Alumni events, spring 2012

Commerce takes Manhattan

by Kim Williams

The Texas A&M University-Commerce wind ensemble and chorale performed in February at the world famous Carnegie Hall in New York City in the Distinguished Concerts International New York's “Deep in the Heart of Texas.”

The concert included music by composers David Maslanka, Justin Freer, Andrew Bleckner, Anton Bruckner as well as a newly commissioned work by David Sampson entitled Legend, and featured works by Dr. Brian Zator on Bradley Bodine's exciting new work, Kaleidoscope, for Marimba and Wind Ensemble as well as Jennifer Sanchez, soprano, on James Syler's Symphony No. 1 (Blue) for Chorus and Wind Ensemble.

This was the first visit to Carnegie Hall since the mid 1990's.
The concert audience included alumni from across the country, President Dan Jones and his family, and residents from New York and surrounding areas.

Performance photos by Nan Melville

Alumni Awards Gala

The A&M-Commerce Alumni Association recognized six esteemed alumni at the annual alumni awards gala held in April. Receiving the Gold Blazer award, Dr. James Randy McBroom and Ron Skrasek were honored for their service to the alumni association and to the university. Receiving the Distinguished Alumni award, Dan W. Bobst, Judge Hilda Tagle, James Thrower and Dr. Larry Walker were honored for their professional achievements.

Gamma Phi Beta Reunion

Gamma Phi Beta celebrated their 50-year reunion in March. The weekend was filled with a cocktail reception, campus tours, and a formal banquet. Gamma Phi Beta also had the pleasure of inducting new sisters into their chapter from Tooanoowe, a women's social club previously on campus.

Young Alumni Networking

Lions gathered for the first Young Alumni Network event Feb. 16 at the Flying Saucer in Garland, Texas. Participants enjoyed an evening of food, fun, and most importantly, networking. The Young Alumni Network was created to keep recent graduates connected to A&M-Commerce through social and professional development events.