NEW PALTZ, N.Y. – On Friday, Oct. 7, the State University of New York at New Paltz Department of Athletics, Wellness & Recreation held the 19
th Hall of Fame ceremony at the College Terrace as six individuals comprised the class of 2016.
The class included Paul Robbins (men's swimming), Eric Bell (men's basketball), Belgica Santana '01 (women's volleyball), Michelle Coombs '08 (women's swimming), Christina Mazurowski '06 (women's volleyball) and Dr. L. David Rooney (Former Vice President of Student Affairs).
Paul Robbins
Men's Swimming (1982-86)
"Long after you leave New Paltz, you will remember the times spent with your teammates. I was blessed to be part of the swimming program and Art Stockin's legacy. I learned dedication, accountability, responsibility, teamwork, confidence and humility. I would like to honor Coach Stockin for shaping my life."
Eric Bell
Men's Basketball (1992-96)
"My journey to New Paltz was all about personal growth, development and getting better as a man. In life, you take a lot of things for granted and when I had to recalibrate my priorities, this was one of the most defining moments for me. I focused on growing and having a vision as a student athlete. I was very appreciative to have such a great group of characters with me."
Belgica Santana '01
Women's Volleyball (1997-99)
"It's an honor for me to be here. I came from the Dominican Republic and the first year here I quit - I didn't know any English. I graduated here with a degree in leadership and business. I want to thank everyone and my family and friends."
Michelle Coombs '08
Women's Swimming (2006-08)
"I'm incredibly honored as New Paltz has such a rich history and I'm proud to be a part of it. When I came to New Paltz, I was a broken swimmer and I hung up my suit to dry but then I met Coach Brian (Williams). He told me he could heal me and clearly, he did something right. Those two years were the best of my life and made me hold up my head high again, giving me a sense of confidence and pride. New Paltz gave me a place to call home."
Christina Mazurowski '06
Women's Volleyball (2002-05)
"My four years on this team are still one of the best experiences of my life and led me to some of the most important people of my life - my teammates. They may not be here tonight but without them, I would not be standing here. Because they were great, we were great together."
Dr. L. David Rooney
Former Vice President of Student Affairs (2002-14)
"I needed this place and this place needed me; I just had to figure out how to fit in. I realized what my place was on this campus and that I had a purpose. For me it was a 14 year labor of love and I enjoyed it so very much."
