Tribute to Paula Cutler Relyea (’85)
Tribute to Paula Cutler Relyea (’85)
Ruth Hartcorn ’85
Paula Cutler Relyea (’85) so wished to see her son, Sean Relyea, graduate before she lost her battle with cancer. Sadly, her dream was not to be. But when Sean did graduate, President Collins was so gracious as to make a graveside visit that day, in full regalia, with Sean and his father David Relyea (’87 or ’88), as a way to honor Paula’s wish. Incredible, simply incredible. THANK YOU!
Category:Thanks Is Not Enough
Thanks Is Not Enough
Kevin Cunningham ’90
Tony and Karen,
Those 3 words by themselves have had so much impact on Clarkson.
First, Tony, unlike your predecessors you introduced yourself as Tony and not President Collins. This created an approachability unseen in my years at Clarkson. I watched several graduations and the personal connection you made with so many undergraduates because of that simple gesture was impressive. It seemed like you knew each person graduating. You were a person, who also happened to be President, and were one of us. This approach elevated your status as President. People actually knew and understood the impact you were making. You were someone who had significant influence and power but who wielded that power for good because you cared about the individuals.
You didn’t do it alone. You brought along a perfect partner with Karen. Karen, the connections you had with all of us elevated the office of the President to an even higher level of engagement. You were as much a part of it all as Tony. Like peanut butter and jelly, it just doesn’t work without both.
You two will never truly understand the impact you have had to not only the institution but the thousands of lives you have changed as a result of your leadership. So thank you is not enough. You will be fondly remembered for many years to come.
I wish you both the best in the next chapter. However, I hope that chapter also includes a lot of visits to Clarkson, especially for reunions, since you are also both Clarkson alumnus. Now you can just come and have fun instead of all that work that comes with President. 🙂
Forever grateful,
Kevin Cunningham ‘90
Category:Delta Upsilon
Delta Upsilon
John Baummer ’24
To a leader, educator, and President,
Your time at Clarkson will not be forgotten. As the newest president of the Clarkson Chapter of Delta Upsilon, I can not help but saddened by your departure. In years past, many great fraternal presidents have looked up to you for guidance and support, and with your departure I will unfortunately not be one of them. However, I am extremely thankful that a man like yourself has been so dedicated to the chapter and committed to its success. You have exceeded all expectations of an honorary brother and have established a path for my presidency that can only lead to success.
For all you have done, Thank you.
Fraternally,
The John Baummer and the brothers of Delta Upsilon
Category:Thank you
Thank you
Russ Vitallo ’06
Hi President Collins,
I played basketball at Clarkson from 2002-2006. During my Senior year my Dad wrote you a letter about the difficult experience I had with the head coach back then. You wrote back to us a really nice handwritten letter with some great advice. I always appreciated that and never thanked you but am doing so now.
Best of luck and you’ll be missed at Clarkson.
Russ Vitallo 06′
Category:Tony Collins – the Energizer Bunny of college presidents
Tony Collins – the Energizer Bunny of college presidents
Bill Cotter ’73
Tony, as I look back at the LONG list of the ways you improved the Clarkson experience it makes me tired just reading it. How you managed to do all that and stay so energetic and enthusiastic is amazing. All of us connected with Clarkson are better for having known you – and future students who may never meet you will benefit from your efforts for decades to come.
Category:Goodbye from Greta!
Goodbye from Greta!
Greta Kerwin ’23
Dear Tony & Karen Collins,
I wanted to thank you for all the support you’ve given me these past three years! I remember when I met the two of you in 2019. Back when I was still only considering Clarkson! I remember embarrassing myself in front of Nico Sturm trying to speak german and getting posted on the Clarkson official instagram (I felt famous)!
I really appreciate everything you two have done for the school and for the people that go here, it means so much to us.
I also wanted to thank you again for having my sorority over for dinner this past semester. I don’t think any of us will forget that (mainly because of the food!).
I hope you both have an amazing time in Philly!
Sincerely,
Greta Kerwin
Category:Gratitude and thanks
Gratitude and thanks
Michael and Amy Baringer ‘
During the pandemic, when our son Luke was searching for schools – you and your wife opened up your home to us along with the Munter family. Your hospitality that day, combined with the lure of Clarkson sealed our students choice. He spent the past year finding a new home and family at Clarkson. We are so grateful for your guidance and dedication to this institution. Congratulations on so much success. You will be greatly missed. Best wishes, The Baringer Family
Category:Givers Never Lack
Givers Never Lack
Agbor Esong Effiom ’22
I have read how your lives and service have blessed many within and probably without the Clarkson community. It is my prayer for you that Your Source will never run dry and Your living will continuously penetrate the hearts of men and pull them closer to the God in your hearts.
God bless you more
Category:Best Wishes
Best Wishes
Omkar Deo ’11
Dear Tony and Karen,
Wish you all the very best. Have a long and happy retired life! Take care and enjoy every day!
Omkar Deo
Category:Best wishes
Best wishes
Janyce Brennan Fadden ’77
Dear Tony and Karen,
Thanks for your leadership, fellowship and friendship to our university and to the region. You made a lasting impact from which generations will prosper. Enjoy thoroughly this next chapter of your lives. Kind regards, Janyce Brennan Fadden ’77
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