How many people in your family have affiliation with Frostburg State—either graduate or past-present employment?

Seventeen. Kristin Bachtel – Housekeeping, Pullen Hall (current staff); Jason Bachtel (husband)-Tour Engineer, Maintenance Aide II-HVAC (current staff); Gavin Hopkins (son) - Student Help Groundskeeping (former employee); Haley Bachtel (daughter) - inducted into PHI ETA SIGMA National Honor Society, Class of 2029 Art/Design Major (current student); James Hopkins (father)-1st Grade Stationary Engineer-HVAC Stangle (46 years of service, retired 2026); Earl Hopkins (grandfather) – Mailroom, Administration Building (former employee, in memoriam); Ina Lee Donius ’69 (great aunt) – Vice President of Tri Beta Biological Society, Inducted into WHO's WHO in American Colleges and Universities Senior Year, Accounts Payable Administration Building (21 years of service, retired, in memoriam); Margaret McAbee (great grandmother) – Housekeeping (former employee, in memoriam); AnnaRuth Winfield (great aunt)-Housekeeping Supervisor (former employee, in memoriam); Jeanine Bachtel (aunt) – Facilities Maintenance Administrative Assistant (former employee); Keri (Bachtel) Rogers (cousin) – Groundskeeping (former employee); Becky Ault Magnani ’93/M’95 (cousin); Joni Miller ’19/M’21 (sister-in-law); Steve Bevan (uncle) – Carpenter Supervisor (retired employee); Edith Bevan (aunt) – Financial Aid, Computer Services/IT (former employee); Bill Bevan (cousin) – student worker Groundskeeping (former student/employee); Tom Bevan (cousin) – Groundskeeping, Campus Police Sergeant, University Police (current staff).

Why do you think FSU has become a tradition in your family?

What started with one family member choosing Frostburg State has grown into a tradition built on hard work, opportunity and pride. FSU has connected our family across generations. It reminds us of where we've been, celebrates where we are and inspires us about where we're going. We've celebrated acceptances, graduations and achievements all tied to the same place. For our family, Frostburg State University is a place where our family legacy continues, one generation at a time.

Did being a legacy family influence your decision to attend FSU? How so?

Absolutely. Growing up in a family with a long history at FSU gave me a deep appreciation for what it represents. It was never just a university – it was a place filled with family stories, accomplishments and Bobcat pride. Working here allows me to be a part of something that has shaped generations of my family and contribute to the future of the University.

Do you or your family return to campus? In what capacity?

My family continues to return to FSU for both classes and for work. We also enjoy returning and participating in Homecoming events, luncheons, events, concerts and other activities that bring the Bobcat community together.

How do you think the university has changed between generations in your family?

Each generation experienced a different version of the campus – new academic buildings, residence halls, gathering spaces, updated technology and improvements that have transformed the University over the years. Yet, with all those changes, there are still familiar places that instantly bring back memories.

From Teachers College to University

Our family's history spans many chapters of the University, from when it was known as Frostburg State Teachers College to Frostburg State College and now Frostburg State University. While the name on the sign has changed over the years, what FSU has meant to our family never has.

What makes Frostburg special to your family?

Frostburg is special to me because it's more than just the town where I live. It's where my roots are. It's where my family has built a legacy, where lifelong memories have been made and where we continue to create new ones. Being born here, raised here and choosing to stay has made my connection to Frostburg and FSU something I'll always be proud of.

Do you think future generations in your family will attend FSU?

Yes. I believe future generations of my family will experience the same sense of belonging, pride and community that has kept our family connected to FSU for so many years.

Describe your family's legacy in one word

Proud. We are proud of the work we do and the roles we play in helping FSU continue its mission of providing opportunities, supporting students and building a stronger community.