Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
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donna frazier '93​
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Donna Frazier’s journey with SUNY Orange began in 1977, shortly after she graduated from Eldred High School in Sullivan County, NY. Drawn to the college’s Physical Education and Recreation program and a robust women’s sports program, Donna was an active athlete, playing both softball and basketball. Alongside her teammates, she lived above Diana’s Restaurant in Middletown, NY—a residence managed by Mary Diana, a beloved college employee who advocated for a women’s athletic program in 1954 and served as a mentor to many student-athletes.
Donna’s career path took a new direction in 1984 when she joined Fishkill Health Center as a Certified Nursing Aide, specializing in Alzheimer’s care. She soon transitioned to the activities department, where she served as the Coordinator of Activities on the “MIND” unit (Maintaining Independence in Neurocognitive Disorders), solidifying her commitment to supporting individuals with cognitive challenges. Encouraged by her facility’s leadership to advance her career, Donna explored SUNY Orange’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, balancing studies with full-time work. She graduated in 1993 and went on to earn her Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy from Dominican College in 1998, later becoming the Regional Rehab Director for Elant.
In 2004, Donna returned to SUNY Orange as an adjunct instructor in the OTA program. Her passion for teaching grew, and with encouragement from her mentor, Flo Hannes, she pursued the OTA department chair role. By 2018, with an MA in Public Policy and a certificate in Healthcare Management, she stepped into this leadership position. Today, Donna is honored to serve as OTA chair and is a valued member of the college’s 75th Anniversary Committee.
Donna’s contributions have been recognized through her induction into the SUNY Orange Colts Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Orange County Women of Achievement award in 2015. Reflecting on her journey, Donna expresses gratitude for the many people who have influenced her path, from mentors to colleagues and students. Donna says that support from her family was instrumental as she took her journey. She lives by the quote from George Washington Carver: “How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong, because someday in your life you will have been all of these.”
Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
Michelle Tubbs '95​
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"The experience I had at SUNY Orange as a student far surpassed my student experience at any other academic institution I attended, and is a big part of why I returned to the family as an instructor!"
Meet Michelle Tubbs, a proud SUNY Orange graduate whose journey at the college began in the Fall of 1993. Following in her father’s footsteps—a professor in the Accounting and Computer Information Systems Department—Michelle embraced the educational opportunities available at SUNY Orange. Initially, she pursued an Elementary Education major, but soon discovered a passion for math that would shape her future.
While at SUNY Orange, Michelle took on a role as a math tutor in the Tutorial Center. It was this experience, working closely with students, that solidified her decision to become a math educator. In the Spring of 1995, she graduated with a degree in Liberal Arts, with a concentration in Math and Science.
Reflecting on her time at SUNY Orange, Michelle shared, “The experience I had at SUNY Orange as a student far surpassed my student experience at any other academic institution I attended, and is a big part of why I returned to the family as an instructor!” Inspired by the supportive and dynamic learning environment she encountered as a student, Michelle decided to return to her alma mater—this time, as an educator—to share her passion for math and contribute to the academic community that shaped her.
Today, Michelle is more than just an alumna; she’s a vital part of the SUNY Orange family. Her story is a testament to the lasting impact that a nurturing educational environment can have, and she continues to inspire the next generation of students with her dedication and enthusiasm for learning.
Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
Michele Terracino '96​
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"It makes me feel proud to have been a part of their journey."
Michele Terracino’s connection to SUNY Orange and the Radiologic Technology program runs deep within her family. Her brother and sister-in-law were members of the very first graduating class in 1991, and Michele followed in their footsteps, earning her degree in Radiologic Technology in 1996.
In 2003, Michele returned to SUNY Orange as an adjunct clinical instructor, sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of students. Her role expanded in 2009 when she began teaching in the labs as an adjunct instructor. Michele’s dedication to the program led to a temporary full-time position in the fall of 2015, and by 2017, she achieved full-time tenure.
When asked if it feels strange to work under one of her former students, Michele proudly responds, "No, it makes me feel proud to have been a part of their journey." Her story reflects not only her personal success but also her impact on the careers of countless students who have followed in her footsteps.
Michele’s journey, from student to educator, highlights the lasting influence of SUNY Orange’s Radiologic Technology program and her commitment to fostering the success of future healthcare professionals.​
Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
As a soon-to-graduate High School Senior, with few options based on my less than excellent grades, I attended SUNY Orange as my big sister Kimberly '91 did four years before me and as my mother Barbara '85 did as an adult with two young children. Since I was not as well prepared as my honor roll sister or single mother was, I had to enroll in a remedial writing class during my first semester. Embarrassed and regretful of not working harder in High School and only after a few years passed, did I see my rocky start at SUNY Orange as a blessing. I excelled and ultimately graduated in December of 1996 with an Associates in Science degree. I then transferred to SUNY Albany with every credit being accepted and graduating with a Bachelors in Arts degree in Biology with minors in Math, Chemistry, Physics, and English. My path led me through working as an EMT with Mohawk Ambulance in Albany NY, a Chemist at BMS Clairol in Stamford CT, a Professional Firefighter IAFF 1027, NYS Code Enforcement Official, Teacher, to my favorite two jobs, a Husband and a Father. I was hired by the City of Middletown in 2000 as a Professional Firefighter and was promoted to Fire Inspector in 2009. I believe that giving back to the Community’s that we live and work in are crucial. I sat on the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Pastoral Advisory Council, am a member of the City of Middletown Enlarged School District Safety Committee, Chairman of the City of Middletown Republican Committee, any many more community involvements, and currently sit on the SUNY Orange Foundation as a member of the Board of Directors. I started at SUNY Orange with the mind-set that I am lucky that Orange County Community College took me in as a student, and look back today, a few years after paying back my student loans, with a large debt of gratitude that needs to be paid back with interest. SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life. I now live in the Town of Mount Hope, NY with my amazing wife Ashley and our two daughters Addison Rose and Amelia Grace and hope that they will be able to see that a local Community College is what changed my life. I am proud to add that I am a member of the SUNY Orange Foundation and the new Alumni Committee Chairman. Being an advocate for such a great organization is a fitting honor.
robert capano '93
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"My experiences here allowed me to pursue my dreams of getting involved in politics and government."
Robert Capano’s journey began at SUNY Orange (Orange County Community College) in 1991 as a shy kid from Brooklyn, but it was his time here that ignited his passion for politics and government. “When I arrived at OCCC, I was a shy kid from Brooklyn,” he recalls. “My experiences here allowed me to pursue my dreams of getting involved in politics and government.”
During his time at OCCC, Robert was deeply involved with student government, serving first as a freshman senator and later as treasurer. He credits the mentorship of Tom Goetz, the former student activities director, as pivotal in his growth and success. “Tom’s mentorship, friendship, and leadership have always been at the forefront of my mind throughout my life,” Robert shares. He also fondly remembers the support from staff members Nona Lavorgna and Karen Reid, whom he saw every day. “The student activities office staff were always there for me. They were the first and last people I saw each day, and I am forever grateful for their support.”
Robert’s career has been marked by many accomplishments, including running for both New York City Council and New York State Assembly, and serving in senior-level positions for two Members of Congress. Today, he considers it a profound honor to return to OCCC—not as a student, but as an instructor in the very department that shaped his career aspirations. “This semester, it has been the honor of a lifetime to return to OCCC as an instructor in the political science department,” he says.
Reflecting on his experience, Robert notes the lasting impact that OCCC had on his life. “Without OCCC and its transformational experience on me, I do not know if this would have happened,” he admits. Even after 31 years, the atmosphere on campus still resonates with him. “It’s funny because I still remember that OCCC country air (it is different from Brooklyn!!) that I first breathed almost 31 years ago. Coming back to OCCC this semester, it felt the same!”
Robert Capano’s story is a testament to the life-changing experiences that can happen at OCCC, showing that with the right support and opportunities, a shy freshman can transform into a confident leader, educator, and community servant.
Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
Adam James McCarey '98
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"SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life."
As a soon-to-graduate High School Senior, with few options based on my less than excellent grades, I attended SUNY Orange as my big sister Kimberly '91 did four years before me and as my mother Barbara '85 did as an adult with two young children. Since I was not as well prepared as my honor roll sister or single mother was, I had to enroll in a remedial writing class during my first semester. Embarrassed and regretful of not working harder in High School and only after a few years passed, did I see my rocky start at SUNY Orange as a blessing. I excelled and ultimately graduated in December of 1996 with an Associates in Science degree. I then transferred to SUNY Albany with every credit being accepted and graduating with a Bachelors in Arts degree in Biology with minors in Math, Chemistry, Physics, and English. My path led me through working as an EMT with Mohawk Ambulance in Albany NY, a Chemist at BMS Clairol in Stamford CT, a Professional Firefighter IAFF 1027, NYS Code Enforcement Official, Teacher, to my favorite two jobs, a Husband and a Father. I was hired by the City of Middletown in 2000 as a Professional Firefighter and was promoted to Fire Inspector in 2009. I believe that giving back to the Community’s that we live and work in are crucial. I sat on the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Pastoral Advisory Council, am a member of the City of Middletown Enlarged School District Safety Committee, Chairman of the City of Middletown Republican Committee, any many more community involvements, and currently sit on the SUNY Orange Foundation as a member of the Board of Directors. I started at SUNY Orange with the mind-set that I am lucky that Orange County Community College took me in as a student, and look back today, a few years after paying back my student loans, with a large debt of gratitude that needs to be paid back with interest. SUNY Orange not only prepared me for the seamless transfer to a 4-year University but prepared me for life. I now live in the Town of Mount Hope, NY with my amazing wife Ashley and our two daughters Addison Rose and Amelia Grace and hope that they will be able to see that a local Community College is what changed my life. I am proud to add that I am a member of the SUNY Orange Foundation and the new Alumni Committee Chairman. Being an advocate for such a great organization is a fitting honor.
Linda Nilon '94 & '96
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"SUNY Orange has been a constant in my life and I'm grateful for their curriculum, well rounded classes, and first class professors."
I attended SUNY Orange right out of high school and earned an Associate in Arts degree in Accounting in 1994. I started part-time with a local bank after graduation and was promoted to a full-time position doing accounting work for their trust department. The degree I earned played a large role in obtaining the position. It wasn't long before the creative side of me had the urge to go back to school for my real passion which was, and still is, art. I enrolled again in SUNY Orange and earned a second Associate in Arts degree in Art in 1996. It was in my first Art History class, taught by Susan Slater-Tanner, that I realized I wanted to go further. I continued my education and went on to earn a BA in Art History (minor in Museum Studies) at SUNY New Paltz. Both degrees from SUNY Orange were pivotal in the learning and discovery of myself. Although I did not get a job with a museum I went on to start a business doing furniture upholstery and interior design and the art background played a huge role in my day to day inspiration. Most recently I've decided to pursue my MS in Child Psychology - it's never too late to reinvent yourself. The first class I took was a prerequisite I needed and I took that class at SUNY Orange this past fall. I started at SUNY Orange, went back in my mid 20's to make a change and now in my 40's to evolve even further. SUNY Orange has been a constant in my life and I'm grateful for their curriculum, well rounded classes, and first class professors.
Mystina Vogel '98
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"Thank you SUNY Orange for empowering me and being the launch-pad for my success. More than two-decades later, I still remember you so fondly."
When I first walked onto the campus of SUNY Orange almost 25 years ago, I had no idea my time there would be such a wonderful transformation. The two years of study, along with my involvement in Student Government and S.A.D.D., not only provided a wealth of educational knowledge, it ultimately provided me with valuable experience for navigating my adult-life. SUNY Orange gave me the tools to "grow up," and a hunger for success and self-accountability. It truly laid the figurative cornerstone of what has turned out to be a life and career I am very proud of; one that far surpassed the dreams & ambitions of my younger-college-aged self. All these years later, I now have my own successful business, a happy marriage, and three daughters I adore & am very proud of. Notably, my first-born just completed her own first year of college. Unlike me, she decided on a university four hours from home and on-campus living. This has given me a renewed appreciation for not only the financial value SUNY Orange provided me, but also how it prepared me so well for my subsequent tenure as a continued undergraduate and graduate-level student. As a bonus, during my first semester at SUNY Orange, I was befriended by another student, Dani. She & I became fortified "adults" together during our college years and have been best friends ever since. In 2008 I left Orange County NY to relocate to Upstate SC, and in 2011 that college best-friend followed suit and relocated 10 minutes away from me. We still get together as often as life permits, just like we did back in our college years. Our shared history is a welcome comfort among the strain that comes with building a dynamic life. Thank you SUNY Orange for empowering me and being the launch-pad for my success. More than two-decades later, I still remember you so fondly.
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(Photo - Dani & I, enjoying time together just prior to the pandemic)
Eric Perez ‘98
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"In 2003, longing for warmer weather, I moved with my family to Florida to pursue my dream of becoming a police officer."
I was born in Orange County, New York where I attended Middletown High School. After graduating from high school I attended SUNY Orange and graduated in 1998 with an AAS Degree in Criminal Justice. In 2003, longing for warmer weather, I moved with my family to Florida to pursue my dream of becoming a police officer. In 2003 I entered the law enforcement field, working for the Broward Sheriff’s Office as a Detention Deputy and in 2005, joined the Fort Lauderdale Police Department where I have been assigned to several specialized units and assignments. Some of those assignments include the Tactical Bike Platoon, Crisis Intervention Team, Field Training Officer, Special Response Team, Community Relations Response Team, Neighborhood Action Team, a Property Crimes Detective and most recently, the position of Full Time Recruiting Detective. When I am not working, I enjoy watching movies and spending time with my family. I hold a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a brown belt in Russian Sambo. I am also a local High School Wrestling Coach.​
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