Happy Holidays from the New England Gator Club®
As we wrap up an incredible year, we want to take a moment to reflect on 2024 and extend our deepest gratitude to our amazing New England Gator community.
This year has been one of tremendous growth and milestones for our club. Together, we:
Hosted 39 events, ranging from football watch parties to networking opportunities, community service projects, and more.
Welcomed representatives from the University of Florida at 4 events, building stronger connections between Boston-based Gators and our alma mater.
Held our first-ever Silent Auction, raising over $1,000 toward scholarships.
Awarded scholarships for the first time in five years, supporting 3 deserving incoming freshmen.
Expanded our leadership team, welcoming 4 new board members, and began laying the groundwork for a satellite club in Portland, ME.
These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated board members, whose hard work and passion make everything we do a reality. From running social media to coordinating events, managing finances, and shipping merchandise, each board member has played a vital role:
Sarah Beadle ran our social media with expertise, keeping everyone informed and engaged.
Cheryl Gray brought her organizational magic to events like The Agency networking event and Toys for Tots volunteering.
Matt Hieronimus ensured our newsletter reached everyone and coordinated most of our community service initiatives.
Tyler Lewis has been our steady treasurer, keeping the club financially sound.
Mark Montoya handled merchandise and behind-the-scenes logistics flawlessly.
Sarah Sawyer focused on building our young alumni programming.
Maria Schutte began shaping the future of our Portland satellite club.
Freda Zifteh organized a phenomenal event with the College of Engineering.
To everyone who attended an event, donated, volunteered, or supported the club in any way this year: thank you. You are the heart of this community, and we couldn’t do it without you.
On a personal note, this year has been incredibly meaningful to me. As a first-generation college student, I know firsthand the importance of scholarships. Being able to pay it forward by helping the club award scholarships this year was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.
I’m also incredibly proud of our team. From welcoming 40+ attendees to Welcome to the Gatorhood to executing a successful Engineering event, they’ve grown, thrived, and kept me grounded through it all.
As we look back on this year, we’re reminded of the power of community, the joy of giving back, and the strength we have when we come together. Whatever you celebrate this season, we hope it’s filled with warmth, connection, and cheer.
Happy Holidays, and here’s to an even brighter future together!
Go Gators!
Tyrel Clayton
President, New England Gator Club®