Alumni Hit the Links to Empower the Next Generation of Seawolves

Being a Seawolf for life means showing up for the next generation — and this year’s Alumni Association Scholarship Golf Classic once again proved just how strong that commitment is.

On Monday, June 29, 2026, more than 100 alumni and friends gathered at the Nissequogue Golf Club in St. James, New York, for the 24th annual outing. The event brought together a community of supporters for a day of golf, camaraderie and purpose, all in support of student scholarships and award funds. For over two decades, the Scholarship Golf Classic has helped provide more than 400 scholarships to deserving students, empowering them to pursue their academic goals and shape their futures.

“The Alumni Association Scholarship Golf Classic is one of those special traditions that reminds us what it means to be part of the Stony Brook family,” said Neil Butterklee ’80, MS ’82, Alumni Association president and member of the golf committee. “Every year, our alumni show up with such generosity and spirit, not just to enjoy a great day on the course but to make a real difference for students who are working hard to build their futures. I’m incredibly proud of this community and grateful for everyone who helps create opportunities for the next generation of Seawolves.”

Scholarship support remains essential, ensuring students have access to the resources they need to thrive. Each gift made through the outing is an investment not only in individual students, but in the strength and future of the Stony Brook community. One of the award funds supported by the outing benefits the university’s annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. “I’m grateful to the Alumni Association for supporting opportunities like 3MT, which strengthen my confidence as a scientist and communicator and highlight how important it is to make research meaningful to the broader community,” said this year’s winner, Esther Opoola. 

For Vivian Zheng ’27, receiving the Seawolves Alumni Endowed Scholarship has been key to experiencing all that Stony Brook has to offer. “It has allowed me to focus on learning, exploring and fully engaging in activities outside of academics,” said Zheng, a computer science major. “I’ve been able to take on challenges, pursue new opportunities and grow into a stronger person both inside and outside the classroom.”

In addition to raising critical funds, the outing offered participants the chance to come together, network and reminisce about their shared Stony Brook experiences. Thanks to the dedication of the 2026 Scholarship Golf Committee and the generosity of sponsors and participants, this year’s event continued a proud tradition of Seawolves helping Seawolves succeed.

“The golf outing is something I look forward to every year. It’s a chance to reconnect with fellow alumni while helping make a real difference for students,” said Geoff Bansen ’10. “Supporting students who work hard to succeed, both at Stony Brook and in their careers, is incredibly important to me. And spending a great day on the course knowing it strengthens a community I’m proud to be part of makes the event even more meaningful.”

Scroll through the album below to see photos from the day. 

Special thanks to our Alumni Association Scholarship Golf Classic sponsors:

Title Sponsor:
JLL

Cocktail Reception Sponsor:
Liberty Mutual 

Golf Ball Sponsor:
IntegraRisk 

Lunch Sponsor:
Hilton Garden Inn Stony Brook

Beverage Station Sponsor:
Liberty Coca-Cola 

Auction Sponsor:
Balfour

-Written by Christine McGrath
-Photos by Isaias Ayala