Originally from East Brunswick, N.J., Bryan Steros’ 98 became a matriculated student and dove head-first into the Ramapo experience. He recalled sitting in night classes during his first semester at Ramapo alongside several adult students. “They were motivated, they were serious, and I was awestruck by their sheer commitment,” he said. “What meant the most to me – in and out of the classroom – were the relationships I formed at Ramapo with my professors and, through clubs and activities, with members of the administration.” He became a resident assistant in Linden Hall, Pine Hall and the College Park Apartments, a peer facilitator and student ambassador, and was included in a college recruitment video. He fondly remembers his campus job, restocking change machines in various buildings. “It was so easy to get involved as a student. I had such an awesome experience for four years,” he recalled. Bryan mentioned two individuals in particular for their influence on him: former Dean of Students Nancy Mackin and former Assistant Vice President Patrick Chang. “Both were always approachable and eager to offer their guidance. Pat and I even played ice hockey together. I could always stop by his office to chat.”

A business administration major with a concentration in marketing, Bryan graduated in 1998 and quickly found a job. However, he found himself wanting to return to Ramapo. About a year later, he joined the Ramapo College Foundation staff and worked in annual giving for several years before moving to advancement leadership positions at other institutions.

Now, working as both a senior consultant for a philanthropic consulting firm and a real estate professional, Bryan believes he’s come full circle as a Ramapo student, staff member, alumnus and donor.

Ten years ago, Bryan established a bequest intention for the Ramapo College Foundation and joined the college’s Arch Legacy Society. The gift from his estate will be used to fund scholarships. “Working in higher education for so many years made me and my family realize the importance of scholarships for students, giving them a leg-up and reducing the burden of tuition. My hope is that other alumni will consider doing this as well, reflecting on their college experiences and creating some sort of legacy for Ramapo… If you want to help students in the future, a bequest can be hugely impactful down the road – from an estate or even through life insurance or retirement assets.”

Citing the College as the launching pad for his career, Bryan shared his desire to support future Ramapo students. “When I was in high school, I received a small financial award, and that triggered my desire to pay it forward. It made me start to think about how really special it would be if I could give back in some way.”

Bryan offered this advice: “When people are compelled to give, to make a difference, it’s because of the interactions and relationships they have had. You might not know what your future impact may be – but it’s important to have the conversation.”

True to the Ramapo value of developing the whole person, Bryan sees the college as a catalyst for significant personal and professional growth. In discussing the meaningful relationships he developed in college, he noted how he felt supported, forming bonds that have allowed him to keep in touch with many people over the years and across hundreds of miles.

When asked why he established the bequest intention, Bryan’s answer was both simple and poignant: “because Ramapo is special.”