastes and budgets. These packages often include essential elements such as the ceremony venue, officiant, wedding cake, floral arrangements, photography, and sometimes even a reception. Tailor your package by adding extras like live music, professional makeup and hair services, videography, or themed decorations to make your wedding uniquely yours.

Float with Your Crew

Let your guests know about the upcoming nuptials so they can hoist the anchor and join you on this wild adventure. Give them plenty of time to prepare their sea legs and secure their cabins. Coordinate with the Cruises.com to secure a block of cabins for your guests, ensuring they are accommodated close to each other for convenience. Consider offering group rates or negotiating special perks for your wedding guests.

Get ready for a pre-wedding and post-wedding fiesta! Plan a welcome party to kick off your wedding at sea and get everyone in the mood to have a great time. Plan group excursions at the ports of call or even a farewell brunch for the ultimate bonding experience. It’s time to make memories that will rock the boat!

Set Sail on Your Dream Cruise Wedding

This is it—the big day! Personalize your cruise wedding ceremony and reception to reflect your unique love story. Get creative with rituals, write heartfelt vows, and choose music that makes your heart sing. Sprinkle the reception with your special touch, from custom decorations to mood-setting lighting. Bon voyage and congratulations on finding your happily ever after at sea!

A wedding at sea is like catching a shooting star—you’ll have a blast, and the memories will twinkle forever! So, chart your course, gather your crew, and let Cruises.com help you plan your cruise wedding the smart way. We give you our exclusive bonus offers and all qualifying cruise line offers , plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits . Book online at Cruises.com for the largest selection of cruise line deals or call 800-288-6006 today.

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Cruise Destination Wedding Ideas

• Cruise Ideas
• September 18, 2023

You’re about to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime, but this time, it’s not just for a vacation. Imagine exchanging your vows on the deck of a luxurious cruise ship, with the sun setting into the ocean as your backdrop. A cruise destination wedding offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you dream of saying “I do” on a white sandy beach in the Caribbean or against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean coastline, the options are endless. So grab your partner’s hand and get ready to embark on a journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

Choosing a Cruise Destination

When considering a cruise wedding, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the perfect cruise destination. The destination sets the tone for your special day and determines the experience you and your guests will have. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when making this decision.

Considerations for Choosing a Cruise Destination

• Personal Preferences: Take into account your personal interests, hobbies, and preferences. If you’re a beach lover, a tropical destination such as the Caribbean may be ideal. If you prefer history and culture, a Mediterranean cruise could be the perfect fit. By aligning the destination with your interests, you’ll ensure a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience.
• Ease of Travel: Consider the ease of travel for both you and your guests. Look for a cruise destination that offers convenient flights and good transportation infrastructure. Additionally, be mindful of any visa requirements or travel restrictions that may apply to your chosen destination.
• Wedding Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the wedding regulations of different countries and ports of call. Some destinations may have specific requirements and documentation needed to legally perform a wedding ceremony. Ensure you understand and can comply with these regulations before finalizing your decision.
• Budget Considerations: Remember to factor in the cost of the destination when making your decision. Some destinations may have higher costs for accommodations, food, and activities. Consider your budget and choose a destination that aligns with your financial plan.

Popular Cruise Wedding Destinations

If you’re looking for popular cruise wedding destinations, there are several options that are known for their scenic beauty, romantic atmosphere, and excellent cruise facilities. Here are a few top choices:

• Caribbean: With its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant culture, the Caribbean is a dream destination for many couples. Whether you choose the Eastern, Western, or Southern Caribbean, you can expect a tropical paradise for your wedding.
• Mediterranean: Embark on a journey through history and culture with a Mediterranean cruise wedding. From the breathtaking beauty of the Greek Islands to the romance of the Amalfi Coast, this region offers endless possibilities for a fairytale wedding.
• Alaska: For nature enthusiasts, an Alaskan cruise wedding allows you to exchange vows amidst stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife. The pristine beauty of Alaska will create a unique and memorable backdrop for your special day.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Cruise Wedding Destinations

If you’re looking for something more unique and off-the-beaten-path, consider these cruise wedding destinations that offer a lesser-known yet equally enchanting experience:

• Norwegian Fjords: Sail through the majestic Norwegian fjords for a wedding that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a sense of intimacy and tranquility. The picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere will create an idyllic setting for your special day.
• South Pacific Islands: Explore the hidden gems of the South Pacific with a cruise wedding to destinations such as Tahiti, Bora Bora, or Fiji. These exotic islands boast pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a rich Polynesian culture, providing an unforgettable wedding experience.
• Baltic Sea: Discover the charm and history of Northern Europe with a Baltic Sea cruise wedding. From the medieval architecture of Tallinn to the opulent palaces of St. Petersburg, this region offers a unique blend of romance and cultural heritage.

Climate and Seasonal Considerations

The climate and season of your chosen cruise destination play a crucial role in determining the best time to have your wedding. Consider the following factors:

• Weather: Research the weather patterns of your chosen destination during the time of year you plan to get married. Ensure that the weather conditions align with your vision for the wedding, whether it’s clear skies for outdoor ceremonies or a cozy atmosphere for indoor celebrations.
• Peak Season vs. Off-Season: Take into account the peak tourist season of your cruise destination. While peak season may offer better weather, it can also mean larger crowds and higher prices. Off-season weddings may provide more affordable options, but it’s important to consider the potential impact of weather conditions during this time.
• Theme and Atmosphere: Consider the theme and atmosphere you envision for your wedding. Do you want a tropical paradise or a winter wonderland? Select a season and destination that best reflect the ambiance you desire for your special day.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a cruise destination that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Matt and Carol

Hi, We are Matt and Carol and we're delighted to welcome you to Cruising Market! As the authors behind this website, we are passionate about providing helpful information for both new and experienced cruisers. Whether you're looking to learn more about vacationing on a cruise ship, seeking answers to commonly asked questions, or simply in search of exciting things to do and places to see on your upcoming voyage, we've got you covered. Additionally, you can even discover some amazing items that are essential for a memorable cruise experience. Join us as we navigate the incredible world of cruising together!

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Top Tips for Planning a Cruise Ship Wedding

If you’ve decided to take the plunge and get married on a cruise ship, you may think you can mark off choosing the wedding location from the to-do list. However, choosing the right ship is just step one! Let’s look at a few more top tips to help you  plan your cruise ship wedding.

Where to get married on a cruise ship

Larger cruise ships and luxury liners offer various options to fit the environment you are looking for on your high seas wedding. Depending on the size and design of the ship, there are many different options to fit every style and guest list. You may opt to tie the knot at one of these spots:

• An elegant lounge on board the ship
• On a sweeping open deck with vista views
• An open atrium with built in onlookers to shower you with attention
• An on-board chapel

Love the idea of a cruise ship wedding, but not the idea of a cruise?

Opt for a land based ceremony

Then perhaps a wedding ceremony on dry land is the perfect answer. Your guests can walk the plank to join you on the ship while it is docked, and partake in a nautical wedding (minus the potential for seasickness).

Some cruise lines also allow a wedding to take place on private islands or in ports of call along the cruise’s scheduled route.

These are all excellent options if you’re hoping to plan a truly unique destination wedding.

Who is the officiant on a cruise ship?

When getting married on land you usually have two options when it comes to finding someone willing to perform the ceremony:

• An ordained member of the clergy
• A justice of the peace

Of course, once you take your nuptials into open waters the options change. Many people believe, thanks to some dramatic and romantic Hollywood moments, that captains have the power to perform marriages on board their ships. This is a debatable statement as it largely depends on the laws governing the ship and the body of water it happens to be in.

If you’re thinking of having a legal ceremony on board a ship, you will want to check ahead with the captain or company to learn about how they choose to handle the legality issues.

Many couples choose to have the license signed before pushing out to sea, and having a purely ceremonial service on the water. Of course, if you are feeling adventurous, having a friend perform the ceremony is always an option.

Certain states offer online ordination services that can legally equip anyone, even those outside the law and clergy, to perform weddings. As long as you check with the legal aspects of the area you will be married in, there are no limits on who you can ask to unite you and your significant other.

Livestream viewing ability on board a cruise ship

With the help of modern technology, you don’t have to worry about leaving your important guests behind on land. No matter where you decide to sail off into the sunset, your loved ones around the globe will be able to keep up with the celebration through a live streaming service.

Invest in the idea of using Facebook live, Periscope, or any other live streaming service to set up live video/audio coverage of your festivities. This ensures that your destination wedding is still the inclusive event you want it to be, no matter the location.

Price of a normal wedding vs cruise ship

Weddings are fairly pricey events. Even showing up at the courthouse steps comes with its share of fees and expenses. Don’t be surprised that planning your unique cruise ship wedding that there will be some interesting financial hurdles to jump before achieving the perfect on the water event.

In a recent survey conducted by theknot , they polled almost 27,000 couples who got married in 2019. Result: the average cost of a wedding is over $33,000!

If you’re having the ceremony and reception on board a cruise ship, the fees can go down or up depending on the style of wedding you’re dreaming of.

Many commercial cruise lines offer on-board chapels and wedding services for fees upwards of $1,000. That could be much less than paying for a more elaborate venue on land, but there are other factors to consider.

If you plan to have your ceremony out on the water, you will need to factor in the price of each guest’s ticket plus meals, entertainment, and other expenses. It’s possible to plan an affordable ocean wedding, but having a small guest list and a modest ceremony definitely helps.

That being said, it’s equally possible to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a luxury event on the open water!

What happens if the ship cancels a certain port?

You never want it to happen, but sometimes an unforeseen event strikes on your most important day. As with any planned event, it’s best to take whatever precautions you can with making sure the weather, environment, and any other relevant factors are all aligned for your benefit.

Don’t worry, you won’t be stranded at sea!

Even the most careful planning can’t always keep your wedding safe. This is why it’s always important to check on the cancellation policies for your event. Have a back up plan in case of emergency so that you and your guests never have to worry about wasting time and money, or missing out on the special event.

What can go wrong?

With a cruise ship wedding, there is the possibility that a certain port may no longer be available to you once you arrive. This could be due to military conflict, weather, diplomatic issues, etc.

If you plan on having your ceremony in a certain port of call along the way, it may help to have a back up plan organized with the cruise line. If it is part of the contract, some cruise lines will offer a ceremony on the ship as a backup plan should they be at fault when if comes to canceling a port of the cruise route.

This would be something to discuss with your contact at the cruise ship company beforehand if you think it might come up as an issue in the future.

Best time of year/season to get married on a ship

The best time to get married is always up to the bride and groom along with the type of wedding they dream of hosting.

I hear you saying, “Well that doesn’t really answer the question!”

You might prefer the striking glaciers of the waters of Alaska to the tropical beauty of the Bahamas. Or perhaps you have your heart set on jetting around the Mediterranean and stopping off ata few choice ports of call.

While most people think of romantic island destinations when talking about cruise ship weddings, there are many options north of the equator that provide dramatic and romantic destinations.

The best time of year will depend on the area of the globe you want to sail.

Typically, summer is considered peak season for weddings no matter where you sail. Spring and fall are also perfect times to take to the water, as long as the region you are in is not subject to seasonal weather patterns. For instance, you would not want to plan your wedding for the Caribbean during hurricane season.

How to choose

The best process for picking the time for your wedding is to first decide on the location and then move on to choosing the appropriate time for that spot. Once you know where you want to go, you can better decide on a time that fits your idea of the perfect wedding weather.

Of course, always be prepared for things to go a bit differently than you planned. At the end of the day, you want to plan a wedding you will enjoy despite any weather complications.

Legal requirements for getting married on a cruise ship

As with a wedding on land, there are certain legal requirements and documents you will need to have a valid and legally recognized ceremony. At the very least, you will need photo identifications, such as a valid passport. It varies by company and country, but often you will need to have a pre-prepared marriage license with you to show the validity of the ceremony.

The captain, or someone else, must be certified and able to marry you. That’s the biggest hurdle to cross when planning the legality of your cruise ship wedding.

You will also need to make sure that the location is considered in your planning. If you are in port, the laws of that port city will be the regulations to follow. This could mean having to research international laws and being prepared to navigate foreign government regulations depending on your location.

At sea, the options are also limited. Some companies allow captains and other officials to obtain legal certification to perform marriages on board, but it is always smart to call and check with your cruise line ahead of time. Often, you will need to verify your documentation with the local authorities once you reach land.

Wedding guests don’t necessarily need to be passengers

Does the idea of being at sea with hundreds of your closest friends and family make you feel a little seasick?

It may interest you to know that it’s possible to have a cruise ship wedding without bringing everyone along as you sail away into married life.

Popular cruise lines will often allow wedding parties to invite guests on board for certain parts of the wedding, such as the ceremony and reception. Your guests would then be able to disembark before the ship sets out into open waters.

Sounds like an easy fix, right?

Remember, if you choose this setup you will still need to pay for the event, entertainment, and your own tickets aboard the cruise.

Your wedding guests don’t have to spend the money to be a passenger and you still have the benefit of friends and family attending your unforgettable ceremony.

Wedding packages and bundles may not be flexible

One benefit to having your wedding on board a ship is that it narrows down some of the more complicated aspects to planning a grand event. Forget about having to worry about parking, hotel rooms, outside entertainment options, etc.

Many cruise lines offer specified wedding packages that are structured as bundles to include specific services for different levels of expense. Because of this, your choices can be more limited than if you were having the ceremony on land.

Maybe this doesn’t matter a whole lot to you. However, if you are a detail-oriented bride or groom, that lack of ultimate control might just sink your ideas for the perfect wedding. Be sure to explore various packages to find one that fits your budget and your fantasies.

Thanks for taking the time to read a few of our top tips to make your cruise ship wedding a fantastic one! Love & lavender sure wish we c ould join you on the high seas.

Bon Voyage!

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Wedding Planning

Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

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• Travel Tips

How To Plan A Wedding On A Cruise Ship

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ruperta Echeverria

• Romantic Vacations

Introduction

Planning a wedding is a momentous and exciting occasion. It’s a time when couples dream of a perfect day, filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable wedding experience, consider saying “I do” on a cruise ship. A cruise ship wedding offers the opportunity to exchange vows while surrounded by breathtaking ocean views, luxurious amenities, and the excitement of exploring multiple destinations.

Choosing a cruise ship wedding allows you to combine your wedding celebrations with a romantic honeymoon, as you set sail to stunning destinations. From sun-drenched Caribbean islands to picturesque Mediterranean ports, the world is your oyster when it comes to selecting the perfect cruise itinerary for your special day.

One of the biggest advantages of a cruise ship wedding is the convenience it offers. You can have your ceremony, reception, and accommodations all in one place, eliminating the need for travel between multiple venues. Additionally, many cruise lines provide comprehensive wedding packages that take care of the details, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day without the stress of planning every aspect.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of planning a wedding on a cruise ship. From choosing the right cruise ship and dates to budgeting, legal requirements, and customizing your wedding package, we will cover everything you need to know to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. So, grab a pen and paper and get ready to set sail on the journey of a lifetime, as we explore how to plan a wedding on a cruise ship.

Choosing the Right Cruise Ship Wedding

When it comes to choosing the right cruise ship for your wedding, it’s important to consider several factors that will contribute to the overall experience. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choice:

• Destination: Think about the destination you’ve always dreamed of for your wedding. Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, the stunning fjords of Alaska, or the romantic cities of Europe, different cruise ships offer different itineraries. Research the destinations offered by various cruise lines and choose one that resonates with your vision.
• Ship Size: The size of the ship can greatly impact the atmosphere and overall feel of your wedding. Larger cruise ships offer a multitude of onboard amenities, entertainment options, and dining choices. They may also have dedicated wedding chapels or venues that can accommodate a larger guest list. On the other hand, smaller ships provide a more intimate and personalized experience, with the opportunity to explore smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports of call.
• Wedding Packages: Research the wedding packages offered by different cruise lines. These packages generally include the ceremony, officiant, flowers, decorations, cake, and sometimes even photography. Consider your budget and desired level of customization when evaluating the packages. Some cruise lines also offer additional add-ons, such as live music, upgraded menus, or onboard spa treatments.
• Wedding Coordinator: Find out if the cruise line provides a dedicated wedding coordinator to assist you throughout the planning process. Having an experienced professional to guide you through the logistics and details can alleviate stress and ensure that your vision for the perfect day is brought to life.
• Guest Accommodations: Consider the comfort and convenience of your guests. Ensure that the cruise ship has enough cabin options to accommodate the number of attendees, as well as amenities and activities that will keep everyone entertained throughout the duration of the cruise.
• Budget: Set a clear budget for your cruise ship wedding and research the costs associated with each option. Take into account the wedding package, guest accommodations, travel expenses, and any additional expenses you may incur, such as customizations or onboard activities.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the cruise ship that aligns with your wedding vision and ensures that you and your guests have an unforgettable experience.

Selecting Dates and Planning Ahead

Choosing the perfect date for your cruise ship wedding requires careful consideration and planning. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

• Availability: Check with the cruise line to determine which dates are available for weddings. Popular cruises and peak travel seasons tend to book up quickly, so it’s advisable to inquire and secure your desired date well in advance. This will give you more flexibility and ensure that you get the date that works best for you.
• Guests’ Availability: Consider the availability of your guests when selecting the wedding date. Consult with your close family and friends to find a date that works for everyone. It’s a good idea to send out save-the-date cards or notifications well in advance, allowing your guests enough time to plan their travel arrangements.
• Weather: Research the weather patterns of your chosen destination during your planned wedding dates. Consider potential climatic conditions, such as hurricane seasons or extreme temperatures. While it’s impossible to predict weather conditions far in advance, consulting historical weather data can give you a general idea of what to expect during that time of the year.
• Special Occasions: Determine if there are any special events or holidays during your desired dates. While getting married on a special occasion can add an extra layer of excitement, keep in mind that there may be increased demand and prices for travel and accommodations during these times. Additionally, availability of wedding packages or onboard activities may be limited, so it’s important to plan ahead and secure your reservations early.
• Personal Significance: Consider if there are any meaningful dates or anniversaries that hold significance to you and your partner. Getting married on a date that is special to you can add an extra layer of sentiment to your wedding day.
• Plan Ahead: Once you have chosen the date for your cruise ship wedding, start planning ahead. Make a checklist of all the tasks and deadlines you need to meet, such as sending out invitations, finalizing guest accommodations, choosing vendors, and confirming wedding package details. Create a timeline to ensure that you stay on track with your preparations and make the most of your planning process.

By carefully considering these factors and planning ahead, you can select the ideal date for your cruise ship wedding and ensure that everything falls into place seamlessly.

Budgeting for a Cruise Ship Wedding

Planning a wedding can be a significant financial undertaking, and budgeting is an essential aspect of the planning process. When it comes to budgeting for a cruise ship wedding, here are some key factors to consider:

• Wedding Package Costs: Begin by researching the wedding packages offered by the cruise line of your choice. These packages usually include the ceremony, officiant, flower arrangements, decorations, wedding cake, and sometimes photography. Carefully evaluate the costs associated with each package to determine the best fit for your budget.
• Customizations: Decide on any additional customizations or upgrades you would like for your wedding day. These might include live music, upgraded menus, additional decorations, or specialty cakes. Keep in mind that each customization may come with an additional cost, so factor these into your budget as well.
• Guest Accommodations: Consider the costs of guest accommodations and factor them into your budget. Different cabin categories have varying price ranges, so take into account the number of guests and their preferences when selecting accommodation options.
• Travel Expenses: Depending on the cruise itinerary, there may be additional travel expenses involved, such as flights to the port of departure or transportation to and from the port. Research these costs and factor them into your budget accordingly.
• Additional Expenses: Think about any additional expenses you may incur during the cruise, such as onboard activities, specialty restaurants, or spa treatments. It’s important to budget for these extras to ensure you can fully enjoy your wedding experience without stressing about additional costs.
• Wedding Attire and Accessories: Don’t forget to set aside a budget for your wedding attire, including the wedding dress, groom’s attire, and accessories. Consider any alterations, special shoes, or jewelry that you may need.
• Vendor Costs: If you plan to hire additional vendors for services such as photography, videography, or music, research the costs associated with these services and incorporate them into your budget. Keep in mind that some cruise lines may have restrictions on external vendors, so be sure to check with your wedding coordinator.
• Contingency Fund: It’s always a good idea to have a contingency fund for any unforeseen expenses that may arise during the planning process or on the wedding day itself. Setting aside a small percentage of your overall budget for unexpected costs will give you peace of mind in case anything unexpected happens.

By carefully considering these factors and creating a detailed budget, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of the costs associated with your cruise ship wedding and avoid any financial surprises along the way.

Legal Requirements and Documentation

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it is essential to be aware of the legal requirements and documentation needed to ensure a legally binding marriage. While the specific requirements may vary based on the cruise line, ship, and destination, here are some general guidelines to consider:

• Marriage License: Research the marriage license requirements for both the country where the ship is registered and the destination(s) where the ceremony will take place. Check if the cruise line will assist in obtaining the necessary marriage license or if you need to obtain it on your own. Be aware of any waiting periods or residency requirements that may be imposed by the destination.
• Identification Documents: Ensure that you and your partner have valid passports, as well as any other required identification documents, such as birth certificates or driver’s licenses. Some countries may have specific entry visa requirements, so check with the respective embassy or consulate if necessary.
• Divorce or Death Certificates: If either you or your partner has been previously married, you may need to provide divorce decrees or death certificates to demonstrate the dissolution of previous marriages. Check the specific requirements for each destination to ensure compliance.
• Translations and Notarizations: If any of your documents are in a language other than English, you may need to have them translated into the required language and notarized. Check with the appropriate authorities to ascertain if this is necessary.
• Witnesses: Confirm the number and age requirements for witnesses to the wedding ceremony. Some destinations may require a specific number of witnesses, and they may need to be of legal age.
• Legalization and Apostille: Some countries require additional steps, such as the legalization or apostille of documents. This involves getting official approvals or certifications from the respective authorities to validate the authenticity of the documents.
• Wedding Officiant: Check if the cruise line provides qualified wedding officiants or if you need to arrange for your own. Depending on the ship’s registry and the destination’s requirements, there may be specific qualifications or certifications needed for the officiant.
• Pre-Wedding Counseling: In some cases, destinations may require pre-wedding counseling or blood tests. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the destination to ensure compliance.

It is essential to consult with the cruise line’s wedding planner or coordinator to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the legal requirements for your cruise ship wedding. They can guide you through the necessary steps and help ensure that all legal documentation is in order, allowing you to have a hassle-free and legally recognized wedding ceremony.

Wedding Packages and Customization Options

One of the advantages of having a cruise ship wedding is the convenience of inclusive wedding packages offered by many cruise lines. These packages are designed to provide all the essentials for your special day. Here are some key points to consider when exploring wedding packages and customization options:

• Package Inclusions: Review the details of the wedding packages offered by the cruise line. Typically, these packages include the ceremony venue, officiant, floral arrangements, decorations, wedding cake, and sometimes photography services. Be sure to understand exactly what is included in the package and any limitations or restrictions that may apply.
• Upgrade Options: Explore any upgrade options available to enhance your wedding package. This may include options such as upgraded floral arrangements, premium cake designs, live music or entertainment, upgraded menu selections, or additional photography or videography services. Consider these options based on your preferences and budget.
• Customizations: Determine if the cruise line allows for customizations to their standard wedding packages. This could involve adding personalized touches, such as incorporating your own vows, selecting specific music or readings, or including cultural or religious rituals. Discuss customization options with the wedding coordinator to ensure your vision for the ceremony is realized.
• Additional Services: Inquire about any additional services or amenities that can be added to your wedding package. This may include arranging spa treatments, reserving private dining experiences, organizing group shore excursions for your guests, or planning pre- or post-wedding celebrations. Explore these options to create a comprehensive and memorable wedding experience.
• Photography and Videography: Assess the cruise line’s photography and videography services included in the wedding package. Review sample portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your preferences. If desired, inquire about the possibility of bringing in your own professional photographer or videographer, as some cruise lines allow for outside vendors at an additional fee or with specific requirements.
• Wedding Reception: Determine if the wedding package includes a reception after the ceremony and what options are available. This may range from intimate dinners at specialty restaurants to grand receptions in dedicated venues onboard the ship. Consider the number of guests, your budget, and your desired atmosphere when selecting the reception options.
• Personalization Opportunities: Discuss any opportunities for personalization, such as creating customized wedding invitations, favors, or welcome gifts for your guests. These small details can add a special touch to your wedding and make it truly unique.

By carefully reviewing the wedding packages and exploring customization options, you can select a package that aligns with your vision, budget, and personal preferences. Don’t hesitate to communicate your desires and requests with the cruise line’s wedding coordinator to ensure your dream wedding becomes a reality.

Coordinating with Wedding Planners and Cruise Staff

When planning a cruise ship wedding, you will have the support and expertise of wedding planners and cruise staff who are dedicated to ensuring your special day goes smoothly. Here are some important points to consider when coordinating with them:

• Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with the cruise line’s wedding planner to discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific requirements for your wedding. This will help establish clear expectations and enable the planner to guide you in the right direction.
• Clear Communication: Maintain open and clear communication with your wedding planner throughout the planning process. Clearly communicate your priorities, preferences, and any changes or updates that may arise. Respond promptly to their requests for information or decisions to ensure a smooth planning process.
• Clarify Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for the wedding day, including the ceremony and reception details, preferred vendors (if applicable), and any personalized elements you wish to include. Providing a clear vision will help the wedding planner and cruise staff work together to create the wedding of your dreams.
• Regular Updates: Stay connected with the wedding planner and cruise staff by scheduling regular updates or check-ins. This will allow you to address any concerns, ask questions, or make adjustments as needed throughout the planning process.
• Timeline and Deadlines: Work with the wedding planner to establish a timeline and adhere to deadlines for tasks such as selecting wedding packages, customizations, vendor selections, and guest accommodations. This will help ensure that all elements are arranged in a timely manner and reduce any last-minute stress.
• Onboard Meetings: If possible, schedule in-person meetings with the wedding planner and cruise staff once you embark on the cruise ship. Use this opportunity to review all the details and finalize any remaining arrangements. This will allow you to address any last-minute concerns and ensure that everything is in place for your wedding day.
• Rehearsal: Coordinate the wedding rehearsal with the wedding planner and cruise staff. Walk through the ceremony and reception details, ensuring that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities. A rehearsal will help alleviate any nerves and ensure a smooth flow on the actual wedding day.
• Day-Of Coordination: Trust the expertise and professionalism of the cruise staff on the wedding day. They will work diligently to ensure that everything runs smoothly, from setting up the ceremony and reception venues to coordinating with vendors and managing any unexpected situations. Allow them to take care of the logistics while you focus on enjoying your special day.
• Express Gratitude: After the wedding, take the time to express your gratitude to the wedding planner and cruise staff for their efforts in making your wedding day memorable. A simple gesture of appreciation goes a long way in acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

Coordinating with the wedding planners and cruise staff is crucial for a successful and stress-free cruise ship wedding. By maintaining clear communication, adhering to timelines, and building a trusting relationship, you can ensure that your wedding day is flawlessly executed.

Guest Accommodations and Invitations

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it’s important to consider the accommodations and invitations for your guests. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Guest Accommodations: Work closely with the cruise line to ensure that there are enough accommodations for your guests. Check the availability of cabin categories and ensure that they align with the preferences and budgets of your guests. Consider reserving a block of cabins to secure availability and potentially receive group booking discounts.
• Informing Guests: Notify your guests about the wedding as soon as possible. Send out save-the-date cards or notifications well in advance to allow them time to plan and make any necessary travel arrangements. Include all relevant information such as the cruise line, ship name, embarkation port, wedding date, and any additional events or activities you have planned.
• Invitations: Follow up the initial notification with formal invitations. These can be sent electronically or through traditional paper invitations, depending on your preference. Include details such as the ceremony and reception times, onboard dress code guidelines, and any specific instructions or requirements for the wedding day.
• Travel Planning Assistance: Provide your guests with travel planning assistance by sharing helpful information such as recommended flights, transportation options to the embarkation port, and any special arrangements made for group transfers. Including contact details for a designated point person who can assist with questions or concerns will also be appreciated.
• Group Activities: Plan pre- or post-wedding activities for your guests to enjoy together. This could include welcome gatherings, group shore excursions, or informal get-togethers onboard the ship. Organizing group activities fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows your guests to make the most of their time together.
• Wedding Website: Consider creating a wedding website to provide your guests with additional information about the cruise ship, the destination(s), travel tips, and a detailed itinerary of the wedding events. This can also serve as a platform for collecting RSVPs, sharing updates, and communicating important details with your guests.
• Guest Favors: Show appreciation for your guests’ presence by providing thoughtful wedding favors. These could be small mementos, personalized tokens, or practical items that will remind them of the special occasion. Consider incorporating elements that reflect the cruise ship wedding theme or the destination.
• Follow-Up Communication: Keep in touch with your guests leading up to the wedding. Send reminders, updates, and any additional information they may need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Encourage them to reach out if they have any questions or concerns and assure them that you are there to assist.
• Special Considerations: Take into account any special considerations for your guests, such as dietary restrictions, mobility issues, or medical requirements. Communicate these to the cruise line so that appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all attendees.

By thoughtfully planning guest accommodations and invitations, you can ensure that your loved ones feel welcome, informed, and excited to be a part of your cruise ship wedding. Their presence and support will contribute to making your wedding celebrations all the more memorable.

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

When planning a cruise ship wedding, it’s important to consider the onboard activities and entertainment options available to you and your guests. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Pre-Wedding Gatherings: Take advantage of the various facilities and venues onboard the ship to organize pre-wedding gatherings or welcome parties. This could be a casual get-together at one of the ship’s bars or lounges, a poolside meet-and-greet, or a more formal cocktail reception.
• Spa and Wellness: Indulge in relaxation and pampering by booking spa treatments for you and your wedding party. Many cruise ships have luxurious spas offering a range of services, including massages, facials, and beauty treatments. Treat yourself to some pre-wedding self-care and rejuvenation.
• Recreation Opportunities: Cruise ships are equipped with a myriad of recreational activities to keep you and your guests entertained. From swimming pools and water slides to sports courts, fitness centers, and even rock climbing walls or zip lines, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their time on the ship.
• Specialty Restaurants: While most cruise ships offer dining options included in the fare, consider treating your guests to a memorable dining experience at one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. These establishments often offer gourmet cuisine and a more intimate atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding celebration.
• Evening Entertainment: Cruise ships are renowned for their evening entertainment, which may include Broadway-style shows, live music performances, comedy acts, and dance parties. Coordinate with the ship’s entertainment staff to ensure that there are engaging activities for your guests to enjoy during your wedding celebrations.
• Group Shore Excursions: Plan group shore excursions to give your guests the opportunity to explore the ports of call together. Cruise lines offer a variety of excursions, ranging from guided city tours to adventure activities, cultural experiences, and beach outings. This allows your guests to have shared experiences and create lasting memories during the cruise.
• Unique Onboard Experiences: Research the unique onboard experiences offered by the cruise line, such as wine tastings, cooking classes, art auctions, or educational seminars. These activities can add an extra dimension to your wedding celebrations and provide opportunities for your guests to bond and engage in enriching experiences together.
• Casino and Nightlife: For those who enjoy some late-night excitement, cruise ship casinos provide an entertaining and lively atmosphere. Additionally, the ship’s bars, lounges, and nightclub venues offer opportunities for your guests to dance, socialize, and celebrate long into the night.
• Personalized Activities: Consider coordinating personalized activities or surprises for your guests, such as a themed costume party, a group photo session, or a private gathering for your wedding party. These personalized touches add a special touch to the overall wedding experience and create lasting memories.

By exploring the onboard activities and entertainment options available, you can enhance the wedding experience for both you and your guests. From relaxation and wellness to exciting excursions and unforgettable entertainment, a cruise ship wedding provides a wide range of activities to ensure that everyone has a truly memorable time onboard.

Selecting Vendors for Photography, Flowers, and Cake

While many cruise ship wedding packages include the services of photographers, florists, and pastry chefs, you may have the option to select external vendors for these important elements of your special day. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing vendors for photography, flowers, and cake:

• Photography: Research the photography options available onboard the cruise ship. Review the sample portfolios provided by the cruise line’s recommended photographers to ensure their style aligns with your preferences. If you prefer a different approach or have a specific photographer in mind, check if the cruise line allows for external vendors and if there are any additional fees or restrictions involved.
• Flowers: Consider your floral preferences and consult with the onboard florist provided by the cruise line. They will be familiar with the options available, taking into account the destination, season, and ship’s resources. If you have specific floral arrangements in mind or desire a wider selection, inquire if external florists are allowed and what requirements must be met.
• Cake: Review the cake options offered by the cruise line. Determine if they can accommodate any dietary restrictions or specific design requests. If you have a specific cake design in mind, discuss it with the cruise line’s pastry chef. Alternatively, find out if you can bring in an external baker to create a custom cake that meets your vision.
• Vendor Experience and Reputation: Whether you choose vendors provided by the cruise line or bring in external vendors, it’s important to research their experience and reputation. Read reviews, view their portfolios, and ask for references to ensure they have a track record of delivering high-quality work.
• Communication and Personalization: When selecting vendors, consider their responsiveness and ability to understand your vision and preferences. Ensure that they are willing to customize their services based on your specific requirements and offer open lines of communication throughout the planning process.
• Budget Considerations: Compare the costs of using external vendors versus the services provided by the cruise line. Take into account any extra fees, such as corkage fees for the cake or photography permits for the ship. Balance your desire for specific vendors with any budgetary constraints you may have.
• Coordination and Logistics: Discuss the logistics of working with external vendors with the cruise line’s wedding coordinator. Determine if there are any restrictions or requirements for vendors boarding the ship or delivering their services onboard. Coordinate with the wedding coordinator to ensure a smooth collaboration between the vendors and the cruise ship staff.
• Insurance and Contracts: If you decide to bring in external vendors, make sure they have appropriate liability insurance coverage. Review all contracts carefully and ensure that they outline the specific services, deliverables, payment terms, and cancellation policies. Protect yourself and your investment by clarifying these details in advance.

By carefully considering these factors and making informed decisions, you can ensure that the vendors you choose for photography, flowers, and cake contribute to the overall success and beauty of your cruise ship wedding. Whether you opt for onboard services or bring in external vendors, make sure your vision is realized and your wedding day is everything you dreamed of.

Finalizing Details and Rehearsal

As your cruise ship wedding date approaches, it’s time to focus on finalizing the last details and ensuring that everything is in place for your special day. Here are some important steps to take during this phase:

• Review Contracts and Confirmations: Double-check all contracts and confirmations with the cruise line, vendors, and any external service providers. Ensure that everyone is clear on the agreed-upon details, including dates, times, venues, services, and any special requests or customization. Make note of any outstanding payments and confirm deadlines.
• Finalize Guest Accommodations: Confirm the guest accommodations with the cruise line, ensuring that all rooms are properly allocated and any specific requests or special needs have been addressed. Communicate the instructions for embarkation to your guests, including meeting points and times, as well as any documents they may need to bring onboard.
• Seating Arrangements: If you are planning a reception, finalize the seating arrangements for your guests. Consider any special requests, groupings, or preferences when arranging the tables. Create a seating chart or placeholders as necessary and provide this information to the cruise line’s staff for set up on the wedding day.
• Rehearsal: Schedule a rehearsal with the wedding coordinator and anyone involved in the ceremony, such as the wedding party, officiant, musicians, and readers. Walk through the ceremony processional, exchange of vows, and recessional to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and knows their roles. Take this opportunity to address any last-minute questions or concerns.
• Finalize Playlist and Readings: Confirm the music selection and any readings or speeches that will take place during the ceremony. Provide the necessary information to the musicians, readers, or speakers. If you have specific timing or cues, communicate them clearly to ensure a smooth and coordinated flow during the ceremony.
• Check Transportation Arrangements: If you have arranged for transportation to and from the embarkation port or any off-ship activities, reconfirm the details and ensure that everything is in place. Communicate the transportation information to your guests so that they are aware of the arrangements and can plan accordingly.
• Delegate Wedding Day Tasks: Assign specific tasks or responsibilities to trusted individuals who can assist with any last-minute errands or tasks on the wedding day. This may include coordinating with vendors, overseeing guest arrivals, or handling any unexpected situations. By delegating these responsibilities, you can focus on enjoying your wedding day.
• Finalize Payments and Tips: Settle any outstanding payments with the cruise line, vendors, and service providers. Prepare envelopes with tips for vendors who have provided exceptional service and plan to distribute them accordingly on the wedding day or before, depending on the cruise line’s guidelines.
• Confirm the Wedding Day Itinerary: Review the final wedding day itinerary with the wedding coordinator and ensure that all details are accurate. Share the itinerary with the key members of your wedding party and any guests who may need to be aware of specific timing or events during the day.
• Take Some Time for Yourself: Amidst all the final details and preparations, remember to take some time for yourself to relax, reflect, and prepare for your wedding day. Get a good night’s sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that help you feel calm and centered. This will ensure that you are ready to fully enjoy and embrace every moment of your special day.

By finalizing these details and conducting a rehearsal, you can feel confident that everything is in order for your cruise ship wedding. Remember to stay organized, communicate effectively, and trust in the support of the wedding coordinator and cruise line’s staff to make your wedding day a truly memorable experience.

The Big Day: Wedding Ceremony and Reception on a Cruise Ship

Your big day has arrived! It’s time to celebrate and exchange vows on your cruise ship wedding. Here’s what you can expect for the wedding ceremony and reception:

The Ceremony:

Arrive at the designated venue for your ceremony, such as a dedicated wedding chapel or a picturesque deck with stunning ocean views. The ceremony site will be beautifully prepared, adorned with flowers and decorations according to your chosen theme or preferences.

With the assistance of the wedding coordinator, gather with your wedding party and loved ones, ready to embark on this memorable journey. The officiant, whether provided by the cruise line or an external vendor, will guide you through the ceremony, ensuring that your personalized vows and readings are flawlessly incorporated into the proceedings.

As you exchange vows, surrounded by panoramic ocean views and the embrace of your loved ones, you’ll feel an immense sense of joy and fulfillment, knowing that you’re starting this new chapter of your life in a truly unique and breathtaking setting.

The Reception:

After the ceremony, your guests will move to the designated reception area, which may be a dedicated venue onboard the ship or a reserved section in one of the ship’s restaurants. The reception area will be beautifully decorated, reflecting your chosen theme and creating a celebratory atmosphere.

Enjoy delicious cuisine crafted by the ship’s talented chefs, who will have prepared a delectable menu tailored to your preferences. Raise a toast to your new union and share heartwarming speeches, laughter, and joyful moments with your guests.

Throughout the reception, the ship’s staff and wedding coordinator will ensure that everything flows smoothly. They will coordinate the timing of the events, assist with any necessary announcements, and be there to anticipate and fulfill any last-minute requests or needs.

Immerse yourself in the festivities, dance to your favorite tunes, and celebrate with your guests, surrounded by the luxurious ambiance of the cruise ship. The onboard entertainment and live music will add to the merriment, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Capture the Memories:

Throughout your wedding day, professional photographers will be there to capture every cherished moment, from the exchange of vows to your first dance as a married couple. They will expertly document the emotions, joy, and love felt during this special day, providing you with beautiful and lasting memories of your cruise ship wedding.

Post-Wedding Celebrations:

Extend the celebration beyond the wedding day by planning post-wedding activities. This could involve organizing group shore excursions at the ports of call, hosting informal gatherings onboard the ship, or even arranging a post-cruise celebration at your final destination.

Continue cherishing the moments with your loved ones and create lasting memories as you explore new destinations or relax and unwind on the remainder of your cruise. The wedding experience on a cruise ship offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and celebration, making it a truly unforgettable journey for everyone involved.

As the sun sets on your wedding day, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories made, the love shared, and the beginning of a lifelong journey. Your cruise ship wedding will forever remain a cherished chapter in your love story.

Post-Wedding Activities and Celebrations

Your cruise ship wedding doesn’t have to end with the ceremony and reception. Extend the celebration and create lasting memories with post-wedding activities and celebrations. Here are some ideas to consider:

Group Shore Excursions:

Take advantage of the exciting ports of call during your cruise and plan group shore excursions. Explore the local attractions, indulge in unique cultural experiences, or partake in thrilling adventures together. From city tours to snorkeling trips, there are plenty of options to suit different interests and preferences. These group adventures will provide an opportunity for your guests to bond, create shared memories, and continue the celebration in new and exciting destinations.

Informal Gatherings:

Organize informal gatherings onboard the ship, such as poolside parties, sunset cocktail hours, or casual group meals. These relaxed and laid-back events will allow your guests to mingle, reminisce about the wedding day, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s also an opportunity to thank them for being a part of your journey and to express your appreciation for their presence and support.

Post-Cruise Celebrations:

If your cruise concludes at a destination that holds significance to you and your partner, consider extending the celebrations with a post-cruise gathering or party. Book a venue at the destination and invite your closest family and friends to join you for a reception or dinner. This is a chance to continue the festivities and spend quality time with loved ones while reveling in the memories of your beautiful cruise ship wedding.

Toast and Thank You:

Take a moment during one of the post-wedding activities or celebrations to express your gratitude and toast to your guests. This is a wonderful opportunity to thank everyone for their presence, support, and love throughout the journey. Raise a glass, share heartfelt words, and let your guests know how much their presence has meant to you.

Relaxation and Reflection:

After the excitement of your wedding day, take some time for you and your partner to relax and reflect on the journey you’ve embarked upon. Whether it’s indulging in a couples’ spa treatment, finding a quiet spot on the ship’s deck to watch the sunset, or simply spending quality time together, prioritize having moments of calm and intimacy amidst the celebration. This will allow you to savor the memories and strengthen the bond between you as newlyweds.

Create a Wedding Album or Video:

Once you have returned from your cruise ship wedding, gather the beautiful photographs taken by the professional photographers and any video footage captured. Compile these precious memories into a wedding album or video that you can share with your loved ones. Reliving the joyous moments through images and videos will keep the memories of your cruise ship wedding alive and cherished for years to come.

Plan a Wedding Celebration at Home:

If you want to extend the celebration even further, consider planning a wedding reception or party back home to include those who couldn’t attend the cruise ship wedding. This is an opportunity to share the joy and happiness of your wedding day with a wider circle of family and friends. It can be a formal affair or a casual gathering, depending on your preferences and budget.

By planning post-wedding activities and celebrations, you can prolong the joy and create even more cherished memories with your loved ones following your cruise ship wedding. The adventure continues beyond the ceremony and reception, allowing you to fully embrace the journey of love and celebration.

A cruise ship wedding offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining the joyous celebration of your union with the adventure of exploring beautiful destinations. From the moment you say “I do” against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views to the post-wedding activities and celebrations, a cruise ship wedding creates cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Throughout the planning process, considerations such as choosing the right cruise ship, selecting wedding packages, coordinating with wedding planners and cruise staff, and finalizing all the details ensure that your wedding day is seamless and stress-free. The convenience of having everything in one place, from the ceremony to the reception and guest accommodations, eliminates the need for additional logistics and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the joy of your special day.

With the ocean as your backdrop and the luxurious amenities of the cruise ship at your disposal, your wedding day will be filled with beauty, romance, and adventure. The onboard activities and entertainment options provide a perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and celebration for you and your guests, ensuring that every moment is filled with love and happiness.

As your cruise ship wedding comes to an end, the post-wedding activities and celebrations continue the joyous experience. Group shore excursions allow you to explore new destinations together, informal gatherings provide opportunities for connection and laughter, and post-cruise celebrations extend the festivities beyond the ship. It’s a time to relax, reflect, and express your gratitude to those who shared in your special day.

Remember, a cruise ship wedding is not just about the wedding day itself—it’s about the journey you embark upon as a couple. It’s a celebration of your love and commitment, surrounded by the endless possibilities of the open sea and the beauty of the world’s most stunning destinations.

Whether you dream of exchanging vows under a Caribbean sunset, in the embrace of the Mediterranean’s romantic cities, or on a voyage to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska, a cruise ship wedding guarantees an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. So, set sail on the journey of a lifetime, create lasting memories, and celebrate your love with a cruise ship wedding that is truly one-of-a-kind.

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cruise wedding PLANNERS + travel agents

For Couples Seeking A Wedding On The Open Water

With expert cruise wedding planners and travel agents, coveted partners, and seamless packages from the Amalfi Coast to the Caribbean—we’re here to help you plan a cruise wedding that exceeds your expectations.

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DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNERS

For Worldly Couples Seeking Well-Planned Adventure

With expert planners, coveted partners, and seamless packages from the Amalfi Coast to the Caribbean—we’re here to help you plan a destination wedding that exceeds your wildest, wanderlust-fueled dreams.

Wherever your destination, let’s make the journey absolutely effortless.

Whether it’s a cruise through the mediterranean or the tropical vibes of the Caribbean —your heart is set on celebrating with family and friends on the cruise of a lifetime. But nothing can take the wind out of your jet-setting sails quicker than your “Let’s do this!” day dreams giving way to “How the heck do we make this happen?” No worries.

We get it—and we’re here to help. If you’re ready to savor your engagement, feel confident about the experience you have planned for your guests, and soak in a stunning celebration without worry—we’re the cruise  wedding planners for you.

Working with Tamika Charles was an experience that was beyond top notch. Her spirit was always welcoming and happy to help in any way. She was more than a wedding planner she helped bring peace.

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bride (Jackson Hole)

Let’s get this perfectly-planned party started.

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Cruise Wedding Planning Guidance & Travel Support

Perfect for you if….

You’re seeking a destination wedding expert to help you find and secure a luxury cruise with in-house planning services—as well as arrange travel plans for you and your guests. You want to get connected to the right pros, and hand off complicated travel-booking logistics to our team.

what's included

• Personalized cruise recommendations
• Negotiation and booking
• Unlimited email availability
• A personal hand-off to your in-house coordinator so you can take over from there
• Access to our online travel program and all of its perks (including custom group bookings)
• Travel and accommodations booking for you and up to [number] guests

INVESTMENT BEGINS AT $250

We know what you’re wondering:, snag our free guide for a totally transparent, wildly trustworthy look at how much you’ll spend as you plan a destination wedding., full planning for destination weddings.

You’re seeking ongoing, white-glove support from an expert destination wedding planner and designer who knows your locale deeply, is connected to its best venues and vendors, and can transform your vision into an event atmosphere that wows your guests and looks even better than you envisioned.

You want to arrive at your destination without a single stress, lingering task, or logistical item on your mind—but instead with unwavering confidence, peace-of-mind, and a ready-to-party! spirit (oh, and a new stamp in your passport of course).

• Video planning sessions + unlimited email availability
• Access to our online-planning program
• Budget planning
• Venue and vendor selection, negotiation, communication, and payment management
• Event-design creative direction—including custom mood boards and sketches
• Timeline creation, management, and distribution to key parties
• Rehearsal coordination
• Day-of direction

INVESTMENT BEGINS AT $12,000 (FINAL INVESTMENT DETERMINED AFTER YOUR CONSULTATION)

Cruise wedding planners.

We’re thrilled to offer cruise wedding planning across the States, Europe, The Caribbean, and beyond.

Europe + Beyond &Travel + Planning

Mari came upon wedding planning as an extension of her career organizing conferences. And just like a wedding, it all started with a proposal! Mari was asked to plan a special engagement proposal and afterwards helped the couple plan their wedding.  From that point forward she knew that weddings were her calling. To Mari, planning is not a job to her, it is developing a bond with couples and having the honor of being a part of this special moment in their lives.  

Mari and her team specialize in Chancey Charm weddings in Europe and beyond, just wrapping up a gorgeous 7- day wedding she’s still gushing about in Greece this past summer.    She also serves as a venue + travel expert.

While she relishes connecting with clients, Mari truly loves the moments of fun spent with her daughter.  Mari and her team live in Europe, making planning your European destination wedding stress-free!

East Coast + Caribbean & Travel + Planning​

As a New York native, Tamika observed people from all over the world and it sparked a desire to travel. She has loved experiencing different cultures and learning about the traditions of other countries firsthand. For over twenty years she has been an event planner and is now solely focused on planning weddings. The love of adventures and traveling led her to become a  certified destination wedding specialist. Dream weddings in stunning seaside locations are her forte.  

Tamika specializes in Chancey Charm destination weddings in the Caribbean, Mexico, and in New England.  She is also a certified travel agent and also serves as a venue + travel expert.

When she isn’t planning or traveling you will probably find her at home creating, whether it’s baking for her family or crafting something fun.

Domestic Planning + Design​

Europe + Beyond Travel + Planning

East coast + caribbean travel + planning.

Domestic Planning + Design

With a passion for serving others and celebrating life’s moments Madison Carter found her “home” in wedding planning.  She believes that every love story is unique, beautiful and worthy of being told.  Madison and her low country wedding team are dedicated to telling her clients’ stories through organic and thoughtful designs.  They are a dedicated partner with each of their couples, there with them every step of the way.   

Madison serves our clients in the Low Country, traveling from Charleston to Amelia Island. She has a special love for Sea Island, Montage Palmetto Bluff and The Ritz Carlton Amelia Island.

When she isn’t designing stunning weddings, you can find her spending time with her sweet family of 4, soon to be 5!

Taylor is a Certified Wedding & Event Planner, with several planning courses and trainings under her belt, as well as, a luxury portfolio to wow.  She truly enjoys diving into all the nitty gritty details and logistics that make up all areas of a stunning destination wedding. She believes that, without the little elements, a wedding is not complete.  Her passion for planning comes from making connections and relationships with her clients, who she adores. Every wedding is unique to Taylor, allowing her to help each couple plan something that represents who they are.

Taylor serves our destination clients up and down the west coast, as well as, the midwest and Hawaii ( our bags are packed ).

When she’s not planning you can find her reading, working out, traveling, and finding unique coffee shops to try new coffee selections. 

SOUTHEAST + CARIBBEAN

Stacie is a certified destination wedding planner with an eye for the details and an obsession with bringing your wedding dreams to life.  When you’re working with Chancey Charm, it’s all about a completely custom design and guest experience that represents you as a couple. She strives to take her clients’ breath away at every reveal and enjoys serving a luxury market with the help of her husband.

Stacie serves the Southeast, as well as, Mexico and Caribbean.

When she’s not planning, weddings, you can find her spending time with her husband and wrangling her 4 precious boys. Stacie is proud to own faith led family-business and truly believes that this is her calling.  

CAPE COD + EAST COAST

A certified wedding and event planner based on the east coast Pamela has been in the wedding industry since 2014. She has a passion for creating incredibly unique and memorable weddings for her couples – that leave guests blown away. With years of experience behind her, her couples know that she is bringing top planning advice and expertise with her to each planning meeting. Her goal is to make sure that each wedding reflects the special love story of the clients she serves, and she takes pride in every wedding. 

Pamela serves our destination clients up and down the east coast,  specializing  in Cape Cod and Boston.

When Pamela is not planning, she is spending time with her family, trying new restaurants, shopping, and planning her next adventure! 

FLORIDA AND THE CARIBBEAN

Kelsey’s love for all things weddings began when she enrolled in an event management course in college.  She quickly changed her major to hospitality and never looked back. Kelsey’s favorite part of planning a wedding is creating a genuine relationship with her couples. She knows just how important it is to listen to them and understand what makes them who they are, so that she can design a wedding with them that reflects that. Creating that best day ever for her clients is her love.  

Kelsey plans weddings for our clients in Florida and the Caribbean.  She specifically loves Amelia Island, 30A, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Anguilla, St Kitts, and Jamaica. 

When Kelsey isn’t planning you can find going out to eat with friends or grabbing wine at a local spot in Tampa, she loves walking around downtown and visiting the new shops in the area. 

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

We’re thrilled to have our work celebrated and awarded by an array of industry leaders

WHAT BRIDES LIKE YOU ARE SAYING:

“I would have paid her double in hindsight.

I absolutely can’t imagine orchestrating my wedding without the help of my Chancey Charm Europe planner, Mari. After all the logistics and coordination she handled, I would have paid her double in hindsight. She absorbed all the stress so that my wedding day could be the best day of my life. Truly.

Jackson Hole Bride

SIGNATURE WORK

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Cruising Into Your Wedding Weekend Like…

DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE HIGHLIGHT – Chateau Giscours, Bordeaux, France

Ritz Carlton Amelia Island Wedding Venue + Guest Activity List

Destination Wedding Cost | Free Guide

European Destination Wedding Cost Comparison – Italy VS Greece

Five Tips For Choosing the Perfect Destination Wedding Favor

Top Tips For Planning A Small Wedding

Top Tip For Planning A Destination Wedding | New Training Video

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“We are so thankful for them!

Skylar is the best! She is not only creative but also has a great eye for what is important. Her team was great our whole wedding weekend and went above and beyond. We are so thankful for them!

Shannon (Jackson Hole bride)

Our award winning team

of cruise wedding planners are truly outstanding and can’t wait to guide you through each step of your planning journey.

Let’s get you from “destination dreaming” to “I totally do!” 

Fill out the form below and our founder, Sarah Chancey, will be in touch with you shortly! We’ll connect you with the perfect cruise wedding planner for your needs and get the ball rolling on curating the event experience of a lifetime.

• 1445 Sadler Road  #1040 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
• [email protected]
• (678) 379-9718

Affiliate of Jet Set World Travel

• IATA # 11507440
• CST# 2144280-50
• FL SOT DTN: 3268121
• WA (UBI): 604-661-571

DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNING & DESIGN

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ESTABLISHED 2011  • AVAILABLE COAST TO COAST

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• Weddings & Occasions

Plan Your Cruise Wedding

• Wedding Packages

WEDDING PACKAGES

Every wedding is different, so we offer packages designed around your wishes. All of our weddings are offered on embarkation day, at sea, on the ship in a destination, or on land in a destination.

SIGNATURE CEREMONY

If you’re only inviting a few guests or if you have lots of friends to share this moment with, Signature Ceremonies are ideal for you.

• Includes 10 guests including the couple 1
• Pre-cruise wedding planner
• Priority embarkation assistance (embarkation day weddings only)
• Private shipboard venue
• 15–20-minute ceremony
• Pre-recorded ceremony music
• Local officiant
• Keepsake wedding certificate
• Two-tier cake
• Sparkling wine toast 2
• Honeymoon dinner for the couple
• Photography services
• One canvas (16" X 20") 3
• Service charges, gratuity included
• Aisle runner
• Two pillars with silk floral arrangements

• 1 Additional guests will be charged at $29 per person plus applicable sales taxes.
• 2 Served to adult attendees only.
• 3 With the purchase of any wedding photography package. Photo canvas is non-refundable.
• 4 Not available for destination on-island weddings. Call for more about décor options.

IT’S A CELEBRATION!

For maximum fun on your wedding day, choose a ceremony followed by an onboard reception.

• Minimum of 20 guests including the couple 1
• One canvas (16" X 20") 2
• Sparkling wine toast 3

• 1 Carnival weddings can accommodate a maximum of 50 non-sailing guests in the embarkation ports. Prices displayed are based on a party of 20. Additional guest charges will apply at a cost of $42 per person. The one hour reception includes a choice of hors d’oeuvres and a premium beverage package.
• 2 With the purchase of any wedding photography package. Photo canvas is non-refundable.
• 3 Sparkling wine toast is for adult attendees only.
• 4 Not available for destination weddings; Call for more about décor options.

LOVE ASHORE

Paradise awaits you. For those longing to say “I do” with a beautiful ocean backdrop, on a sandy white beach or plush garden setting, we offer idyllic island settings for your special day.

• Wedding ceremony location in a beautiful setting
• Ceremony performed by a wedding officiant (non-denominational official/minister or notary public)
• Assistance of a wedding coordinator on location to oversee guest needs during the wedding ceremony
• Recorded ceremony music
• Transportation to and from the location for the couple (where applicable, transportation to and from the courthouse) 1
• Wedding cake 2
• Champagne toast for the couple
• 1-hour photography service at the ceremony 3
• One Canvas (16" X 20") 4

• 1 This package includes round trip transfers (island taxi) to the wedding location for the wedding couple only. Additional guests may attend at an extra cost, prices vary per location (subject to applicable sales tax based on port).
• 2 All Love Ashore wedding packages include a single tier wedding cake for the wedding couple served on island, with the exception of Half Moon Cay where the cake will be served back onboard. Please inquire with your Wedding Planner for more details.
• 3 Photographer and editing included; photographs sold separately prior to the end of the cruise.
• 4 With the purchase of any wedding photo package. The canvas is non refundable.

DIAMOND ENHANCEMENT PACKAGE

And for the most memorable experience... why not add more?

• Couple’s continental breakfast including mimosas
• Silk flower petals displayed on the cake table
• Chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to couple’s stateroom
• Carnival Weddings Exclusive Beach Kit for the couple
• Moet+ Chandon sparkling wine delivered to the couple’s cabin
• 30-minute couple’s massage
• Keepsake silk floral bridal bouquet and boutonniere

• 1 Enhancement package cannot be purchased a la-carte and is non-refundable.

Your Choice of Wedding Venues

Embarkation Day Wedding

If you’re welcoming guests to your wedding who won’t be sailing with you, the perfect place and time for your ceremony is before the cruise starts. You’ll begin your vacation with a wedding aboard the ship, and then set sail on an amazing honeymoon cruise!

Wedding At Sea

A ceremony at sea is the perfect way to celebrate your nuptials, with family and friends, during the cruise.

• At sea marriages are symbolic in nature and have no legal or binding effect. The symbolic ceremony is performed by an assigned shipboard officer or member of management.

Onboard Destination Wedding

If your wedding party is planning to sail along with you, holding your ceremony aboard the ship while at a port of call of your choice is a great option. You’ll find plenty of time to pamper yourself at the spa in the days before your wedding, and once the knot’s tied, the rest of your cruise is your honeymoon!

Destination Wedding

Say “I do” on an island! If this is your dream, a destination wedding is the choice for you! Picture the island breeze in your hair, the most amazing view as the backdrop for your photos and your friends and family around you to share the moment. We can make this happen!

• All shoreside beach venues may not be private.
• Photo includes flower arrangements available for purchase in select locations through vendor.

PLAN NOW OR LEARN MORE

Have a planner contact you, download digital brochure, view weddings faq s, personal touches.

Entertainment 1

All Carnival wedding packages include complimentary pre-recorded music. If you’re interested in exploring other entertainment for your reception 2 , please contact us for options!

Starting at $150

• 1 Entertainment cannot be purchased for the Signature Ceremony.
• 2 Reception entertainment is provided by a shipboard Social Hostess.

Let's Cut The Cake!

Pardon the pun, but one of the sweetest parts of getting married is the cake… both the taste and the tradition. That’s why all Carnival shipboard wedding packages include a classic two-tier wedding cake. 1 Most important, the cake is customizable to your taste — choose a flavor for the cake and for the filling.

Cake Flavors

Choose from butter/vanilla, chocolate, marble, lemon, coconut, carrot or red velvet. And yes, you can mix flavors!

Cake Filling

Select your filling of choice from vanilla, chocolate, cream cheese, strawberry, lemon, or coconut.

• 1 On-island cakes are 1-tier cakes. If you need more cake to feed your guests, larger cake sizes can be purchased to make sure all your guests get a slice!
• Photos are displayed with extra decorations and other cake enhancements available for purchase through the vendor in the home ports and destinations venues.

Photography

Carnival’s professional photography team will be there to capture the most important moments of your wedding… and help create visual memories that will last a lifetime. The service is included with your wedding package, although photographs are sold separately. If you choose to purchase photos, you’ll actually go home with them — they’ll be ready before your cruise is over!

Your Wedding Day Video

Our wedding videos 1 are unique & modern; we capture the highlights of your special day in short video clips with a music backing. Includes highlight coverage of the ceremony & reception as well as a short love story. Video of the bride and groom shot around the ship after your wedding. Our wedding video does not contain any original audio from the ceremony or interviews and is presented on a USB flash drive. The video can be purchased separately or as an additional upgrade on to any of our wedding photography collections.

Video only: $899 2

Video when purchased in addition to a Wedding Photography Collection: $599 2

• 1 Total length of the edited video is 3-5 minutes long, depending on overall ceremony and reception.
• 2 Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

RENEWAL OF VOWS

Do you ever catch yourself thinking you’d totally marry your special someone again? A Renewal of Vows ceremony aboard a Carnival cruise is a great way to tie the knot a little tighter. Get ready to say “I still do!” as you celebrate the time you’ve spent together… and the years still to come. Make new memories as you affirm that your feelings remain every bit as strong as the day you first said those simple, powerful words. It wouldn’t be a ceremony without friends and family on hand, so feel free to invite them along — it’s a party, after all! This time, let Carnival take care of the little details that made the first time great: wine, music, wedding cake and more are included, with options for open bar and even more guests. The ship’s captain will actually officiate your ceremony, signing your certificate to seal the deal. Learn more about Renewal of Vows ceremonies.

HONEYMOON CRUISES

View Weddings FAQs

Engagement packages.

So much can go into the decision of whether to pop the question to your partner… but deciding on where to do it should be pretty easy! Some people may have a personally-meaningful spot in mind, but we think everyone should think about getting engaged on a Carnival cruise. After all, there are lots of good reasons to choose the cruise! For one thing… well, have you seen those amazing ocean views? Let the beauty of nature itself be the scenery of the memories you’ll surely carry with you for the rest of your life, or choose another private onboard location. (Yes, photo and video services are included — our pros will be capturing that moment!) When you choose an engagement package from Carnival Weddings, our staff of planners get right to helping bring your ideas to life, or even suggest some of our own. And even after the planning stages are over and the big moment is upon us, you’ll love our attention to detail and execution, giving you the confidence to know things are going to go smoothly. Find out all the details about onboard engagement packages.

How To Organize A Cruise Wedding

Table of Contents:

Frequent Questions – 💬

❓ what should you know when planning a cruise wedding.

Here’s what you should know when planning your cruise wedding. 1. Your Wedding Can Be in Port or at a Destination Venue A legal marriage falls under the rules of a country, so your ceremony won’t be on the open seas.

❓ Can you get married on a cruise?

Carnival Cruises will help you plan every detail to create memories that last a lifetime. Here’s what you should know when planning your cruise wedding. 1. Your Wedding Can Be in Port or at a Destination Venue A legal marriage falls under the rules of a country, so your ceremony won’t be on the open seas.

❓ Does a cruise ship include a wedding coordinator?

If you’re getting married on the ship, the cruise will typically provide a wedding coordinator with their package. “Generally, the cruise line includes the flowers, music, photographer, and officiant (this could be the captain) in the packages, though some of these might cost extra,” says Heather.

❓ How much does a wedding cost on a cruise ship?

Many cruise lines offer a variety of services to help you plan a shipboard or shoreside ceremony, followed by a romantic cruise honeymoon. Plus, a wedding on a cruise ship can be a great value, with prices starting around $1,500 (the sky's the limit) on top of the cost of the cruise.

Related Articles:

• How To Book A Cruise Wedding
• How To Arrange A Wedding On A Cruise Ship
• A Carnival Cruise Wedding Cost
• What Is The Cost Of A Disney Cruise Wedding?
• Cruise Weddings. What To Know Before You Book!
• Can You Get Married On A Cruise Ship?

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Cruise Wedding Packages: Everything You Need to Know

So you’re ready to say “I do”. That means it’s time to start thinking about planning your event, and the most part important step of that process (aside from locking down a date), is where you’re going to host it!

The venue plays a huge part in everything else that follows, from invitations and the guest list to food, beverages, and entertainment. Depending on the location, you’ll need to choose accordingly to make the most of the space you’re celebrating in. It’s one of the reasons cruise wedding packages are so popular. Not only is the metaphor for the location great—you’re setting sail on a new adventure and embarking on a beautiful life together—but practically speaking, getting married on a boat streamlines the process by reducing the guesswork of what is and isn’t possible. With the variety of options cruises provide, couples can select the perfect package for their big day without being overwhelmed by too many choices to consider. In fact, they can opt for all-inclusive cruise wedding packages where everything is provided for them; customizable cruise wedding packages where they can tailor the experience to accommodate their needs; as well as cost-effective wedding packages when a particular budget is in mind. You must be thinking now: Where do I begin? And that’s where we come in. This guide to cruise wedding packages will provide insights on what you need to know by covering the ins and outs of what they’re all about…

Cruise Wedding Packages from City Experiences

Whether it’s an all-inclusive, customizable, or cost-effective cruise wedding package, the options offered by City Experiences can encompass wedding-related events, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions. Wedding Related Events can range from engagement or bachelor and bachelorette parties to bridal showers and luncheons, day-after brunches, and even vow renewals. They are the ideal way to celebrate a couple’s love on the water with a picture-perfect backdrop of whatever destination they decide on.

Meanwhile, Rehearsal Dinners offer all-inclusive packages that feature chef-designed menus and exceptional service intended to make the evening a memorable night for close family and friends within intimate, special, and exquisite surroundings complete with stunning skyline views. Of course, for Ceremonies & Receptions, what could be more unforgettable than the spectacular backdrop of your city coupled with dedicated wedding professionals to make everything a seamless experience and top-notch hospitality to elevate the event? Either indoors or on the outdoor decks, there’s plenty of space for dining and dancing, and packages can be created to fit any budget or style. For any and all of these occasions, you’ll begin by selecting your city, desired date, number of guests, and any other details about the event you care to include. The more specific you are about your needs and wants, the easier it will be to organize the event. Your best bet? Start by reviewing all of the intel you can find at Weddings on the Water .

Cruise Ship Wedding Packages—An Overview

Numerous cruise lines offer wedding packages too, and while many may float towards a higher price point and require a longer stay for both friends and family, it’s still good to know what you could expect. For example, major carriers like Carnival, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean provide opportunities to celebrate nuptials on the ship before leaving port, at sea, aboard the ship while docked at a specific destination, and even ashore on an island. The bride and groom can exchange vows administered by the captain of the ship, which makes for a unique nautical experience, and ceremonies and receptions can be held in a range of areas based on what the cruise lines offer as acceptable spaces. And just like City Experiences, couples can select pre-designed packages or customize their own for wedding-related events, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions—depending on budget, style, and number of guests. If there’s a particular theme you are partial to, there are also options like Disney Cruise Line Weddings.

Cost Benefits of Cruise Wedding Packages vs. Traditional Weddings

Let’s be honest—weddings can be expensive, and that’s why many couples choose a cruise wedding over something more traditional. Because not only is it more affordable (and often less stressful) than hiring a venue, but cruise wedding packages also often come with wedding planners. Also, the ability to be able to select from several options (including all-inclusive and customized) can be deemed priceless. The experience is like a mini vacation, or magical night out, for the couple—as well as everyone in attendance—and you are guaranteed to get some amazing wedding photos. What’s also great about cruise weddings is the fact that there’s already a party-like atmosphere in play. As you see people on the shore, or other boats passing by, well-wishers often extend warm greetings of bon voyage because it just feels right!

Best Time to Get Married on a Cruise

They say timing is everything, and that’s certainly true for weddings. Deciding where you want to get married is step one. Step two is when, and that depends on whether you are a morning or night person, and whether you want dynamic daytime photos or images that feature a fabulous evening setting. Taking into consideration how many guests will be in attendance and where they are traveling from will also help in determining the ideal time to get married—as will the season. If you want to share vows during the summer, think about the temperatures you can expect in your chosen city. For example, the heat and/or humidity may be too hot to handle for an August wedding on the water in New York City, so early autumn might be better for those sensitive to warmer weather. You know your preferences, and those of your guests, so make your decision by using that knowledge to your advantage.

Cruise Wedding Costs

While it’s not easy to calculate the exact cost of a wedding in one blog—there are after all a lot of things to consider—we can tell you about the things that will affect the price, and what would be a good idea to keep in mind. First off, beverages. If an open bar is where your heart is, it’s important to think about what you plan to serve. Whether it’s wine, spirits, soft drinks, and other non-alcoholic options, calculate the amount you’ll think you’ll need based on your number of guests (and their drinking habits). The same goes for the food. Whether it’s small bites during a passed appetizer hour or a sit-down meal that features a few courses, calculate what you’ll need on a per-person basis. If a DJ or band is what you want for entertainment, determine how much you can spend based on the length of your event. The same goes for the photographer and/or videographer and any additional amenities that are not included in the package you have chosen for your cruise.

How to Select the Right Wedding Package

You’ve chosen the right partner for your life, so selecting the right wedding package should be a breeze—and it can be when you opt for a cruise wedding. There are just a few key factors to keep in mind: the guest list, the destination, and your budget. These three things will impact all aspects of the event. The guest list is a key factor for your budget. Depending on how many people you’d like in attendance, and how many of those people RSVP yes, you’ll be able to figure out what you can spend, and part of that spend is based on your destination. Prices may vary in each city depending on what you want to include, so if you have your heart set on San Francisco or Chicago, be sure to take that into consideration.

But no matter what package you choose, one thing is clear – a cruise wedding is a wonderful way for couples to start a new life. Because the skyline is the only limit for an event that’s bound to be filled with cherished memories and a lifetime of love from this day forward. Fill out this  form  today and an Event Planner will contact you!

FAQs – Cruise Wedding Packages

Can I have my wedding aboard a City Cruises ship?

At City Cruises, we pride ourselves on offering memorable experiences and what could be more unforgettable than saying “I do” with the vast expanse of water around you? With us, your dream of a wedding out on the water can become a reality.

What kind of wedding packages does City Cruises offer?

We offer a variety of all-inclusive cruise wedding packages tailored to suit different needs and preferences. From grand and lavish ceremonies to smaller, more intimate affairs, we’ve got something for everyone. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, we’re more than happy to craft a custom wedding package just for you.

Can I rent the entire boat for my wedding?

Certainly! If you’re dreaming of an exclusive event with just your closest family and friends, you have the option to rent out the entire boat. It ensures privacy, an intimate setting, and the luxury of having the entire vessel to yourselves for your special day.

What if I want a smaller, more intimate wedding?

No problem! For couples seeking a cozier setting, you can choose to rent just one of our decks. It’s perfect for a smaller gathering while still giving you the unique experience of a wedding on the water.

Are there any customization options available for wedding packages?

Yes, customization is our forte! While we have a selection of curated packages, we understand that every couple is unique. So, if you have a specific theme, menu, or decoration idea in mind, just let us know. At City Cruises, we’re all about turning your dream wedding into reality.

Do I need to worry about catering and decoration?

Leave the worries to us! Our all-inclusive packages cover everything from catering to decoration. We have a team of dedicated professionals who ensure that every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying your big day.

How far in advance should I book a wedding package with City Cruises?

Given the popularity and uniqueness of our water wedding experience, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your desired date. Reach out to our team, and we’ll guide you through the process and availability.

Can I really get married on a cruise?

Yes! Many cruise companies offer onboard wedding ceremonies. These weddings can range from intimate ceremonies on a smaller vessel to grand celebrations on a large cruise ship.

What are the advantages of having a wedding on a cruise?

Having a wedding on a cruise offers several benefits. It combines the wedding venue and honeymoon destination, often proves more cost-effective than traditional weddings, provides stunning backdrops for your wedding photos, and offers a unique experience for both the couple and the guests.

Original Post Date: June 8, 2023

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Cruise Weddings: All About a Wedding on a Cruise Ship

Cruise weddings are considered to be the most romantic weddings. Whether you host your wedding onboard, at an exotic beach or in a garden, wedding cruises help you make your story stunning by simply combining your love for each other with your love for travel in beautiful settings. Yes, if you’re looking for a more leisurely way to travel and cruises are always a great alternative to air travel. And the best part is cruise cost you less than airfares.

There are many cruise lines already offering cruise wedding packages. They have their own on-board chapels and celebrants, and are able to take care of the entire wedding and wedding guests properly. They even provide you wedding packages you can choose. Or if you want to customize everything on your cruise wedding then you can do that too.

Cruise weddings are the most hassle-free weddings as they take care of everything. They are event management experts, and can help you organize the big day exactly how you want. They can help you plan every detail to create memories that last a lifetime.

If you are also looking forward to a cruise wedding. Here’s all about a wedding on a cruise ship, you need to know:

Your marriage should be legal

First things first, before you plan your wedding on a cruise ship, it is essential to know that you will need a marriage license wherever your ceremony is held. So, ask your wedding coordinator about all the requirements at the cruise ship, where the ceremony will take place. He will help you understand the details.

Each country has different requirements. For instance, some countries have residency requirements, which means you have to reside on the island for a certain period of time in order to legally marry there, which I believe is not possible. In such a case, you can legally marry in your home country before your cruise ship wedding and have a symbolic wedding at the port.

However, as I said, different countries have different rules for cruise ship wedding. Basically, you need to follow the laws of the country where the ship is registered. So, it is crucial to do your research, talk to your coordinator or a travel agent. And yeah, don’t forget to apply for licenses far in advance if you really want a cruise ship wedding.

Cruise ship weddings are best for…

Cruise weddings are a perfect idea for a variety of different couples and styles. But, it is considered best for the couples who don’t go deep into details and looking for a low-key ceremony. Because everything at cruise weddings from the flowers to the music will be simple. Also, you have less choices in a cruise wedding.

When it comes to wedding size, cruise ships usually work best for a smaller guest lists. However, there are some cruises where you can host a comparatively bigger wedding. If you don’t want any wedding guests just you two, your families and few close friends then cruise ship wedding is surely meant for you. You can combine your wedding with a unique honeymoon experience.

How do cruise weddings work?

It’s up to the couple, there are couples who choose to get married on the ship before it departs, while some get married on land at the destination port.

If your friends and family are not able to afford the cruise but can make for your wedding, then you can tie knot on ship before it sails. But if your family and friends can make for the cruise, then you can choose to get married in a tropical garden or on the beach on a Caribbean island.

Note: cruises may skip ports due to weather conditions that can be a risk if you’re planning a wedding on land.

Duration of cruise ship wedding

If you’re planning to combine your wedding with your honeymoon, then a five to seven-day cruise will be ideal.

What to expect from a cruise ship

If you’re planning to tie know on the ship, then the cruise will provide you a wedding coordinator in their package. And the wedding package usually includes, the flowers, music, photographer, and officiant in the packages. Besides these, the couple will be responsible for other things like; registering for their marriage license, their wedding attire, and the wedding invitations.

Popular cruise locations for weddings

The Caribbean is most popular amongst all, but it has residency requirements. St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, St. Lucia tend, Bahamas, Mexico etc. are popular.

Popular cruise lines for your weddings

These are few best cruise lines you can consider for your cruise wedding: Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, P&O Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard Line, MSC Cruises.

Make sure you pick a ship that matches your style

Every cruise ship will be unique in its own way and will have its own personality! So, while planning your wedding on a cruise ship, make sure you pick the one that matches your own style, with the dining, entertaining and amenity options that you and your wedding guests will enjoy.

Make sure you book your cruise ship a bit early

Cruise weddings are trending, every couple wants to make their wedding a unique experience for everyone. So make sure you book your cruise ship early so as to avoid a sold out sailing and also be mindful of possible holiday surcharges.

Know weather conditions beforehand

You may be excited to host your wedding on a cruise ship, but it is crucial to consider the weather and the season while planning your wedding on a cruise ship.

Arrive to the port a day early

It is always a good idea to arrive to the port a day early simply to ensure that everything is in order and also you can enjoy the city!

Make sure you inform your guests well in advance

Of course, it is crucial that your guests who you are expecting on your cruise wedding should know about it well in advance. You don’t need to send out the wedding invites as soon as you book your cruise, but they will definitely need time to make arrangements to take time off work.

Set up your wedding registry

Make sure you set up a wedding website and honeymoon registry so that it becomes easy for you to share information with your wedding guests. Also, they can help create the perfect honeymoon experience as you start your life together.

Check your cruise length in advance

While picking a cruise line for you wedding, make sure you check the cruise itinerary before that. It should not rush your wedding celebrations and at the same time it should not be too long or too expensive for your guests. A five- to seven-day cruise gives couples enough time for the ceremony and doesn’t require too much of their vacation time.

Check for affordable group rates for your cruise weddings

Cruise do provide group rates, which are comparatively cheaper than the ones you buy for individuals. While planning your cruise wedding make sure you book accommodations as a group so that your wedding guests get a better rate. Also, you can plan group shore excursions, it will allow you to have a fun time with your wedding guests and turn your wedding into an affordable vacation for yourself and your family and friends!

16. Pick a wedding package that’s in your pocket

Different cruise lines offer different inclusions in their wedding packages, which allows you to match your budget and your wedding style. You can choose an elegant sit-down reception, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, or even you can join your guests at the shipboard buffet. Different wedding packages allow you to choose your favorite menu selections. Also, you can customize your wedding package with flowers, favors, entertainment and other personal touches, which you always wanted to have.

Dress accordingly

By and large, cruise ship life is casual, but brides would still want to dress up for their ceremony. So, it is essential that the bride and her attendants have dresses that are easy to get into, especially if the wedding ceremony has to take place in the home port prior to sailing. However, for the groom and his gang, it’s easy to look handsome without having to pack a tux; because on-board formal wear rentals can have their suits ready in their rooms when they arrive.

Photographer will be supplied on board

Yes, your cruise wedding package will include the wedding photographer as well. Cruise ship usually do supply a professional photographer to take photos and videos of your wedding and create beautiful wedding albums. And the best part is, photo prints will be ready before you head home, allowing you to avoid long waits for the final wedding albums.

Cruise wedding are exceptionally meant to enjoy

Cruise weddings are meant to spend a wonderful time together with your loved ones and embrace the bond and togetherness amidst beautiful water. You can have a perfect vacation at the cruise wedding, where your guests will be sailing with you. There’s so much to do on a ship, each wedding guests will have something to enjoy.

Perfect for a low-key wedding ceremony

Cruises are a great way to host a low-key ceremony with just a few people and create wonderful memories of the biggest event of your life.

Combine your wedding with your honeymoon

Cruise makes for a perfect honeymoon as well. So, you can combine your honeymoon with your wedding. Like this you will not only save on money that you may spend on airfares and hotel bookings otherwise, but also on time.

Don’t miss to relax

Once your wedding ceremony is over, so is the stress. Now is the time to enjoy the ship’s amenities and shore excursions. Also, you can find quiet corners on the deck where you two can simply enjoy each other’s company as a newly married couple!

Best season to plan a wedding on a cruise ship

While booking your cruise, it is essential that you see the best time for the same. For instance, the Caribbean’s hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30, so avoid booking during this time period, then you will not have to deal with any unpredicted storms. Crete and Santorini are appealing in April and November. Athens is best from March to June and September to November. Temperature starts to drop in Alaska during winters; hence, summer is the best time to have a wedding in Alaska. Also, Alaska cruises have a particular set of dates when they allow cruises.

Holidays and the family vacation season, especially summer can be quite expensive and over-crowded and might not be the best for planning a cruise wedding.

Cost of wedding on a cruise ship

Believe it or not but the traditional destination wedding is costlier that the wedding on a cruise ship. But on the land you get a lot more options, more security, you are not at the whim of the sea, and you can have more people at the wedding.

For a cruise wedding, you pay for the cruise and for the wedding package. Some companies offer à la carte options. Also, you will have to pay for license fees, which vary by cruise line, per package, per location.

Cruise wedding packages often have flat surcharges. The base packages are remarkably affordable, which includes accommodation, travel, a legal ceremony, venue hire, meals and much more. Usually a cruise wedding package starts from $1500 and can go up to $3000 at the most.

If will get married on land, you’ll be responsible for arranging all of the details, you may even need to hire a planner at your wedding location to ensure that everything goes smoothly. However, on a cruise ship these people are event management experts, who take care of all your needs exactly the way you want.

Cruise weddings in holiday season can be expensive.

Wrapping up……..

Cruise lines are large event specialists, they can help you create a wonderful and unique wedding that too in your budget. You can plan a premium wedding for reasonable prices on a cruise ship. Also, you don’t have to take care of wedding décor and food as the cruise ship takes care of that. It is the best way to have a stress-free wedding ceremony.

If you’re planning to host a cruise destination wedding, it is recommended to check the prices offered by different cruise lines. Pick up the cruise that matches your style perfectly and is able to accommodate your wedding guests as well.

Your wedding on a cruise ship will be a unique experience for not just you and your partner, but for your wedding guests as well. Also, the destination wedding at cruise cost you less than what it can cost you at your home.

So Happy Cruising….. ☺ ☺

Thanks for reading….. And Happy Wedding…….

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• Tips & Advice

9 Things to Know When Planning a Cruise Wedding

Most weddings follow the standard church ceremony-country club reception formula, but what if you and your fiancé aren’t a standard couple? Then you should make sure that your nuptials stand out. A fun, unique way to say, “I do” is to do it with the ocean stretching out endlessly in every direction. Most cruise ships accommodate weddings on board, and it’s an exciting way to tie the knot and to convince your friends and family to treat themselves to a vacation.

If you’re thinking about planning a cruise wedding, here are nine things you should know before the boat departs.

1. You Should Hire a Travel Agent

You might not need to hire a travel agent for your average vacation, but a cruise wedding involves so many moving parts that it’s almost impossible to pull it off without an expert. Enlist a travel agent to help with paperwork and make sure you don’t overlook any critical details as you plan.

2. You Can Wed at a Port

Deciding to wed on a cruise doesn’t mean the ship deck is your only option. Many cruise lines allow you to wed at the destinations where they port if you give the crew enough advanced notice. While international beaches make for a beautiful backdrop , keep in mind that a port wedding involves some risk since bad weather and choppy waters sometimes force cruise ships to skip a stop.

3. You May Want to Wed in Advance

Depending on the country where your wedding ceremony will take place, you might have to jump through crazy hoops to make it legal. An easier alternative is to get your marriage license at home and do an informal ceremony at city hall — one that’s legally binding — and then design a more heartfelt ceremony for the ship.

4. Different Lines Offer Different Packages

Depending on the vibe that you want your wedding to give off, you should choose your cruise line carefully. Whereas smaller cruise lines promise attention to detail and intimacy , larger lines could be capable of accommodating a bigger and rowdier party.

5. An Online Registry is Ideal

One issue that’s probably going to come up as you send out invites is that guests won’t quite be sure how to handle wedding gifts. Most won’t want to waste space in their suitcase with kitchen appliances, so create an online registry at Crate and Barrel, Amazon or MyRegistry.com and encourage your guests to buy gifts in advance and ship them directly to your home. This way, they won’t have to deal with the hassle of bringing them aboard — and you won’t worry about getting them back home.

6. It’s Smart to Book Early

When you book a cruise for a big group, regardless of the occasion, it usually requires some advanced notice. So, call the cruise line and set up the basics as many months in advance as possible, ideally around a year. This will ensure that they can accommodate you at the proper time of year and on the route you really want.

7. You Can Nab a Group Rate

Speaking of booking for a big group, it has its perks. Instead of asking your guests to book their packages individually, call the cruise line to set aside a big block of rooms for everyone. Chances are you and your guests will enjoy a discounted rate thanks to the sheer volume of business that your nuptials are bound to bring in. Even if the cruise line doesn’t specify this, don’t be afraid to ask about a group rate.

8. Certain Seasons Incur Extra Fees

When you book a traditional wedding venue in June, it’s usually more expensive than reserving the same place in October. The peak wedding season exists on the high seas, too. So after you choose your budget, make sure you carefully consider which time of year is most affordable and decide how much the weather outside will affect your final decision on a wedding date.

9. You Could Get Bumped

When cruise weddings work out, they’re beautiful affairs that the bride and groom, as well as their guests, never forget. But keep in mind that this type of wedding also requires some flexibility. There’s a chance that you’ll get bumped from your cruise — it happens sometimes when the cruise lines overbook. So be prepared for anything and have a Plan B in place, just in case.

You’ll never forget the joy and excitement of your wedding day, regardless of the venue. But if you want everyone in attendance to remember it with the same fondness, a cruise ship wedding is a creative and unique idea. Now that you’re aware of everything there is to know about planning a cruise wedding, it’s time to dive in and start the process. You won’t regret the extra effort when your big day arrives!

Kacey Bradley is the lifestyle and travel blogger for The Drifter Collective , an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Tripping.com and more!

Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!

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6 Things to know when planning a cruise ship wedding

You’re planning your big day and you’re deciding on venues. A beach, forest and traditional chapel have all crossed your mind, however, those options aren’t engrossing you. So why not think outside the box and set sail by having your wedding on a cruise ship? Here’s how to plan one:

  View this post on Instagram   Congratulations to Frank and Laura from Kentucky on winning our grand prize – a cruise to Alaska or Canada in “My Windstar Story” photo contest! Frank and Laura had a beautiful wedding under Wind Spirit’s white sails while cruising between islands of French Polynesia. We hope they will cruise with us in May 2020 to celebrate their five year wedding anniversary 💕 A post shared by Windstar Cruises® (@windstarcruises) on Jun 7, 2019 at 11:10am PDT

• Will you get married in port or destination – If you choose port, your guests can come for the ceremony and leave before you sail away with your newlywed partner. Be sure to consult your wedding planner about this.
• Decide if you and your partner will be taking the cruise by yourselves or with family and friends.
• Consider your options if your guests are coming along.
• How much can your guests afford and how long can they stay away.
• Look for cruises that offer wedding packages or options.

  View this post on Instagram   It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost 5 years since I found myself sailing the Caribbean seas for Chelsey & Sean’s @princesscruises destination wedding. I don’t do many destiantion weddings these days because it’s so hard to leave the mountains, but it is nice to adventure somewhere new every so often. I’m hoping to do one or two destination weddings in the coming years… so if you are getting married somewhere cool and want to have me join you there… get in touch!! Let’s make it happen! A post shared by banff elopements & portraits (@elizabethvanderbij) on Mar 22, 2019 at 7:24pm PDT

Maybe you’ve had your heart set on a specific place and if not, have a look at the options that fall within your budget. Consider when you’d like to go as it’s not always perfect weather year round, unfortunately. Remember, things get pricier in high season as well.

  View this post on Instagram   This was a unique shooting experience for me! This amazing couple got married on a cruise ship surrounded by their family and friends shortly before setting off on week long vacation! I boarded the boat in the morning with them and disembarked at 2, just before they set sail!! Their wedding was unique, laid back, super organized, and tons of fun! ⁠ *⁠ *⁠ *⁠ *⁠ *⁠ #cruisewedding #tampacruisewedding ⁠ #weddingideas #tampacruise #portoftampa #tampaweddingphotographer #tampawedding #weddingcruise #destinationlove #cruiseweddings #carnival #carnivalcruise #carnivalcruisewedding #cruise⁠ #cruiseweddingphotographer⁠ A post shared by Hi! I’m Alicia! (@alicia.johnson.photography) on Aug 15, 2019 at 7:37am PDT

Consult your wedding planner about this. Your romantic nautical nuptials will require a marriage license before the ceremony.

  View this post on Instagram   Remembering that jaw dropping moment when I walked into Kristen + Kristian’s room and being floored at the grand piano just waiting inside! Royal Caribbean can do a wedding right! Classy + sassy 💕✨ A post shared by Lauren Laveria (@laurenritaa) on Aug 13, 2019 at 6:13am PDT

Once you’ve decided on a destination that fits your budget, have a look at various packages. See what each place has to offer and what their bundle entails. Do they have group rates? Do they include free things with the wedding package? Don’t be afraid to ask.

  View this post on Instagram   Best day ever! 🚢👰🏼⚓️🤵🏻💐 #cruisebride #carnivalbride #carnivalparadise #carnivalcruise #cruisewedding #alluredress #bride #cruise #cruiseshiplife #cruiseship #weddingcruise #cruiseshipwedding #brides #allurebridals #carnivalcruise #honeymoondestination #cruiseaddict #cruiser #weddingday #weddingportraits #dreamstudio #weddingphotos #weddingphotography @carnival @carnival.weddings A post shared by Dalyce Rose (@dalyce_rose) on May 8, 2019 at 8:25am PDT

Be sure to inform your guests well in advance. They may need to plan their leave and save up some money. Keep them updated on all the details and expenses that might come up.

  View this post on Instagram   Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever. – Walt Disney 📸 @maddyandtroyphotography • • • #disney #waltdisney #disneycruiseline #disneycruise #cruise #dcl #wedding #married #weddingcruise #sharpesasailin #misir2mrs #disneywedding #dclwedding #dclweddings A post shared by Rebecca Misir (@adventuresofabecca) on Apr 17, 2019 at 6:46pm PDT

If you’re going to be staying on the ship, it’s important to factor in your comfortability. It may not be easy to wear a constricting wedding dress on board. If that’s what you want, however, then go for it! But a cruise ship wedding is also the chance to make things more casual.

  View this post on Instagram   A fish-tail gown and mermaid crown… Dress by: @elainerawlingsbridal Head-piece: ‘Kynance Shell Crown’ by @hymillinery Photo by: @puravidacornwall #falriverweddings A post shared by Knot (@knotcornwall) on Aug 14, 2019 at 4:33am PDT

You’ll be getting your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in one go! If your loved ones come along it’s a great getaway for them too. Smiles all around.

Picture: Pexels

Article written by Wedding ETC

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How To Plan Your Perfect Marriage Proposal On A Cruise

Congratulations! If you're reading this article about planning a proposal aboard a cruise ship then that means you are probably in a strong relationship and looking for the right way to take things to the next level. Whether your idea of the perfect proposal is getting down on one knee in the dining room on a formal night or popping the question from the comfort and privacy of your private cabana, this is going to be a big moment for both of you.

Why A Cruise Ship Is The Perfect Setting For A Proposal

Cruises are incredibly romantic. No other vacation option or setting for a proposal can compare to exploring exotic locations, postcard-perfect sunsets, fine dining experiences at specialty restaurants, and impeccable service that makes it possible to ignore everything else besides just having a great time. In fact, A 2018  Cruise Lines International Association  (CLIA) report found that cruises are 70 percent better for romantic getaways than land-based vacations.

When planning your picture-perfect proposal, remember to approach each aspect strategically. Forgetting a few key steps, such as ordering the ring too late or not informing the cruise line about your big plans, can cause hurdles along the way.

Start Planning the Engagement Proposal Plans Early

While many aspects of your ultimate romantic getaway ... and ultimately a perfect cruise proposal will be executed by the crew as well as potentially the cruise director, you are the one that needs to prepare the plans.

For This guide, we're going to divide that into two buckets of tasks that you need to do. The first is things you need to plan to happen on the cruise ship and the second is things that you need to prepare on land. If you plan ahead properly, these two groups of tasks will come together perfectly and she (or he) will respond with an overwhelming expression of joy as they accept your proposal.

While there's no reason why you can't grab a last-minute cruise deal, the process of planning ahead for your cruise proposal will probably take place over at least 2-3 months - though it could be far longer.

Find a Travel Advisor Who Can Help You Plan

On just a normal cruise vacation, your travel advisor can be a huge help with navigating various policies and making sure that you are prepared to have a great time. However, when you add an engagement to the mix, it is even more important that you have someone on your side to make sure things go smoothly.

Some of the things that your travel advisor can help you with include:

Coordinating your plans with the cruise line

Booking excursions

Making dinner and entertainment reservations

Sharing inside tips on the ship that you've selected so that you can make it extra romantic

Offering advice on what others have done, so that you can be 100% prepared

Best of all, the services from a travel advisor like Heather at Flow Voyages will be absolutely free when you book with her since she is paid by the cruise line.

Pick The Perfect Date and Destination For Your Cruise

When it comes to planning your engagement proposal at sea, it is very important to select the right cruise line, ship, destination, and itinerary. Not only will this show your future life partner that you know what they like but there are certain things such as weather that will be better at certain times of year than others and destinations that are only available during certain seasons.

Likewise, certain cruise ships may have unique features that will make the moment extra special and certain cruise lines might bring back memories of a special moment earlier in your courtship.

For example, while Carnival tends to be more tacky it is known as "The Fun Ships" for a reason. If you both like rowdy, late-night piano bar parties with lots of drinking, a proposal cruise aboard a Carnival cruise might be a great idea. Or if you are looking for something relaxing with great food and plenty of opportunity to enjoy time together, Holland America Line is a great option. On the other hand, if you are both foodies and don't want to be surrounded by kids and families then a proposal cruise on any one of the Virgin Voyages cruise ships might be a better choice.

Design The Perfect Ring

The engagement ring is the most important element of a proposal. Ordering the ring too late can be risky, especially if it is a custom ring. The turnaround time for a custom engagement ring can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the type of center stone you select.

When you have a fixed departure date, give yourself lots of time to design your ring. Consider starting at least 12 weeks early to avoid feeling stressed. Consult a reputable jeweler who creates  custom designed engagement rings  to craft the perfect one for your partner. A streamlined team of dedicated jewelers can turn your dreams into reality by offering insight into the design process. The more time you have, the simpler it will be for you to work with a designer and carefully select each design detail, such as the center stone, setting, and band.  

Consider Inviting Friends And Family

Many elements, such as decoration, music, and photography, come together to create the perfect proposal. Attempting to tackle all these elements at the last minute can be stressful, especially on a cruise where you cannot leave to complete a last-minute task after boarding. A study found that  1 in 4 grooms plan their marriage proposal  “down to the last detail” over 4.4 months. Although there is no right or wrong time to start planning your proposal, planning it early can help you surprise your significant other successfully.

Start planning the proposal as early as possible to avoid complications on the day. This involves ordering any items you need, creating a playlist, and booking a photographer. If you’re going on a more extended cruise, you could ask a friend or family to take the photos. For trips only with your partner, use a tripod and learn the camera settings or seek help from cruise staff members.

Discuss Your Plans with the Cruise Line Prior To Sailing

There's no requirement to connect with the cruise line before you embark on your cruise but if you are hoping for any special consideration such as perhaps hiding the ring in a desert, reserving a special table for the perfect sunset view at dinner, or anything that might involve the crew, you should certainly contact the cruise line prior to sailing.

Planning a big proposal without informing the crew can lead to complications while boarding or during setup. This may ruin your surprise or your proposal may turn out differently than you imagined.

Contact the company you will be cruising with ahead of time to discuss your plan. A conversation with them will ensure that they are informed of the occasion and they may offer helpful suggestions. For instance, they may know the best spot on the ship to propose or they may be able to offer special engagement packages that include having your room steward decorate your room with rose petals or a photographer who can make sure that your special moment is captured on film.

Involving them in the planning process may help you improve your proposal and include elements you haven’t thought of initially.

Connect With The Cruise Director Once On The Ship

While you may have connected with the shore-side team weeks or even months before, it would be prudent to visit guest services on day one of your cruise and ask to connect with the Cruise Director. This person will likely be experienced in knowing what other couples have done in a similar situation and can offer additional suggestions.

Additionally, while cruise lines are pretty good at making sure that requests made prior to sailing are honored, sometimes things can fall through the cracks. By connecting with the Cruise Director, you can make sure that everything you hoped to do is still scheduled.

A cruise is a beautiful place to start a new chapter of your life as a couple. It offers picture-perfect views, the sounds of the ocean, and the ideal backdrop for photos. But it’s important to be careful when planning the proposal to avoid hurdles. Use this guide to plan the perfect proposal and give your partner a surprise they will never forget!

Thanks for reading. We hope this was helpful!

Why stop now?

Participate In Our Polls  |  Ask or Answer A Cruise Question  |  Contact Heather to Book Your Next Cruise!

author bio info

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too. 

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The Latest News from Your Classmates

Find out what your fellow alums are up to—new jobs, marriages, and more—in the September / October 2024 Class Notes!

The Continuous Reunion Club column appears below!

Check out the CRC column —and columns from other Cornell groups—in the Group Notes. Want to see your group represented in future sections? Email us for information!

No news from you all, so you’ll have to tolerate what’s mulling about in my aging, addled mind: Iowa’s many rural towns and their small-town newspapers.

My interest in this arises from my early life. For my first 21 years I lived on a small subsistence farm. After Cornell and marriage, for the next 17 years I lived in the nearby rural village of Elba, NY, population 700, where I was the science teacher in the K-12 school. While living there I earned a doctoral degree at the University of Rochester. Preferring to maintain some connection to rural life, I moved about 1,000 miles west to Des Moines, IA, for a faculty position at Drake University. For a love of Iowa, I stayed for 57 years. In my waning years I now consider more highly my travels in all Iowa’s counties and county seats than my travels in all U.S. states, all the provinces of Canada, half the states of Mexico, and world travel in 32 other countries on five continents.

Iowa is a state of small, county-seat cities, and villages serving the social and business needs of their areas. Some small, rural towns are holding on with their weekly newspapers. In south-central Iowa is the village of Afton, population 1,000, which, against the national trend of dying newspapers, still has its 119-year-old, 60-cent, weekly Afton Star Enterprise. The Afton paper also serves the communities around it, providing each with local news that, in some mysterious way, serves to enrich and bind each community together.

For a love of Iowa, I stayed for 57 years. Paul Joslin ’50

I regularly read the Afton newspaper, which I receive from a friend and former resident of Afton. It’s a six-page publication and includes a variety of local news and three regular columns. Of great interest to me is a regular, 450-word column by a local retired farmer and gifted writer and illustrator who has the enviable ability to write entertainingly about what otherwise would be trivial events. His name is Rick Friday and fittingly his column is called “It’s Friday.”

I quote (paraphrasing a bit) from a recent column of his titled “Folks Tales,” which triggered similarities to my Depression-era upbringing, and perhaps yours as well: “During a child’s upbringing, parents use a variety of folktale strategies that are simply not true. My mom claimed she had eyes in the back of her head. When I broke my arm, the doc never asked if I was wearing clean underwear. My nose never grew after I told a fib. A watermelon seed I swallowed didn’t grow in my stomach. I handled a lot of toads and never got warts. And the moon is not made of cheese. I didn’t need glasses because I sat too close to the TV. A passing car never cut my hand off when I put it out the car window. It always hurt when they said it wouldn’t.” ❖ Paul Joslin ( email Paul ) | 13731 Hickman Rd., #4207, Urbandale, IA 50323 | tel., (515) 278-0960 | Alumni Directory .

“At 95, I’m aging—but rather gracefully,” writes Calvin Gage , who is also “inching toward the 66th anniversary with my wife, Marge. A year ago, we moved to a life care community, Lake Forest Place in Lake Forest, IL. We settled into an apartment where Marge is developing a beautiful patio garden. Among the 400+ residents, I’ve discovered a few with Cornell connections. One was a grad student whose dissertation was about Cornell’s first president, Andrew Dickson White. This chap went on to become president of Lake Forest College. Another resident’s daughter graduated from the Hotel School and, we’re told, had a very successful career in that business. There are other Cornellians here that I have yet to meet.”

Calvin adds, “In this community, where all of us are in our 80s, 90s, and, yes, 100s, it is refreshing to observe the vitality all around me. Yes, there are walkers and rollators and canes and electric scooters—and some can no longer stand tall—but mentally they are with it. That is very satisfying.” ❖ Class of 1951 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Carol Singer Greenhaus writes from Rye, NY, that seeing her three daughters, six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren gives her the most satisfaction these days—and, as her father used to say, “not a lemon in the bunch.” She feels that Cornell made her travel more interesting and made her interest in geology grow. “Like a kid, I collect rocks.”

Eli Manchester writes from Westwood, MA, that he and his wife are living in Fox Hill Village, a wonderful retirement community. He enjoys watching Cornell athletics on ESPN. He is lucky that his daughters and family live close by so that they see them often. His younger daughter graduated from Cornell Law School. He feels that his five years in Cornell engineering was a wonderful preparation for his professional life.

Harriette Scannell Morgan writes from Adamstown, MD, that waking up gives her the most satisfaction these days. Cornell changed the trajectory of her life; she met her husband, Monte , there and they had 61 years of marriage and two sons. Over the years they lived in the U.S., Canada, South America, and Europe, traveled to all the states, and were huge volunteers.

Bernard Patten writes from Athens, GA, that attending Cornell set the stage for his academic life and how to pursue it. Great satisfaction comes from “research and writing a revisionary kind of ecology, a three-volume work called Holoecology . My subject is a systems ecology topic I have been pursuing since I arrived in UGA Ecology in 1968.” He also has established a flagship quartet, TSS Adirondika Pro Musica. He has two grandsons that his daughter is raising in Atlanta.

Marion Lotz Rutan writes from Haines City, FL, that she has celebrated the 70th anniversary of her wedding with her husband. She enjoys Zoom calls with family and books available through the Library of Congress.

Ann Coffeen Turner writes from Keene, NH, that she enjoys tutoring and reading, having published her teaching materials on the Internet (Teachers Pay Teachers). ❖ Thomas Cashel, LLB ’56 ( email Tom ) | Alumni Directory .

William Ash , PhD ’60, reports that he and his late wife, Gertrude (Kehm) , were lucky to raise four responsible children to adulthood “without any problems whatsoever. They love the USA!” With two grandsons and two great-grandsons, “the family grows into the future with pride, but with hopes that the world will allow them to reach their potential.” William has been writing short monthly newsletter articles for the Cape Lookout Sail and Power Squadron in Trent Woods, NC. “I’ve now written close to 300 articles, each 1–2 pages, with the purpose of making our boating waters safe.”

Virginia “Jinny” Jackson Browning is pleased to still be healthy in mind and body at age 92. Her favorite activities at home in Kentucky are reading and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. “The numbers of great-grandchildren are increasing!” she reports.

Dottie Clark Free writes that she enjoys the volunteer activities at the retirement home where she lives in Palo Alto. Her family continues to grow. “In 1966 I married four people: a widower with three children. We now number 18.” Did attending Cornell change the trajectory of her life? “Tremendously! It gave me more confidence and broadened my outlook.”

Cornelius Jones (Monrovia, CA) shares that his wife of 67 years, Ruth, died in 2020. In studying the Jones family’s ancestry, Cornelius has learned that they were some of the first settlers of Staten Island, NY. Early in his career, Cornelius drastically changed his professional life from being a farm agent in New York to being a missionary with the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society.

Herb Neuman is thoroughly enjoying his first great-grandchildren—boy and girl twins. He is still working in real estate development in New York, Maryland, and Florida, training young members of the family firm as they take on responsibilities. In 2023 Herb was co-winner of the Tanner Prize in recognition of being active in the new Hillel building project at Cornell and engaged in strengthening the Jewish Studies Program.

I’ve now written close to 300 articles, each 1–2 pages, with the purpose of making our boating waters safe. William Ash ’53, PhD ’60

Bertram Pitt writes that, although he no longer sees patients, he continues to be active in clinical research. Recent papers relate to heart failure, hypertension, and renal (kidney) disease. “Currently I am working on therapies to reduce dementia in patients with hypertension,” he reports. On the calendar is a trip to Australia from his home in Ann Arbor, MI.

Louis Pradt and his wife, Sandra, still live in the Wisconsin house they moved into 51 years ago. “I like to fill it with music: playing, hearing, and seeing.” Louis spends time dealing with family affairs and gets a lot of satisfaction from the children in the family. He was disappointed to miss our 70th Reunion and sends his greetings to Cornell friends.

Alan Raynor and wife Mary enjoy life in Port Charlotte, FL. He especially likes having time to pursue special interests and is even finding time to write a movie.

Susan Finn Smith , with her husband, Donald (Iowa State), lives a busy life at a retirement community in Middleton, WI. “We have many activities and events,” she says, “but especially enjoy connecting with friends or family, reading, writing essays, streaming movies, going to concerts, and reading the New York Times or Washington Post .” Their son lives nearby and visits often, but their two daughters live and work far away, she reports. “Our second great-grandchild arrived earlier this year.” Susan transferred to Cornell from Iowa State as a junior and completed her BS degree at Cornell. “I grew to love Upstate New York,” she recalls. “I also made Eastern friends and came to love classical music and writing.”

Joyce Wisbaum Underberg , BS ’52, reports that she is still able to keep up with the news “and with the few friends I have left!” In her professional life, Joyce served as director of government affairs for Schlegel Corporation at its headquarters in Rochester, NY, and she remains active in a few organizations that welcome “old war horses” as board members. “I’m very content,” reports Joyce, “with all four children gainfully employed and in happy relationships that have produced nine grandchildren. Life is good—I’m lucky!” Joyce credits Cornell with helping her mature from a somewhat sheltered teenager to an adult “who is still trying to push the envelope for change that I think matters!” Keep us posted on your progress, Joyce.

Lois Crane Williams , MEd ’60, continues to write about local and family history. She lives in assisted living at a retirement complex in Lancaster County, VA, and says, “Marrying a Cornell engineer (the late Peter Williams ) was one of the really good events in my life!” ❖ Caroline Mulford Owens ( email Caroline ) | Bob Neff , JD ’56 ( email Bob ) | John Nixon ( email John ) | Alumni Directory .

Reunion 2024! What a terrific weekend it was! A bit cool and cloudy, but warm spirits throughout the campus. Eight thousand Cornellians returned to the Hill. More than 400 events, programs, and concerts were offered. We were busy. Time flew by. And now we cherish wonderful memories of a glorious weekend.

Dave , PhD ’60, and Mary Gentry Call , as Reunion co-chairs, planned with consideration of our age and limitations. We were cared for with Statler accommodations, good meals, transportation, and time to visit with old friends and also to rest. A special note: at Saturday dinner, held at Kendal where a few of our class including the Calls live, we were delighted that Mary was able to join us. A big thank you to Mary and Dave, who held steady and made it happen for us in spite of their significant health challenges.

Chick Trayford , MBA ’60, our class president, was kept at home because of physical limitations resulting from his treatment in recent months. However, he worked tirelessly to encourage classmates to return for Reunion. The results of his efforts are reported below.

Here are a few highlights of the schedule. Thursday: excitement as we arrived at the registration area; dinner at the Statler; the traditional and wonderful Savage Club’s Reunion Show. Friday: “Democratic Resilience Globally” presentation by the Class of 1979 and the Brooks School of Public Policy (retired ambassador Dwight Bush ’79 shared that, to foster a global worldview, he and his wife give each child one plane ticket a year to anywhere outside of the U.S.); lunch at Moakley House on the golf course; Olin Lecture at Bailey Hall with Andrew Ross Sorkin ’99 , award-winning journalist and author, CNBC “Squawk Box” co-anchor, and co-creator of Showtime series “Billions”; Statler dinner with the Sherwoods (men’s singing) and Corey Earle ’07 discussing “Then and Now”; Cornell University Chorus and Glee Club at Bailey.

Saturday: State of the University Address by President Martha Pollack; Al Eckhardt took a few of us to visit the Merrill Family Sailing Center, where he, a lifelong competitive sailor and skipper of the winning 1954 crew, proudly showed us the new facility and the Class of 1954 FJ22 sailboat he gave to Cornell (a story new to me: as teenagers, for several summers Al and Chick raced sailboats on Long Island Sound. In August 1950, they wished one another well and said goodbye. Soon after, completely by surprise, they found each other on the Cornell campus!); reception and dinner at Kendal; Cornelliana Night with much Big Red spirit and the old songs we love to sing. Sunday: Packing and hugs and good wishes to all.

Here are the officers who will tend to class business: president, Chick Trayford; VP and treasurer, Dave Call; Annual Fund representative, Warren “Breck” Breckenridge ; nominations chair, Al Eckhardt; webmaster, Jan Jakes Kunz ; co-correspondents, Ruth Carpenter Bailey and Bill Waters , MBA ’55.

We cherish wonderful memories of a glorious [Reunion] weekend. Ruth Carpenter Bailey ’54

And here are the results of the work they and others performed on behalf of the class: The Class of 1954 now holds the record for attendance at a 70th Reunion! The University has confirmed that we had 29 classmates in Ithaca! Last year the Class of 1953 had 11; the previous record was 26. We had a total of 55 people including spouses, children, and guests. Dollars raised for Cornell by our class totaled $14.2 million! (“A huge number,” says Cornell, but not the record, which is $17.0 million, held by the Class of 1948.) We thank all who gave to enable us to reach this amount.

Random thoughts: Corey Earle presented a delightful program with photos about Cornell history and changes on campus. We are fortunate to have him as the informal historian of the University. I recommend that you listen to him on Zoom whenever you have the chance. President Pollack gave her final Reunion speech. I swelled with pride to hear of the enormous breadth and depth of Cornell’s impact around the globe. A new book, Beyond Borders: Exploring the History of Cornell’s Global Dimensions , now available and co-edited by Corey, tells in some detail about this important work. Interestingly her talk was interrupted by protestors. Security was prepared: they were given a few minutes to shout and disrupt on behalf of Gaza; the audience drowned them out; then quietly and professionally the security people calmly ushered them out of Bailey. On a happy note, the Cornell Band, not in uniform, played enthusiastically as we entered and departed from Bailey on a couple of occasions. A fun addition.

The University holds a Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. I must confess I was taken aback when I saw the length of the list of classmates who have died. One we lost very early was Fred Wood . Jane Barber Wood Smith came this year with their daughter, Barbara Wood ’82 . To the staff of Alumni Affairs, Jane wrote, “Thank you so much for your part in making our 70th Reunion such a joyous and comfortable occasion. I am just so happy and grateful to have been there to renew with old friends and see the old campus surviving amidst the new.

“It was especially poignant for my daughter and me to retrace some family memories from 1963 when she was 3, we lived on Wait Avenue, and her father, my first husband, Fred, worked as acting Episcopal chaplain at CURW. He was later class correspondent and he and I were to be Reunion chairs in ’69; by then he was battling leukemia and died in 1970 when he was chaplain and associate professor at Vassar College.

“Barbara and I were able to track down the chandelier in the Founders Room at Anabel Taylor that was contributed upon request by my father-in-law Frederic Wood 1924 (a former Cornell trustee), along with the plaque indicating that it was in memory of his son. Since no one in the family had ever seen this, we took pictures and emailed and phoned my sister-in-law Meredith Wood Einaudi ’61 in Palo Alto, CA. She was delighted.”

Those of us who attended Reunion were grateful to be there. We remembered those unable to be there. I hope reading these comments gives you a bit of the flavor of a happy weekend. ❖ Ruth Carpenter Bailey ( email Ruth ) | Bill Waters , MBA ’55 ( email Bill ) | Class website | Alumni Directory .

Richard Shriver was honored by the Connecticut River Conservancy with the Bud Foster Award. CRC gives this award each year to someone who has shown outstanding devotion, service, and accomplishment in the Connecticut River watershed. Bud Foster was the first executive director of what is now the CRC. As its website notes, “In those pre-Clean Water Act days when CRC was first established, the challenge facing our rivers was significant. That meant the dedication of those looking to make a difference was also extraordinary. This award shines a light on those who work hard for the benefit of our rivers.”

In its announcement, CRC noted Dick’s contributions: “Dick has been supportive of the Connecticut River Conservancy at every turn. He has been an early morning boat captain for the Unified Water Study, has published articles about restoration stories with great depth and detail, has hosted murmuration bird paddles for local community members, and offered his home as a celebratory reception place. He has been a convener, connector, and friend who brings others together with open arms to unite our efforts for greater collective impact. Thanks to Dick’s leadership, $1 million was recently granted by the Endeavor Foundation to support conservation priorities throughout the watershed. All this in a relatively short time, after a successful career. Dick is an impressive example of how much one person can accomplish when inspired and committed. And now his efforts inspire more of us to appreciate and steward this amazing resource.”

Samuel “Skip” Salus derives great satisfaction from “being able to move around without pain.” He spends his days reading, playing bocce, attending lectures or events, and keeping in touch with old friends. Sadly, Skip shares, “I lost my wife to a strange disease.” He adds that he enjoys “seeing my sons in their jobs competing successfully. I have 13 grandchildren and five are in college—one just graduated and one is at Ithaca College.”

Ruth McDevitt Carrozza (York, PA) greatly enjoys keeping in contact with her far-flung family in Florida, California, New Jersey, New Hampshire, and Maine, and camping with her daughter and son-in-law. She’s also enjoying her new friends in her community and participating in community activities such as crafts and bus trips. “I celebrated my 90th birthday with a great family party on April 1. We are waiting for my fourth great-grandchild.” When asked if Cornell changed the trajectory of her life, she wrote, “Although I was a landscape design student, I was able to become a science teacher because of my science classes at Cornell.”

Although I was a landscape design student, I was able to become a science teacher because of my science classes at Cornell. Ruth McDevitt Carrozza ’55

Hans Duerr writes from his new home in Orchard Park, NY, where he moved to be closer to his sons after his life partner, Jeanne, died in 2020. He is happy to be alive and healthy. George Morson derives great satisfaction from family, his health, volunteering, and tennis. He happily reports that his grandson is a pilot.

Dick Kurtz , BS ’58, appreciates his “good health, happy wife, and family. I enjoy seeing the growth of our 4-year-old identical male quadruplet great-grandchildren—and supporting their parents.” Dick participates in his church choir, plays bridge, volunteers in church affairs, walks the dog, and travels in the U.S. He notes that the University “supported my love of Latin American friends, travels, and countries.”

Shirley Sanford Dudley writes, “I studied psychology at Cornell and became (after an advanced degree) a counselor, registrar, and assistant dean in a seminary. I loved, loved, loved working with students. They have been some of my best friends for life. Also, as a minister’s wife, the variety of students at Cornell enabled me to open up to a wider group of people of all sorts in the cities where we lived.” Now, Shirley is occupied with leadership roles in her senior center, choirs there and at church, 10-minute plays, letter writing, exercising, walking, and reading good books.

These days, Kenneth Sanderson greatly enjoys meeting new people, volunteering at polling places and as an usher at theaters, gardening, and attending plays. “2024 has been the worst year of my life,” he shares. “My wife, Barbara, died, and my brother Don died. I’m glad that I got to bring Barb to visit Cornell once.” When asked if Cornell changed the trajectory of his life, he wrote, “Absolutely. It gave me a goal for life: always excel! And it provided the professors and classmates that served as role models. I only attended Cornell for two years for a BS degree, but I have always felt that I was part of a family. Cornellians opened many doors for me throughout my career.”

Stay tuned for more news from our classmates in the next column! ❖ Class of 1955 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Diana Motycka Day has been participating in church activities as a deacon, gardening around her home, and socializing with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. “I met Bob Day the first day of freshman year at orientation! We fell in love, but Bob’s national scholarship kept him studying too much so I dated Tom Herbert ’54 , MBA ’55, and married him! That marriage ended. Bob and I both went to our 45th Reunion in 2001 and decided immediately to get married right away in 2002. That was an idyllic marriage for 15 years, until Bob died.”

Virginia Seelig Lenz has five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She is a tour docent at Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home, and a facilitator for a book club at her local library.

Gail Berkson Malloy-Brown is retired from teaching at Adelphi University but still working part time as a psychotherapist. She notes that she’s still recovering from Dick Brown ’48 ’s death four years ago. “Cornell sent me on a ‘trip’ from hospital nurse to public health nurse to teacher and academic administrator of nursing, to psychoanalyst and psychotherapist in private practice, and from BS to MA to PhD.”

Pat Brodie gets the greatest satisfaction in life from spending time with her children and grandchildren. Now retired, she’s writing a memoir. “I’m living in Brookhaven in Lexington, MA, now. Everyone here is over 65. It reminds me of living in the dorm at Cornell.”

I’m living in Brookhaven in Lexington, MA, now. Everyone here is over 65. It reminds me of living in the dorm at Cornell. Pat Brodie ’56

Robert Ridgley writes, “I’m still happily married to Marilyn (Hester) ’57 after 66 years! We just welcomed our first great-grandchild!” Robert retired as CEO of Northwest Natural Gas and continues with numerous activities for the community of Portland, OR, including the Cornell Club. “Economics and history studies at Cornell led me to Harvard Law School, 23 years of legal practice, and then a second career in management of a public utility.”

Carol Skidmore Cuddeback writes, “My 90th birthday party had 53 relatives attending! Great occasion for our large family! I was surprised! Wish my dear husband could have been there.”

Theodora Litner Weihe enjoys “being able to dance and play golf with my younger friends, being able to eat out when I don’t feel like cooking, and being able to drive! I love having a loving husband in good health. We go to grandchildren’s graduations when we can, but otherwise aren’t traveling much. Attending Cornell allowed me to feel confident in many new settings—socially and professionally.”

There will be more news from classmates in our next Class Notes column! ❖ Class of 1956 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Those hills of Cornell drew me back again for the 2024 Reunion. The founders of the Continuous Reunion Club declared that attending Reunions only every five years just isn’t enough. I joined CRC in 2000, so I have enjoyed the Reunions every year since then except for the two years of the pandemic.

This year I was able to meet Nan Krauthamer Goldberg and Judy Richter Levy , LLB ’59, for dinner at the Statler’s Taverna Banfi fine dining restaurant. Judy arrived from Manhattan to enjoy her Law School Reunion. She and one other female classmate double registered our senior year. Judy announced that she is about to retire from her practice of personal injury law, which she pursued for at least 50 years with her late husband. She had an interesting and rewarding career helping victims receive compensation due to other people’s negligence. She may occasionally assist her daughter, also an attorney, with her cases. Judy has been our class’s go-to person in NYC to arrange luncheons and dinners whenever Cornell events took place there. Many classmates who enjoy the Cornell hockey games in Madison Square Garden have attended those dinners.

Nan is one who was fortunate to remain in the Ithaca area as three weeks after graduation she and Stan ’55 were married. Stan was a retailer in an Ithaca home improvement business that later grew and diversified, and he became a real estate developer. Nan and Stan had four children in the next 10 years, which kept Nan busy using skills learned in her child development classes. Nan later had her own business, Learning Foundation of Ithaca. Over the years, Nan has helped hundreds of high school students in test preparation and goal-setting. To this day she continues to help local students and also Rotary exchange students. Her family now includes 11 grandchildren, four of whom are Cornellians. Although Stan passed away in 2015, Nan continues to live in their fine modern home on the west shore of Cayuga Lake, across the road from Taughannock Falls State Park.

Naturally, our dinner conversation included news about many of our distaff side classmates. We especially recalled the recent passing of two very active women, Sue DeRosay Henninger and Vanne Shelley Cowie . Both served as leaders during our undergrad years and since we became alumni. Sue was our president early in our alumni days. Vanne’s decorations in Balch Hall for our 40th Reunion are still memorable. Sue was a patroness of the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, while Vanne was a patroness of the Cornell Botanic Gardens (formerly the Cornell Plantations).

Judy Richter Levy ’57 , LLB ’59, is about to retire from her practice of personal injury law, which she pursued for at least 50 years with her late husband.

Their spouses, Joe Henninger ’56 , MBA ’58, and former trustee Bob Cowie ’55 , MBA ’57, survive them. Both couples were recipients of the prestigious Frank H.T. Rhodes Exemplary Alumni Service Award. Vanne and Bob were honored in 2003 and Sue and Joe were honored in 2009. (And, both couples were members of the Continuous Reunion Club!) Our other honored recipients of the Frank H.T. Rhodes Award are: Art Gensler , 1998; Tony Cashen , MBA ’58, 2001; Steve Weiss , 2008; Steve Laden , 2009; and Bob Staley , MBA ’59, with his wife, Elizabeth (Chapman) ’60 , 2012.

Our class is recognized as having a great number of our alumni involved in Cornell and class activities. In our class leadership and Reunion committees alone, we approach 100 individuals. Could any other class even come close to that? There is a pattern prevalent in the classes of the 1950s. Many male students had plans to continue their education in professions such as medicine, law, advanced business degrees, and further academic studies. Not so for the women. Only about 10 of us ’57 women went right into law or medical schools. In fact, we were not encouraged to continue our education. A corridor-mate, a ’56 co-ed, went to a vet school for an interview. She was told outright that she would not be admitted because she would be “taking the place of a man.”

Graduation found many of us married or soon to be married, then becoming mothers, homemakers, and community volunteers. Only later did some pursue advanced degrees. Barbara “Bobbie” Redden Leamer is a perfect example. She and Dick ’56 were married in the Anabel Taylor chapel the day before our graduation. Defying all who bet against it, she, as our women’s class council president, along with her counterpart, Jim Drennan , MD ’61, was in place the next morning to lead us to our Barton Hall graduation ceremony. Bobbie and Dick were quickly on their way to Jackson, MI, for Dick’s job with Mobil Oil. Dick’s entire career was with Mobil Oil and entailed move after move, 11 of them by our 25th Reunion.

With their three children born in ’59, ’61, and ’63, Bobbie became a Girl Scout leader, a library volunteer, a PTA leader, a Sunday School teacher, and involved with various newcomer groups, sports booster clubs, and many, many more. Her interest in library work led her to earn a master’s in library and information sciences in 1979 from the University of North Texas. Their last move was to Fairfax, VA, in 1989, where they remain. She continues to volunteer at public libraries in the Fairfax area and in Saranac Lake, NY, where they have a summer home. Their family has expanded to include nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. ❖ Connie Santagato Hosterman ( email Connie ) | Alumni Directory .

Albert Caines , the only vector control specialist and entomologist in Oswego County, NY, and the area, collected over one million mosquitos in his work. He lives in Phoenix, NY, and enjoys fishing, watching high school sports, Cornell football and lacrosse, two great-grandchildren, and dining out with his girlfriend.

Debbie Fanto Czegledy , who majored in fine arts, had a wonderful career at the United Nations, using her arts skills. Her role in the last 12 of her 20 years at the U.N. was as head of the department that informed people about the work of the agency that gave grants to women in developing countries, through booklets, exhibits, events, and speeches. She also traveled to European countries to fundraise and to developing countries to encourage project recipients. After she retired, she became a professional portrait artist. Now living in Plandome, NY, on Long Island, she still enjoys painting and participates in a French conversation group, many church activities, swimming, and entertaining in her garden with her many friends.

Dean Danzer worked as a chemical engineer for 38 years at Monsanto, then traveled all over the world after retiring. He suffers from amyloidosis and is confined to a wheelchair. He lives in St. Louis, MO, with his wife, Virginia, who graduated in 1961 from Washington University. She is still in good health and is able to drive. He enjoys reading, investing, church activities, and spending time with his family.

Gerald Freedman started out as a mechanical engineer but took multiple other courses, including one on how the body works with Prof. Singer in home economics, which changed his life. He then went to medical school and retired as a radiologist. He lives in Hillsboro Beach, FL, with his wife, Karen, who is a joy! His health is stable, but he has pain in multiple joints. He enjoys sculpting clay, watching TV, reading magazines, spending time with friends, and talking on his cell phone with his kids, who are doing great!

Albert Caines ’58 , the only vector control specialist and entomologist in Oswego County, NY, and the area, collected over one million mosquitos in his work.

Arthur Horowitz says Cornell provided him with the opportunity to learn, limited only by his lack of brain power! He practiced as an ob/gyn until 21 years ago, and since then has helped his wife in her fine art business. They live in Hopkins, MN, and travel a lot—2 million miles to 100+ destinations. Their three children graduated from Barnard, Cornell, and Wesleyan in the 1980s and have since provided them with seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Arthur’s greatest satisfaction is waking up in the morning!

Susan Swanson Hueber says Cornell pressed her “curiosity button”! She lives in Ridgecrest, CA, and is a widow, which means she has no more horses to care for. She finds satisfaction in getting up every morning, learning (by non-digital means), enjoying music and art, cooking for fun and friends, activities with her dog, and friends and family. She also volunteers at a small local natural history museum.

Almeda “A.C.” Church Riley says Cornell changed her life by providing two good marriages to Cornell graduates, Bill Dake ’57 (1959–84) and John Riley ’55 (1995–2021). In between, A.C. gave 10 years of public service to her community. She lives in Woodlawn Commons, an independent living community in Saratoga Springs, NY, and is on its residents’ association board. She is a member of the United Methodist Church and the League of Women Voters, regularly plays bridge and mahjongg, plans to play frequent golf this summer, and enjoys spending time with her children and their families.

Audrey Wildner Sears says Cornell changed the trajectory of her life when she met Ray ’57 , her spouse of 66 years, and set off on an adventure! She derives great satisfaction from still being active in her community in Grantham, NH. She enjoys volunteering at Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich, VT.

Cynthia Rau Sears is very excited because she recently became a great-grandmother to Nolan Michael! She and husband Raymond, who live in Wayne, NJ, find it hard to believe! ❖ Barbara Avery, MA ’59 ( email Barbara ) | Dick Haggard ( email Dick ) | Alumni Directory .

“ Oh, I want to go back to the old days … Hard to believe we are celebrating our 65th Reunion,” says Marty Lehman . “The event triggers a flood of memories—long bus/train rides from my home in Portsmouth, OH, to Ithaca, lifetime friendships with my brothers from Tau Delta Phi, late nights spent in the architectural drafting rooms ( Work like a jerk till your eyes ache like hell! ), the unforgettable Beaux Arts Ball on the top floor of White Hall, George Healy’s brilliant lectures in British lit, Kingston Trio for Spring Weekend, trudging through the snow on the Quad on Dragon Day, custodial residence at the Heller House on Eddy Street with my architecture classmate Bill Woods , early morning ‘bridge’ parties (milk punch for breakfast) overlooking Beebe Lake, graduation party in the ‘secret garden’ behind the Heller House … Always returning to my old Cornell .”

“Great Reunion!” says Carole Kenyon . Says Phyllis Corwin Rogers , “The best part of Reunion is the trip down memory lane.” Says Harry Petchesky , “Like most of our classmates, I came for the camaraderie and the programs offered by Cornell, all of which got high marks from their attendees.” Says Judy Brotman Cochran , “This was another of the Class of ’59s wonderful Reunions and why many of us keep coming back.” Particularly heartwarming were the rousing cheers given to retiring President Martha Pollack after her State of the University Address, and the performance by the Cornell Alumni Chorus and Glee Club at Cornelliana Night.

Memories of people, places, and events: “Climbing the stairs to Rockefeller Hall and sitting in the auditorium for a physics demonstration reminded me of Professor Herbert Newhall , PhD ’42 ’s introductory physics course in 1955; it was as invigorating now as it was then,” said Phil Yarnell . At our Saturday evening dinner, Corey Earle ’07 gave a fabulous talk contrasting Cornell in the late 1950s with the Cornell of today. Gerry Schultz followed Corey’s presentation with a slideshow featuring Hans Bethe, Phillip Morrison, Dexter Perkins, Michell Sienko ’43 , and other professors who inspired us during our days on the Hill. Svein Arber spoke eloquently about Clinton Rossiter ’39 and Milton Konvitz , PhD ’33 . Sadder remembrances were expressed at Anabel Taylor Hall on Friday morning, when Ron Demer , Bill Kingston , Ellie Applewhaite , and Bill Day read the names of 181 classmates who had passed away since our 2019 Reunion. Ron notes that our class began with 2,262 people, including those who earned degrees and those who did not; 720 have died, which is 32% of those who initially started.

Sixty-eight ’59ers were at Reunion, many accompanied by spouses and friends. Among us was Marsha Gratz Perry , attending her very first Reunion (hooray!). In contrast, Reuners such as Ellie Applewhaite and Harry Petchesky have attended every Reunion, beginning with our 5th back in 1964. One classmate unable to attend but still represented was George Ladas , whose charming book, The Amazing Adventures of Karnival Kat and Eight Musical Mice , was featured at the Cornell Store’s book signing on Saturday morning. Another attendee-in-spirit was Carl Leubsdorf , whose article about becoming a political columnist, “I Really Owe It All to The Sun,” appeared in the Reunion edition of the Cornell Daily Sun .

At least one of us was seen dancin’ to the beat at the evening tent parties. But let’s admit it: most of us had ‘retired’ by that hour. Jenny Tesar ’59

Some statistics: Our class was among those given special recognition at Cornelliana Night, for raising a record amount of money during a 65th Reunion year: $49,797,404. Over 8,000 people registered for Reunion, representing 47 states, the District of Columbia, and 23 countries. More than 450 events were on the schedule: tours, exhibits, lectures, workshops, open houses, receptions, and even canoeing on Beebe Lake. Two ’59ers shared a mid-afternoon snack of BBQ with electricians setting up events on the Arts Quad. And at least one of us was seen dancin’ to the beat at the evening tent parties. But let’s admit it: most of us had “retired” by that hour.

A new-for-’59ers event: Reunion kicked off on Thursday afternoon with the Spirit of ’31: Passing It Forward ceremony, during which the three oldest Reuning classes, celebrating their 75th, 70th, and 65th reunions, presented the Class of 2019, attending their first Reunion, with their official class banner. Events receiving ’59ers’ acclaim included a guided tour of the Mann Library exhibit “Introducing Vladimir Nabokov, Lepidopterist.” We all remember Nabokov’s teaching and his worldwide fame as a writer, but this exhibit illustrated his lifelong involvement (beginning at age 5!) with questions of butterfly evolution and diversity. FYI: The University’s Insect Collection has over seven million insect specimens, including hundreds of butterflies collected by Nabokov.

At the reception celebrating women in engineering—where it was noted that women now comprise nearly 50% of Cornell’s engineering students— Al Newhouse had a good discussion with a female manager from Shell Oil about the impact of EVs on our electric grid. Professor Ross Brann’s talk, “Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Racism Revisited,” received high marks from Stefanie Lipsit Tashkovich , MEd ’64 (“wonderful”) and Carole Parnes . Carole also commended the presenters at the annual Liberty Hyde Bailey Lecture, this year on synthetic biology and the transdisciplinary, team-based approach being used to solve complex medical, agricultural, and other problems.

The old, the new: All ’59ers and their guests received coupons for a two-dip ice cream cone or cup at the Dairy Bar (Itha-Kahlua Fudge—yum!). A bus full of classmates took a bus tour of the campus with the informative, witty tour guide pointing out new buildings, places being renovated and expanded, the relocation of the baseball field, etc. A stop at the Botanic Gardens (formerly Cornell Plantations) provided a brief respite from the day’s hustle and bustle. On another day, several of us were given a bird’s-eye view of the construction of Cornell Bowers CIS, named after the late Ann Schmeltz Bowers , the college’s primary donor. ❖ Jenny Tesar ( email Jenny ) | Alumni Directory .

Elaine Moody Pardoe has sadly reported from Columbia, MD, “My husband, David, died on March 28. We had a wonderful 62 years of marriage, which are giving me cherished memories to help me through this difficult time. I now live in a retirement community, where I have compatible fellow residents who have experienced the same heartbreak. Dave and I considered moving here one of the wisest decisions ever made. We have three children, who are my greatest source of comfort; we share undying love for their father.”

John Ramsey , who lives in Perry, IA, with his spouse, Lois Lee Huck, says, “I’m happily retired from my ichthyology career at the University of Puerto Rico, Auburn University, and Iowa State. My wife and I enjoy the amenities of our retirement community.”

Merrill Burr Hille reports from Seattle, WA, that she still enjoys hiking and the pleasures of her four grandchildren, who are ages 4–26. Cornell influenced her life, says Merrill. She enjoyed doing research in the Department of Chemistry, which got her to graduate school and eventually to her professorship in biology at the University of Washington; there she managed to publish significant cell biology manuscripts in 2002.

Raoul Andrews-Sudre sent word from Pompano Beach, FL, that he is “playing golf and cooking for my friends. I also give lectures on energy medicines and consult on spa design and management. I continue to travel the world and visit my daughter and grandchildren in Paris.”

Bradford Brown lives comfortably with his wife, Mable, in Johnston, RI. Asked what brings him the most satisfaction, Bradford says, “Our family, including my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I’ve been writing memoirs on topics like anti-racism.”

Meantime, Donald Dewey , BA ’65, is still in New Rochelle, NY, where he says he is comfortable with his wife, Sandy. “I also find satisfaction watching the Boston Celtics and not working.” Queried on whether Cornell changed the trajectory of his life, Don drolly says, “I think so; my daughter Elizabeth Dewey Efe ’98 , MBA ’06, also attended Cornell.” Send your news to ❖ Judy Bryant Wittenberg ( email Judy ) | Alumni Directory .

Read the news from your classmates here! Dorcas McDonald founded and is the executive director of the Learning for Living Institute in Boulder, CO. She appreciates Cornell for getting her started to find what she wanted to do.

Longtime tennis photographer Ed Goldman is a new member of the Eastern Tennis Hall of Fame. He has photographed the U.S. Open since 1976. Congratulations, Ed!

Stan Marks is still working and judging in Arizona. A nice Q&A article with his photo appeared in the Town of Paradise Valley Independent , describing his volunteer work for the Paradise Valley, AZ, court.

From Yonkers, NY, Marco Minasso has one grandchild at Cornell. Of his days on the Hill, he recalls, “I felt a part of a large family discovering new ideas every day.”

Mike Polansky writes, “Since retirement doesn’t really work for me, I started a new career as a reporter for a string of local newspapers, Massapequa Post and others, where I cover local board and chamber meetings with matters relating to Massapequa, NY.”

David Marks , MS ’64, is “living in the country with deer and turkeys in the backyard. A big change from Cambridge, MA, but we enjoyed both. After 43 years at MIT as a professor of civil engineering, we are taking it easy in the country. My daughter and granddaughters went to Cornell. Cornell took me as a small-town rural kid and showed me the world.”

Joel Blatt writes, “I’m still teaching European history at the Stamford campus of the University of Connecticut. I was inspired to teach history by Edward Fox and Walter LaFeber.”

I was inspired to teach history by Edward Fox and Walter LaFeber. Joel Blatt ’61

From James Belden , DVM ’64, in Florida: “After 31 years practicing equine sports medicine on the racetrack and another 28 years with sport horses, we have semi-retired to a new farm in Williston, FL. Our focus presently is special-case equine rehabilitation, and we are enjoying the peaceful lifestyle being away from mainstream competition. We continue to show reining horses but only on a regional basis. The new farm affords us more opportunity to visit the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The tempo of life in North Florida is relaxed compared to South Florida.”

In sad news, Alan Schmitt ’s son wrote that his father died in December 2023 at age 83, and Stephen Wilson ’s son informed us of Stephen’s death and indicated that he wishes to continue carrying on his father’s Cornell support.

Before his death in March, classmate Gary Busch sent in a lengthy news form. He wrote, “I have closed our two African cargo lines and ended the charter of our planes. I have closed my shipping line and sold the last two vessels. I have sold my house in London and down-sized twice to a small apartment. I sold my house in Venice, Italy, and closed my shared apartment in Vanino, Russia. I still have my country house in Somerset. I have largely stopped traveling on a regular basis and sold my car. I continue my daily news blog and my occasional political consulting. All in all, I am leading a normal life after all these years, now surrounded by children and grandchildren. I look forward to a less exciting schedule and hope to settle into a more placid period of gradual decline.” These classmates will be missed. ❖ Susan Williams Stevens ( email Susan ) | Doug Fuss ( email Doug ) | Alumni Directory .

Cornellians is thrilled to share news from Anne Kaczmarczyk Evans , who graduated from the Nursing School in NYC in 1962. (Though the school has been closed for 45 years, Cornell formerly combined three years of education, hospital training, and hands-on experience at NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medicine—as the institutions are now known—on top of two years of prior academic study, granting a bachelor’s degree in nursing.)

These days, Anne spends her time dancing, sitting on the beach enjoying the sun and water, attending church services, and volunteering at the local historical office and local Medicare office. She writes, “I spent a delightful lunch in NYC with two classmates in March at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.” When asked if attending Cornell changed the trajectory of her life, Anne said, “I earned a professional degree, which lead to a lifetime of work.”

Thanks for writing, Anne! Cornellians is always happy to receive news from Nursing school alumni and celebrate their distinct Big Red experience. They’re welcome to fill out an online news form or write directly to Alexandra Bond ( email Alex ).

Here’s the news that’s come over the transom since our last column. If you’ve missed this one, you can atone by sending news for the next one.

From Ewing, NJ, Patricia Carlin White , MEd ’63, writes that now that she has retired from teaching high school home economics (“culinary arts”), she is keeping busy as a textile artist making handwoven clothing and with traveling—most recently to Japan and to Lisbon a few times a year to visit her son and his family.

After 30 years working with Penn State student counselors, Betty Lefkowitz Moore is enjoying retirement by being with friends, volunteering at the library, providing medical assistance for those without funding, serving as director of the Jewish Community Center, and being a great-grandmom.

Linda Zucchelli Martinelli of Rexford, NY, proudly reports that her two grandsons at Cornell are both on the Dean’s List!

Beverley Mochel Wilson lives in Lawrence, KS, where she volunteers four days a week recording and live broadcasting for sight-impaired individuals. “We are the second largest service in the country with 250 volunteers and 1,000 listeners!”

Author Jack Foley lives in Oakland, CA, where he is a prolific writer, poet, and critic. Since 1988, he has presented poetry on the Berkeley, CA, radio station KPFA. In 2021, Academica Press published The Light of Evening: A Brief Life of Jack Foley , and the companion volume, A Backward Glance O’er Travel’d Roads . Last year’s output included Creative Death (Igneus Press), Bridget (Stoneybrook Editions), and, coming up, Ekphrazz (Igneus Press) and Collisions (Academica Press).

Bob Simpson , a retired automotive engineer for the Chrysler Corporation now living in Fenton, MI, keeps himself busy completing projects and/or repairing or fixing things. David Harrald writes that he is enjoying retirement in Sun Lakes, AZ.

From Veneta, OR, John Abele sends word that these days, in addition to enjoying the company of his family, he gets the most satisfaction from watching Fox programs and “supporting the Conservatives.” Liz Belsky Stiel writes that she and husband Lester ’60 are settled in La Jolla, CA, where they “plan to continue to age in place.”

From La Conversion, Switzerland, Jacqueline Browne Bugnion ’62 writes that in retirement she has been financing an agricultural school.

Originally from St. Paul, MN, Jean Kitts Cadwallader serves on several boards in Homer, NY, where she set up home after graduation with her late husband, William , DVM ’62 , a Cornell veterinarian, and raised her family, which now includes 10 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and two more “in the oven.”

From La Conversion, Switzerland, where she has lived for almost six decades, Jacqueline Browne Bugnion writes that in retirement she has been financing an agricultural school that is linked to the “Great Green Wall,” a major reforestation project in Burkina Faso whose purpose is to promote peace, restore 100 million hectares of land, sequester 250 million tons of carbon, and create 10 million jobs. The project is providing food and water security, habitats for wild plants and animals, and a reason for residents to stay in a region beset by drought and poverty.

After 30 years of part-time teaching as an anatomy and physiology instructor at Frederick Community College, Betty Kopsco Bennett , now retired in Middletown, MD, keeps busy with family, church, and volunteer work.

In retirement, Ray Hutch , a Penfield, NY, resident, serves on several boards including the YMCA, Rochester Area Community Foundation, Lollypop Farm (Humane Society), United Way, and Synergy IT Solutions, the company he founded.

Abbie Jobe ’26 , a CALS agricultural engineering major, is the Class of 1962 Rhodes Tradition Fellow (2022–24). Abbie reports that, thanks to this award, she was able to take advantage of some great experiences this past school year. She was selected to join the SMART (Student Multidisciplinary Applied Research Teams) Program on the E&E Green Farms at Cornell with which she was able to travel to Rwanda in January to help a female seed processor and distributor build a website from HTML. This past summer she traveled to the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), where she spent five weeks as a project manager for Cornell Engineers in Action, helping her team of six engineers build a water distribution system for the Matutini primary school.

Want to know what’s happening at Cornell every day? Read the Cornell Daily Sun online via this link . You can also sign up on the site for a free daily newsletter.

Check out our class website for timelier information. Please send along news and updates (photos, too, which we can display on our class website) about what’s happening with you and your family. Send your entries to: ❖ Judy Prenske Rich ( email Judy ) | Alumni Directory .

The exciting news from the Class of 1963 is that our president, Paula Trested Laholt , was honored with the William “Bill” Vanneman ’31 Outstanding Class Leader Award. From the announcement: “This prestigious award is given to class officers who have provided long-term exemplary service to their class, in honor of Bill’s 75 years of superlative service. Paula has been indispensable to her Class of 1963 for decades, first volunteering for her 25th Reunion. She is the current class president and a member of the class council. Paula was recognized during Reunion on Saturday, June 8, as part of Cornelliana Night in Bailey Hall.” Lauren Coffey, director of Class Programs wrote: “Having worked closely with Paula, I can say that she is so deserving of this award and embodies the spirit of Bill Vanneman ’31 . I’m so thrilled for Paula, as I’m sure you will all be as well!” Our class is very proud of Paula and grateful to her for always saying yes and jumping in to help out when necessary through the years. Congratulations, Paula!

A fun story in Cornellians in June was about physical education memories, and a comment from classmate Nancy Cooke McAfee was highlighted: “I almost didn’t graduate because I could not pass golf. I was inept—the teacher finally said, ‘OK, I will pass you, but please, don’t ever come back!’ P.S.: I never picked up another golf club!” Check out the story and add your own memories to the comment section!

Whin , ME ’68, and Joan Melville still live in Pittsford, NY. Whin writes: “I am busy volunteering for my fraternity and church and traveling. We have 11 grandkids from the ages of 23 months to 21 years. Cornell gave me good analytical skills and good background from Milton Konvitz , PhD ’33 . He taught development of American ideals, good economics, and business law—all so valuable in my career.”

David and Trisha Sheaff are enjoying family, traveling, and volunteering when they can. They are enjoying life in Harpswell, ME. When asked if Cornell changed the trajectory of his life, David said: “Absolutely! My years at Cornell opened many doors and friendships.”

Judy Branton Wilkins writes from Penn Valley, CA, “My husband, Paul, passed away in June 2022. My son Brian got married for the first time at 48 to Kristina (from Lithuania), who had two boys, and they now have a daughter. I keep busy with book clubs, genealogy, and mahjongg.” Did attending Cornell change the trajectory of her life? “Yes. I entered as a music major and left with a double major in music and economics. I thought I would forever be a piano teacher, but I was an economist with HUD and a production coordinator of housing. Then, with the birth of our first child, I became a piano teacher including advanced pupils. I feel in both areas I have made a contribution. More importantly, Cornell gave me an inquisitive mind and a lifelong love of learning.”

Our president, Paula Trested Laholt ’63 , was honored with the William ‘Bill’ Vanneman ’31 Outstanding Class Leader Award.

John Herslow writes that he and his wife, Janis, are “enjoying family and owning new property in Springtown, PA. Gardening and taking winter cruises keeps us busy.” He admits that Cornell taught him to learn to compete.

Sandra Hackman Barkan is “busy with her children and two grandsons, travel, grassroots political activity, and reading. My husband, Joel Barkan , passed away in 2014. I met him the first week of freshman year; we got married just before the beginning of our senior year. He was supported by faculty to become an Africanist (he was a political scientist). I graduated with a degree in French and ended up an Africanist with a PhD in comparative literature. That and African literature were key to my research and teaching.”

Bob and Shoshana Agnew are living in Palm Coast, FL. “I retired last year after a business analytics career, continuing applied math research. Family, including a new granddaughter, brings us satisfaction as does exercise, reading, and Internet communication. We are concerned about events in the Middle East. Shoshana’s whole family lives in Israel. Although mechanical engineering was fairly dull (and lengthy at five years), Cornell launched me into Air Force ROTC, grad school, and a satisfying career.”

Bob Ulrich enjoys seeing his twin grandchildren, Tyler Sprague ’27 and Lili Sprague ’27 , who both finished their freshman year at Cornell—Tyler in engineering and Lili in Human Ecology. Their parents, Mark and Corey Ulrich Sprague , are Class of ’93 .

Marion Travalini Rodd is in Ventura, CA. “I am enjoying children, family, and friends and my grandnephew and great-grandnephew. I am working hard to stay healthy and playing flute in the Ventura County Concert Band. I have three grandchildren in or entering college: Cameron, University of Michigan ’25; Camille, Haverford College ’27; and Ethan, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, ’28. Cornell opened up a whole world of friendships and opportunities for me.”

Mark and Carolyn Press Landis ’65 welcomed their first great-grandchild in 2023. Taylor Landis-Miller ’14 and Brad Wagner ’14 are the parents, and they live in Berkeley, CA. That’s all for now. Please send news! ❖ Nancy Bierds Icke ( email Nancy ) | 12350 E. Roger Rd., Tucson, AZ 85749 | Alumni Directory .

I’ve a different approach to this month’s column: instead of classmates’ recollections, I’m passing along Susan Mair Holden ’s detailed account of our 60th Reunion, beginning with the very next paragraph.

This note is for all whom we missed at Reunion. We understand that a 60th in Ithaca is not easy for most of us; the phrase “Well, I’m here” was heard several times in answer to “How are you doing?”

The phrase “A grand time was had by all” is an appropriate description of our delightful four days and three nights on the Hill, June 6–9. Our Reunion was beautifully planned and executed by Carolyn Stewart Whitman . There were enough class activities for us to enjoy being together, and just enough free time to take advantage of the lectures, open houses, and experiences that Cornell planned for anyone who cared to attend.

Thursday afternoon was registration and check-in at one of Cornell’s new dorms: Barbara McClintock Hall, located east of Balch and Clara Dickson. McClintock is adjacent to the North Campus Appel Commons, where our Thursday evening cold buffet dinner was held. Following dinner, there was an ice cream social back at headquarters, where a selection of Cornell Dairy’s famous ice creams were enjoyed by all.

The continental breakfasts on Friday and Saturday and the brunch on Sunday that preceded our class meeting engendered many compliments for Cornell catering. They served a lovely dinner at Duffield Hall on Friday evening, which was our first sit-down dinner with nearly all our 118 attendees. Many of us attended the traditional Chorus and Glee Club concert that night in Bailey Hall.

This year, we reached the magic Reunion plateau for us to have our banquet in the Statler Hotel Ballroom on Saturday night. Again, it was a terrific meal with great spirit and nostalgia as the Sherwoods sang, joked, and serenaded Cynthia Wolloch , the outgoing chairman of our JFK Memorial Award.

Cindy organized a very special event for our class: the JFK Award Forum, which many university administrators and deans attended to congratulate and hear from this year’s award winner, Sarah McMorrow ’24 . They also got to learn more about the work done by our officers to ensure the award continues in perpetuity.

It was a passing of the mantle for Katie Dealy ’00 , our JFK Award winner in 2000. As she accepted the first chairmanship of the newly organized JFK alumni board, she said that the award “changed my life.” She explained movingly that the award allowed her to accept and live on a public policy salary, which directly led to her career in public service.

Ken Kupchak ’64 , JD ’71, gave many class officers beautifully carved cheese boards handmade from a koaia tree that had to be removed from their yard.

Two of our classmates who have been application readers for years, Judie Pink Gorra and Stan Morgenstein , will also sit on this board. Cindy and Ken Kupchak , JD ’71, worked tirelessly with the University to ensure our award is legally protected and will continue to be funded and awarded each year.

The JFK Forum featured four conversations, each between one classmate and one award-winning alum. Eileen Corwin Mason , Mike Smith , PhD ’73, Bill Lacy , and Stan Morgenstein, all of whom have pursued careers in public service, spoke with four of our award-winning alumni.

An event just for our class, planned by Carolyn, was a movie, exhibit, and guided tour of Cornell’s collection of Blaschka Invertebrate Models, which are gorgeous crystal works of art that are such accurate models of invertebrates, they are used for research.

Notable events the University hosted were the yearly Olin Lecture, especially enjoyed by CNBC viewers, with Andrew Ross Sorkin ’99 ; and Cornelliana Night on Saturday, which was a wonderfully spirited evening—but this year especially for ’64s. Ours was the only class recognized for our class project and gift to the University! There was a beautiful collage of photos from the day’s JFK Forum, highlighted on the jumbotron by the University, while the Alumni Affairs speaker/cheerleader shared the story of our award with the assembled classes. Such pride we felt, and gratitude to Cindy and Ken!

Back at class headquarters on Sunday morning, for brunch and our class meeting, we were able to check on the progress of the huge jigsaw puzzle that Bob , PhD ’69, and Alice Dannett Friedenson , MA ’71, created for our Reunion. Over the years, Bob has taken countless photos of our Reunions; Alice was able to assemble them into a wonderful collage from which she produced a huge puzzle. Thank you to both of them.

Our class meeting included our election of officers. Congratulations to Elliot Gordon , our new class president! Having worked closely with him for four years, I heartily approve his election. There is no more patient, talented, and pleasant man on Earth.

We’re delighted that Carolyn and her 60th Reunion committee member, Linda Cohen Meltzer , will be our 65th Reunion co-chairs. This will be the third Reunion that each of them will have chaired … so far! They work seamlessly together, as this Reunion surely showed. Ken announced that the other officers will remain the same, including our outstanding Cornell Fund representatives, Phyllis Rivkin Goldman , MS ’67, and Michael Troner , who did a stellar job garnering Tower Club members for our class.

Ken said farewell as our president, giving many of his key officers beautifully carved cheese boards handmade from a koaia tree that had to be removed from their yard; he carried these boards all the way from Hawaii. And we also had a representative from the other non-contiguous state, Alaska: Mike “Tree” Smith with his wife, Linda (Dryer) , MPS ’04 . Also from afar: Rodrigo Ong , MS ’64 , came from the Philippines with his grandson. It truly was a memorable event. Do try to make our 65th!

That’s all for Reunion news. As for your news, just please keep it coming! Update me by email, regular mail, our class website , or our class Facebook page . ❖ Bev Johns Lamont ( email Bev ) | 720 Chestnut St., Deerfield, IL 60015 | Alumni Directory .

There is one more year until our wonderful 60th Reunion happens, June 5–8, 2025, in Ithaca. It promises to be a terrific event! Our classmates Myron Jacobson , Liz Gordon , Bill Vanneman , and Chuck Andola shadowed the Class of ’64 Reunion to see what works and doesn’t work for our own Reunion. Myron states they found a new dinner venue, and the University now offers guided bus tours throughout the weekend. Good news!

Liz commented, “Chuck and I spent some time meeting with Skorton Center director Julie Edwards, who is spearheading the extremely effective resilience coaching for students, which is the basis for our 60th Reunion gift to the University.”

Jeff Kass , our gift committee chairman, further describes the gift: “Our Class of 1965 Student Well-Being Fund Legacy Gift supports the work of the Skorton Center, which is the University’s health center. Our Legacy Gift has helped finance a two-semester pilot program to provide coaching from specially trained Cornell staff that provides emotional well-being support for students facing stress. The pilot has yielded significant outcomes for participants and garnered positive feedback. Cornell is adding more coaches in anticipation of increased demand for the fall 2024 semester. Jamil Sopher , ME ’66, our class president, will soon share further information on progress and plans for the Legacy Gift and Student Well-Being coaching program.”

Loren Meyer Stephens writes that her latest novel, All Sorrows Can Be Borne , is the story of Noriko Ito, a Japanese woman faced with unimaginable circumstances, and is set in Hiroshima, Osaka, and the Badlands of eastern Montana. The story spans the start of WWII to 1982.

The Cornell Club of Boston sponsored an enjoyable June walk through the Mount Auburn Cemetery and lecture by Christopher Dunn, director of Cornell’s Botanic Gardens. Mount Auburn is the first garden cemetery in the U.S. and is notable for the many prominent Bostonians who are buried there. It is a joy to walk peacefully throughout paths of the extraordinary landscape featuring ponds and sculptural elements.

Put the dates of June 5–8, 2025, on your calendar! See you there! Please send your news to: ❖ Joan Hens Johnson ( email Joan ) | Stephen Appell ( email Stephen ) | Alumni Directory .

Hope your summer went well! Ralph Schwartz writes from St. Paul, MN, that he taught chemistry for 38 years and retired 16 years ago. He now enjoys fly fishing, bird watching, and travel. He became a cross-country skier and raced in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Italy. Training was a year-round event. He admits he was a total couch potato at Cornell! Ralph and his wife enjoy river cruising and have several more trips scheduled. Their children and grandchildren live in the Twin Cities area.

Jeff Collins continues to enjoy retirement as well as life in the Forest at Duke, a continuing care retirement community. He is heavily involved in social justice areas, particularly voting rights and reproductive rights. Retirement has allowed Jeff and wife Rose Mills to enjoy their love of travel. In 2023 they went to the Crested Butte, CO, Wildflower Festival, and visited friends in Santa Barbara, CA. Then they went to the U.K. Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), the Isles of Scilly, and South West England (Cornwall, Devon, Dorset). The 2024–25 trips planned are to Morocco, to Italy, and a cruise on the Magdalena River in Colombia. They continue to enjoy the many cultural activities offered in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina, including theater, music, film, and fine dining.

Marcia Tondel Davis has lived in England for over 50 years. She currently lives in Brill, Buckinghamshire, a village with many opportunities for music, art, sport, volunteering, and walks in the countryside with her dog. She has taken courses at Oxford, including philosophy and art. She enjoys visiting the southwest coast of England and has traveled to Seville, Iceland, Ibiza (where one daughter and two grandchildren live), and Lake Garda, Italy. Her other daughter, son-in-law, and one grandchild live near her in Brill.

Barbara Ann Lawrence recently moved to a new senior retirement complex in Fort Lauderdale, FL, having sold her townhome located next to the largest park in Broward County. She has attended a Finger Lakes wine-tasting event and went to a polo event in Wellington, FL. In 1993, Barbara went to New Zealand for a month with a friend from there. This gave the trip an interesting perspective. She never thought in ’66 that she would learn to paint or draw, make sculpture, or do strength training. Barbara would like to meet Cornellians from the mid-’60s classes who live in Southeast Florida.

Marcia Tondel Davis ’66 lives in Brill, Buckinghamshire, a village with many opportunities for music, art, sport, volunteering, and walks in the countryside with her dog.

Kathleen Earle Fox writes from Tenants Harbor, ME, that she is currently working as an artist in watercolors. In July she had a show at the Granite Gallery in Tenants Harbor. She also sings in a Congregational Church choir. A few years ago, she learned to play the fiddle and now plays regularly. She never imagined in ’66 that she would be combining her art with artificial intelligence to produce exciting new art! Her husband, Stan, and their children Seann Colgan ’91 , Thomas Fabisiak ’03 , and Susie Fox and their partners attended a Formula One race in Montreal this past June.

Jeff Konvitz writes from Beverly Hills, CA, that he keeps busy in several ways. He is practicing entertainment finance and trial law, producing motion pictures, and writing. His new historical novel, The Circus of Satan , will be out this fall. Writing best-selling novels is something he never imagined in ’66. Among his favorite travels were his 25th wedding anniversary in Palm Beach, FL, and a World Series of Poker tournament in Las Vegas. Jeff’s youngest daughter graduated from Arts and Sciences magna cum laude in economics this past May.

Ronni Barrett Lacroute continues to live in McMinnville, OR, where she is involved in full-time philanthropy. Her activities include educational programs and nonprofits, supporting programs and operations. She participates in strategic planning and programming. Her Cornell programs include the Johnson Museum, the Lab of Ornithology, Cornell Wind Symphony tours, and the College of Arts and Sciences. Ronnie enjoys gardening, bird watching, and poetry reading. In ’66 she never imagined living in Oregon. She has not traveled since the beginning of the pandemic, which resulted in health issues for her and her daughter. She does visit her daughter and grandson weekly, as they live nearby.

Bonnie Lazarus Wallace was an elementary school teacher for 44 years; 30 of them teaching fourth grade and 14 as a substitute teacher. She now interviews students from her hometown of Cheshire, CT, who have applied to Cornell. Bonnie goes to the gym every morning and takes walks when the weather is nice. Her husband travels the world teaching dentists to do implants. Her daughter lives on Martha’s Vineyard, MA, and her son in Santa Barbara, CA. Bonnie and her husband travel to see family, including six grandchildren.

Now, a fall 2024 note from Mary Jansen Everett and Alice Katz Berglas : “A new Cornell year is in full swing, and freshmen are figuring it out. Dorms, quads, Collegetown, downtown Ithaca. Where to eat, where to study, where to party, when to sleep. Life on the Hill moves quickly, changes constantly (like the weather). Constant is the learning: stumbles and successes, friendships made, knowledge gained (all sorts), finding a way to make Cornell one’s own. And collecting the memories that stick. It is a new Cornell Class of 1966 year, too. All sorts of new possibilities for Cornellians of every age and stage. Stay connected with us! We will do the same along this 2024–25 year and on. Our best to each/all. For your calendar: Cornell 60th Reunion! June 4–7, 2026 (more memories that will stick!).” ❖ Susan Rockford Bittker ( email Susan ) | Pete Salinger , MBA ’68 ( email Pete ) | Alumni Directory .

How did Cornell change the trajectory of your life? This was a question on this year’s news form; we’re starting each classmate’s report with their answer.

“My tenure as sorority treasurer and house president gave me the leadership opportunities that led to my owning my own business,” writes Pauline “Polly” Watkins Runkle (Ft. Lauderdale, FL). Now, she enjoys “art class and painting, living on the ocean, travel, summers in Stonington, ME, church friendships, community, walking in our state parks, watching for birds, and the love of friends and family.” She adds that she’s active in the art community in South Florida and Cape Ann, MA, and loves going to concerts.

“Attending made my life wider, better, fuller. Thank you, Cornell! And both our kids went to Cornell, too,” observes Joanne Edelson Honigman (Brooklyn, NY). Joanne likes “making art, helping my husband with his institute, and being with my five grandchildren.”

“Cornell gave me confidence in my developing career, friends and contacts, and the opportunity to work on a NASA grant to design an unmanned Lunar Roving Vehicle,” observes Robert Pitkin , ME ’68 (Buda, TX). He’s now retired and spends time with “Kingdom Racing, church service, and a men’s group.” He enjoys “friends, golf, retirement, and sharing life with my wife of 54 years.”

Cliff Straehley , located in Fair Oaks, a suburb of Sacramento, CA, says Cornell changed his life trajectory “very much. Found lifelong friends. Continued my love of wrestling. I’ve never forgotten ‘freedom with responsibility.’ Furthered my path to my MD and my career.”

“At Cornell, I learned the importance of study, of balancing study and play, of diversity and difference, and of standing on my own feet. Cornell engendered a love of learning that I continue to enjoy,” answers Judith Edelstein Kelman (New York, NY). “Sixteen years ago, I founded Visible Ink, a writing program at Memorial Sloan Kettering that offers interested patients the opportunity to write on any topic in any form with the individual support of a volunteer writing mentor,” Judith writes. “Over 3,000 participants have joined. The program is free of charge to patients, supported by grants and donations. I feel privileged to be part of an extraordinary community. We have three grandkids on the cusp of high school graduation and two entering their senior year of college (one at Cornell),” she adds. “We’ve taken each of the nine grandkids on a special trip. Since we live in NYC, we get to host many of them and their friends in our home.”

Cornell gave me the opportunity to work on a NASA grant to design an unmanned Lunar Roving Vehicle. Robert Pitkin ’67, ME ’68

“Cornell opened my mind to new ideas and ways of looking at various issues (political, social, environmental, economic); I try to see all sides of an issue, even when it’s hard to do,” responds Ted Feldmeier , BS ’71 (Eliot, ME). “I’m just working at staying healthy, as I have been doing for a long time, enjoying nature, going dancing and partying with friends on Saturday night, giving and helping select charitable causes, and my wonderful wife, Joan. Life is good!” He adds that he’s “been participating in local Democratic politics involving the upcoming November ’24 presidential election.”

John Alden (East Providence, RI) is treasurer of his homeowners association and has “several consulting gigs for private secondary schools on finance and administration.”

Tom Moore , ME ’68 (Gig Harbor, WA, and Portland, OR) writes: “After 20 years in our retirement home we built on the coast of Maine, we have relocated to the Pacific Northwest. Our new second home is in Gig Harbor, WA, with water access and views that are just as great as in Maine. We still split our time between here and Portland, OR. Our two oldest grandkids (grade 11) are looking at colleges. I took them both back to Ithaca last summer for a good Cornell immersion experience. Will see if it takes. Both of my own kids turned down their Cornell acceptances for other colleges.”

William Wohlsen (Philadelphia, PA) says that “foreign language study—German, French, Dutch—and bicycle riding” bring him the most satisfaction these days.

This was not a ’67 Reunion year, but at least six of us returned to Cornell this June. I was there with my wife, Eileen Barkas Hoffman ’69 , at her class’s 55th. As is typical of our experience attending her Reunions, it only rained twice and we were inside both times.

Although we received a number of news forms recently, please do write to let the class know what you’re doing and your thoughts about your time at Cornell. ❖ Richard Hoffman ( email Richard ) | 2925 28th St. NW, Washington, DC 20008 | Alumni Directory .

More news to share with our classmates, as the summer starts to come to an end! We need more news and updates from you, so please let us know where you are and what you are doing—or share your reflections on your years at Cornell with our classmates!

Steven Steinhardt reports that he lives in Albany, NY, and when in Florida this past winter he visited with his AEP fraternity brother Art Bernstein . He is of counsel to the Albany law firm Nolan Heller Kauffman LLP, where he has practiced primarily in the field of healthcare regulation. Earlier in his career he was an attorney with the New York State Department of Health and served as associate general counsel.

David Weisbrod and his wife, Margaret Simon ’66 , an architect and artist, continue to live in Greenwich, CT, where David, after a career at JP Morgan Chase and then as the CEO of a financial derivatives clearinghouse, is an elected member of the town’s Board of Estimate and Taxation. He is currently serving his fourth consecutive term. My wife, Sharon Lawner Weinberg , PhD ’71, and I, along with Cheryl Katz Kaufmann and her husband, Nick ’67 , recently had dinner with David and Margaret. David credits Cornell with broadening his outlook on life and expanding his horizons.

Mary Hartman Schmidt and her husband, William, continue to live in Massachusetts and enjoy spending time with their family, including their five grandchildren, all of whom live in Massachusetts. Summers include family time at their vacation home on Martha’s Vineyard. Mary continues to practice trusts and estates and matrimonial law in Boston. Mary writes that her years at Cornell opened possibilities for her for friendships and her legal career.

Ithaca remains on our radar, now that our oldest granddaughter rows for Ithaca College. Candi Dabi Vene ’68 & Bruce O’Pray ’68

Candi Dabi Vene and her husband, Bruce O’Pray , continue to live in Park Ridge, NJ, and write that their grandkids bring them the most satisfaction these days, followed by community involvement and, for Candi, cooking! “Our blended family of four adult children have blessed us with 10 grandchildren who range in age from 19 to 5-year-old twin boys. Bruce continues to work full time consulting with small businesses. He finds it very satisfying to watch them prosper under his tutelage. Candi handles a small amount of real estate, is active in community affairs, and enjoys spending as much time as possible with nearby grandchildren.”

Candi and Bruce add, “Our connections to Cornell have stayed very much alive. One son graduated from Cornell in 1997. We have remained close friends with Candi’s Pi Phi sister, Tove Helland Hammer ’69 , and her husband, Dave , PhD ’69 . Tove recently retired from teaching in the ILR School after a wonderful 40-year career, while Dave continues to do research and teach in the College of Engineering. Ithaca remains on our radar, now that our oldest granddaughter rows for Ithaca College. Our ‘Ithaca Connection’ is filled with special memories spanning decades! We have attended a few northern New Jersey alumni events, which were fun. We’re still hoping to meet some classmates we know at these events!” They write that Cornell enriched both of their lives and was a big factor in forming their identities. “It encouraged independence and our ability to problem solve and to be curious and always interested in learning.”

I look forward to receiving more news and updates from all of you! Please email me about you and your family with news you want to share with our classmates. ❖ Steve Weinberg, MBA ’70, JD ’71 ( email Steve ) | Alumni Directory .

Greetings, Class of ’69! This column was written in June by guest columnist Alan Cody .

121 classmates attended our 55th Reunion, and Robert Tallo , one of our class co-presidents during the past five years, writes: “The Class of ’69 was treated to Ithaca weather at our Reunion, June 6–9. Cloudy, then rain, then sunshine, then windy, etc. A reminder of our days on the Hill! Fortunately, the weather cooperated with regard to events, with minimal inconveniences and a great finale Saturday evening on the terrace of Martha Van.

“After a great five years of Greg Baum ’s leadership during ‘interesting’ times, Cindy Nixon DuBose and Sally Knowlton put together a fantastic program of events. We enjoyed an impressive presentation on ‘Cornell, the First American University’ by Corey Earle ’07 , Friday night entertainment by class musicians, tasty food at the HQ and Morrison Dining Hall (quite a step up from the Barf Bar), numerous campus-wide events, the Sherwoods, delicious meals, and plenty of ice cream and great conversations with old and new friends.

“A shout-out also goes to the student clerks, Omani, Emma, John, Dennis, and Yuri! From walking out in the pouring rain to place directional signs to HQ to managing to connect the big-screen TV in the multipurpose room for the first game of the NBA finals, they were fantastic from start to finish.

“It’s going to be hard, but I fully expect that Sally and Cindy will top this year’s performance at our 60th in 2029. Make sure to put it on your calendar to experience a great weekend and reunite with the Class of ’69. Go Big Red!”

Greg Baum, one of our class co-presidents during the past five years writes: “Serving the past five years as co-president was personally very rewarding. It offered me an opportunity to get to know a large number of classmates that I would not have otherwise encountered. Arranging for the periodic leadership group Zoom calls was sometimes challenging, but the speakers taught us so much about a variety of topics. We learned about the University’s legal department, its libraries, the vastness of its facilities, and the new Brooks School of Public Policy. Classmates shared their career expertise on COVID and other infectious diseases, vaccine development and implementation, ornithology, battery technology, the world’s energy supply, mystery writing, a female franchising pioneer, opera lighting, and U.S. foreign policy challenges with China and Russia. The Class of 1969 includes so many truly remarkable individuals, and I am very grateful to have been able to be a part of showcasing them.”

Sally Knowlton writes, “The Heights (our Reunion caterer) was secured last fall and finalized in January. Shadowing the Class of 1968 certainly helped put us in a position to secure the best food purveyors. By being involved and attending Reunion, Cindy and I feel grateful to have met so many interesting and great people we never knew before!”

Jon Kaplan , MD ’74, class affinity group networking coordinator, writes that he had a great time recruiting and communicating with affinity group leaders (representing Greek organizations, sports teams, residence units, etc.) in preparation for Reunion. “These ‘AGLs’ (30 of them) volunteered to reach out to classmates in their affinity groups to encourage them to come to Reunion. Based on word-of-mouth and the turnout at Reunion, the effort was a success!”

Special thanks to our Reunion campaign chair, Lee Pillsbury . Under his leadership, our class raised $24,852,986 (a class best!) from 532 donors on our honor roll, including 32 Tower Club members and 82 Cornell Giving partners. Lee writes to all who contributed, “Thank you for all that you do. I am so proud to be a part of the great Class of 1969.”

And none of this would have been possible without our dedicated Reunion registration chairs, Larry and Nancy Jenkins Krablin , who write: “Krablins have played cooperative and interacting roles. When Nancy chaired our 20th in 1989 (the rugby shirts with the origin of the intertwined 6/9 class logo created by Ken Lin ’70 , a colleague of Larry’s at Burroughs), all registrations were on paper, Larry created a primitive electronic form to collate data, and payment was by paper check to Cornell Class of 1969, for which he opened a unique bank account. For the seven Reunions that followed, the process has evolved with technology! The highlight of the month of June (and the several weeks before) was our 55th Reunion. As Reunion co-registrars, we get to interact with everyone who comes, and with many who are thinking about it but ultimately can’t travel to Ithaca. Reunion itself was a lot of fun and very well planned by our outstanding Reunion chairs Cindy Nixon DuBose and Sally Knowlton. As always, we came away with new friends and a heightened appreciation of what Cornell is and does.”

Walking through my old dorms and classrooms [during Reunion weekend] kindled poignant memories. Phyllis Levine Evan ’69

Thanks also to Kate Freyer, our class engagement officer who always guides us to a great Reunion.

At our class meeting on Saturday night during Reunion weekend, we elected new class officers for the next five years. Congratulations to the new officers, with thanks for their enthusiasm in stepping up to lead our class. The new officer slate is: co-presidents Adam Sieminski , MPA ’71, Bill Bruno , ME ’71, and Steve LaRocca ; secretary and treasurer Stephen and Ingrid Dieterle Tyler ; membership chair Robert Tallo; Reunion co-chairs Cindy DuBose and Sally Knowlton; registration chairs, Nancy and Larry Krablin; affinity group chair Jon Kaplan; VP communications and webmaster John Wilkens , ME ’71.

Phyllis Levine Evan writes, “I wasn’t sure about coming to Reunion; I wasn’t sure I would know anybody. I am so glad I did! There were so many fun and interesting activities, it was hard to choose. I was always busy. People were friendly and inclusive. I made new friends and reconnected with old.

“Walking through my old dorms and classrooms kindled poignant memories. Happy times as well as things I wish I had done differently—if only I had the wisdom then that I have now. The Chimes, the bridge over the gorge, Beebe Lake, the Arts Quad … all the good old stuff. New dorms (so many), incredible additions to Goldwin Smith and the architecture building—an excellent job of maintaining classic old buildings while adding new airy spaces. Thank you to our Reunion organizers for doing a great job. If in doubt, come!”

Congratulations to our classmate Doug Antczak , who is retiring as the Dorothy Havemeyer McConville Professor of Equine Medicine. We wish Doug and Wendy well in retirement with thanks for all your contributions to the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine.

Gary Shaye reports that he continues his long career with Save the Children as associate vice president, trustee relations. His time in the Peace Corps inspired him to join Save the Children and their work to provide support for children in countries throughout the world including the U.S. It was a pleasure talking with Gary about his work for this wonderful organization during Reunion.

Chris Degnen recounted for several of us, at Friday Reunion dinner, his walk and bike trip along the Camino de Santiago, a nearly 500-mile walk on a legendary pilgrimage route through the Galicia region of northwestern Spain rich in medieval culture.

Tom Allen reports that he and his wife, Gayle, are happily retired in the San Diego area. Tom has been volunteering with the San Diego Police Department and enjoys coming to the aid of citizens with health crises, stranded vehicles, and more.

I wish I had the space to share all the wonderful conversations I had during Reunion. Please share yours by emailing your thoughts about Reunion and other news to Cornellians associate editor Alexandra Bond ’12 ( email Alex ) or by submitting an online news form .

There will be even more interesting experiences to share at our next Reunion, so mark your calendars for our 60th, June 7–10, 2029, and be there! Best regards: ❖ Alan Cody ( email Alan ) | Class website | Alumni Directory .

I’m writing this the second week of July, in the spare bedroom of a dear friend who is putting me up (or putting up with me), while my kitchen is demolished and rebuilt as the final piece in a home refurbishing. Amazing how one cannot really exist without a kitchen!

I was recently in Ithaca for what proved to be a rainy Reunion. After returning home, I thought I might not have enough responses from classmates for this Class of 1970 column. How wrong I was!

First, a bit about Reunion. This year was the 45th Reunion of my Johnson School MBA program. Being retired, and not being a practicing corporado anymore, very few of the Johnson activities were of much interest. In fact, prior to arriving in Ithaca, I had planned only to be at the class picture-taking session for individual Johnson classes. In addition, only three individual classmates, including me, attended! One of the others was an old acquaintance, and an undergrad from another university, and had little knowledge of the breadth of activities a Cornell Reunion offers. So we joined forces, and off we went.

One very interesting advantage was the fact that Larry ’69 and Nancy Jenkins Krablin ’69 were the registrars for their class Reunion. Larry was a roommate of mine many years ago and gave me some leeway to attend some of their events and experience their headquarters in very new facilities on North Campus. Others from our class were there as the official “shadows” in preparation for our own 55th Reunion next year, so they will have a full plate of activities for us!

Be aware that our class Reunion is now less than a year away. If you have any thoughts or ideas, and wish to be involved or to volunteer, contact Sally Anne Levine , JD ’73, our class president. Find her contacts (and others’) through the Alumni Directory . Hope to see many of you in 2025!

Fred Piscop ’70 is a renowned crossword puzzle creator and the inheritor of the legacy of Split Decision Puzzles.

Fred Piscop (Bellmore, NY), renowned crossword puzzle creator and the inheritor of the legacy of Split Decision Puzzles from his schoolteacher George Bredehorn, was recently a guest on an Australian podcast, Wide Open Air Exchange . Fred noted that he never knew anyone down there had heard of him!

Howard Rosenof (Newton, MA) is another engineer responding to my continuing question about classmates staying in engineering. The following is an outline of his varied experiences. “I’ve enjoyed forays into management, teaching, marketing, and consulting, but never strayed too far or too long from hands-on engineering. After Cornell I got an MSEE from Northeastern and I went to work designing electrical control systems for nuclear power plants. Pressures from environmental groups and cheap oil led me to conclude that I didn’t have much of a future in nuclear, so I moved on to design controls for chemical plants. (Some environmentalists have since acknowledged that nuclear power can help mitigate climate change, and interest in the field seems to be increasing.)

“I developed a particular interest in one type of chemical plant that had a reputation for being difficult to control, leading to numerous articles and speaking engagements, teaching opportunities in the U.S. and Europe, co-authorship of the first published book on the subject, and an international award. After that, about halfway through my career, I switched to artificial intelligence and its applications to process control, working for two companies prominent in the field, and again traveling a lot. In retirement, I wrote my second book, Engineering, Your Career , published in 2022. It combines insights I gathered over more than 40 years, with extensive research. There’s only one review on Amazon, but I’ve gotten a great deal of positive feedback privately.”

And lastly, I need to mention yet again one of our most amazing classmates (and yet another engineer), Robert Langer (Newton, MA). He was recently awarded the Kavli Prize in Nanoscience given by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. His award was for improving drug delivery through nanoparticles, which translated into applications that developed mRNA vaccines for COVID-19. Read his entire story here .

As always, you may contact me directly (see below) or you may use the University’s standard online news form . ❖ John Cecilia, MBA ’79 ( email John ) | Alumni Directory .

Nina Gordon Schwartz was delighted to have a painting in the June Art League Landscape Exhibit , a juried exhibition at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, VA’s Old Town. Professionally, Nina owns Impulse Graphics, where she’s a graphic designer and art director. Her work has been in advertising, book design, and direct mail design—including corporate branding and collateral materials that express each company’s mission and philosophy.

We are grateful for Marcia Wities Orange ’s Reunion report. She loves the Continuous Reunion Club (CRC) and encourages others to join. For her, this year’s highlight was seeing the New York Times ’ Andrew Ross Sorkin ’99 and to discover him to be a fellow communication arts major. She adds that it was fun to catch up with classmates Dot Preisner Valachovic , Holly Person Flynn , Arthur Mintz , and John Henrehan , BS ’76.

In April, Marcia enjoyed Cornell’s Adult University’s theater weekend in Manhattan, along with Elisabeth Kaplan Boas and Art Spitzer . Marcia will return to CAU in Ithaca in July for a weeklong CAU class that Elisabeth will also attend.

The online news form has been useful to a growing number of us. Do consider using it for your own news, please.

Mike Kubin and his wife, Nancy Chemtob, continue to live in Manhattan. There, a bunch of friends met in his apartment when Cliff Essman visited from Baltimore. Cliff’s wife, Sue, was at the party, too, as were Jerry and Aimee Goldstein Ostrov ’72 , Ted , JD ’74, and Michelle Grossman , Stu and Hilary Oran , and Danny Bernstein ’70 . Amazingly, this group of friends met on the Hill some 56 years ago. These days, Mike enjoys traveling, writing, playing bass guitar, and hanging out with his grandkids. He’s still working at Invidi, the world’s leading provider of addressable television technology. They sold it to AT&T in 2018 and are looking to buy it back.

Howard Jacobson and Jona live in Rochester and enjoy traveling when he isn’t working. He works part time advising entrepreneurs as well as startup and early-stage businesses. He believes his undergraduate opportunities to explore are, in part, what allowed his curiosity to expand—and thus his entrepreneurial spirit to grow.

Thomas Nally remains among the ranks of those who plan never to retire. He continues to serve as senior advisor for A Better City, going into the office five days a week. He and wife Susan Brownlee make Brookline, MA, home, where he’s president of his neighborhood association and active in other civic roles. Reflecting on how Cornell affected his life trajectory, he adds that Cornell reinforced and supported its shape from before—and ever since—undergraduate days.

Nina Gordon Schwartz ’71 was delighted to have a painting in the June Art League Landscape Exhibit.

Also a consultant active in his field, Alan Miller writes from Rockville, MD, where he lives with his wife, Sue O’Hara ’72 , BA ’71. Al consults for the International Finance Corp. and is founder of a new venture fund. Both aim to promote sustainable cooling solutions. His book manuscript, based on his career in climate change and ozone depletion, is currently out for review by the University of Virginia Press.

After a successful career mostly in management consulting (including Deloitte, KPMG, EDS, and SAS), Gary Cokins is partly retired, he writes from Cary, NC. He gives training webinar courses mostly to accountants. He and his wife, Patricia Monseaux Tower ’67 , have two grandsons, 20 and 22. He asks, how cool is it that the 22-year-old just started with Boeing in Houston with the International Space Station on preventive maintenance? Taking stock, he believes his operations research and industrial engineering bachelor’s taught him how to think systematically. He’s written 10 books; you can learn more at his website .

Still another classmate who is not retired: Jeff Punim works three days a week from Long Beach, CA, where he and Donna make their home. He has time for golf, tennis, cycling, and travel to Southeast Asia and France.

Margaret “Molly” Mead is on the faculty at Amherst College. She and her wife, Carole Bull, have been married more than 20 years and enjoy taking long walks (which they call forest bathing). How has attending Cornell changed her life course? Molly shares that after the student takeover of Willard Straight Hall, when she joined others to surround the building, she went the next year (her junior year) to a small town in Pennsylvania to talk about the Vietnam War.

Jim Newman , MD ’75, lives in Wynnewood, PA. His enjoyment derives from three disparate things: writing, ice hockey, and his four grandchildren. He loved his first and second careers. Then, retired, divorced, and with grandchildren on the way, he was hit hard by the pandemic’s isolation and illness. He gave his soul over to writing and loves it. He’s written an unpublished medical satire and a self-published memoir. After that, even more: a genre-bending fiction trilogy is soon to have a fourth in the series. All are identifiable by the protagonist, Gabriel. In retirement, he adds, he is working on writing—and the wash, dishes, grocery shopping, filling out questionnaires, and answering wrong numbers. He says he would never have been as intuitive, empathetic, funny, engaged in the world, and fascinated by everything had he not gone to Cornell.

Dianne Holmes , MS ’74 (Vancouver, WA) retired last September. She enjoys gardening, travel, and hanging out with her friends. Credentials from an Ivy League school, including the scientific master’s, opened many doors for her.

Regarding your 75th birthday: Most of us will have seen this milestone—or will soon see it—and the class is having a virtual get-together and toast Saturday, September 21. Remember, there will be swag for ’71-ers who register in time . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email including login details for our Zoom celebration. Questions? Please email: 1971AtCornell@gmail.com . ❖ Elisabeth Kaplan Boas ( email Elisabeth ) | Cara Nash Iason ( email Cara ) | Alumni Directory .

Fellow classmates, this is Wes Schulz , ME ’73, one of three class correspondents who produce this column. We appreciate your input. Our senior class correspondent, Alex Barna , is stepping down from his scribe position—taking a “permanent sabbatical,” he says. Alex has faithfully served the Class of 1972 for many, many years. We appreciate his efforts and offer him a deeply felt thank you.

From Trumbull, CT, Richard Girouard reports that after 52 years, he is still doing (and still thoroughly enjoying) his restaurant consulting projects. However, the COVID years were tough. He started serving on the Trumbull Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission in 2000 and has been its chairman for the last 20 years. He also is a justice of the peace. Attending Cornell changed his life’s trajectory from the original plan to be a cinematographer. His girlfriend’s father (who graduated from Cornell under Dean Robert Beck ’42 , PhD ’54) thought the restaurant business would be a better profession, since Richard had grown up in it. “My girlfriend’s father gave me good advice.”

Clifford Hendry reports from Pittsburgh, PA, that he and wife Jean have three children and nine grandchildren who all live nearby and are doing well. He keeps busy with daily exercise classes and attending the various sports activities of the grandchildren. Cliff’s other activities include tutoring first graders to improve their reading skills. He also has a fun job delivering flowers for a friend’s business—and business is booming these days.

Reflecting on his time on the Hill, Cliff wrote, “I had an incredible Cornell experience. I played quarterback on the 1971 Ivy championship team. I was second string, but our awesome first-string quarterback, Mark Allen ’74 , got hurt early in the game against Penn at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. It was our last game. We had to win to get our first Ivy championship. I came off the bench and had the best game of my career. We won 41-13. I was presented with the game ball afterwards in the locker room. The lesson is: don’t quit because you are not playing. Have perseverance. Ed Marinaro broke the NCAA rushing record and was my good friend and still is today.”

Jim Vaughn and wife Julie are in Hilton Head Island, SC. He is a third-generation Cornellian. What brings him the most satisfaction these days? “Being able to embrace life on my terms and in my time with family and friends.” He is monitoring the Cornell Free Speech Alliance and says he agrees with their efforts. Jim serves on a public service board that is a leader in reclaimed water and sound water practice.

From their longtime home in Walpole, MA, Charley Rayner , ME ’73, and wife Cindy are enjoying the retirement life. He was a season ticket holder for hockey as a student and still keeps up with the Cornell hockey news. Charley retired in 2011 partly because he got tired of all the business travel during his civil engineering career. His three children are all married with houses and kids. Erik works in wealth management and lives close by in Needham, MA, with wife Bridget and sons Henry and Will. Brett and wife Claire and their kids Nevin and Willa are in Washington, DC. Lindsay and husband Tom live in the same Walpole neighborhood as Charley. Their daughter Charlotte is the youngest grandchild and is called Charli. I am guessing that she might be getting some extra attention from her grandfather.

Irwin Rosenfeld writes that he is still active in theater. He has performed in 20 plays or musicals since 2019. He has also been singing in a choir since he retired in 2016. He enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren who live near Seattle and Nashville. He related that attending Cornell converted him from being a math major to going pre-med, which eventually led to a successful career in psychiatry.

I played quarterback on the 1971 Ivy championship team. I was second string—I came off the bench and had the best game of my career. We won 41-13. Clifford Hendry ’72

Here is a request from two of our classmates. Charles Tetrault and Jerry Schulz started a project of trying to remember everyone on their freshman floor, including their room numbers and hometowns. While they have made significant progress, if you lived in U-Hall 4, second floor, in 1968–69, please drop them a note ( email Charles and Jerry ).

When they sent this request to me, I wrote back with the following: “I have a memory from my Cornell engineering days of taking ‘Mechanical Drawing.’ I sat at a drafting table next to someone else named ‘Schulz.’ This person would complete the drawing assignment effortlessly in 35 minutes. I would spend two hours scribbling and erasing furiously. I am sure this other person got an A grade, whereas I just barely passed. Skip forward a few years to when I was working for an engineering firm in Boston. The draftsmen were on strike. Management had some of the younger engineers go work on the drawing boards to keep production going. I did not want to do this, so I kept my transcript handy. It showed a grade of D+ for me in ‘Mechanical Drawing.’ Fortunately for all concerned, I was not called upon to work on the drafting table.”

Jerry replied to complete the story: “Yes, I was the one who was in the class with you. I had not thought of this class in decades. I remember that I was pretty good at the class, which was back in the era of T-squares and triangles. Except I had an unfair advantage, which is that at the urging of my grandfather I had taken a mechanical drawing class in high school, so I had a big head start. I did get an A, which was one of only two in four years of college.

“My only other A was in ‘Computers and Programming,’ which is a bit freaky—I never realized this until now. I switched from engineering to Arts and Sciences as a government major. Upon graduation, I forgot about engineering and computers and went to work for six years as an elementary school teacher. But then I made a career change and went into computer work in government and nonprofits, which I did for the rest of my career. And this has occasionally involved some graphics work which I continue to enjoy. (Thanks, Grandpa!) So, as they say, no experience or learning is irrelevant.”

Thank you to all who have written in. Keep the news coming! As always, you may contact one of us directly, or use the University’s online news form . ❖ Wes Schulz , ME ’73 ( email Wes ) | Frank Dawson ( email Frank ) | Susan Farber Straus ( email Susan ) | Alumni Directory .

So many retirement stories—I’m feeling left out. Michael Ciaraldi lives in Shrewsbury, MA, and is five years into retirement, pursuing his avocation as author and playwright. (You can find his plays on this site , which requires a membership.) He and wife Angelina spend time with family and, of course, their chihuahua. Medical issues forced him to skip the 50th Reunion, but on his Share Your News form he wrote that his time at Cornell “affects every aspect of my life,” so he intends to make it to the 55th in 2028. As do we all!

George Mitchell II lives in North Rose, NY, working as a part-time farmer, coaching track, and spending time with kids, grandkids, and his dad, now 97, a graduate of the Cornell Class of ’50!

Terry Richmond lives in a cottage in Ottawa with husband Doug and family, part of a gang of close friends who go for long walks in the countryside. They welcomed a group of Syrian refugees to Ottawa last May. One of her sons is curator of the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, ON, which stewards the world’s largest collection of paddled watercraft—and we’re all invited to visit! Terry reports spending a “frightening amount of time” reading the news and fretting over it. I feel the same way—the news from Cornell and other campuses over the past few months brought flashbacks of freshman year—but it sounds like she’s also helping where she can. She credits Cornell with widening her world to include different cultures and causes.

Nancy Dworkin Miller is now retired and lives in Jersey City with husband Jerry. She finally has time for visits with her family, which now includes seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Between visits there’s time for reading, jazz concerts, festivals, acoustic guitar lessons, and even a little paid consulting. Did attending Cornell change her life’s trajectory? “Absolutely,” she says, “by emphasizing critical thinking and communication skills.”

Charles Camisa continues to practice dermatology part time in Naples, FL; between patients he spends time reading, writing, taking CAU courses, and traveling. His youngest daughter, Kristen, was married last April. As for Cornell’s influence on his life, it was where he realized that his dream of being a vet was not to be—upon entering the barn and finding he was allergic to the animals. But like any good Cornellian, he adapted and switched to pre-med. I had a similar epiphany, discovering after my first few stair-climbs as a chimesmaster that I was more suited to the Glee Club.

Cornell was where dermatologist Charles Camisa ’73 realized that his dream of being a vet was not to be—upon entering the barn and finding he was allergic to the animals.

Donald Partridge lives with his wife, Pat, in Batavia, NY, raising and exhibiting their famous Brown Swiss cows with help from their six grandkids. He also makes hay, sells sweet corn at their roadside stand, and has traveled to every state in the lower 48, adding Alaska in June.

Here in Seattle, Bill McAleer , MBA ’75, is still a partner with Voyager Capital. Voyager incubates the tech companies that have turned this city from a hub for lumber and airplanes into the digital cerebellum of the American economy. He has a knack for helping entrepreneurs through their ups and downs, and fortunately the ups have outnumbered the downs. He reports that the companies they’ve backed over the past 25 years are now worth about $10 billion. He and Colleen (McGinn) ’74 have three grandkids who I’m guessing will learn that when Grandpa talks, they would do well to listen.

Louis “Dusty” Profumo , MBA ’74, lives in Atlanta with wife Anita. He retired last year at age 71 after 25+ years in the restaurant business, and joined the board of American Franchise Capital, which operates 89 Taco Bell and 45 Applebee’s franchises. I’m guessing his five grandkids always have a place to meet Grandpa for lunch! He also has a 19-year-old son at Georgia Tech looking to be a “helluva engineer.” Dusty credits Cornell for changing the direction of his life and providing lifelong friends.

I plan to retire from radio at the end of the year. That would mark 55 years since my first paid job at WVIP (RIP) in Mount Kisco, NY. To prepare myself, I’ve moved to a four-day week, which leaves more time to fix things at our beach house and to practice my book-reading skills. Unlike my fellow English majors, I was never good at long-form reading—in the early ’70s you could often find me hopelessly asleep in the Uris stacks, but I’m getting better at it and can proudly report that I’ve hacked and slashed through 473 pages of the complete works of Charles Dickens on my Kindle. I should finish around the time our light-rail system is completed. ❖ Dave Ross ( email Dave ) | Phyllis Haight Grummon ( email Phyllis ) | Pam Meyers ( email Pam ) | Alumni Directory .

This edition is being written in the aftermath of our 50th Reunion, which was another record-breaker for our Notable Class. Since then, you’ve undoubtably read the follow-up emails detailing all that transpired. My personal highlight (prior to the Saturday night dinner—see below) was the mini-reunion of some of my WVBR colleagues from our class, reliving our DJ days when we went back on the air live on WVBR 93.5 FM (and streamed worldwide on wvbr.com ) from our class headquarters at Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall Friday night, playing the favorite songs that you sent in. It was great to again hear Angel Harper (Sounds of Blackness), Larry Kleinman (weekday mornings), Dan Boyle , MRP ’77 (overnights), and Zack Mosner (Salt Creek), along with me (Saturday mornings). (You may have seen my recap post on our class Facebook page or the “DJ Telescoped” audio recording .) So I asked them to tell us what they have been doing since 1974 and received the following:

Angel Harper, a former elementary school teacher and standup comic with a brown belt in karate, is a vested member of SAG-AFTRA and has been very busy in the Los Angeles area as an actress, voice-over talent, and studio teacher on many productions. For example, she has worked with Brat Studios, American Experience’s “Fly With Me,” AFI’s “Hole in the Wall” and “Echoes of Greatness,” among others.

Larry Kleinman replied that he did “eight more years of radio, including six as the morning man at WLIR-FM on Long Island, and stints at WIOQ in Philadelphia and WNEW-FM in New York and 30+ years owning (and eventually selling) a small software development/IT consulting firm. Along with my wife of 42 years, Sally, we raised two wonderful daughters, one of whom gave us our first grandchild in 2023. For the past seven years, I’ve been a docent at the USS Intrepid , still floating in NY harbor (the ship, not me). For the past 11 years I’ve been an EMT crew chief, where I spend a lot of time on an ambulance taking people older than me to the hospital, and occasionally actually saving someone’s life.”

Dan Boyle offered this summary: “1976: skipped the last semester of grad school (City Planning in Sibley Hall) for a fellowship with the NYS Assembly; talked my way into weekend work at WQBK-FM. 1977: just about ran out of money when a full-time position opened; did overnights for a year (the best!); moved to late night and eventually to midday. 1980: couldn’t see myself taking requests for ‘Free Bird’ when I was 30, so got a real job using my degree at NYS Department of Transportation; my mom was happy! 1987: moved to the NYC area to work at the city’s transit authority in operations planning. 2000: after various twists and turns in Tampa and San Diego, I started my own transit consulting firm. Cornell taught me how to think, but WVBR taught me how to talk, and that was the most useful skill in my career.”

Cornell taught me how to think, but WVBR taught me how to talk. Dan Boyle ’74, MRP ’77

Zack Mosner said, “I gave up on big city living after about 45 years in the Seattle area and moved to beautiful Anacortes, in the San Juan Islands in Washington State. Retired in 2017 after almost 25 years with the Washington State Attorney General, having created a Bankruptcy and Collections Unit. A highlight? Winning a test case at the U.S. Supreme Court. With wife Patty for over 19 years, we have six kids between us and seven grandkids—so far!”

Speaking of Reunion stories, my fellow correspondent, Molly Miller Ettenger , reports, “ Walter Grote was an alternate on the U.S. Olympic wrestling team in ’76, then won the U.S. National Freestyle Championship in ’78. His daughter Skylar Grote was at the U.S. Olympic trials for wrestling while we were at Reunion! Walter and Skylar are the only father and daughter to have both won the U.S. National Freestyle Championships!” Congratulations to both!

Perry Jacobs sent in three Reunion-related links for your consideration: A Cornell (thank) U podcast episode with Peter Kaplan ; a Cornell video recording titled “Walter LaFeber: A Half-Century of Friends, Foreign Policy, and Great Losers (2006)”, where he talks about how he ended up at Cornell and other personal matters prior to the lecture; and an Ithaca Voice article titled “Gallery: See what’s under construction near Cornell this spring.”

Finally, this will be my last Class Notes column. Back when Dale Lazar , JD ’77, became class president 10 years ago, Jack Jay Wind and Elizabeth “Betsy” Moore were stepping down as class correspondents. So I was recruited, on behalf of our class, by Steve Piekarec , who, along with Dale, were past presidents of the Cornell Club of Washington, of which I have been a longtime member. Also recruited was Lucy Babcox Morris , and we joined Helen Bendix , BA ’73, who was continuing as a correspondent. We three worked together until Helen retired in early 2018, at which time Lucy and I split the assignment. When Shelley Cosgrove DeFord became class president five years ago, she asked us if we could recommend someone for the third slot, and Lucy suggested Molly Ettenger, who accepted. We three then worked together until Lucy stepped down at the end of 2022. Since then, Molly and I have been splitting these columns. However, at our class dinner Saturday night at Reunion, I was honored to be introduced as our new class president. So, going forward, I will be communicating with you from that position. Stay tuned for Molly’s next column with further details about our new class correspondents.

We thank all for their contributions and invite you to continue to send in your news. ❖ Jim Schoonmaker ( email Jim ) | Molly Miller Ettenger ( email Molly ) | Alumni Directory .

Another cool summer’s day in Orlando as I write this. At least inside it is! Here is the news. Elizabeth Grover is still enjoying (and excelling at) tennis—and looking forward to #50 next year. (Can anyone reading this believe it?) She was one of nine Pi Phi’s—along with Nancy Hargrove Meislahn , Gwenn Tannenbaum Canfield , Ann Goodrich Edgerton , Ellen Roche , Joanne Meder , Leslie Hudson , Elaine Johnson Ayres , and Ann Van Valkenburg Hammer —who got together in Savannah (“a bit steamy”).

Rodney Brooks has published The Rise and Fall of the Freedman’s Savings Bank : And Its Lasting Socio-Economic Impact On Black America (Spiramus Press, March 12, 2024). The book tells the story of the bank created just after the end of the Civil War to provide an opportunity for formerly enslaved and Black war veterans to save and gain financial knowledge. Sometimes known as the nation’s first “Black bank,” the bank was created by the U.S. Congress with little oversight and controlled by a board composed of 50 white men. The bank failed just nine years later, done in by incompetence, corruption, and a worldwide depression. With that failure came the loss of the savings of its most vulnerable customers—the newly freed slaves who had trusted the Freedman’s Bank with their life savings. It was crippling; it left 61,144 depositors with losses of nearly $3 million (more than $80 million today). Rodney is retired deputy managing editor, money, at USA Today .

Celebrating 70th birthdays: Kim Solworth Merlino and her husband celebrated her 70th by traveling from their home in New Jersey to San Francisco, where one of their sons lives with his family. Their other son and his wife also flew across the country to meet them for a long weekend. “We had a lovely birthday meal at a restaurant my husband and I had taken them to when our boys were seven and 10 years old.”

Ruth Zafren Ruskin threw herself a 70th birthday party/celebration of “beating cancer a third time”—a wine, cheese, and dessert party, which about 100 family members, friends, and colleagues attended. “We had Ruth-themed Broadway entertainment by daughter Diana’s musical theater group, Shenandoah Cabaret, and I was awarded the ‘Granny’ Lifetime Achievement Award in Living! My award looked a lot like a bobble-head figure of Hillary Clinton remade to look like me.” The party was a fundraiser for JSSA, a nonprofit health and welfare organization that serves the greater Washington, DC, area, of which Ruth is president of the board.

Geoffrey Gyrisco reports, “For my 70th birthday, in below-freezing early-January Wisconsin, I celebrated by bringing big fresh-baked muffins and chocolate cookies to my favorite outdoor airsoft field, for whoever showed up that day. My shots, hitting a far more skilled player, were the final shots of the day.”

Ruth Zafren Ruskin ’75 threw herself a celebration of ‘beating cancer a third time’—which about 100 family members, friends, and colleagues attended.

David Fischell , PhD ’80, describes himself as “an inventor and an engineer at heart.” This is undoubtedly an understatement. He has started 14 medical technology startups, where he served 25 years as CEO, with 15 of his medical products receiving FDA approvals, and he led a 1986 Bell Labs Intrapreneurship Venture creating the forerunner to GoTo Meeting and Zoom. He also holds 198 U.S. patents as of late 2023 and was instrumental in supporting the creation of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Cornell, now the Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering (BME).

In another understatement, David reports, “I get bored, so I need to have projects that keep me engaged in creating new technologies, especially when they involve learning.” He created the technology and design of what became the world’s first drug-eluting stent (for Johnson & Johnson); the responsive neurostimulator (RNS) system, which is implanted cranially to identify and treat epileptic seizures; and the Guardian, an implantable cardiac monitor that can warn high-risk heart attack survivors about future heart attacks. All are FDA-approved. David, thank you. You have saved a lot of lives.

And I do want to quote David here on what I think is excellent advice for current students: “Pick something you like and follow it until something better comes up. Once you are at your first job, begin by knocking it out of the park to establish your reputation. As you continue, learn as much as you can about what is going on in your organization, and when you find a problem that is important and interests you, ask your boss if you can take it on. Once this happens, you will rarely ever be given work, and instead, you will lead the direction of your future. Always be looking for something important where you can make a difference.”

On a personal note, I am thrilled (and so moved) to report that my daughter Briana and her boyfriend, Evan, were accepted by the Johnson School at Cornell and will be pursuing their MBAs starting this August. And my younger daughter, Arielle, just finished her second year at University of Miami Law School. She is showing serious skills both in pre-trial litigation and on her feet in mock trials. ❖ Mitch Frank ( email Mitch ) | Joan Pease ( email Joan ) | Deb Gellman , MBA ’82 ( email Deb ) | Karen DeMarco Boroff ( email Karen ) | Alumni Directory .

It was great to hear from Lynda Gavigan Halttunen in Carlsbad, CA. She writes, “This year I have re-connected with Steven Leigh ’73 , BS ’75. He lives in Florida, and I live in California. After nearly 50 years we still have so much to be thankful for. There IS life after 70 and grand adventures in this new chapter. I’m happy, healthy, and grateful.” She adds that she has been “traveling from California to Florida, New York, Ireland, and Iceland (so far this year).”

Bill Hanavan and I have also had an exciting year so far. In March, we took a Road Scholar trip to the Grand Canyon so that Bill could see it for the first time. Here in Cleveland, we were in the path of totality for the solar eclipse and, within a month, also had a rare and fabulous view of the Northern Lights. Both were firsts for me, and they were stunning! Bill spent the spring planting trees with his gang at Heights Tree People (now a proper nonprofit), and we went up to Nova Scotia to see spring choir and drama performances by our 10-year-old granddaughter, Hilda. We’re planning an all-family get-together in Michigan in August to celebrate this year when Bill and I turn a combined 140.

How are you celebrating your landmark birthday? We’d love to hear all your news that’s fit to print! ❖ Pat Relf Hanavan ( email Pat ) | Lisa Diamant ( email Lisa ) | Alumni Directory .

I hope everyone enjoyed the summer. We’ve received little news from all of you in recent months, so no doubt life is keeping everyone busy. As a result, this column will be brief—but I hope you’ll soon be writing to share what, and how, you’ve been doing.

I spent May traveling with friends in Europe, visiting some new destinations as well as old favorites in Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Poland. The trip was centered around cities filled with history, amazing architecture, great restaurants, and lots of classical music. And we did see plenty of beautiful scenery along the way. I’m happy to say that I finally made it to Prague, which has long been on my bucket list, and was not disappointed. Next up is a trip to Peru in October with Cornell Alumni Travel. This will be my second trip with the Alumni Travel group. My first experience was a safari trip to South Africa in 2017, which was outstanding. Traveling with fellow alums of all ages and backgrounds added a special connection to the adventure and created lifetime memories. I’m hoping the Peru experience will be as wonderful.

Sheryl Checkman is keeping busy in New York City. She writes that she is semi-retired but still takes on the occasional design project and sells her photography online . In addition, Sheryl has been doing background acting for the last six years and joined SAG in 2021. Since the pandemic, Sheryl has become a bird photographer. She notes, “We call ourselves ‘pandemic birders.’” Photography and nature have brought her much satisfaction and joy.

We enjoy hearing from you and having the opportunity to share your stories with our fellow classmates. Please keep all of your news and views coming in via the online news form . ❖ Mary Flynn ( email Mary ) | Howie Eisen ( email Howie ) | Alumni Directory .

Greetings, classmates! Some ’78ers had so much fun at last year’s Reunion that they attended this year’s as well. Pat Reilly , Angela DeSilva , Mary Bowler , Melinda Dower , and Debbie Downes , MD ’82, attended through the Continuous Reunion Club (CRC). Cynthia Kubas accompanied Paul Varga ’79 to his 45th Reunion. In all, 20 classmates were in attendance, either through CRC, other classes, or affinity groups.

Beth Cooper Kubinec and husband John , JD ’73 , attended the Chesterton House NYC Conference at Cornell Tech the weekend after Reunion. Their youngest son, Jack ’23 , lived there for three years. For those who are not familiar with this residence, Chesterton House is a center for Christian studies at Cornell. The men live in the former Delta Phi Epsilon house on the Knoll and the women live next door in what used to be the Treman residence. (Disclosure: I was a member of D Phi E and lived in the house for two years.) Beth writes, “We have noticed that just when your kids get old enough to be civilized and actually interesting to be around, they move away and someone else gets to enjoy the results of all your hard work.” Steve Kesselman , JD ’81, attended a moving ceremony in Ithaca in April, where Zeta Beta Tau—the fraternity he shared with his late son, Samuel ’23 , BS ’22—dedicated its Chapter Room in memory of Sam, its former president, who passed away a year earlier as a result of vehicular homicide.

More travel of the non-Cornell variety: Gary Holcomb and wife Julie took a week-long vacation to Northern California. “We spent the first half of the trip in San Francisco, seeing the Japanese Tea Garden, Coit Tower, museums, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Giants and A’s baseball games, plus the Oakland Zoo and obligatory cable car rides. We went to Napa Valley for the balance of the trip, complete with wine tastings and great food.”

I saw the official last concert of David Bromberg, whose fantastic blues I first heard in Ithaca. Stephanie Mitchell ’78, JD ’80

Stephanie Mitchell , JD ’80, writes from the Orkney Islands, “I’ve now been living in Orkney for six months, sneaking up on but never quite reaching retirement. I am heading the international trade policy team for the chief veterinary officer in the Scottish Government, which means trying to make the new post-E.U. exit borders work in the interests of Scotland’s agrifood sector. It’s my third civil service after U.S. and E.U. and I’m thoroughly enjoying being grumpy in the service of Scotland. In 2023 I was fortunate to be able to visit the U.S. just long enough to catch up in person with Annie Wong ’77 and the family of Paul Rohrlich , two of my closest friends from the Hill. I also saw the official last concert of David Bromberg, whose fantastic blues I first heard in Ithaca at the summer program between my junior and senior years of high school. I’ve also been glad to hear from Cliff Cockerham and Peter Halamek ’77 , ME ’79, fellow survivors of Clara Dickson and ILC, respectively.”

Rick Schwartz writes: “After 38 years with the strategic value advisory practice at Kroll, a global financial and risk advisory firm, I transitioned to senior advisor, supporting projects of my choosing out of our Silicon Valley location. I continue to pursue my passion for triathlons (40+ races since 2008) and co-lead one of California’s largest and most active triathlon clubs. On long, hard workouts I’m reminded of how I’d push myself through late-night endurance runs on snowy paths during Cornell winters.”

David Doupe and wife Beth moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2020 from Los Angeles to be closer to grandchildren. “When we arrived, we had two granddaughters from our son Andrew and his wife, Julie, and just recently our son Tom ’12 and his wife, Annie, had a baby boy! So we are two very happy grandparents!” David continues: “After 46 years in commercial real estate, I am retiring this summer. Given that the majority of my career has been on the road, I’ve had to assure my bride of 44 years that I will have plenty to keep me active! Which I will, between honing my golf skills and staying engaged via a few board seats.”

That’s it for this column. Keep those updates coming! ❖ Cindy Fuller , PhD ’92 ( email Cindy ) | Ilene Shub Lefland ( email Ilene ) | Alumni Directory .

We are thrilled to feature this Reunion report, written by guest columnist and class president Mary Maxon Grainger , MPS ’87:

I’m glowing after an enjoyable 45th Reunion, and I was feeling particularly grateful for all the Class of ’79 volunteers when I agreed to write this column!

We had 200 classmates together in Ithaca and another 60 guests participating in class, college and unit, affinity group, and university activities. This is the size gathering that was anticipated for the 45th, so Reunion co-chairs Larry Stone and Cindy Green hit the mark with pricing, budgeting, venue size, souvenir ordering, etc.! (FYI it’s anticipated that we’ll double that for our 50th in June 2029.)

Larry, Cindy, and registration chair Larry Bunis are amazing volunteers who led the planning and production of this outstanding quinquennial celebration of our time as undergraduate students. Many other classmates pitched in to help decorate headquarters, greet at events, and cover other roles as needed; thanks to Marjory Appel , Jennifer Grabow Brito , Debra Doncov , Jeff Ford , Rich Friedman , Matt Frisch , Bob , MS ’80, and Stacy Buchler Holstein , Lon and Lisa Barsanti Hoyt , Sue Stein Klubock , Steve Magacs , Karen Mineo , Clarence Reed , Janet Goldin Rubin , Deb Seidman , Ginger So , and Nancy Sverdlik . Kudos go to Mike Curran and Margie Wang , who organized optional Friday midday activities, including winetasting with lunch at a local winery. Brad Grainger cheerfully assisted me, Mary Maxon Grainger, at several points during the weekend, and in advance.

’79ers were especially visible at several university events. Serving to introduce programs were Jeff Weiss at our Democratic Resilience Globally program, Scott Zelov , MBA ’81, at a College of Arts and Sciences talk, and Ginger So at the Olin Lecture in Bailey Hall and via livestream. Ambassador Dwight Bush discussed Democratic Resilience Globally with two faculty members of the Cornell Brooks School of Public Policy with support from Stephanie Jacqueney . Provost Michael Kotlikoff (who will be interim president by the time this column is published) visited our dinner on Thursday and conversed with attendees.

Our 45th Reunion class photo was taken during Friday’s reception and dinner at the Newman Arena (in Bartels Hall, where basketball and volleyball are played). Since there’s a jumbotron there, the class meeting was presented via a brief video with membership news from Margie Wang, a fundraising update from Mark Wilson , MBA ’80, nomination of the 2024–29 officers by Jeff Weiss, and recognition of the Reunion leadership and retiring class officers by me. It can be viewed here and the updated leadership is listed here . Retiring class officers and the Reunion leaders were thanked aloud and on signs on the dinner tables. (In addition to Larry, Cindy, and Larry, thanks go out to Steve Bronfenbrenner , Carol French Ducommun , MBA ’85, Danna Levy , Tom Rissman , Janet Rubin, and Cynthia Williams .) If you’re interested in getting involved with the class, please let me know!

At the Ithaca Farmers Market, Carolyn Clark ’79 regularly writes poetry for shoppers.

On Saturday evening, musical classmates performed during the “Redstock” concert, a relatively new Reunion tradition. Gary Dunn , Gregg Garfin , Casey Koulman , and Cathy “Cats” DeMarinis Mueller have been together in the band Your Mother starting in college. Lon Hoyt was the keyboardist for an outstanding jazz quintet. In Bailey Hall, Cornelliana Night featured traditional Cornell songs sung by alumni and students both on stage and seated, and Reunion successes were announced including our record-breaking donation campaign.

The Hangovers entertained us earlier at our Saturday reception. There were Hangovers alumni and Cayuga’s Waiters alumni singing at some of the university concerts and in sing-off style late Saturday in the Goldwin Smith Hall foyer. We don’t have a list of ’79ers who sang, but we know some like Mark Bauer cheered them on. We also don’t have a list of women’s crew members who rowed at the annual gathering on the Cayuga Lake inlet, but these men’s crew members were present: Jeff Bloom , MA ’92, Dave Boor , Craig Buckhout , MBA ’80, Dan “YT” Cheung , Ian Murray , Greg Strub , and William Winand . The Reunion 5K was held again on Saturday morning featuring Judy Ashby , Liz de Cognets Champagne , Dave Chisholm , Debra Duncov, Steve Kusmer , Cindy Lehrer , Gary Munk , and Henry Peck .

Wine was served at class receptions that was donated by our classmates with Finger Lakes wineries. Thanks very much to Fred Frank of Dr. Konstantin Frank and Dave Peterson of Swedish Hill.

Classmate Carolyn Clark is an Ithaca native who has returned to the community. After she signed copies of her poetry books at the Cornell Store on Saturday morning, she went to the Ithaca Farmers Market, where she regularly writes poetry for shoppers.

It’s also interesting to note where attendees traveled from. Tom Riley came the furthest from Honolulu, and Hilda Fritze-Vomvoris was second from Switzerland. Both traveled more than 4,000 miles. There were 51 from New York, 20 from New Jersey, 18 from Pennsylvania, 17 from Massachusetts, 11 each from California and Connecticut, and nine each from Florida and Maryland. In addition, two came from Canada, and there were 19 other states represented.

Our next columns will be composed by the class correspondents Larry Bunis , Linda Moses , and Cindy Ahlgren Shea . Please send them your news, including how you celebrated 45 years since graduation! ❖ Mary Maxon Grainger ( email Mary ) | Linda Moses ( email Linda ) | Cynthia Ahlgren Shea ( email Cynthia ) | Larry Bunis ( email Larry ) | Alumni Directory .

Send us some news. Anything! Our 45th Reunion is next year—let us publish some news beforehand to spark conversations. I’ve cajoled, I’ve begged, I’ve showered and changed my shirt, but nothing works. I have many memories of college days, but too many of my reminiscences involve painful recriminations and flashing blue lights, so maybe you should chime in. Sure, I could write only about myself, but nobody wants to see that.

Speaking of Reunion, you should mark your calendars and clear your schedule; it’s never too early. We are quickly approaching our Geritol and rubber pants years; our Reunion nametags will be in 300-point font and those dang kids working the front desk with their tattoos and hippity hop music will forget to brew the decaf, so gather ye rosebuds while ye may! Reunion is July 5–8, 2025.

Today’s guest columnist is Brian “Sandy” Curtis , who writes from Texas: “ Jill (Lonati) and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary last September. We met in seventh grade, attended Cornell together, and have lived happily ever after. In 2022, we were blessed with our first grandchild, and have another due later this year. I retired from Chevron two years ago after a wonderful time leading their environmental law group. We finished up that phase of our lives being expats in Singapore and Jakarta, and thoroughly enjoyed that part of the world. Since then, we have been enjoying some great travel experiences with family and friends. We are living in Houston, which we have called home for more than 30 years. We remain connected to Cornell, and I have recently caught up with some of my tennis teammates spread out around the U.S. Jill and I are always looking to reconnect with classmates, so please let us know if you are in the Houston area!”

Jill Lonati Curtis ’80 and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary last September. We met in seventh grade, attended Cornell together, and have lived happily ever after. Brian “Sandy” Curtis ’80

They met in seventh grade! They’re living happily ever after! Jeepers, people, they can’t be the only classmates with fascinating stories to share. Singapore and Jakarta! Maybe you’ve been there. Tell us about it. Tell us about the time you went to kill-a-keg at the Creeker and got lost walking home, even though it was only three blocks. Tell us about the hallucinations you had during a prelim because you stayed up three nights in a row. Heck, I can’t be the only one.

Okay, more about me. I’m Dik Saalfeld , married father of none, and I live in the stunning paradise of Vermont, where I spend my days observing critters and plants and wondering at the glory of it all. There’s a pond in the backyard and a lake across the street and the only activity our “security” cameras pick up is foxes raiding turtle nests, deer eating the daisies, bobcats chasing dinner, and the lady who delivers for Amazon. In April we had to travel almost 20 miles to a wildlife preserve to observe the eclipse within the zone of totality, and the weather was perfect—and it changed us forever.

Now it’s your turn. ❖ Dik Saalfeld ( email Dik ) | Chas Horvath, ME ’81 ( email Chas ) | David Durfee ( email David ) | Leona Barsky, MS ’81 ( email Leona ) | Alumni Directory .

Who can believe summer has passed and it is already fall? Doesn’t the time just go faster and faster? I spent the summer working, vacationing in Marblehead, MA, and getting my daughter ready and sent off to University of Florida for her freshman year! My son has transferred high schools and is attending Dreyfoos High School of the Arts for theater tech. And you? What is going on?

Emily Gross Eider tells us that, after raising their two children in Bethlehem, PA, she and her husband spent six years living near the Delaware beaches. They moved to Odenton, MD, to be closer to their daughters and grandson. Stephen Silvia grew up in Buffalo, NY, but now lives in Bethesda, MD, and teaches at American University. He told us that his freshman year he lived in U-Hall 5. While on campus he was involved with the Cornell Daily Sun and Phi Sigma Kappa. He also loved hanging out at Lynah Rink.

And on to the Big Apple, Timothy Matson , MBA ’87, is married to Deborah (Sopher) ’82 , MBA ’87. He is the chief investment officer at National Guardian Life Insurance Company. He grew up in Randolph, NY. Freshman year he lived in U-Hall 4. He was involved in Sage Chapel Choir and ZBT fraternity. We’ve come a long way!

Going south to Ocean Springs, MS, we find Richard Furr , project manager at Mississippi Power Company. He lived in Donlon Hall his freshman year and was involved with the sailing team. His areas of expertise are energy, electricity markets, renewable energy, solar, engineering, and electrical engineering. When he wasn’t in class, you could find him at the Stewart Avenue Co-op or the Nines. His favorite Big Red memories? “A 10-day hike in the Adirondacks as part of freshman orientation, a snowball fight late into the night after the first hard snow, and taking snow skiing as a PE class.”

And in the middle of the country, Alison Sherman Arkin and her husband, Mike ’80 , BS ’78, ME ’80, live in Beachwood, OH. Alison is senior vice president, leadership development at Ratliff & Taylor. She grew up in Elmira, NY, and lived in Donlon Hall her freshman year. She was involved with Human Ecology clubs.

Further west, Gary Tabor is an ecologist and wildlife veterinarian based in Bozeman, MT. He is the founder and president of the Center for Large Landscape Conservation , a support organization for large-scale conservation efforts. Gary is also chair of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas’ Connectivity Conservation Specialist Group, which connects 1,300 scientists across 130 countries.

Gary Tabor ’81 has worked on behalf of large landscape conservation internationally for over 40 years, on every continent without emperor penguins.

Gary has worked on behalf of large landscape conservation internationally for over 40 years, on every continent without emperor penguins. Gary’s conservation achievements include the establishment of Kibale National Park in Uganda; the establishment of the World Bank’s Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund in Uganda; co-founding the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative; pioneering the field of Conservation Medicine/One Health; co-founding Patagonia Company’s Freedom to Roam wildlife corridor campaign; and co-founding the Network for Landscape Conservation.

Gary is a recipient of the Australian American Fulbright Scholar award on Climate Change and the Henry Luce Scholar Award. He has academic affiliations with Cornell, the University of Wisconsin, Madison, the Salazar Center for North American Conservation at Colorado State University, and the University of Queensland, Australia. He is a member of the Conservation Committee of the National Aquarium in Baltimore. He was involved with the Cornell Outing Club while at school! It certainly helped him for where he is today!

Across the pond, we find Elise Kuebelbeck Johnson in London. Elise is an acupuncturist who grew up in Massapequa, NY. Her areas of expertise are healthcare, acupuncture, and shiatsu. When she wasn’t in class you could find her at Rulloff’s, Cabbagetown Café, and the gorges in the summer. She has enjoyed slowing down a bit with work, though she’s still practicing acupuncture and shiatsu and doing Zoom qigong teaching, which began during the pandemic. She enjoys time with her five children, who mainly live in London, and her wonderful barrister husband, Roddy.

And onto another continent, Jotaro Fujii is living in Tokyo, Japan, and is CEO of Fujii Consulting. His first year on campus he lived in Cascadilla Hall. He was involved in restaurant planning on campus. His areas of expertise are business, leadership, management consulting, and marketing. When he wasn’t in class, you could find him driving around Cayuga Lake!

Please do reach out to me and let me know how you are! I love to hear from my classmates, so drop a line. Stay healthy, enjoy life, and I hope to see you soon! ❖ Betsy Silverfine ( email Betsy ) | Alumni Directory .

Welcome to a wonderful fall season, a great time of year in Ithaca and a great time to reconnect with classmates. Hopefully, you enjoyed the summer and you had an opportunity to share some news and stories with us. We are an excellent vehicle for sharing information about you, your family, and your accomplishments. Please take advantage of this information distribution space and contact us as frequently as you can.

We received some uplifting and exciting news from one of our classmates in Virginia. Linda Harris Crovella has been busy with her legal career but also spends time with her growing family. Linda writes, “Since late September 2022, I have been an administrative law judge with the Federal Maritime Commission in Washington, DC, which I am enjoying so much that my retirement plans are on hold. One thing that may prompt me to retire is the birth of my first grandchild in February, Jackson, to my oldest son, Ben Crovella ’07 , and daughter-in-law Cassie, who live in Boston. I’ve visited several times since his birth and absolutely love snuggling with that little guy! Luckily, there are many flights between D.C. and Boston.”

In addition, Linda has been able to stay in touch with classmates. “Recently, I had lunch with my freshman-year roommate, Ingrid Hall Johnson . We try to get together every six months or so and have even traveled together to past Reunions. I also keep in touch with Ginny Pados Beutnagel , who still makes me laugh as much as she did in college!”

One of the most prolific writers in our class,  Henry Herz , reports that he has recently published his 12th picture book, titled  I Am Gravity . Henry notes the following about his latest publication: “What reaches everywhere and never tires? Pulling on feathers and galaxies alike? Holding the mighty Milky Way together? Gravity, of course! Told in lyrical, riddling, first-person narrative, gravity boasts of its essential role in life as we know it—from the pulling of the ocean’s tides to the vastness of the stars in the sky.” Best of luck, Henry, with your latest publication.

Please enjoy the fall season and keep in touch with your classmates. Stay well. ❖ Doug Skalka ( email Doug ) | Mark Fernau ( email Mark ) | Nina Kondo ( email Nina ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, classmates! I hope we have all recovered from a HOT summer! Always looking for news from all of you. Here is what some of our classmates have been up to.

On May 12, three Cornell alums and pilots flew in the National Celebration of General Aviation D.C. Flyover—a parade of nearly 60 general aviation aircraft flying over D.C. for the first time in years. They are Eric Blinderman , Justine Harrison ’96 , and Jim Hauslein ’81 , MBA ’84, all Cornell grads and pilots. Sounds like an amazing sight, and since D.C. airspace has been restricted since 9/11, it was a unique opportunity for the pilots.

One of our class officers, Lynn Leopold , recently came back from an exciting trip to Portugal and Spain. Hiking El Camino de Santiago was a highlight.

Paul Beedle reports from Little Rock, AR, where he is celebrating his 25th year as a parish minister, currently serving at the Unitarian Universalist Church. Music is a throughline, since his early compositions were performed live at Risley Residential College, and he is still composing. In addition, he is learning the hammered dulcimer. That sounds like a great addition to our class band for next Reunion!

We heard from Tom Keegan , who is enjoying retirement in Montana, and spending his time maintaining wildlife habitats, hunting, and birding.

Marti Reisman Sheldon is enjoying friends and loved ones at home in Huntington Beach, CA, with her husband of 37 years, Mark , MS ’85 . The Engineering Co-op program at Cornell led to her successful 42-years-and-counting career with Boeing!

I, Alyssa Bickler , am still in Venice, FL, with my fiancé, Mike Consentino. We love to travel when we can get away, and we enjoy live music events and dining with friends! I recently bought into the recruiting firm where I have worked for the last 10 years and am very excited for the future here! In addition, I am still riding my Harley-Davidson Street Glide with a great group called the Diva Angels. ❖ Alyssa Bickler ( email Alyssa ) | Nancy Korn Freeman ( email Nancy ) | Jon Felice ( email Jon ) | Stewart Glickman ( email Stewart ) | Alumni Directory .

Greetings, classmates! My name is Charles “Chuck” Oppenheim . Mike Held and I are your new class correspondents. I am able to take on this responsibility—as an outlet for my enthusiasm for Cornell and staying touch with classmates—because I have shifted to working part time in my role as a lawyer advising hospitals and other healthcare providers on transactions and regulatory compliance. I live in Los Angeles with my wife, Lydia, and our two sons.

I attended our 40th Reunion and had so much fun (thanks, co-chairs Catherine “Kitty” Cantwell and Janet Insardi ) that I can hardly wait until the 45th! A few classmates and I (because we attend Reunions faithfully every five years, we call ourselves the “Reunion friends”) gathered early, organized by Kathy Witkowsky , and spent Tuesday and Wednesday nights at a rented mansion she found online, which was once home to the president of Ithaca College but is located in Collegetown.

Kathy and I were joined at the mansion by classmates and fellow “Reunion friends” Dave Momot , Karen Reynard Regenauer , Laurie Sheffield , Stuart Wamsley , and Tom Kraemer . We spent the time hiking, cooking, eating and drinking, and playing music by firelight in the back yard. Dave and Tom were on guitar and Kathy played the fiddle, while her husband, Jay (not a Cornellian, but still a great guy) also played guitar. We all moved to the dorm assigned to the Class of 1984 (Ganędagǫ: Hall), and during the Reunion Kathy led yoga one morning and Laurie led printmaking one afternoon with Diane Matyas ’83 , MFA ’89.

Once ensconced in the dorm I had a chance to catch up with numerous classmates, including Felise Milan and Sharon Camhi . Sharon is enjoying her retirement after having practiced as a pulmonologist with the V.A., while Felise stays busy as a professor of medicine, assistant dean for Learner Assessment and Clinical Competencies and director of the Ruth L. Gottesman Clinical Skills Center at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. (You may recognize the name Ruth Gottesman; she was in the news a few months ago because she donated an enormous sum to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine that will allow this medical school to forgo charging tuition from now on.)

We spent Tuesday and Wednesday [before Reunion] at a rented mansion, which was once home to the president of Ithaca College but is located in Collegetown. Charles “Chuck” Oppenheim ’84

Felise lives with her husband in Irvington, NY. Her daughter is a rabbi in Cherry Hill, NJ; one son is a computer engineer and data analyst for Hinge, making sure no one who wants a date goes without; and her younger son is a working actor, dancer, and singer based in NYC and currently performing at the Arizona Broadway Theater. She had a blast at Reunion reconnecting with old friends, and even made new friends with David Grayson and the “Reunion friends.” Felise and David closed down the tent parties, as they enjoyed craft beer, great music, and great dancing!

Naturally, I spent time catching up with many of my fraternity brothers, including Darren Miller , Larry Lazar , Matt Siegal (with wife Laura Weiner Siegal ’85 ), Steve Nachman (with wife Donna Better ’85 ), Phil George , and Tom Allon , who sold his media company, City & State, in 2021 but stayed on to lead its expansion into Pennsylvania and Florida. Tom also founded a NYC policy think tank in 2022 called the 5Boro Institute, and splits time between Brooklyn and eastern Long Island with his wife, Rebecca, four grown children, and two cats.

I also had a chance to catch up with Marcia Stairman Wagner , founder of the Wagner Law Group, a boutique law firm specializing in ERISA and other employment-related legal issues, who reports she has no plans to retire, as she’s just “hitting her stride.”

If you attended Reunion and have war stories to share—and whether or not you attended, if you have any other updates to share—please let us know! ❖ Charles Oppenheim ( email Charles ) | Michael Held ( email Michael ) | Alumni Directory .

Dave Votypka writes, “My college roommate and our buds have been celebrating our 60th birthdays—yikes! Scott Chapman and I missed Byron De La Navarre ’86 , DVM ’90’s 60th in Chi-town. Scott and I went skiing at Stowe a couple years ago and are planning another trip this winter. I’d like to hook up with fellow Cornellian Jeff Dunlap ’86 for some concerts this summer. Also, fellow Cornellian Neil Hoyt ’86 just celebrated his daughter’s wedding recently. WAK!

“What I get the most satisfaction from is family, followed by my job. Farming and owning an ag business has built many relationships over the years. I enjoy these tremendously. Besides work, I love to snow ski, golf, vacation, and ride our UTV around the farm (especially during happy hour).

“I’m slowly retiring out of full-time farming. This will be my 43rd year of farming, including college. I’m renting half of my acreage and will slowly stop growing. My son has an excellent job as an electrical engineer and will not return to the farm. We plan on running our grower business only, called Springwater Ag Products, after all the land is rented, which will give us more time with activities!

“My son Austin just got married to his lovely wife, Lindsay, last fall. I couldn’t be happier! My two grandsons, Teddy and Brooks, are a ray of sunshine in our lives. My stepdaughter is about to have our next granddaughter. Life is full of joy!”

Dave closes out his message by saying, “Making lifetime friends and memories were the best things about Cornell! Oh, and jumping off the gorge and the parties on Libe Slope!”

Most days, I know my Cornell roommates better now than I did then. Melissa Reitkopp ’85

Melissa Reitkopp shares that during COVID, her college roommates began having weekly virtual calls that have continued. “Most days, I know my Cornell roommates better now than I did then. We are having some great adventures all around the world. We called ourselves the 509ers because we lived at 509 Wyckoff Road for our last two years at Cornell. It was a huge old house on North Campus, and we had a floor with seven permanent residents and three ‘honorary’ ones.

“In March 2024, we gathered on the west side of Seneca Lake for the 35th anniversary of Lakewood Vineyards, owned by the Stamp family, including Chris ’83 and Liz Myer Stamp (four generations). Their adult children, Ben Stamp ’11 and Abby Stamp Wilkins ’13 , also work in the family business. Ben worked that evening for the event dinner, and both of them (with their families) joined us for brunch on Sunday with the latest additions (Wesley and Logan—Cornell Class of 2042?!).

“Pre-event, we visited Susan Herlands Holland , who heads Historic Ithaca and its companion store, Significant Elements, and sampled ice cream at the Cornell Dairy Store with Brian Garrett and Erin O’Connor . It is such fun to see students on campus again. We celebrated Linda Woo Kao ’s brother Henry Woo ’86 , BS ’88, and Gail Fink ’s birthdays at the neighboring Lakeside Resort and 3812 Bistro. They are two of our honorary 509ers. A divine lemon curd cheesecake from a Sally’s Baking Addiction recipe was enjoyed by all.

“The weekend was a wonderful whirlwind of events. We all had fantastic wine pairings with our dinner at Lakewood and were joined by my husband, Jeff Peters, and Susan’s husband, Ron Preville. Linda’s ‘snow leopard’ husband, David, couldn’t join us. The ‘bacon on bacon’ small plate was a huge hit, and I fell in love with Lakewood’s Dry Riesling.” ❖ Joyce Zelkowitz Cornett ( email Joyce ) | Alumni Directory .

Happy summer. As I put this column together, many in the lower 48 are experiencing extreme weather. Earlier this week our classmates in southern Florida were inundated with nearly two feet of rain, and about a third of the country will be dealing with temperatures approaching 100 ˚F for the next week. Wherever you are, we hope you are safe and comfortable. If precipitation or temperatures are keeping you indoors, it is a great time to send news updates to your Class of ’86 correspondents.

Laura Pitta Peter has relocated from California to Charlotte, NC. (Depending on where in the Golden State she previously resided, she may not be experiencing a much more temperate climate.) Laura is accustomed to change. She previously worked in industry and for the federal government. She is now in academia as the executive director, research commercialization and development, at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte.

Julie Bick Weed is still freelancing for the New York Times travel section. Her favorite topics focus on new travel technology like facial recognition or AI, so please send her any article ideas! She volunteers at Garfield High School, helping low-income students with writing projects. When she is lucky enough to catch up in person with a Cornell pal like Adrienne Silverstein Iglehart , Aruna Inalsingh , Rob Harpel , or Shera Raisen , “it feels like no time has passed, and the hysterical laughter returns!”

Julie Bick Weed ’85 is still freelancing for the New York Times travel section.

Rich Matteson and his wife, Kimberly, report that they’ve seen both of their sons obtain their college degrees and move on to independent lives and homes. As a result, Rich and Kimberly are free to enjoy their retirement, which includes visiting their sons in Florida and Nebraska. Rich is the CAAAN committee chair for North Texas and works with alumni in the vicinity to enlighten local high school applicants about Cornell. In addition, Rich volunteers with the Cornell Regional Campaign Committee to reconnect with alumni and raise annual funds. After many years of hearing about Cornell, Kimberly was shown Ithaca and the University last August. When at home, Rich is also teaching math as a substitute teacher in the middle and high schools that his sons attended. He finds the experience challenging some days but does feel as if he is making a difference where it counts for some of today’s teens. Regarding the impact that Cornell had on his life, Rich shared, “Cornell opened my eyes to the world, gave me a great education, and taught me that I could accomplish anything that I set my mind to. I am grateful and proud to be a Cornellian.”

That is all I have to share this month. But if you, like Rich, recognize how life and times at Cornell impacted your life and brought you to a life worth sharing, please take a few moments and share those thoughts with us. ❖ Toby Goldsmith ( email Toby ) | Lori Spydell Wagner ( email Lori ) | Michael Wagner ( email Michael ) | Alumni Directory .

By the time you read this, fall semester will be starting again. Hope you’ve had a chance to take some well-deserved time off and enjoy yourself. Let us know where you went, what you did, and who you did it with. In the meantime, I’ll continue to stalk classmates for news. Here’s the latest from my inbox:

My husband, Andy, and I had the great honor of attending the wedding of Bill and Carol Meyers ’s daughter, Sarah, to Justin in Greenwich, CT. Cornellians (and especially U-Hall 3 alums) in attendance were Tim Sullivan , Toni and Jody Monkovic , Shawn Fagen ’86 , Tom Tung ’86 , ME ’87, and Anne Yablonski Suissa ’88 .

Cheryl Berger Israeloff and husband Larry are expecting their first grandchild. Cheryl practices neuro visual medicine and the treatment of the visual aspects of the dizzy patient. Fun fact: I was one of Cheryl’s early test patients back when she was an optometry student! Cheryl mentioned that one Cornell event that changed the trajectory of her life was becoming friends with Janis Cohen Schlerf ’86 , who introduced her to Larry.

Brenda Wilkinson Melvin returned to campus for the Cornell Black Alumni Association’s recent Reunion, which featured panel discussions, a celebration of the life of Africana studies pioneer Professor James Turner, a Sneaker Ball, brunches, parties, winery tours, golf outings, and more. She enjoyed reconnecting with ’87 classmates Darrell Butler , Jacquelyn Browne , Allison Fennell , DVM ’91, Onjalique Clark , Marcia Bobb , and Gligor Tashkovich , MBA ’91, and she also bumped into Scott Pesner at a bus stop on her way back to North Campus! With no time for rest, the day after she returned home from Reunion she started a new job as internal communications director at AARP.

Josh Lesnick gathered with fellow Phi Psis John Webster and Michael Moore and their kids at the Saratoga Race Course to see the running of the Belmont Stakes!

With no time for rest, the day after Brenda Wilkinson Melvin ’87 returned home from Reunion she started a new job at AARP.

Anne Meinig Smalling was just named the incoming chair of the executive committee of the Cornell Board of Trustees as the search begins for a new provost, while Michael Kotlikoff was preparing to become interim president in the wake of Martha Pollack’s retirement.

Tony Spring was named the new CEO of Macy’s Inc. back in February. He’s been with Bloomingdale’s for 36 years in multiple roles, including most recently as the CEO.

Sanmoy Bose continues to enjoy retirement—lots of travel, yoga, tennis, squash, and walks with their two puppies. Sanmoy also does a little consulting with private equity companies and insurance companies as an operations, delivery, and customer subject matter expert. He retired from Duck Creek Technologies in 2022 as their chief customer and delivery officer. Previously he was a senior partner with Accenture.

Joshua Abelson , MA ’89, wrote that during the recent New York Presidential primary, he went to vote in NYC and was greeted by the site chief, Gligor Tashkovich! Gligor has been monitoring polls at elections for many years (and not just in NYC).

Speaking of Gligor—he wrote that he recently went to Athens for the 40th anniversary of the team that helped build the Western European Internet. He had a role in that project while attending Cornell. He caught up with many of the folks he worked with on the project and also had coffee with the Greek Prime Minister! He also traveled to Ravello, Italy, to celebrate his mom’s 86th birthday, followed by a trip to Porto, Portugal.

Please keep in touch and continue to share your news with us by emailing us at: ❖ Whitney Weinstein Goodman ( email Whitney ) | Liz Brown, JD ’90 ( email Liz ) | Alumni Directory .

Greetings, Class of ’88! The autumn air will soon be crisp and the leaves changing colors before our eyes. Take a moment and enjoy the fall foliage, just like we did when we were strolling around campus.

Congratulations to Robert Rosenberg , a former class president, who has been honored with the Frank H.T. Rhodes Exemplary Alumni Service Award. This award recognizes “alumni who have given extraordinary service to Cornell through long-term volunteer activities.”

Meanwhile, a group of classmates— Howard Greenstein , Linda Gadsby , Jacques Boubli , Dan Frommer , Doug Ringel , Rob Rosenberg, Laura Bloch , and Bob Attardo —attended the Cornell Alumni Leadership Conference in Baltimore, MD, earlier this year. They met up with Henry “Huck” O’Connor for dinner. Alumni volunteer leaders heard updates about how to use AI in your workplace and other current topics.

Speaking of volunteering for Cornell and other community outreach projects, I participated in the U.S. College Expo in Toronto, ON, where I answered lots of questions about campus life, University courses, SAT testing, and much more from many Canadian prospective high school students.

Alison Minton ’s pet parrot was featured on Geico’s social media (Instagram & TikTok feeds) for March Madness. Perhaps the parrot should become our newest class mascot, alongside our Cornell bear.

In other class news, Laura Bloch, our class membership chair, who resides in San Francisco, CA, was back on campus to celebrate her daughter Ella Yitzhaki ’24 ’s graduation from the College of Arts & Sciences. Ella is starting a position in health policy in Washington, DC. Her son is in his freshman year at the University of Oregon after he returned from studying abroad in London, England, during the summer. Laura is busy finishing up her second year as the president of the Cornell Northern California Alumni Association, where they put on events to connect Cornell alumni with one another.

Alison Minton ’88 ’s pet parrot was featured on Geico’s social media for March Madness.

Aileen Cleary Cohen chimes in from Palo Alto, CA, that she just retired as the vice president of clinical development at BeiGene, where she “helped bring approval of a cancer drug across five indications.” She’s happy spending time in her cabin in the Sierra Nevada while she cheers on the San Francisco Giants and the New York Knicks.

Her daughter, Emily, is starting her master’s in environment and society at Columbia University while her son, Erik, is at Seton Hall, studying media studies. Her stepdaughter, Rebecca, teaches high school in San Jose, CA. Aileen commented that she made “lifelong friends at Cornell and enjoyed her time on the Hill. Some of the best years!”

Further North, Charles Frischer lives in Seattle, WA, with his wife, Abigail, and kids. “We are enjoying watching them grow into young adults.” Charles runs an investment business, which is a daily challenge. He tries to “work as little as possible each day.” He finds it rewarding to be on the board of his kids’ private school and other corporate boards. The family recently traveled to Cambodia and Vietnam and are hoping to visit India and Laos as their next family adventure.

Karen Kao is semi-retired but still finds time to host small dinner parties and piano singalongs in her new condo in White Plains, NY. She still teaches piano and also volunteers at the local food bank, performing arts center, and arts center, where she is “an art teacher to classes of 25 wriggling elementary school children.”

News flash: This past January, Stephen Aschettino of Oyster Bay, NY, joined the financial innovation and regulation practice at global law firm Steptoe LLP as a partner. His practice focuses on fintech, payments, and digital assets commercial and regulatory matters. He lives on Long Island with his wife and three children.

That’s all for now. Please keep sending your news to me. I love hearing from our classmates, both near and far. ❖ Pamela Darer Anderson ( email Pam ) | Alumni Directory .

Cornell Reunion 2024 brought a record achievement for our class: most classmates ever attending a 35th Reunion! Our Reunion committee treated us to nostalgia like Straight Cookies, Hot Truck wares, and a cappella groups! The Hangovers welcomed us Friday evening during our happy hour. Entertainment during dinner Friday was a live big band, and we ate dinner on the North Campus residential quad. Men who sang during the ’80s and ’90s in the a cappella favorite Cayuga’s Waiters re-grouped for Reunion and brought a wonderfully rowdy serenade to dinner on Saturday night. After dinner, our classmate and musical talent extraordinaire Fil Straughan sang for us and spun tunes from our college years for dancing.

Our class headquartered at the townhouses on North Campus. Thursday we arrived to a red-and-white-festooned campus, golden hour sunshine, and a yummy “Hot Truck”-catered meal. My husband, Mike McGarry , and I sat down outside and promptly made a new friend, Laurie Bechhofer , who came in from Michigan. She knows the lovely Liese, wife of my favorite CHE professor, Dr. Urie Bronfenbrenner ’38 . Laurie also was a “townie,” as her dad was a professor here: Robert Bechhofer taught in the engineering college in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering. Laurie drives through our area of Buffalo, NY, regularly en route to visit family and we hope she stops by! Both Laurie and Mike are passionate about helping kids in public schools. I enjoyed listening to them discuss solutions for problems shared in Michigan and New York State. Both volunteer their time to that end. (I am proud to report that Mike just wrapped up nine years of caring, diligent service on our local Hamburg school board and we learned that fellow class correspondent Kris Borovicka Gerig ’s husband also serves on their local school board in Ohio. Thank you to both.

After dinner, we lingered at the tables. Deb Shames and I visited and talked of Cornell memories, our families, and their fondness for sports, especially the Boston Celtics; Deb and her son are huge fans and he was at the Celtics playoff game that night! Deb’s work and passion is for helping students from a wide variety of backgrounds make a good college fit. She has made it her business: Personal Best College Coaching. Deb pairs students with their ideal college and helps them through the application process, reducing the stress for them and their families. She also finds great joy in her volunteer efforts using those skills helping those who are the first in their family to attend college. Helping them get in is one step, but then she stays with them to help them graduate.

Lingering in headquarters, we plopped down on the sofa and made more friends. I loved meeting another lovely Laurie to whom I will now apologize for inadvertently clumsily rejecting the friend request sent to me (please would you try again?). This method now feels as unreliable for me as jotting it on a piece of paper and losing that. Clearly a me problem. On those cozy couches, we also enjoyed meeting Lauren Hoeflich , Evelyn and James Masson , ME ’90, and another classmate John, a pediatrician from Seattle. I’m embarrassed: I should have pulled out my notes app and jotted down John’s details.

Our Reunion committee treated us to nostalgia like Straight Cookies, Hot Truck wares, and a cappella groups! Lauren Kidder McGarry ’89

Rain intermittently baptized our festivities; it seemed appropriate given how often we experienced it during our time on the Hill. Have you heard the term for it? “Ithacating!” While we did enjoy some mini-monsoons, we also reveled in sunshine and warmth. Our visit to Libe Slope had sunshine and another conversation with Cornell Johnson School alumni and Reunion attendees who offered to take our photo. We were trying to re-stage a photo taken of us as newlyweds during the Dragon Day festivities of our senior year. Our volunteer photographer wanted to get it just right, and so we got to know her during the creative process. After the picture we kept chatting, such that their friends left for a museum tour and returned to us four still chatting away! We exchanged contacts with our new B-school alumni friends and hope next year to meet up for a Red Sox game.

I attended the Reunion this time using a cane again; I am hobbled by a dodgy left knee, awaiting replacement midsummer. It helped me appreciate the many accommodations made around campus for students with ambulatory issues. Elevators, smooth pathways, ramps, good lighting, and benches smartly situated made it simpler to move around and rest often. Those with happier knees enjoyed birdwatching walks at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology grounds, or cycling in the surrounding hills, or running (and perhaps walking a bit) the lush Reunion 5K through the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

Finally, the most impactful part of the Reunion for me took place during the Remembrance Service at Sage Chapel. In October 2020, Michael and I never got to attend the Texas funeral of our classmate Alisa Lynn Schmitz Evans because we were following my doctors’ counsel as I’m on two immunosuppressive therapies. Our grieving felt incomplete. Writing her name on the list drew out tears of frustration and sadness. Listening to the poems, verses, and Savage Club choral group helped us reflect and grieve. We were given and took the opportunity to speak her name, share brief words of her life, and light a candle in her remembrance. Afterwards, we and other mourners and rememberers wept to the pipe organ belting out beautifully. When you have a loss, and have need of this reflective service, please pause and go, even amid the fun of Reunion. I felt it added to the real purpose of coming back to campus for us. ❖ Lauren Kidder McGarry ( email Lauren ) | Stephanie Bloom Avidon ( email Stephanie ) | Kris Borovicka Gerig ( email Kris ) | Anne Czaplinski Treadwell ( email Anne ) | Alumni Directory .

As the fall semester gets underway, the Class of ’90 continues to work its magic on the Hill. Casey Jones returns to the campus this semester as associate head coach for the Cornell men’s hockey program. He rejoins the Big Red after 13 seasons at Clarkson, where he coached his teams there to a combined 234-185-56 record, including two trips to the NCAA tournament and five finishes in the top three of their conference. This season is the last for head coach Mike Schafer ’86 , who has announced that he’ll be retiring afterward and handing the reins of the team over to Casey. Schafer himself took over as head coach from another former Cornell hockey player, Brian McCutcheon ’71 , who had been the coach during Casey’s years as a player.

Meanwhile, the Cornell Asian Alumni Association this summer held an event at the Cornell Club in New York City celebrating leadership strategist and bestselling author Jane Hyun . Her new book, Leadership Toolkit for Asians : The Definitive Resource Guide for Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling , went on sale at the end of April and several weeks later landed on Business Insider ’s list of recommended summer reading. “Never thought my book would be considered a ‘summer beach read,’” Jane posted on Facebook, “but I just made the Wall Street top 35 recommended beach must-read list on Business Insider ! I’ll take it.”

Deborah Klein Glasser writes to us about life just north of the border, where she’s been “soaking up all the maple syrup and poutine Toronto has to offer” since 2020. As her son starts his senior year in high school, she’s been dropping “not-so-subtle hints about the wonders of Cornell.” We’ll be sure to check in with her sometime around April or May to see if her subtlety has paid off.

Deborah misses her friends and family in NYC and beyond, so she spent several months this year on a mini-reunion tour, visiting with Rob and Sue Portman Price , MRP ’91, in Nashville—be sure to read all about what he’s been up to in a recent column—as well as class correspondent Nancy Solomon Weiss in New Jersey, plus Howie ’89 and Karen Saul Miller , Vivian Althaus Harrow , and Ilissa Sternlicht ’89 in New York, and Jonah Klein in Toronto.

“Also, while at a neighborhood party, I bumped into Joe Milner ’89 , vice dean and professor at Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.”

This season is the last for men’s hockey head coach Mike Schafer ’86 , who has announced that he’ll be retiring afterward and handing the reins over to Casey Jones ’90 .

Deborah loves staying connected to Cornell through her involvement with the President’s Council of Cornell Women (PCCW) and by volunteering with the Cornell Alumni Admissions Ambassador Network, conducting interviews with high school students who have applied to Cornell. She reports that “PCCW’s symposium earlier this year in Baltimore was incredible, listening to fabulous Cornell speakers, reconnecting with old U-Hall 1 pals Linda Choong and Amy Bodek , and meeting plenty of new and inspiring Big Red women.”

Inspired by the challenges she had faced finding a job when she graduated from Cornell, Deborah has taken leave from her 27 years in marketing in order to build her own business as a job search and career management coach for young professionals. “I am here to help Gen Z clients develop the job search tools needed to secure a summer internship or full-time position.” She notes that she’s happy to offer the kids of fellow classmates a “Big Red discount.” You can check out her website for more information.

Before signing off, please allow your humble correspondent (or, at the very least, me) to remind you that planning for our upcoming 35th Reunion is in full swing. We lost out on having a Reunion in person in 2020, so reconnecting with each other and the campus in general will be doubly special this time around. I have truly enjoyed every Reunion I’ve managed to attend on the Hill; it’s a great chance to not only spend some quality time with a few of the folks you knew way-back-when, but also connect with classmates you didn’t necessarily know at the time, but nonetheless have so much in common with to this day. The best way I can describe the experience is to say it’s like meeting old friends for the first time.

So, save the date! June 5–8, 2025. And if you’d like to help out in any way, please do. The more volunteers we have to help plan and make those plans a reality, the lighter the workload and the more amazing the experience. It’s not too late to reach out to our Reunion committee and other class officers via e-mail at cornellclass90@gmail.com .

Here’s to the start of another academic year, and here’s to seeing each other again in person at its close.

Do you have any news about a classmate or yourself that you’d like to share? Please feel free to drop us a line with your news for the class column. ❖ Allan Rousselle ( email Allan ) | Rose Tanasugarn ( email Rose ) | Nancy Solomon Weiss ( email Nancy ) | Class Facebook page | Alumni Directory .

With our daughter’s graduation from Ithaca College falling on the same day as my birthday, I figured I should invite anyone and everyone who might be in or around Ithaca to celebrate. And why not?

I am glad that Eric Schneider , MBA ’99, a freshman-year dorm-mate and current Ithaca dweller, made his way to the festivities. I remember Eric usually had a smile on his face and always had something witty to say. As a former ROTC member, I knew exactly how he would appear when he strolled into the backyard; familiar face and grin with a touch of gray hair, tailor-fit khakis, and a button-down shirt.

We caught up a bit on his work with Corning Inc. and his children. “Our older son is a graduate of the University of Colorado, Boulder, and our younger son a rising sophomore at the University of Vermont.” At one point Eric paused, looked past me, and shared, “I apologize for being so tightly wound back then. Still a work in progress.” His wife, Susie (Curtis) , a fellow Class Notes ’91 correspondent, chuckled with me. I did not disagree with the overachieving mechanical engineer BS, Cornell Johnson School MBA, and U.S. Navy lieutenant. But it got me thinking, is being tightly wound so bad?

Chris Reynolds , also a U-Hall 2 dorm-mate, said, “I am pretty sure I could make that admission as well,” when I told him about my exchange with Eric. Chris, a political science and econ major and lacrosse player, towered over all of us back then with a nice way about him. “I live in Cold Spring Harbor, NY, with my wife of 25 years and am a partner at RCV Frontline, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage food and beverage brands.” Chris also earned an MBA from Columbia University.

Chris likes to unwind with his busy family. “We have four children: oldest son plays lacrosse and football at Army; second son attended International Yacht Restoration (trade) School and works in North Carolina for Fibreworks, supporting projects for the Department of Defense and NASCAR, among others; daughter, a junior in high school, committed to play lacrosse and attend the University of Maryland; and youngest son is in eighth grade, a four-sport athlete, and an aviation fanatic.” Whew!

Cathy Merrill Williams ’91 , who resides on the other hill, Washington, DC, wrote, ‘I have two sons attending Cornell!’

My daughter, Abby Marraccino, overcame a major setback in her first two weeks of college, cut from the only sport and team she knew and loved: gymnastics. It lit a fire under her, and she sprung from there, reinventing herself as a diver, a sport she had never tried before. Abby went on to be team captain for part of five league championships and earned four national all-American honors. How? I still ask myself.

I did not know Cathy Merrill Williams back on the Hill. A government and history major who earned a master’s in public administration from the London School of Economics, she is now CEO of Washingtonian Magazine . Cathy, who resides on the other hill, Washington, DC, wrote, “I have two sons attending Cornell! My older son just completed his freshman year and is studying math, sailing, and, well, partying. My younger son will soon join the Hotel School as a freshman.”

Of course I wondered, so I flat out asked Cathy, “Were you tightly wound back then?” Cathy responded affirmatively. “College was fun. I did, however, keep a journal and, looking back, I’m surprised how much I stressed about classes and grades. Now with children and a company to run and the many issues facing the world, it seems a little crazy to have had that be a major worry. Yet, I see it in my own son too, so perhaps it is just the circle of life.” Perhaps it is.

Circling back to our daughter: for her next act, professional or otherwise, she coined the mantra, “Nothing is more powerful than a smile.” Though behind her clenched teeth and those of these classmates are determined beings winding and unwinding as they leap through life. And that’s not such a bad thing at all.

Also not a bad thing: our 35th Reunion is almost here! Please save the date of June 4–7, 2026. Jeff Weintraub , MD ’95, one of our chairs, and Eric Rosario , a member of the planning team and Annual Fund rep, met up on campus for this year’s Reunion to scope things out. After a pandemic interrupted Reunion in 2021, our 35th Reunion promises to be a blockbuster!

Got news to share? Use the online news form or feel free to contact one of us directly: ❖ Joe Marraccino ( email Joe ) | Evelyn Achuck Yue ( email Evelyn ) | Susie Curtis Schneider ( email Susie ) | Ruby Wang Pizzini ( email Ruby ) | Wendy Milks Coburn ( email Wendy ) | Alumni Directory .

My husband, Todd Kantorczyk , recently enjoyed a weekend of baseball in Baltimore, MD, with 14 of his Alpha Sigma Phi (Rockledge) fraternity brothers including classmates Chris Hove , Harvey Beldner , and Brian Nowicki .

Todd’s freshman roommate, Michael Cimini , and my sorority sister Angela Cheng-Cimini celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in Sardinia, Italy. They were joined by son and daughter-in-law Matthew ’19 and Sarah Dickerman ’19 , daughter Christina, and fellow alumni Santo Barravecchio ’89 , Matthew Rubins ’90 , and Samantha Hardaway ’93 . Angela says, “It was wonderful to reminisce about our days on the Hill!” Congratulations on 30 years!

Lizzy Klein lives in New York City and started a fine jewelry business in 2019 and a second jewelry business in 2024. Mazi New York offers minimalist fine jewelry handmade in NYC and Mazi+Zo is a licensed sorority jewelry line. Lizzy says, “I love spending so much time with college students—they are inspiring!” Lizzy has donated 30% of the sales of her Star of David collection to Hillel to support Jewish college students.

Eileen Rappaport also lives in NYC and is keeping very busy with her residential real estate business and raising her 14-year-old daughter. She is a competitive tennis player and loves yoga, live music, and travel with family and friends. She recently traveled to France and South Africa. Eileen is very involved in fundraising for Memorial Sloan Kettering via Cycle for Survival. Her daughter is starting high school, and they enjoy NYC’s flowers and gorgeous parks. Eileen feels that Cornell changed the trajectory of her life by giving her “the very best friends, a lifetime of memories and lessons, and the best four years spent in beautiful Ithaca. All the opportunities I was afforded at Cornell confirmed that I can always change my path in life and pursue so many different interests at once!”

John Overton Jr. lives in New Hampshire with his wife, Christine Hand-Overton . Their older son, Josh, will begin his first year of medical school at the University of New England. Their younger son, Jacob, completed his sophomore year at the University of New Hampshire.

Rick and Meghan DeGolyer Hauser enjoy seeing the revitalization of their small town in Western New York. Meghan writes that lots of Cornell entrepreneurs are part of the turnaround. (Tell us more!) Their oldest offspring works at Cornell, their middle child just graduated from the University at Buffalo, and their youngest is a rising junior at Cornell.

Please share your news with us via email or use the online news form . Be well and take good care. ❖ Jean Kintisch ( email Jean ) | Sarah Ballow Clauss ( email Sarah ) | Wilma Ann Thomas Anderson ( email Wilma Ann ) | Alumni Directory .

Whit Watson is transitioning from a full-time position at Golf Channel to a freelance role, and still working with Westwood One Sports at golf’s major championships this year. “While working for Golf Channel in Stamford, CT, in May, I had the chance to meet up with my former Sheldon Court roommate Stuart Roth , MBA ’00, MILR ’01, and his wife, Dana, to watch some of the Knicks-Pacers series. My son Zachary is a PhD candidate in political science at the University of Virginia, and daughter Ellie just finished her junior year at Boston University, where she is a film/TV major. I was also honored to recently join the board of directors at the Cornell Media Guild, parent of WVBR-FM, the place that started my career. Would love to hear from anyone in the industry, or anyone from our class!”

Atul Aggarwal greatly enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and meeting up with friends. “I am working as a radiologist. My daughter graduated from Cornell in 2023, and my son will be starting as a freshman at Cornell in the Class of 2028.” Brian Fuhr proudly reports that he recently ran a marathon in three hours and 30 minutes, with “kids half my age,” no less! He is celebrating 25 years with Mat Zucker ’92 .

Adrian Sexton joined a global firm focused on AI, where he leads strategic business growth across sports, media and entertainment, and technology. Clients include the NBA, the NFL, MLB, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Global, and Universal Pictures/Comcast. “In addition, I have been working on an AI startup, Cohuman.AI, which focuses on responsible, human-centric AI.” Adrian notes that he gets the most satisfaction from family, especially seeing his kids grow and soon apply to universities. “For fun and fitness, I enjoy saunas, HIIT classes, beach volleyball, and Spartan races. To accelerate an early retirement (!), I’m working with a capital group, a global athletes fund, and a major investment bank to acquire a major sports league in the U.S. in connection with the World Rugby Cup.”

Cornell gave us both the confidence and knowledge to be independent entrepreneurs. Mark ’93 and Julie Oratovsky Lonski ’93

Henry Most writes, “I recently taught for the first time the famous ‘Interpersonal Dynamics’ course (aka ‘Touchy-Feely’) at Stanford Graduate School of Business. I’m a lecturer in management at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business and an executive coach. At Stanford I’m in the experiential learning arena, focusing on interpersonal and leadership skills. I traveled around the world with one of my Cornell friends, Adam Gensler , in 1998 and moved out to San Francisco soon thereafter, where he and another Cornell friend, Dave Levitt , lived. Both of them had a significant impact on my life and who I am as a person.”

Mark and Julie Oratovsky Lonski greatly enjoy watching their 11th-grade son grow, thrive, and dream about his college future. “We own and operate our family landscape design-build firm. Cornell gave us both the confidence and knowledge to be independent entrepreneurs, and it taught us to use critical thinking skills every single day.”

John Fuller , ME ’94, writes, “I operate a civil engineering consulting business in my hometown of Port Jervis, NY. We have been in practice for more than 20 years.” John enjoys coaching travel baseball, spending time with his family, and participating in CrossFit at a competitive level. When asked about his time at Cornell, John said, “It helped shape who I am today.” ❖ Mia Blackler ( email Mia ) | Melissa Hart Moss, JD ’97 ( email Melissa ) | Theresa Flores ( email Theresa ) | Alumni Directory .

Daniel Chernin writes, “I am senior vice president and associate general counsel at Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc. My daughter, Marina, is at Georgetown and my son, Joshua, will be applying to Cornell in two years. I loved my time at Cornell and always remember it fondly. My closest friends are still my friends from Cornell.”

Kristen Crockett Tsarnas has been building her professional organizing and interior decorating business, Home Wellness Consulting . From her website: “Feeling and doing your best, true wellness, is only attainable when you have a healthy environment supporting you. Research suggests that your home is the foundation of security and contentment in your family life. As your launching pad into the world, it is also the foundation of your success outside the home. My mission is to help you build a beautiful, colorful, welcoming home that promotes ease, creativity, and contentment for you and each member of your family. I work with clients at every life stage, including moms and dads, young adults in their first apartment, and seniors moving to assisted living. I am passionate about sustained wellness and health for all members of our society and know that we, as a community, can live better.”

Scott Noren has been greatly enjoying working in his garden and the woodlot on his property. He writes, “My house, a cabin in the woods, was constructed during the first year of COVID. I am about to complete my 25th year as a high school science teacher—seven more to go before full retirement. I have taught a wildlife ecology and management class for 23 years; this was my major at Cornell (Natural Resources). Thank you to my professors.”

Rudro Dé , BS ’98, works at JP Morgan in investment banking in NYC. Ingrid Kist-Leader has been traveling internationally a lot—Iceland twice, Greece, Italy, and Ireland. “I’m developing my photography skills a ton! And helping my son apply to colleges, which is bittersweet.” Indeed, Ingrid says that spending quality time with her teenage son brings her the most satisfaction these days. She adds, “I’m a history teacher—can’t wait to retire!”

I have taught a wildlife ecology and management class for 23 years; this was my major at Cornell. Scott Noren ’94

Elizabeth Kaufmann Hale writes, “I have stayed an active member of the Cornell community, as my two sons are currently undergraduate students up in Ithaca. Dylan ’24 is in Dyson and is on the football team. Ryan ’27 is a freshman who is on the premed track. In addition to running a busy dermatology practice with my sister (also a dermatologist), I stay very active by running marathons and half-marathons. This summer, I will be joining AAD’s ‘Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!’ and hiking in the Canadian Rockies!”

Andres Pinter recently made the leap from investor to entrepreneur. “Pursuing a passion to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption, I left a senior role at Ares Management and launched Bullet EV Charging Solutions, an installer and maintenance provider for EV chargers. While analyzing the EV sector at Ares, I recognized that the country’s lack of reliable EV charging infrastructure was one of the biggest impediments to EV adoption. Bullet EV is expanding this year from Texas into California, Colorado, and Arizona. The company installs EV chargers for Tesla, ChargePoint, ABB, and all other major manufacturers. Among other accolades, Bullet EV was recently awarded a grant from Columbia University’s Tamer Fund for Social Ventures. I’m learning it takes nerves of steel to launch a business, and I welcome any insight or advice from fellow alumni.”

Pryor Cashman LLP announced the arrival of counsel Praveena Nallainathan to the firm’s immigration group in New York, where her practice will focus on corporate immigration, nationality, and consular law matters. Most recently, Praveena was of counsel at Am Law 200 law firm Quarles & Brady; prior to that, she served as global director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Dechert and was associate general counsel of immigration and head of talent mobility for IHS Markit, a publicly traded information services company. While at IHS Markit, Praveena designed and managed the company’s first in-house immigration compliance program. Born in Sri Lanka, Praveena also has deep experience with immigration humanitarian relief programs, including asylum and special immigration juvenile petitions. She received her JD from Rutgers University School of Law in 2006. ❖ Dineen Pashoukos Wasylik ( email Dineen ) | Jennifer Rabin Marchant ( email Jennifer ) | Dika Lam ( email Dika ) | Alumni Directory .

I write this column as many of my Class of ’94 friends—along with some of you, classmates!—are returning from yet another amazing Reunion weekend on the Hill. Abra Benson Perrie , MBA ’04, who attended as a returning alum of the business school, provided a fantastic recap of campus on our Class Facebook page .

Some of my favorite observations of the new and old include: “Toni Morrison Dining (on North Campus) … is nicer than many restaurants I’ve gone to, and the water machine was fancy! Fancy is the word here. Fancy!” And: “Fortunately, some places are pretty much just like we remember them. The Straight will make you smile at its stalwart way—inside and out. There are some things that don’t change much … at least not yet.” Want to read more? Join our Facebook page .

If you couldn’t tell, we are already gearing up for our 30th Reunion, June 5–8, 2025—since we all missed the 25th due to COVID (boooo), this one is going to be BIG! 30 is the new 25! Reunion chairs Patricia Louison Grant and Lisa Powell Fortna will be on campus in early October to get the planning in full swing. And keep an eye open for our new “30 for 30” project coming out in November!

Now on to the news. On April 13, David Jakubowicz became president-elect of the Medical Society of the State of New York. When he takes office in 2025, he will be the first president from Bronx County Medical Society in more than 50 years. A board-certified physician, he is director of otolaryngology and allergy at Essen Health and a clinical assistant professor of otorhinolaryngology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore. David also shared that his daughter, Cornellian Halle ’27 , recently joined AXO sorority, which resides in David’s old fraternity house (Sammy). I hope for Halle’s sake that the floors are a little less sticky than they were in the early ’90s!

Vernetta Kinchen sent in happy news that her son, Tony ’24 , graduated in May from CALS and was accepted into Cornell’s PhD program in systems engineering. She also recently had the chance to be back on campus and joined about 40 Hotelies for lunch at the Pines. Thanks to Ted Teng ’79 for organizing the event!

David Jakubowicz ’95 shared that his daughter, Cornellian Halle ’27 , recently joined AXO sorority, which resides in David’s old fraternity house (Sammy).

Also in May, the Boston Globe released its third annual list of the most influential people in the New England tech sector. The leaders spotlighted in the selective Globe Tech Power Players 50 List have demonstrated innovation and resourcefulness and have contributed heartily to keeping their sector thriving during challenging economic times. Featured prominently are our classmates Niraj Shah and Steven Conine , founders of Wayfair, both of whom I hope we will see on the Hill next June!

Last, but definitely not least, one of our fantastic class authors, Henry Neff , sent word that his seventh novel—but his first that’s strictly for older teens and adults—arrived in June via Blackstone Publishing. It’s called The Witchstone , and Henry shares, “If you enjoy dark comedy and curses, martini-swilling demons, and tennis-playing priests, this book is for you.” Henry has been writing full time for 15 years and also enjoys spending time with his sons (ages 12 and 10).

The Neff family also rescued their second pup, Nox, in December of 2023: “Doggie DNA says she’s part cattle dog, beagle, pit bull, and Lab. Her appearance and behavior suggest there’s some piglet and Tasmanian devil in there too.” When asked if attending Cornell changed the trajectory of his life, Henry responded, “Unquestionably. It’s where I sharpened my mind, expanded my horizons, and met some of my closest friends.” With that ringing endorsement, it only makes sense to put June 6–8 in your calendar right now and make a plan to meet back on the Hill!

Until next time … stay connected and safe, classmates. ❖ Alison Torrillo French ( email Alison ) | Class website | Class Facebook page | Class Instagram page | Alumni Directory .

Autumn greetings, Class of ’96! Please take a moment to let us know how you spent your summer! If you have anything you’d like to share with our class, please submit an online news form or write directly to any of us: ❖ Catherine Oh Bonita ( email Catherine ) | Janine Abrams Rethy ( email Janine ) | Marjorie Polycarpe Jean-Paul ( email Marjorie ) | Alumni Directory .

If you’re anything like me, this time of year makes you think of the start of a new semester on the Hill. What are your plans for the fall? Are any of you venturing out of town to travel? Or marking any career milestones? If you have anything you’d like to share with our class, please submit an online news form or write directly to: ❖ Class of 1997 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Class of 1998: Have you kept in contact with your Cornell family? We celebrated our 25th Reunion last year and, although I could not make it to Reunion, the music of that Spotify playlist cultivated by William Robertson ’97 , BFA ’98, and fellow classmates continues to transport me back to that time and place, high above Cayuga’s waters.

Since then, I have learned about other classmates who have impacted our lives and the lives of others. In two different articles from the Cornell Chronicle , Dan Cane and Tim Chi were profiled for their passion for entrepreneurship and technology, and their shared Cornell experience as undergraduates. Along with Stephen Gilfus ’97 , Lee Wang ’97 , MS ’98, Stephano Kim , John Yang , and John Knight , Dan and Tim co-founded, during their Big Red years, an online learning platform and education technology solution, CourseInfo LLC, which would become Blackboard Inc.

The article stated, “The idea to digitize [Dan’s] class materials inspired the business that would quickly turn his housemates into colleagues and his career path into a wildly successful entrepreneurship. In 2011, Blackboard Inc. sold for $1.6 billion.” Currently the founder and CEO of Modernizing Medicine, a medical technology and management company, Dan shared in the March 2024 article, “I use lessons learned from my time at Cornell daily. More than just the quality of the education, the quality of the experience changed me. Most importantly, the people I met and continue to meet at Cornell are cut from a different cloth.” Giving back to his alma mater, Dan has established the Cane Entrepreneurship Scholars program that encourages the growth and development of young entrepreneurs with financial support, mentoring, and experiential learning.

Dan Cane ’98 and Tim Chi ’98 co-founded, during their Big Red years, an online learning platform that would become Blackboard Inc.

Tim continues to inspire connections through the Entrepreneurship at Cornell Advisory Council. From an April 2024 Cornell Chronicle article : “Looking back on that experience, what is remarkable to me was just how fortunate we were to have a bunch of like-minded Cornellians, from different disciplines, who loved to work together—but more importantly, hang out together. For me, this was the embodiment of why culture in companies is important today.” With his co-founders, “We had product, engineering, finance, sales, and marketing and it was an exhilarating time to be on campus, building something special.”

It was in 2005 when Tim, then in the throes of wedding planning, saw the need to create and build a solution. He shared: “I noticed that ‘online vertical marketplaces’ were springing up everywhere as a purpose-built antidote to broad horizontal search platforms. This led to the proverbial ‘light bulb’ moment—a purpose-built online vertical marketplace, powered by user-generated reviews from newlyweds, for weddings. From this, WeddingWire was born.” With a few co-founders including Lee Wang, Tim “designed a first-of-its-kind two-sided marketplace for the wedding industry to bring both sides of the industry—couples and vendors—together to create a more seamless experience, focused on finding the perfect wedding vendors for any couple’s big day.” In 2019, WeddingWire merged with XO Group, the parent company of the Knot, to become the Knot Worldwide.

Connections, entrepreneurship, friendship, family, and Big Red grit and spirit are just some of the many attributes that we, the Class of 1998, have added to what it means to be a Cornellian. What have you been up to? We want to hear from you! Fill out our online news form or email: ❖ Uthica Jinvit Utano ( email Uthica ) | Alumni Directory .

Meredith Glah Coors writes, “With my oldest son’s diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in 2014 at age 11, I became involved with JDRF (a leading organization funding type 1 diabetes research), working to raise funds for research and a cure. I served on the Mountain West Board in Colorado for six years and joined JDRF’s Global Mission Board in 2022. I chaired our annual fundraiser in 2017 and have worked as an auction chair for the event each year since. During the pandemic, I created a mask fundraiser that raised $36,000; my kids and I sewed masks in exchange for donations to JDRF. Locally I also serve on the board of the Denver Zoo and volunteer at Children’s Hospital Colorado.”

Courtney Armbruster writes, “As an animal lover, I am fortunate that I found the Central New York Cat Coalition, an all-volunteer group that rescues homeless cats and adopts them into loving homes. We also run the largest subsidized spay/neuter program in all of CNY, getting more than 2,500 cats fixed a year for low-income owners and rescuers. Since starting as a volunteer with the organization more than 15 years ago, I continued to take on more responsibility and became the president of the board nearly nine years ago. I stepped back to vice president in 2023 and continue to work hard daily to help this organization improve the lives of animals in our community.”

I foster nearly 100 cats every year and get them adopted into forever homes. Courtney Armbruster ’99

Courtney adds, “I personally foster nearly 100 cats every year and get them adopted into forever homes. I volunteer at our adoption center, write our grant applications, manage our social media and website, coordinate our donations and supplies, and handle correspondence. Cats in my care come from all kinds of backgrounds, including strays, surrenders, and abandoned pets. We help animals with serious medical conditions like ruptured eyes, dental disease, broken bones, and more, and it can be a real challenge. We’re always trying to fundraise to help cats in need, and the supply of animals needing help never ends. It’s a ton of work, but so incredibly rewarding!”

We would love to hear from any classmates who attended our 25th Reunion in Ithaca in June! What did you think of the Olin Lecture, which was given by our very own Andrew Ross Sorkin ? (That event can be viewed here !) Did you make it to the tent parties? Did you check out your favorite spots on campus, and see all that’s changed since our days on the Hill? Hopefully you had plenty of time to spend with friends old and new.

Please drop us a line to let us know about your Reunion experience, so we can share it with the class! Those who weren’t able to attend would love to live vicariously through you. ❖ Class of 1999 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Greetings from a warm and peaceful Cleveland, OH! Wishing you all well, wherever you are, and encouraging you to drop me a line whenever you get a chance. I’d love to hear from you. ❖ Denise Williams ( email Denise ) | Alumni Directory .

Did everyone have a good summer? Remember, we’re now less than two years away from our big 25th Reunion—and those Ithaca summers are truly gorges! Plus, we can party—I mean, um, network?—twice as hard to make up for our 20th Reunion going virtual due to the pandemic, so please do save the date: June 4–7, 2026. Whether the temperatures run hot or cold for the occasion, there’s sure to be the perfect Dairy Bar flavor to match each of our high, nostalgic spirits.

Speaking of excellent frozen treats, Salil Gupte and I kicked summer off by taking our kids around Italy (Rome, Naples, Pompei, Sorrento, Capri) and eating gelato daily (sometimes more than once), then headed to Seattle for our usual “home leave” (with Salil also going back and forth to D.C. and Delhi for Boeing business). This may have been my last long summer break for a while, as I’m slated to start working at the U.S. Embassy in Delhi, pending security clearances and budgets not getting frozen. Don’t want to jinx myself by elaborating further but will share to our class Facebook group when/if it happens. In the meantime, I’m geeking out by working on my MLIS degree through San Jose State University. Being a student again is hard; how did we do it the first time? Oh, that’s right—younger, spongier brains!

You don’t become a Cornell alum without having an unapologetic love of learning, right? (Take that, everyone who called us nerds once upon a time—it’s now called having a “growth mindset!”) Jeremy Werner , class officer at large, attended a May 7 Cornell Silicon Valley event hosted by the Cornell Alumni Association of Northern California on “How Chip Innovation Is Shaping the Future of AI,” with panelists including Cornell professor of electrical and computer engineering Chris Batten, Quanergy founder Tianyue Yu , PhD ’03 , and former CEO of Xilinx Victor Peng , ME ’82 . During the event, the CHIPS and Science Act was discussed, including the $6.1B grant to Micron, where Jeremy leads the storage business, along with Micron’s announced investment of over $100B in a new DRAM fab complex in Upstate New York. Professor Batten also talked about Cornell Custom Silicon Systems , an exciting student-led group at Cornell working on semiconductors.

I’m geeking out by working on my MLIS degree. Being a student again is hard; how did we do it the first time? Nicole Neroulias Gupte ’01

At the event, Jeremy met up with fellow classmates Ilyas Elkin , a distinguished engineer at NVIDIA designing the Tensor datapath for the world’s leading AI GPUs, and Brian Silverstein , whose latest startup MirrorTab is delivering cybersecurity for banks and other high value sites to communicate securely with their customers. (The last startup Brian founded was the web browser shopping plug-in Honey, which was bought in 2020 by PayPal for $4B.)

Over in Colorado, Christina Bové , DVM ’06, is now teaming up with MOVES (Mobile Veterinary Specialists) to offer cardiology services to veterinary clinics in and around Denver. When she’s not working, she can be found hiking or running with her husband, toddler, and dog—her cat prefers to stay on the couch. (I can relate!) Also from her bio, “Dr. Bove is passionate about veterinary wellness and is a wellness/nutrition coach and certified personal trainer. She is also addicted to Jane Austen, specifically Pride & Prejudice !”

Still reading? Send me a message via our class Facebook group or on my LinkedIn (I’m not hard to find) or email (see this column’s closing paragraph) with the phrase “Zero to Three!” Bonus points if you can remember what that references.

Kudos to a classmate who responded after I embedded a phrase in my last Class Notes: Ryan McCarthy writes that he is “loving Austin with my two kids (ages 5 and 7). I stay busy biking, reading, and playing pickleball, and will hopefully start taking advantage of Lake Austin and sailing. I have been working as head of real estate at Soul Community Planet Hotels since 2018 with the vision of making the world a better place by serving those that value personal wellness, kindness, and sustainability. We currently have 10 hotels and are growing. I started training for a sailing race in June 2025 called WA360, which is in the Pacific Northwest and is a 360-mile race with one rule: no motor. The goal is to then do Race to Alaska in 2026—750 miles with one rule: no motor. Should be challenging and fun!”

To share news or a memory and get back in touch with classmates, please email either of us, visit our website , like the Class of 2001 Facebook page , join our Class of 2001 Classmates Facebook group , and/or follow us on X ( @Cornell2001 ). ❖ Nicole Neroulias Gupte ( email Nicole ) | James Gutow ( email James ) | Alumni Directory .

2002 & 2003

Autumn greetings! We don’t have any news to share from either of these classes this round. Please take a moment to let us know how you spent your summer! If you have anything you’d like to share with your class, please submit an online news form . ❖ Class of 2002 & 2003 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

We would love to hear from any classmates who attended our 20th Reunion in Ithaca in June!

What did you think of our class tour of the Cornell Veterinary Biobank? Did you make it to the cocktail hour at the Nevin Welcome Center? Did you check out your favorite spots on campus and see all that’s changed since our days on the Hill? Hopefully you had plenty of time to spend with friends old and new.

Please drop us a line to let us know about your Reunion experience, so we can share it with the class! Those who weren’t able to attend would love to live vicariously through you. ❖ Class of 2004 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

If you’re anything like me, this time of year makes you think of the start of a new semester on the Hill. What are your plans for the fall? Are any of you venturing out of town to travel? Or marking any career milestones? If you have anything you’d like to share with our class, please submit an online news form or write directly to: ❖ Hilary Johnson King ( email Hilary ) | Jessica Rosenthal Chod ( email Jessica ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, Class of 2006! Summer is in full gear as I write, bringing with it warmth, sunshine, and a lively spirit. Now, as the days grow shorter again, we hope you have soaked up the vibrant energy of the season. Amidst your professional and personal adventures, we’re excited to share the latest news with you from the class.

Shanah Segal and her husband, Amotz, are proud to be raising their two boys in New York City, “exploring new playgrounds, going to museums, and immersing ourselves in the various new popups.” Shanah has recently joined the New York Board of Directors for Postpartum Support International, where she has a platform to raise awareness around issues she helps support in her private practice as a clinical psychologist, such as mental health issues during perinatal and childbearing years. Shanah continues to volunteer for Cornell across a number of areas and hopes to visit Ithaca this year. We can’t wait for you to come back to the Big Red!

Whether you’re embarking on exciting new projects or destinations, cultivating newfound passions, or cherishing moments and milestones with loved ones, please keep the updates coming and share with the class! We’d love to hear about your favorite memories at Cornell, and what you’ve been up to lately. ❖ Kirk Greenspan, MBA ’22 ( email Kirk ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, Class of 2007! Below are some awesome updates on our classmates’ professional developments. I am so happy to be able to share them with you all. As always, my contact information is listed at the end; I love hearing from you and look forward to future updates!

Justin Dorman , a classmate of ours from the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, recently created, authored, graphically designed, and self-published 58 children’s picture books. The books’ wide-ranging topics include animals, nature, national parks, landmarks, and monuments. Fifty-two paperback and six hardcover books in all. He even features Ithaca in his  Artistic World Famous Waterfalls  book. Justin has fond memories of a backpacking trip in Arizona with Cornell Outdoor Education during spring break of junior year. Thanks for sharing, Justin! I look forward to sharing these with my little ones!

Carolyn Satenberg-Stewart shares that she is the chief people officer at a tech AI startup. She and wife Madelyn live in Sebastopol, CA. She shares that her time at Cornell has definitely had an impact on the trajectory of her life. Wishing you both the best!

Finally, Nicky Rho Rooz has joined international law firm Withers as partner. The firm has expanded its international family law team by establishing a practice in New York, which she will lead. Nicky joins Withers from Salzano Ettinger Lampert & Wilson LLP, and previously worked in the family and matrimonial law group at Blank Rome LLP for nearly a decade beforehand.

She advises on all aspects of family law, including cohabitation, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, divorce and separation, paternity actions, complex financial issues, child and spousal support, high-conflict custody disputes, and domestic violence restraining orders/orders of protection. Her clients include high-net worth and high-profile individuals, including tech sector entrepreneurs and investors.

Congrats to everyone on your accomplishments! Have more updates to share? Please feel free to reach out to me or submit online! ❖ Samantha Feibush Wolf ( email Samantha ) | Alumni Directory .

Autumn greetings! We don’t have any news to share this round. Please take a moment to let us know how you spent your summer! If you have anything you’d like to share with your class, please submit an online news form . ❖ Class of 2008 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

This June was our 15th Reunion! So much has changed on campus and in the world in the last 15 years, but it is always fun to return to “Old Cornell” and enjoy all that Ithaca has to offer. This Reunion our class had 249 alumni, partners, and children come back to the Hill to get together, reminisce, and explore all the new parts of campus. We had 163 alumni and children ranging in age from infant to 17. We stayed on West Campus, in Alice Cook House, which was nicely decorated with well over 1,000 red and white balloons! Our alumni came back from all over the U.S., and from as far as London!

Some of us were able to try the “new RPU” at Morrison Hall, and visit CTB at its new location, with ample outdoor space. We enjoyed an ice cream social, wine tour, dinner at Weill Hall and at the Johnson Museum, family Fun in the Sun, multiple tent parties, and, of course, late night Wings Over Ithaca.

We loved seeing everyone there who made it and can’t wait for our next Reunion in five short years, to see everyone again! See you then, ’09! ❖ Sara Kaleya ( email Sara ) | Alumni Directory .

Alexander Eason spends his time “reading, making money, working out, and learning piano and foreign languages.” Sadly, he shares, “our dogs, Chance and Sully, passed away, so we are remembering them and coping with those difficult emotions.” Of his time at Cornell, Alexander writes, “I was inspired being around so many overachievers and it made me want to strive hard to complete my academic/personal goals.” ❖ Michelle Sun ( email Michelle ) | Alumni Directory .

Steven True writes, “We are moving from Arizona—to England! My wife, Alice, is English, and we are moving to her childhood village with our 15-month-old son, Noah.” Congratulations and good luck, Steven! ❖ Class of 2011 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

If you’re anything like me, this time of year makes you think of the start of a new semester on the Hill. What are your plans for the fall? Are any of you venturing out of town to travel? Or marking any career milestones? If you have anything you’d like to share with our class, please submit an online news form or write directly to: ❖ Peggy Ramin ( email Peggy ) | Alumni Directory .

Veronica Yambrovich Landau shares that she married Matthew in Key West in December 2023! They are enjoying life in Central Florida and are looking forward to meeting their first child. Congratulations!

As always, if you have news to share, please email me! ❖ Rachael Schuman Fassler ( email Rachael ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, Class of 2014! I hope that many of you had fun at our 10th Reunion this past June. Although I was unable to attend, the following message was passed on to me by other class council members:

“It was so wonderful to see so many of you back on the Hill for our 10th Reunion! Almost 600 classmates attended the weekend, where we reconnected over Dinosaur BBQ, late night Wings Over, and, of course, dancing in the tents. 357 classmates made a gift in honor of our Reunion to almost 200 different areas of Cornell, totaling a class best of $252,285! We appreciate your support of our Reunion campaign and of our alma mater.

“Thank you to Reunion chairs Ashley Black and Krystal Sze for their hard work organizing the weekend, Kelly Parness Hawthorne and Dana Lerner for spearheading our Reunion campaign, and to class president Julia Buffinton for making sure the weekend was a total success!

“Save the date! Our next Reunion is June 7–10, 2029. If you’d like to get involved with planning, please contact Julia ( email Julia ).”

Outside of Reunion news, Tyler Beck and his brother, Austin Beck ’18 , BS ’17, were recently featured in a new Roku documentary series, “Dairy Diaries,” that premiered this April. This series features actress Vanessa Bayer visiting Beck Farms, where she participates in the daily life of a dairy farmer over the course of one week and five episodes. You can read more about the series in this article in Cornellians .

Please send me your news. ❖ Samantha Lapehn Young ( email Samantha ) | Alumni Directory .

Congratulations to Connor Buczek , MBA ’17, who has become head coach for the Big Red lacrosse team. Connor was a three-time All-American while an undergrad, and after graduating pursued his MBA at the Johnson School, at the same time volunteering as an assistant coach. Despite receiving an offer from a Wall Street firm, Connor decided to stay on the Hill for a full-time coaching position. He has since earned Ivy League Coach of the Year twice. Best of luck, Connor!

Rizpah Bellard has founded a company called Nova Farming, which “seeks to empower individuals with valuable knowledge about sustainable agriculture, farm and ranch management, and animal husbandry.” After seeing the widening gap between people and their food systems, Rizpah wanted to bring people into the experience of farming through educational programs and workshops. She was awarded a Fulbright in 2020 and this year was named to COWGIRL Magazine ’s 30 Under 30 list.

Congratulations are also due to  Kushagra Aniket , who published a book called  Krishna-Niti : Timeless Strategic Wisdom , which offers 11 lessons in strategy from the Indian epic the  Mahabharata . According to the book’s blurb, “The authors draw upon their extensive research into the  Mahabharata  to present this unique perspective on strategy, leadership, and crisis management, distilled from the magnificent epic of India.” ❖  Caroline Flax  ( email Caroline ) |  Mateo Acebedo  ( email Mateo ) |  Alumni Directory .

Kristin Stinavage writes, “I am excited to share my achievement of becoming a certified postpartum doula from DONA International and Relief Parenting Respite and Resource Center LLC. This certification is not just a professional milestone but a synthesis of my diverse educational and experiential journey.

“The role of a doula, deeply rooted in the ancient Greek tradition of ‘a woman who serves,’ has always resonated with me. It aligns perfectly with my hospitality background, where the essence is to provide care, comfort, and a memorable experience. This alignment has been instrumental in shaping my approach to supporting families during the transformative postpartum period.

“My education at Cornell and the Culinary Institute of America has been pivotal in my understanding of service excellence—and what hospitality means when serving a family at this point in their lives. It has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the art of showing up for others, especially in moments as intimate and life-changing as the postpartum period. This understanding has been a guiding force in my journey, allowing me to create a unique blend of emotional support, nutritional guidance, and holistic care.

“The postpartum period is more than a phase; it’s a significant transition that deserves the utmost care and attention. My skills, honed through a blend of culinary expertise and hospitality acumen, enable me to offer a level of support that transcends traditional caregiving. I view each meal as a therapeutic tool, not just for physical nourishment but as a medium for emotional healing and family bonding.

“This journey has also led me to reflect deeply on our society’s current perspectives on healthcare. It has highlighted the need for a more inclusive, nurturing approach, particularly in postpartum care. In a world where the healthcare industry is often critiqued for its clinical detachment, I see my role as a doula to bring back the human touch, empathy, and personalized care that every family deserves during such a critical time.

“As I step into this role, I carry with me the understanding that postpartum is a passage—an intimate, transformative experience that merits a communal embrace. My aim is to ensure that this journey is marked by nurturing, growth, and profound bonding for every family I support.

“With continuous learning and skill refinement, I am committed to contributing positively to the evolution of postpartum care, inspired by the wisdom of those who walked this path before me.” Thanks for sharing this fantastic news, Kristin. Classmates, it’s your turn next! ❖ Class of 2016 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Volunteering is a passion for our classmate Connor Donnelly . He writes, “In high school, I was a tutor. In undergrad at Cornell, I was an orientation leader, a Peer Advisor, a tutor through REACH Tutoring, and on the Finance Committee for GlobeMed.

“After completing undergrad, I was an AmeriCorps member for City Year Los Angeles. The following year, I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Uganda, where I served as the national director for DEAR Day, a technical trainer, and a fifth-grade teacher.

“More recently, as a graduate student at the University of Michigan, I was a nonprofit board fellow (a non-voting board member) on the Metro Detroit Salvation Army Advisory Board. I was also a student consultant for the food waste nonprofit ReFED, and the energy poverty startup in Brazil, PopLuz. I was also an Environmental Defense Fund Climate Corps Fellow for the nonprofit Sustainable Jersey.”

Thanks for all you do, Connor! Classmates, what are you up to these days? We’d love to hear from you! ❖ Class of 2017 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Rhia Jarvis writes, “I got engaged to Adam Wegman! We rotated in the same lab for our PhDs and struck it off just as the pandemic started. It’s nice to think that good things also came of COVID!”

Osei Boateng , MHA ’20, writes, “I serve as the founder of the OKB Hope Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to delivering free healthcare services to remote and underserved communities scattered across Ghana. Through our pioneering mobile medical unit, we bring one-on-one consultations, essential medications, and diagnostic services directly to the doorsteps of those who need it most. Since introducing our health van, we’ve touched the lives of over 5,000 individuals spanning 55 rural communities.

“Beyond our medical services, we are actively engaged in mental health education and support initiatives within high schools across Ghana through the Wohohiame Wellness Initiative. Since the inception of this program, we’ve extended mental health assistance to more than 3,000 students across six high schools.

“Our impactful work has garnered recognition from distinguished platforms such as the CNN Heroes program and the Global Health Solutions Initiative. These accolades stand as a testament to the relentless efforts of our team and the positive strides we’ve made in enhancing healthcare accessibility and mental health awareness throughout Ghana.” ❖ Class of 2018 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, Class of 2019! I hope you have had a wonderful summer so far. Thank you to all of you who joined us at Reunion this past June! It was wonderful to get back in touch with so many old friends and get to know so many new ones. For those of you who didn’t join us, we look forward to seeing you at the 10th in 2029!

In the meantime, your class council has been at work to start planning some 2019 events! Keep an eye out, especially as we head toward the Frozen Apple hockey game this November. As always, if you have any news to share with the class, please submit it through our online form! ❖ Troy Anderson ( email Troy ) | Alumni Directory .

Peter de Lande Long writes, “My expertise lies at the intersection of design and wellbeing, with research demonstrating how well-designed spaces can significantly reduce anxiety and depression, enhance focus and concentration, and cultivate a strong community sense. This foundation led to the creation of DormAlgo, an initiative focused on reimagining student housing.

“DormAlgo is designed to provide scalable, cost-effective solutions to improve student living environments. Our approach transcends aesthetics; we are dedicated to enhancing students’ lifestyles and wellbeing, creating spaces that are not just functional, but also personalized and comforting—a true home away from home.” ❖ Class of 2020 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Autumn greetings! We don’t have any news to share from these classes this round. Please take a moment to let us know how you spent your summer! If you have anything you’d like to share with your class, please submit an online news form . ❖ Class of 2021–23 ( email c/o Alexandra Bond ’12 ) | Alumni Directory .

Agriculture and Life Sciences

Jim Eckblad , PhD ’71 , writes, “I volunteer through the Decorah (IA) Lions Club to sort and read eyeglass prescriptions on donated eyeglasses. The glasses are then available to travel with mission groups to developing nations, where they are made available to individuals who wouldn’t be able to afford the cost of prescription glasses.”

Lee Basevin Kass ,  PhD ’75 , is an adjunct professor in the plant breeding and genetics section at Cornell and an adjunct professor at West Virginia University in Morgantown. Lee has completed a new biography of Cornellian and Nobel laureate  Barbara McClintock 1923 ,  PhD 1927 . The book is titled  From Chromosomes to Mobile Genetic Elements : The Life and Work of Nobel Laureate Barbara McClintock . It is published by CRC/Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group.

Mariella Fourli , MS ’97 , writes, “In 2008 I created an NGO called Microsfere, whose purpose is to promote biodiversity conservation and rural development in communities in West Africa. We have an ongoing project in Ghana, in collaboration with rural communities around Kakum National Park. The involved communities have benefited from initiatives such as microfinance, capacity-building, promotion of micro-enterprises compatible with biodiversity conservation, and children’s libraries; our main focus in the last few years has been on supporting energy-efficient cooking stoves, which have clear benefits in terms of CO2 emissions, deforestation, and women’s health. Overall, more than 600 families have been participating in our projects.”

Timothy Shaffer , PhD ’14 , writes, “I’m leading a civil discourse effort at the University of Delaware’s Biden School called the SNF Ithaca Initiative. As the director and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Chair of Civil Discourse, I have the opportunity to introduce students to more constructive ways of engaging across difference through classes, workshops, and other experiential learning opportunities. Annually, we invite about 100 students from around the country to the SNF Ithaca National Student Dialogue.”

Kirsten Kurtz , MS ’21 ’s artwork was featured at an art show that was held in Ithaca by the Community Arts Partnership and Tompkins Food Future. Kirsten is the manager of Cornell Soil Health Laboratory in the School of Integrated Plant Science. The art show also featured the works of several other artists from CALS within the theme of “Picturing a Resilient, Equitable, and Healthy Food Future.” The artwork was displayed throughout the month of June.

Architecture, Art, and Planning

Tom Stack , MArch ’98 , was recently promoted to studio director for the private sector architecture group at H2M Architects + Engineers, headquartered in Melville, NY. The group is currently engaged with real estate development companies designing mixed-use and multi-family projects. Tom and his wife reside on the North Shore of Long Island, NY, and enjoy spending time with their children. They recently welcomed the addition of their fourth grandchild.

Caitlin McCarthy , MArch ’20 , and Jordan Young , MArch ’20 , had their proposal for BUILDFest 2024 selected to be built as one of three permanent, large-scale art installations at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, where the grounds of the 1969 Woodstock festival was. Construction will begin this summer. BUILDFest is a five-day festival where accepted participants work with student teams to install their designs on-site. Once completed, the installations will be enjoyed during the Catbird Music Festival.

Arts and Sciences

Garth Drozin , GR ’78–81 , retired in March 2023 from a career as a trial attorney and judge in Los Angeles to return to his beloved music composition . Garth lectured on composition to doctoral composition students and professors at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, China, in April 2024. While in Beijing, he received a commission to compose a piece for a professional Chinese orchestra, and he completed that piece in June 2024; it will premiere in Beijing later this year. On October 8, 2024, the Singing Statesmen will perform his men’s choral piece “Loveliest of Trees” at Arkansas State University. His big band jazz piece “Sutch As It Is” will be performed by the Cerritos College Jazz Band in their fall 2024 concert. In October 2023, Garth conducted and sang with the Voice of Love Chorus Los Angeles, an all-Chinese-American chorus of 60 voices, in concert.

Susan Brewer , PhD ’91 , wrote a book titled The Best Land : Four Hundred Years of Love and Betrayal on Oneida Territory that will be published on October 15, 2024. In it, she recounts the story of the parcel of Central New York land on which she grew up. Susan and her family had worked and lived on this land for generations when the Oneida Indian Nation claimed that it rightfully belonged to them. From here she tells the land’s story through the lens of two families—her own European settler family and the Oneida/Mohawk family of Polly Denny—who called the land home. The Brewer and Denny families took part in imperial wars, the American Revolution, broken treaties, the building of the Erie Canal, Native removal, the rise and decline of family farms, bitter land claims controversies, and the revival of the Oneida Indian Nation. As she makes clear in The Best Land , through centuries of violence, bravery, greed, generosity, racism, and love, the lives of the Brewer and Denny families were profoundly intertwined.

Trenton Cladouhos , PhD ’93 , has been a geologist for around 35 years. For the last 16 years, he has been working on geothermal energy, a clean renewable that could “transform the U.S. energy landscape,” according to the Department of Energy. Trenton was featured in a video by TLS Geothermics describing his field of work and gave a talk earlier this year at the 49th Stanford Geothermal Workshop about what is needed to advance the field.

Scott Rosenzweig , MBA ’91 , is running for office in the Montana State House of Representatives, House District 57, to represent Bozeman, Gallatin, and Park counties. Scott’s previous career was working in satellite communications before he was inspired to run for state office.

Ronald Smith , MBA ’94 , writes, “My wife and I founded Friends of St. Kizito Rubuguri Primary School , a nonprofit organization, after visiting St. Kizito Rubuguri Primary School in Rubuguri, Uganda, twice within a three-month span, starting in October 2022. We decided to create a nonprofit to raise awareness and support for the school.”

Nikita Gossain , MBA ’20 , writes, “I began my career at KPMG, where I found fulfillment in the work but sought a deeper impact. Inspired by this drive, I ventured into entrepreneurship after my time at Cornell. Now, as the owner of my three businesses and in the early stages of building a private equity firm, I’ve committed to allocating 50% of all earnings to impactful charities such as Malaria Consortium, Helen Keller International, and New Incentives. While my primary focus is on leveraging my skills in mergers and acquisitions to accumulate financial resources for impactful giving, I am deeply involved in volunteering and community engagement. I actively participate in the Effective Altruism movement, advocating for evidence-based solutions and contributing policy change submissions. Additionally, I mentor girls from my high school, aiming to empower more women to enter the business world. I dedicate time to volunteering at orphanages in India, recognizing the importance of direct action in making a difference. I am also currently working on a project similar to the Soft White Underbelly YouTube channel, utilizing storytelling to shed light on important societal issues. I believe in the power of blending business acumen with a strong sense of social responsibility. As I continue to build my private equity firm, I am driven by the vision of creating lasting, positive change, both through business success and meaningful contributions to the community.”

Pearl Phillips , MBA ’21 , writes, “I chaired this year’s event committee for the Susan G. Komen Impact Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd Street on March 13. I reached out to my fellow alumni and current students in the executive MBA/MS in healthcare and I am humbled to say many answered the call. Our committee is now exclusively composed of EMBA/MS students, including a couple of us who are breast cancer survivors. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Susan G. Komen organization and help to drive advancements in breast cancer care and research.”

Jacob Tannenbaum , MPS ’21 , founded the nonprofit Life After Life Foundation to bring parks to the communities and environments that need help most. The foundation is working to close on their first abandoned brownfield property to begin its remediation and rehabilitation into biodiverse green space for nature-deprived communities.

Pedro Escobar , MBA ’23 , writes, “My engagement with the Student DREAMers Alliance, a vibrant segment of the Hispanic Alliance of South Carolina, is more than a volunteer effort—it is a commitment to the future. I mentor a high school student named Edwin, whose ambition is to get into college, master the English language, and carve a niche for himself in the STEM industry. In a candid video , I delve into the value of education, the significance of breaking down barriers, and how my experiences at Cornell have shaped my approach to mentorship and service. The intersection of my academic background and the mission of the Hispanic Alliance of South Carolina has fueled my passion for this cause. Contributing to a world where educational equity is not just a dream but a reality is essential. By supporting Edwin, I am helping to lay down the stepping stones for his success, just as my path was paved by the transformative education I received. Together, we are not just dreaming of a brighter future—we are actively constructing it. Our journey is chronicled on the Hispanic Alliance’s website , which showcases the unique bond we have developed and the mutual growth we have experienced.”

Engineering

Anima Anandkumar ,  MS ’08 ,  PhD ’09 , gave a TED Talk on “ AI that connects the digital and physical worlds ” in April 2024. “While language models may help generate new ideas, they cannot attack the hard part of science, which is simulating the necessary physics,” says Anima. She explains how her team developed neural operators that are AI trained on fine details to bridge this gap. Anima shares some of her recent projects that have stemmed from her developments, including improved weather forecasting and medical device designs. Anima is the Bren Professor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences at Caltech.

Human Ecology

Kristine DeLuca , MA ’19 , writes, “I spent my entire career working in the nonprofit sector—mostly in student development in higher education, with a brief stint as a director for a county department dedicated to providing services for underemployed and unemployed residents of that county. My expertise in providing career services centered around careers in nonprofits, government, and teaching, and I now run programs that provide funding to students committed to providing servant leadership, service, and research for the betterment of communities. I also have volunteered for many nonprofit boards. Currently, I serve as president of the board of directors for the Learning Web, an agency that provides a continuum of care to Tompkins County youth—providing apprenticeships and mentorships for all, as well as supportive services for unhoused youth up to age 24. I’ve served on this board for the past eight years, seven as president.”

Cindy Rodríguez , MPA ’19 , is excited to share that she is Vermont Public’s new senior vice president of people and culture. Vermont Public is an independent, community-supported media organization created in 2021 from the merger of Vermont Public Radio and Vermont PBS. It provides news, music, and educational programming through various platforms and is funded primarily by member donations. Outside of work, Cindy has been enjoying travel and spending time with her family and friends. She recently checked a place off her bucket list—Berlin, Germany—and also traveled to Sydney, Australia.

Samantha Corkern , MPA ’23 , co-founded the Walisha Foundation in an effort to reduce food insecurity in East Africa. From the organization’s website: “Our journey began with a clear vision: to empower smallholder farmers and young graduates, catalyzing a shift toward sustainable agricultural practices. We recognize the pivotal role of wheat and maize in securing food sources across Africa, and our mission is to empower farmers to achieve a hunger-free Africa.”

Jeff Mausner , JD ’76 , has been volunteering in various aspects of animal welfare since his retirement from practicing law in 2012. Jeff has received recognition for his work several times, including receiving a Special Commendation from the California Legislature in 2024, the Guardian of the Animals Award from In Defense of Animals in 2023, and the “best of” award from the Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils in 2017 for his volunteer work saving the lives of thousands of dogs, cats, and other animals and improving animal shelter conditions.

Dan Emery , JD ’80 , writes, “I am cutting back my law practice, but continue doing public benefits work and some pro bono work, and participate in and support nonprofits. I have been on the board of Pine Tree Legal Assistance, Maine’s civil legal aid group, for almost 10 years, and spent the past three as board chair. This is very rewarding work, and I trace my interest to two years in the Law School’s Legal Aid Clinic. I am also a water reporter for Friends of Casco Bay, providing photo evidence of phenomena like algae blooms, erosion, and sea level rise. I took some environmental law at the Law School and have retained that interest. I am grateful for the education I received at the Law School, which has allowed me to pursue a rewarding career and other interests including the above.”

Russell Yankwitt , JD ’96 , celebrated his law firm’s 15th anniversary. Started in his kitchen at a folding table with one employee, Yankwitt LLP has turned into a 20-plus-employee boutique law firm in Westchester County, NY. This year, Russell was honored with Pace University’s Westchester Changemakers Award, which pays tribute to outstanding individuals who have contributed significantly to the advancement of Westchester County. He has also been selected by Super Lawyers as a Top 10 attorney in New York this year, which will be formally announced in October. Russell also has the only Westchester-based law firm ranked in Chambers and Partners, one of the most respected resources in the legal industry. He is also the honoree of this year’s Legal Services of the Hudson Valley Equal Access to Justice Awards Dinner and serves on the Federal Bar Council Executive Committee as treasurer.

Lou Guard ,  JD ’12 , co-wrote a book titled  All the Campus Lawyers : Litigation, Regulation, and the New Era of Higher Education  that made the  New Yorker  “Best Books of 2024” list. The book traces the legal controversies affecting college and university campuses, including issues of free speech, affirmative action, and Title IX on college campuses. Lou is currently an adjunct professor of law on the Hill. A signed copy of the book was added to the Cornelliana collection in the University Library.

Welcome to our newest offering: Group Notes! Like Class Notes, these columns are written by alumni, but they comprise news about members of Cornell groups—including campus activities, alumni organizations, and more—across generations. If you would like to see your group represented here, email us for more information!

Continuous Reunion Club

We Continuous Reunion Club members experience our Reunions in many varied ways. Happily, two of our members wrote reports of the weekend’s events for us to enjoy.

First, we have a report from Connie Santagato Hosterman ’57 : Reunion 2024 brought the Continuous Reunion Club members back to the sky lounge of High Rise 5 for their headquarters. We made great use of the lounge for our continental breakfasts and our interesting late-night discussions. Dot Preisner Valachovic ’71 and I arrived early on Wednesday to assist our CRC clerk, grad student Irene Xu , JD ’22 , and the three non-Reunion year (NRY) clerks, Suha, Chloe, and Elana, in the transformation of the bland sixth-floor lobby into a bright, decorated, lively spot. The four clerks quickly bonded and enhanced the initial welcome of all who came to register.

Did we CRC members entice some of the NRY attendees to join us? Of course! By noon on Thursday our CRC president, Melinda Dower ’78 , and vice president Pat Reilly ’78 , accompanied by her husband, had arrived. Soon the ice was in place, so out from the locked “booze room” came beverages and munchies. Let the fun begin!

The highlight for CRC members this year was a visit to William “Buck” Briggs ’76 ’s singular treasure of Cornell and Ithaca memorabilia. There was the bar from the Royal Palm, complete with barstools! There was the lit neon sign from Joe’s! There were lit neon signs from The Rose! There were pieces of bowling lanes from a long defunct Ithaca bowling arena where a band could perch! A large sign obtained from Sam Gould’s Collegetown Store hung from the ceiling. Every way we turned, we saw more and more artifacts from bygone years.

Buck admitted to often being at the right place at the right time and even dumpster-diving at demolition sites to find these treasures. He knows “guys” who help him retrieve and restore his many, many items. There were significant photos, paintings, and old prints as well. Seeing Buck’s amazing collections was truly a nostalgic trip through time.

Dinosaur BBQ catered our Saturday night supper under a tent, perfect for this year’s changeable weather. We had plenty of time to head to Bailey Hall for Cornelliana Night and then to the tents. The evening wrapped up with great camaraderie in our sky lounge headquarters. The next morning, we scattered to our homes, leaving with these heartfelt words: “See you next year!”

And now, a report from John Cecilia ’70 , MBA ’79: One of the great advantages of CRC is the freedom to do many varied things at Reunion, as the group plans only a few special CRC events. This leaves time for exploration of all the various presentations, breakfasts, and more done by schools and organizations in the broad university. But with that freedom to explore the plethora of activities comes the possibility of trying to do too many things at Reunion, and not having enough time or energy. This year I may have overwhelmed myself with too much!

One of the great advantages of CRC is the freedom to do many varied things at Reunion. John Cecilia ’70, MBA ’79

2024 was the 45th Reunion of my Johnson School MBA program. Being retired, and not being a practicing corporado anymore, very few of the Johnson activities were of much interest. In fact, prior to arriving in Ithaca, I had planned only to be at the class picture-taking session for individual Johnson classes. In addition, only three individual classmates, including me, attended! One of the others was an old acquaintance, and an undergrad from another university, and had little knowledge of the breadth of activities a Cornell Reunion offers. So she and I joined forces, and off we went.

One very interesting advantage was the fact that an old undergrad roommate and his Cornellian wife were the registrars for their Class of ’69 Reunion and gave me some leeway to attend some of their events. OMG, more choices to make! So what transpired was a collection of events that had us running around the campus, from the bottom of the hill at West Campus to the far reaches of North Campus and beyond, and missing some special CRC events.

But we did a lot, some of which is mentioned here! A wine tasting with retired Johnson professor Joe Thomas. A quiet late meal at the Statler. A sumptuous breakfast and interesting talks (and stuff) with the Sibley School (mechanical engineering) at its 150th birthday. Being at President Martha Pollack’s last State of the University address and being witnesses to the mini-protest and her very smooth handling of same during her talk. Attending CRC member Andrea Strongwater ’70 ’s Nabokov butterfly event with children. Standing in line to purchase mementos at the Cornell Store. A marvelous stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Cornelliana Night (up close!). The tents. And an impromptu farewell breakfast at the Ithaca Bakery before we began our individual journeys home.

For my graduate school companion, I believe it was an eye-opening weekend, experiencing the breadth and depth of alumni activity available at Cornell Reunions, along with the impossibility of seeing and doing everything! She does intend to join the Continuous Reunion Club, so we can do this every year!

Thanks to our two roving reporters for their accounts! ❖ Connie Santagato Hosterman ’57 ( email Connie ) | John Cecilia ’70, MBA ’79 ( email John ) | Alumni Directory .

Hello, fellow Cornell fencers, and welcome to Group Notes! I’m excited to introduce this new column to share our alumni’s journeys, both personal and professional, while highlighting the latest on the team.

If we haven’t met, I’m Adam Kirsch ’15 , MBA ’16. Like many of you, Cornell fencing was an integral part of my college experience. While I spend most of my time now working as a consultant advising companies on mergers and acquisitions, I still enjoy breaking out the blades when I can and look forward to returning to the competitive fencing scene in fall 2024. I recently returned from a vacation to the United Kingdom, where my family and I worked with local archivists to trace our heritage to a small town in the English countryside, finding the pub operated by my ancestors still standing!

It seems like just yesterday we were all enjoying each other’s company in Ithaca at our annual Alumni Weekend and Spring Awards Dinner! There was a lot to celebrate—including the men’s team’s club national championship (for more, see the Cornell Chronicle story here , which features Gabriel Montalvo-Zotter ’24 , Riley Xian ’25 , and Max Dolmetsch ’25 ). It made the banquet even more special to recognize this team while commemorating the 2004 national champions—represented in Ithaca by Matt Herndon ’04 , Mike Klinger ’06 , Frank Castelli ’05 , PhD ’17, Jason Lin ’04 , and James Morris ’05 .

Matt now resides in State College, PA, and serves on the Borough Council, where he focuses on safer streets, housing affordability, sustainability, and inclusion. Mike traveled to sunny Ithaca from Honolulu, HI, where he works as a civil rights attorney and has recently declined two requests to play bass in a Toad the Wet Sprocket cover band. Dr. Castelli, a longtime Ithaca resident, left the familiar grounds of East Hill to take a new role at Atlanta’s Georgia State University.

I still enjoy breaking out the blades when I can and look forward to returning to the competitive fencing scene in fall 2024. Adam Kirsch ’15, MBA ’16

Also recognized were a number of scholar-athletes: the Graeme Jennings Award went to Molly Veerkamp ’24 and Gabe Montalvo-Zotter ’24; the Scholar Athlete of the Year for the third year in a row was Emma Ni ’25 ; the Georges Cointe Award went to two athletes with endless spirit and energy, Lucas Lutar ’25 and Isabela Carvalho ’27 ; with Patrick’s parents both in attendance, the Patrick DeNeale Award went to Riley Xian ’25 and Sterre Hoogendoorn ’24 ; and the Outstanding Athlete of the Year Awards went to Ketki Ketkar ’26 in epee and Langston Johnson ’27 in sabre.

Notably, Ketki won the NCAA Regional this season in commanding fashion. She earned bronze at NCAA Nationals and closed out the season as an All-American! Ketki is the first fencer to accomplish this feat since Victoria Wines ’17 . Since graduating from Boston College Law School in 2022, Vicki has served as the U.S. compliance lead at McGill and Partners.

Alan Petroff ’74 joined us from Huntsville, AL—bringing with him a wide selection of Yellowhammer beers from his home state! Alan’s Heroes Project, an effort to capture the stories and signatures of the greatest fencers in Cornell’s history, has brought many alumni back into the fold while paying tribute to the rich past of our fencing program.

Doug Herz ’73 coordinated a well-attended alumni meetup in Boston. We’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in organizing an alumni meetup in your home city.

Let us know what you’re up to! To be featured in Group Notes, email your update to: ❖ Adam Kirsch ’15 , MBA ’16 ( email Adam ) | Alumni Directory .

University Chorus & Glee Club

’Tis the summer of reuniting our favorite Cornell singers, from Reunion itself to meetups and joint trips elsewhere around the globe.

From what I heard about Reunion, the weather wasn’t the best, but the camaraderie was wonderful. Adam Juran ’94 , BA ’21, wrote, “It was so much fun making music again after 30 years! Don’t think we should wait so long before doing that again.” Chuck Walter ’99 posted a lovely video of the Chorus singing “The Hill” on the Glee Club Facebook page , to which TP Enders ’90 , ME ’96, commented, “I was thinking as this was going on, that sitting on the Bailey stage, surrounded by ‘The Hill’ being sung in earnest, and looking out over a dimly lit, spellbound audience, must surely be the very pinnacle of the Reunion experience. I’m glad you captured this exquisite moment. Nice to see you, Chuck, and the rest of you 4 and 9 hooligans. Looking forward to a proper 0 and 5 event next year after 2020’s was derailed.” I, too, am looking forward to my much-delayed 25th (aka my 30th) next year (June 5–8, 2025—save the date!) and hope to see many of my Chorus and Glee Club friends in attendance!

It was so much fun making music again after 30 years! Don’t think we should wait so long before doing that again. Adam Juran ’94, BA ’21

In mid-June, after our kids finished school, Esther Cohen Bezborodko ’94 and I took our families to a beautiful Airbnb adjacent to a lovely beach on the Chesapeake Bay right outside of Virginia Beach. It was a glorious four days with three adults, five kids, and a puppy, and everyone had a blast. Esther’s son had his bar mitzvah in May, and her youngest daughter will have hers in November. The family recently moved to North Riverdale (from South Riverdale) and love it there. Performance wise, Esther is now studying with Erik Nelson Werner, and she and her children recently performed in a gala benefit for their local theater featuring lots of Broadway luminaries—a great experience all around, she said.

Steve Engelbrecht ’01 spent the summer in Geneva, Switzerland, with his family. His kids (Alex, 8, Nora, 7, and Steven, 4) were enrolled in a bilingual summer camp and he and his wife were taking French lessons. They had posted some pictures on Facebook and got a reply from Michael Banino ’94 , BA ’95, who lives in Jakarta with his wife, Morgan, and son Finch, 5, but his sister lives in Geneva and they visit every summer. Steve writes, “We were able to work out a get-together at a local place for some delicious local cuisine, a stroll through the Vieille Ville, and a ride on the Ferris wheel in this beautiful city!”

Your updates are music to my ears—please keep them coming! Until we meet again. ❖ Alison Torrillo French ’95 ( email Alison ) | Alumni Directory .

Top image: Photo by Noël Heaney / Cornell University

Published September 1, 2024