SUNY Empire Remembers Dedicated Alumna

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY -- December 5, 2023) Ruth Decker ’74, one of Empire State University’s most dedicated alumni, has passed away, just weeks shy of her 95th birthday.

Decker of Royal Oak, MD, received her bachelor’s degree in history from Empire State University’s Long Island Center in 1974. After graduating, she went to work for SUNY Empire as a counselor, recruiting and advising prospective students and guiding them through the enrollment process.

Over the years, Decker, along with her husband Edwin, became one of the university’s most active and devoted alumna. She once said that attending SUNY Empire was the turning point in her life, one that instilled a love of learning and reading.

“I felt a lack in my life that I hadn’t gone to college and Empire State College mentors changed me,” she said. “They made me a stronger woman, not just with knowledge, but with friendship. Now, I hope I make positive change possible for others.”

Decker became an annual donor in 1976, a commitment that lasted 48 years. In 1987, she and her husband established the Edwin and Ruth Decker ’74 Scholarship to help women from Long Island. She was also a founding member of the Alumni Student Federation Board of Governors and served on the board from 1978 to 1980. In addition, she was a founding member and chair of the Empire State University Foundation Board.

In 1988, she received the Distinguished Alumni Service Award, in recognition of her dedication, enthusiasm, and support of alumni and student programs.

Decker is survived by Edwin, her husband of more than 70 years, three children, and four grandchildren. Gifts in her memory should be directed to the Edwin and Ruth Decker ’74 Scholarship Fund.