Countless marriages have their roots in Alfred State, but few couples return to campus to teach the next generation of Pioneers.
Meet Matt and Nicole DiRado – Class of 2014
Matt, originally from Binghamton, was drawn to Alfred State’s architecture program after a campus visit. “I was looking at Alfred State and UB. My tour guide, Dave Carli, sold me on the program. I liked his personality, the small class sizes, and the location of the college.”
Nicole, who grew up in Amsterdam, chose Alfred State for its forensic science program. “I was super into Nancy Drew books as a kid and loved watching Forensic Files and true crime shows in high school. I really liked science, and Alfred State offered me a full scholarship to study what I was passionate about.”
“We were friends for a long time before we actually started dating,” Nicole recalls. “We hung out a lot, so people thought we were dating before we actually were.”
Matt adds with a laugh, “I was after her before she was after me. People would ask if we were together, and she’d say no, I’d be a little disappointed. It was a like-like situation that eventually grew into something more.”
A trip to Myrtle Beach between their sophomore and junior years helped turn friendship into romance. Their relationship continued as they pursued graduate studies at Syracuse University.
While Matt was finishing his degree, Nicole accepted a teaching position back at Alfred State. The distance made Matt realize he was ready to take the next step.
“I was sitting in class and just texted my buddy, ‘I’m going to propose to Nicole.’ Since she had already moved back to Alfred, I had the freedom to shop for a ring.”
The couple married in July 2018 and now live locally with their daughter, Mia.
When they think back to their time as students, both are quick to mention the lifelong friendships they formed.
“We made our lifelong friend group here,” Nicole says. “A lot of our wedding party were Alfred State grads, and the godmother of our daughter is also an alum.”
“At Syracuse, I was a teaching and research assistant and found I really enjoyed working with freshmen,” Matt explains. “When Nicole got her job here, I came back to do guest reviews of student work - and things just fell into place.”
Soon after, Matt joined Nicole on the faculty. Today, both are Associate Professors in their respective departments.
For Nicole, one of the most meaningful aspects has been teaching alongside familiar faces. “Some of the instructors I had as a student are now my colleagues. Professor Mike Putnam, who recently retired, has become a close friend. It really feels like coming full circle.”
Matt agrees: “It’s been interesting to become colleagues and friends with people who once taught me. It’s neat to know them on a personal level.”
Both take pride in mentoring their students.
“I’m an open book,” Matt says. “I enjoy the day-to-day with students, passing along the knowledge I gained here and at Syracuse.”
Nicole adds, “We really prepare students to succeed in the field. I recently met with alumni, and they went around the table sharing their jobs and responsibilities. Hearing their success stories and knowing they were prepared is incredibly rewarding.”
“I don’t think I could imagine a better career choice,” added Matt. “I love interacting with the people.”
Nicole echoes the sentiment: “I can see myself teaching here long term. I really love being with the students.”
Alfred State brought Matt and Nicole together, and today, they are proud to inspire and teach the next generation of Pioneers.
