Bringing alumni back together: Heath Douglas Rosenblat ’95 on the power of Reunion and giving back

Meet Metro New York City member and 30th Reunion Chair Heath Douglas Rosenblat ’95

What Heath is up to now and reflecting on his time at the University

Share a bit about your journey since graduating from the University of Rochester. What are you currently working on or passionate about?

Summarizing 30 years in a few sentences is no small task! After graduating, I worked for a bit before attending law school, when I launched a 20-year career in law. Eventually, I took a bold turn—enrolling at the Culinary Institute and spending a couple of years studying and cooking professionally. But the legal world called me back in 2020, and for the past three years, I’ve been a partner at a law firm in New York City. Outside of work, I’m passionate about cooking and remain a die-hard Bills fan.

Reflecting on your time as a political science student at the University, what experiences or lessons shaped your career path?

Studying political science at Rochester gave me a deep understanding of government and law, but the most pivotal experience was an internship with the New York State Senate, thanks to Don B. Allen’s intern program. Working alongside legislative lawyers and drafting laws sparked my interest in law as a career. That hands-on exposure led me to work at a law firm before law school, ultimately shaping my decision to attend law school and become an attorney.

Were you involved in any extracurricular activities during your time at the University, and how have they influenced you?

I was involved in sports, playing football, lacrosse, and baseball in various capacities, along with participating in intramural sports. I was also a member of Sigma Chi fraternity, which provided a strong sense of camaraderie and leadership. Looking back, I believe the foundation for leadership and community building was first developed through sports and fraternal activities, and then deepened by other University programs, such as service initiatives. While an undergraduate, my fraternity also sponsored charitable events, reinforcing the importance of giving back. These skills continued to evolve throughout my career—whether managing trial teams, mentoring younger attorneys, or working on pro bono cases to serve the community.

Volunteerism and making an impact

What inspired you to take on the role of 30th Reunion Chair, and what has been the most rewarding part of reconnecting with your classmates?

Reunion planning has been a part of my journey since graduation—I’ve chaired nearly every one, including the 10th, 15th, and 20th. I look forward to it every five years because it’s more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to reconnect with classmates, revisit campus, and relive the memories that shaped us. Seeing familiar faces and picking up right where we left off is always the most rewarding part.

As you plan your 30th Reunion, what are your goals for the event, and what do you hope your classmates will take away from the experience?

This year’s reunion carries extra significance—having missed our 25th due to the pandemic, my biggest priority is for us to truly be in the moment. I want everyone to appreciate the time we have together, reminisce about our years at Rochester, and create new memories that will last well beyond the weekend.

Have you attended previous Reunion events? What are some of your favorite memories or traditions from past Reunions, either as a participant or a volunteer?

Yes, I have attended many reunions for my class-year and others. Not to be cliché, but it is always fun getting together at the Elmwood or Distillery, and nothing is quite the same as a Tahou’s plate. That’s not all of course, the main dinner event for our class and the events that surround the weekend are always fun to attend. The University does a great job of finding interesting speakers on relevant and intriguing topics, as well as getting great comedic/musical performers to entertain.

How do you think alumni events like Reunions help strengthen the connection between graduates and the University?

Any time you can get a group of people who share a common thread back together the bond is strengthened. We all share a Rochester education and were on campus at the same time, and for most of us, at the same point in our lives. The passing of time can’t change that; it really is a wonderful phenomenon to be able to connect with people who knew at a younger stage in your life.

Celebrating a Reunion this year or want to see what you can look forward to in the future? Check out the Reunion website!

How to get involved like Heath

What advice would you give to fellow alumni who are considering volunteering for Reunion committees or other University initiatives?

I would absolutely encourage them to get involved. The University offers so many opportunities for alumni to stay connected, whether through volunteer initiatives, alumni committees, or special events. Engaging in these programs not only allows you to give back in meaningful ways but also introduces you to new experiences, fresh perspectives, and a wider network of fellow alumni. Plus, it’s a great way to reconnect with classmates in your area and keep that sense of community alive long after graduation.

Check out volunteer opportunities with the University today!