For Danica ’14 and Michael Adarkwah ’15, SUNY Morrisville is more than a place where they earned their degrees. It is where they met, became involved with campus life, built lasting friendships and made memories that have stayed with them long after graduation.
The couple returned to campus this year for their second Mustang Weekend celebration, bringing their daughters Madeline, 2, Madilyn, 4, and Madison, 6. Danica and Michael married in 2018, with Sharry Woodcock ’89, a former Morrisville student activities member they knew as students, officiating their wedding.
Their Morrisville story began in Helyar Hall in 2011 when Danica was moving in and encountered Michael doing laundry. They soon went on their first date to the former Copper Turret Restaurant, and, as they say, the rest is history.
In addition to their classes, the couple said student activities were a big part of what made their Morrisville experience so memorable.
“We made the most out of our time here,” Michael said.
“Weekends were always fun and filled with activities,” Danica added.
They both became deeply involved in campus life, serving as resident assistants and event staff and participating in the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP). Danica, who was known as Danica James during her time at SUNY Morrisville, graduated from the liberal arts & sciences program. She also chaired the Campus Activities Board (CAB), served on the Campus Judicial Board, the Student Government Organization Executive Board and the Residence Hall Association, in addition to volunteering in the community. Michael graduated from the former Human Performance & Health Promotion bachelor’s degree program and also served on CAB.
Today, the couple lives in Port Jervis, where Danica is an executive at Target and Michael is a fitness instructor with the New York Police Department.
Their story was one of many connections renewed during Mustang Weekend, which brought hundreds of alumni, parents and community members to campus, including members of the Class of 1976 celebrating their 50th reunion.
The weekend offered something for everyone, with a schedule of activities and events across campus. Alumni and families participated in food forest tours, a cider press demonstration, an escape room, car show and parade and a Town Hall meeting, where they met the college’s new president, Dr. Michelle Coach.
Athletic events also brought Mustangs together throughout the weekend, including a Wall of Fame induction ceremony.
