What it takes

Moving forward, staying connected
Michelle Adams '94

She may mingle with presidents, but Michelle Adams '94 knows the life she now leads has its roots on the campus she loves.

"It started happening the first day my freshman year," said Adams, whose position in Manhattan as executive director of the Association for a Better New York (ABNY) has allowed her to cross paths with President George W. Bush and other national figures.

"I felt immediately attracted to Binghamton," recalled Adams. "I wanted to immerse myself in campus affairs."
Over four years, that immersion manifested itself in Adams' participation on the University Judicial Board, as an orientation adviser and as a campus tour guide. It also included participation in numerous Student Association activities, a stint as a residence-hall adviser and Adams' election as Senior Class Council chair.

"I got involved in residence hall governing and politics," she remembered. "I got a chance to manage events and students. I learned how to work with campus administrators."

Those activities, she added, formed a perfect foundation for the career she now pursues.

A non-profit organization in existence since the early 1970s, ABNY works to make New York City a better place to live, work and visit. Among Adams' duties as executive director have been hosting President Bush, New York Governor George Pataki, Senator Hillary Clinton and other prominent figures at ABNY's acclaimed breakfast forums.

"At Binghamton, I worked with the University administration. Now I'm working with city and state administrations," said Adams. "Binghamton helped me mature and make tough decisions. After Binghamton, I realized the bottom line is moving forward and staying connected."

Part of staying connected for her, Adams added, is giving back to an alma mater she credits with starting her on the right path.

Recognizing the milestone of her 10th year since graduation, Adams has spearheaded a 10th-anniversary giving program that included hosting a special event in April for members of the Class of '94. At the Regency Hotel reception, Adams stressed that any gift, in any amount, makes a difference at Binghamton. She also encouraged classmates with sufficient means to recognize their milestone year by becoming members of Binghamton University's Leadership Society. Society members give a minimum of $1,000 annually.

Adams also has reached out to the Class of '04, encouraging them to contribute to their Senior Challenge campaign.

"My classmates and I received amazing social and educational experiences at BU," said Adams. "Through giving, we're making sure that same environment continues for young people going there now."
-- Rick Marsi