Tyler’s Top Pics: 2024 Edition

Hello hello!

Another year down! For those who don’t know me, I’m Tyler, a proud Stony Brook alumnus and current grad student, now working as Advancement’s Senior Multimedia Designer and photographer. Can you believe how fast 2024 flew by? It feels like just yesterday I shared my Top Pics for 2023. As someone who gets to capture the incredible story of Stony Brook, I’ve had a front-row seat to some truly remarkable moments that showcase just how unstoppable our community can be.

For the past two years, I’ve curated my personal favorite photos of the year. This year, I decided to switch things up a bit. I wanted to make this year’s recap a community experience. Starting December 3, I started posting some of my top photos from the year on our @stonybrookalum Instagram account, inviting you – our amazing alumni, donors and Stony Brook family – to be part of the selection process.

And wow, did you show up! Your engagement, votes and enthusiasm made this year’s photo recap something truly special. These aren’t just my photos – they’re OUR moments, OUR memories, OUR Stony Brook story.

So grab a cup of tea, get comfy and let’s dive into the visual journey that made 2024 unforgettable. Buckle up, Seawolves!

Day 1
Winter Snowstorm

Photographing campus during a snowstorm can be cold, but it’s worth it. I’ve always loved how Stony Brook red stands out against a winter landscape – like a cardinal against snow. That’s why I was immediately drawn to the Charles B. Wang Center, its bold red architecture creates a striking contrast against the soft, white scene.

Day 2
LISVH Zumba

While visiting the Long Island State Veterans Home to interview a resident, I found myself in the midst of a spirited Zumba class and was invited to stay a bit. This photo barely captures the incredible energy in the room; the joy and enthusiasm of these vets were impossible to ignore.

Day 3
Giving Day

Giving Day is always fun, but this year, the Seawolves Philanthropy Council helped make it something truly special! This photo celebrates the generosity chords – worn during commencement by students who contribute to the senior class legacy. These threads represent our community’s unstoppable spirit of giving.

Day 4
Commencement Day 1

Photographing commencement is always a highlight for me. Having been in their shoes not long ago, I’m grateful to capture the joy and pride of the Stony Brook community. This photo celebrates an essential part of that experience—the friends and family who stand by our students. Filling the stadium under a bright blue sky, this crowd is a reminder of the support that helps us achieve our dreams.

Day 5
Commencement Day 2

Commencement is overflowing with unforgettable moments, so it’s no surprise I had more than enough photos for two days of content. This particular shot captures the energy and excitement of graduates celebrating as confetti rains down. If you’ve attended a commencement ceremony in recent years, you know this marks the moment our students officially graduate and are welcomed into the Stony Brook alumni family.

Day 6
SoMAS Day 1

There’s nothing I love more than visiting Stony Brook’s Southampton campus on a gorgeous summer day! These two photos tied in our Instagram poll, so I had to share both. One captures the docks that surround the campus, while the other showcases the iconic SoMAS Marine Sciences Center. Together, they perfectly represent the work done at SoMAS.

Day 7
SoMAS Day 2

During a visit to Stony Brook Southampton for an interview with endowed faculty member Chris Gobler MS ’95, PhD ’99, we took some behind-the-scenes photos of the wet lab at the Marine Sciences Center. In this shot, Gobler shares insights about the clam population in Shinnecock Bay – a glimpse into the incredible research happening here.

Day 8
Simons STEM Scholars

Talk about impressive Stony Brook students – the Simons STEM Scholars always leave me in awe. This exceptional group not only represents the best of Stony Brook but is also a joy to work with. This photo captures the mentors of the program’s second cohort embracing in celebration after completing the summer bridge program. You can feel their pride for the incoming cohort and the bright futures ahead.

Day 9
SBU Jibbitz

This Homecoming, we unveiled our exclusive SBU Croc Jibbitz as part of the Wolfie Walk! The event encouraged our community to explore campus and experience the spaces that make Stony Brook so special. Participants who completed the walk earned their own Jibbitz! This project was a fun change of pace, and I especially enjoyed the summer photoshoot out on the grass.

Day 10
40 Under Forty

The 40 Under Forty Awards is always a night to remember! This photo highlights the awards given to 40 outstanding alumni whose achievements have made a significant impact since their time at Stony Brook. Each award is a tribute to their success and the legacy they’re creating within the Stony Brook community.

Day 11
Investiture

When preparing to cover an event like our Investiture Ceremony, I start by capturing the details. This close-up of the medal presented to endowed faculty members symbolizes excellence and gratitude. Watching donors beam with pride as their generosity is celebrated on stage is a moving reminder of the transformative power of philanthropy.

Day 12
Wolfstock

Our Wolfstock Homecoming Festival continues to grow in size and spirit, offering more each year and bringing together an even wider community! It’s amazing to see everyone come together for a day filled with fun, nostalgia, and connection. I spotted these two during the Wolfstock Village BBQ tailgate and couldn’t resist capturing the moment. Look at that puppy!

Bonus:
Unstoppable Momentum

In 2024, a record number of generous alumni and friends volunteered, attended events and donated to areas that mattered most to them, including Measurable Climate Progress, Pivotal Student Experiences, Research that Reaches Real People, Healthier Communities Near and Far and Enrichment Through Arts and Culture. Because of them, and people like you, we are fueling Stony Brook’s unstoppable momentum.

Thank you to everyone who followed along and voted for your favorite photos! Sharing my top pics with you has been such a joy, and I’m grateful for the support and enthusiasm of this amazing community.

Before we wrap up, here are the honorable mentions—photos that didn’t make the final cut but still helped make this year unforgettable.

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season!

– Tyler