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The Spark is the official blog of Alfred University, created to illuminate the dynamic experiences, creative achievements, and unique perspectives of our student community. The Spark captures the essence of what it means to be a Saxon. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming of your next chapter, or a current Saxon shaping your journey, let The Spark guide you.

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Meet The Ploetz Family: Generations Connected by Alfred

Posted By Carol Marcy

Jun 10, 2026 | Alumni Athletics Engineering General Blogs Parents & Families

For Larry Ploetz ’68, Alfred University was part of his story long before he ever set foot in a classroom.

He grew up hearing about Alfred from family gatherings and hometown conversations. His father, George Ploetz ’41, had studied ceramics here after World War II and played center on the undefeated 1940 football team, earning a letter sweater and, after breaking his nose, becoming the first Alfred football player to compete wearing a face mask. His aunt Florence (Ploetz) Adams ’30 proudly shared stories of her days in the Sigma Chi Nu sorority, where she served as president.

As a child, Larry tagged along while his father returned to campus to present at ceramic engineering seminars and sport award banquets. He remembers meeting professors and their families and feeling a sense of belonging long before he was a student.

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Mentors and Lifelong Connections

Denise and Larry Ploetz at Reunion — Denise '69 and Larry Ploetz '68 at Reunion Weekend.

When it was time to consider which college to attend, Larry’s chemistry teacher at Scotia-Glenville high school offered a single college recommendation to the entire class: Alfred University. That’s when the decision became clear. Alfred was not only the right fit academically, but also the most affordable option, thanks to in-state tuition.

At Alfred, Larry found mentors who would shape his path in ceramics during his undergraduate years, including John Stull, founder of the Stull Observatory, and Richard Rulon ’43, professor of chemistry. During those years, he also met his wife, Denise (Chapnick) Ploetz ’69, a French major in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, who would also shape his future.

After serving in the Army, Larry went back to AU and earned his master's degree in ceramic science. Another important mentor for Larry was David Pye ’59, ’68, emeritus professor of Glass Science and Engineering.

The Alfred connection continued into the next generation with their daughter, Kristin (Ploetz) Walukas ’93, who decided to follow in the family’s footsteps and study ceramics at Alfred.

Larry Ploetz bicycling to Reunion. — Larry Ploetz '68 bicycling to Reunion.

Today, Larry’s ties to Alfred remain strong. Every year, he looks forward to bicycling back to campus for Reunion Weekend—a tradition that reflects a lifetime of connection. For the Ploetz family, Alfred isn’t just where they studied. It’s where generations of his family have learned, grown, and found their way back.

Celebrating Generations

A Family Legacy Story

For many families, Alfred University is more than a college—it is a tradition passed from one generation to the next. This post is part of our Family Legacy spotlights from the Spring 2026 issue of Alfred Magazine. We're bringing these multigenerational Alfred stories to life with expansions on The Spark.