For nearly half a century, a remarkable group of 28 University of Vermont graduates from the class of 1976 has defied the odds, maintaining an unbreakable bond that has stood the test of time. Our story is one of enduring friendship, shared memories, and an unwavering commitment to our alma mater.
The group's journey began in the fall of 1972 when we first set foot on UVM's picturesque campus nestled in the heart of Burlington, Vermont. Little did we know that the connections we would form over the next four years would last a lifetime.
As we navigated the challenges of college life together, our friendship deepened. From late-night study sessions in Bailey/Howe Library to cheering on the Catamounts at Patrick Gymnasium, the group shared countless experiences that would become the foundation of our lasting bond.
"We were just a bunch of wide-eyed freshmen back then," recalls Skip Beitzel, one of the group's members who is currently one of four co-chairs the Class of ‘76’s 50th reunion. "But there was something special about our class. We clicked almost immediately."
When graduation day arrived in 1976, we made a pact to stay in touch, no matter where life took us.
Little did we know how well we would keep that promise. Over the years, the group has celebrated each other's milestones – weddings, births, career achievements, and even retirements. We've supported one another through life's challenges, offering a shoulder to lean on during difficult times.
“We've been there for each other through thick and thin," says Suzanne Gebo Whitney, who lives in Waitsfield and whose husband recently retired from his nursing career at UVM. She adds, "It's like having an extended family that spans the country."
The Annual Pilgrimage
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this friendship is some of the female group members' commitment to returning to UVM every year since graduation. Without fail, all nine female members who were roommates at UVM make the journey back to Burlington and the Stowe Mountain Lodge every June, reconnecting with each other and our beloved alma mater.
In fact, last October, some of the male members of the group of 28 met up with the ladies at Stowe Mountain Lodge to celebrate their 70th birthdays.
Our annual gatherings have become a cherished tradition, filled with laughter, reminiscing, and the creation of new memories. We explore the campus, marveling at how it has changed while still maintaining its quintessential charm.
“It’s like stepping back in time," explains George Beato, UVM grad and a retired executive at Champlain Oil Company who lives in Burlington. "We may have gray hair now (or no hair!), but when we're back on campus, we're those same college kids again."
The Secret to Longevity
When asked about the secret to maintaining such a close-knit group for five decades, the friends attribute it to a combination of factors: open communication, a shared sense of humor, and a deep appreciation for the bonds forged during our college years all play a role.
"We've made our friendship a priority," explains Lou Marchesan, now retired and living in Vero Beach, Florida. "It takes effort to stay connected, especially with busy lives and geographical distances. But we've always believed it was worth it."
The group has embraced technology to stay in touch between their annual reunions. A website for our group buzzes with ongoing interactions (https://uvmclassof76.weebly.com/), while monthly Zoom calls keep everyone up to date on each other's lives.
A Model for Future Generations
The enduring friendship of these 28 UVM graduates has not gone unnoticed. Our story has inspired current students and recent alumni to foster similar connections.
“We often have UVM Foundation and Alumni Association staff approach us during our reunions, asking how we've managed to stay so close," says Eddie Sall, a retired physician now living in Arizona. "We tell them it's simple – make the effort, be there for each other, and never forget the special bond you share."
The group's connection to UVM goes beyond nostalgia.
Over the years, we've become passionate advocates for our alma mater, contributing both time and resources to support the university's growth and development, inspired by Skip Beitzel’s mission to raise funds for UVM on behalf of the Class of ’76 and other classes.
Skip’s 40+ years of UVM engagement began in the early 1980’s, when he and classmate, Annalee Ash, reconstituted the New York City Alumni Club with business luncheons and well-attended Hudson River cruises, among other events. That began an enthusiastic relationship for Skip with the UVM Alumni Council, culminating in becoming president of the council.
Later, Skip became increasingly engaged with the UVM Fund, which led to his service as president of the fund. These engagements and others were recognized when Skip was awarded UVM’s Young Alumni Award (along with classmate, Annalee Ash) and, later, UVM’s Alumni Distinguished Service Award.
And five years ago, Skip spearheaded an effort to create the Class of 1976 Scholarship to mark our 45th reunion. That successful campaign ended with classmates donating $76,000 to endow a new scholarship that will benefit students for generations to come.
Looking to the Future
As we approach our 50th reunion in June of 2026, the group shows no signs of slowing down. We've already begun planning a grand celebration to mark the milestone.
“Fifty years is just the beginning," laughs Beitzel. "We're aiming for 75, maybe even 100. As long as we're able, we'll keep coming back to UVM and cherishing this incredible friendship.”
We hope our story serves as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the lasting impact of the college experience. Our unwavering commitment to each other and our alma mater demonstrates the profound connections that can be forged during our formative years.
As we continue our annual pilgrimages to the green hills of Vermont, these friends carry with them not just memories of their college days, but the living, breathing embodiment of what it means to be true friends and loyal alumni.
We hope our legacy will inspire generations of UVM students and graduates for years to come. We can't wait for the 50th in June 2026!
Go Deeper
Get more information about the upcoming 50th reunion for the Classes of 1975 and 1976, which will take place on the weekend of June 5-7, 2026, by going to https://go.uvm.edu/50th.
You can read more stories about members of the 50th reunion classes by clicking on the links below.And if you have a story to share about a classmate, a group of friends, or yourself, please get in touch with Sydney at sydney.rybicki@uvm.edu or complete this short form.
A UVM Friendship Forged in Green and Gold
Andrea Mastrocinque-Martone '76
Jul 31, 2025