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SUNY Niagara to Offer Course Examining Genealogical History

By News Archive

January 12, 2021

SUNY Niagara is offering a topical course entitled, “United States History Since 1865,” during the spring 2021 semester. The class is rich in genealogical research and will connect historic benchmarks of our nation to the way our ancestors and communities were locally affected.

genealogical photos

SUNY Niagara students enrolled in the “United States History Since 1865” course will link their genealogical research to historical context.

Professor Don Fisher, who holds a Ph.D. and Master of Arts degree from SUNY at Buffalo, will lead the class through an in-depth look at the political, social, and economic history of the US from the end of the Civil War to the present. Students will be given free access to Ancestry.com and a plethora of other references to navigate their specific family history spanning many decades. Students will learn how to uncover information through interviews, photographs, newspapers, and other historic documents and then apply their research to a written account about the way their family’s story was shaped by America’s past. Discussions will be centered on topics regarding immigration, social mobility, military service, and education amongst other subjects. In addition to the extraordinary research resources and paper, students can also expect to participate in the course through traditional exams and lectures. Dr. Fisher states, “Scholarly history isn’t just for scholars. Everyone today has the tools at their fingertips to understand their genealogy against the backdrop of broader historical patterns and issues. Anyone who completes the course and paper would not merely have a family tree, but a meaningful contextualized history of their family.”

This class is open to current students and to the public. Those who are interested in taking the class but not currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program are welcome to apply to SUNY Niagara as a non-matriculated student. Seats are still available during three different times:  9:30 – 10:45a.m.; 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., and 12:30 – 1:45 p.m., all on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning January 19 and concluding on May 6, 2021. Classes will meet virtually via Zoom in order to maintain safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please visit https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/spring/ for more information.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Event Coordinator, Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

Fall 2020 Dean's List

SUNY Niagara Announces Fall 2020 Dean’s List

By News Archive

January 5, 2021

A total of 737 students were recently recognized for their outstanding academic achievements for the fall 2020 semester at SUNY Niagara.  Both full-time and part-time students were honored for their scholastic successes by being named to either the Dean’s List or the Part-Time Honors list.

To be named to the College’s Dean’s List, a student must be enrolled full-time with 12 or more credit hours and have achieved a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better. Students are ineligible if they have incomplete course work, a grade of S, U, W or a grade below C.

To be eligible for the Part-Time Honors list, a student must be enrolled in six to 11 hours of course work and have a semester GPA of 3.5 or better. Students are ineligible if they have incomplete course work, a grade of S, U, W or a grade below C.


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu

Delaney Adams

High School Students Get a Jumpstart on College at SUNY Niagara

By News Archive

December 22, 2020

At a time when the pandemic has brought challenges for many in the academic realm, SUNY Niagara is improving access to higher education for high school students through the College Acceleration Program (CAP).  CAP allows students to take college courses at their own high school, following SUNY Niagara curriculum.  In essence, the dual-enrolled high school students are getting a head start on their college careers.

By participating in CAP, high school students can concurrently enroll to take college courses while receiving both high school and college credit.  As college costs and student debt is rising nationwide, the ability to save time and money through CAP classes while in high school is a huge advantage. According to former CAP student and current SUNY Niagara student Gabriela Bonura, “I would recommend high school students taking CAP classes because they are very affordable, and it does prepare you for the rigorous coursework when in college.”

The benefits of CAP are more than just financial savings, as high school students have an opportunity to lighten their course load when they do start college. This opens the door for students to explore more electives, earn a double major, complete an internship, or participate in a study abroad program.  The experience of earning college credit while still in high school helps to further prepare students for the expectations they will face and the culture of a college environment. “Taking college courses in the comfort of my high school has made for a great transitional period prior to college,” states Lockport High School Senior Delaney Adams.

Currently, there are participating high schools within Western New York offering college credits through SUNY Niagara CAP at a discounted rate of $79 per credit.  For the spring 2021 semester, a limited number of scholarships will be available to high school CAP students whose families faced financial hardships due to COVID-19.  To learn more about CAP, visit https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/academics/highschool/


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu

Campus aerial photo

Study Finds SUNY Niagara among Top NYS Community Colleges with High Employment Rates

By News Archive

December 17, 2020

In a Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) study conducted by the US Census Bureau, SUNY Niagara graduates have achieved a 76.8 percent employment rate five years after their graduation. That’s the second-highest 5-year, post-grad employment rate among community colleges in New York State. The study also revealed that the top-grossing jobs were from alumni who earned an Associate degree in allied health, engineering, and computer information related programs at SUNY Niagara.

Dr. William Murabito, President of SUNY Niagara, states, “I am proud of our graduates and honored to be leading an education- and workforce-driven institution which has made a significant impact in our local economy.”

The Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes data illustrates wages and employment flows for recent graduates of partner colleges and universities in Colorado, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin. It includes graduates who are employed full-time on a yearly basis at the federal minimum wage and work three or more quarters in a calendar year.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Event Coordinator, Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SBDC group photo

SUNY Niagara Small Business Development Center Receives Impact Award

By News Archive

December 9, 2020

Lynn Oswald, Director of the SUNY Niagara Small Business Development Center (SBDC), along with the rest of her team, has been selected as the recipient of the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Impact Niagara award. The award will be presented to the SBDC during a special event hosted by the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce and M&T Bank via Zoom on December 14 at 9:00 a.m. There is no cost to attend but registration is required.

The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce reports that Oswald and the SBDC staff have worked tirelessly through the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning their services to an online format and continuing to provide one-on-one counseling as well as public workshops which focused on creating, operating, and growing small businesses. In addition, the SUNY Niagara SBDC staff facilitated information sessions covering COVID-19 related topics such as: safety protocols, New York State mandates, Federal Paycheck Protection Program, and re-opening training.

Oswald shares, “I’d like to thank the Niagara USA Chamber for recognizing the efforts of my team. We, at the Niagara SBDC, are proud of our collaboration with all the business resource partners in the County during the Covid-19 crisis. Since mid-March, the Niagara SBDC has assisted over 371 clients with 74 receiving disaster funding totaling over $16.6 million and saving/creating 1,609 jobs.”

SBDC Group Photo

Top Row L-R: Lynn Oswald, Val Hill, Bree Bacon
Second row L-R: Jack Dezik, Maureen Henderson, Deanna Alterio Brennen, Dinene Zaleski
Third row L-R: J Suzan Ben, Tom Bruss, Kelly Walck, Amy Stack

Following the award ceremony, Gary Keith, Vice President and Regional Economist for M&T Bank will discuss how current events will impact the future of the Western New York economy. Guest speakers Larry Mietus, founder of Speaking of Strategy, and Franklin Sciortino, Director of the US Small Business Administration, will be contributing to the online event as well.

To register, call (716) 285-9142 or e-mail ewoods@niagarachamer.org. The public is welcome to attend and those who are involved in any type of business, community leadership, or the local economy are encouraged to participate in this free event.

The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce is a premier business advocacy organization which serves the interest of its members and the business community of Niagara County and beyond. This dynamic, non-profit organization is a voice for business which fosters leadership, advocates on behalf of its members, and promotes the greater Buffalo-Niagara region.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Event Coordinator, Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara Thunderwolves

SUNY Niagara to Resume Intercollegiate Athletic Competition in February 2021

By News Archive

December 8, 2020

SUNY Niagara plans to resume intercollegiate athletic competition in February 2021, beginning with its indoor sports of men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, and wrestling. To ensure a safe return to play, SUNY Niagara will continue to follow all federal, state, and local guidelines put forth in regards to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

“Going off the success we have seen with mitigating risk during the fall semester, we feel as if we can move forward in providing a safe and worthwhile opportunity for our student-athletes,” SUNY Niagara Director of Athletics Amanda Haseley said.

According to Haseley, helpful tools in determining a return to play included: the New York State Supplemental Guidance for Athletics at Higher Education Institutions during the Covid-19 Public Health Emergency document, other local NCAA and USCAA schools successfully participating in multiple sports along with preseason scrimmages, practices and workouts held on SUNY Niagara’s campus throughout the fall semester.

Spring sports including baseball, golf, and softball along with the traditional fall sports of men’s and women’s soccer are on track to begin competition in March. Earlier in the year, the NJCAA Board of Regents voted that all 2020-21 NJCAA sports seasons (fall, winter, and spring) will not count towards student-athlete eligibility.


Media Contact Information

Nate Beutel
Sports Information Director
Phone: 716-614-6777
Email: nbeutel@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara unveils new EOP office and collaboration with Niagara Falls High School

By News Archive

December 8, 2020

While the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) has been around since former New York State Assemblyman Arthur O. Eve started the program in 1967, it is relatively new to SUNY Niagara.  The program started at SUNY Niagara in August of 2016 with the goal of providing academic workshops, tutoring, counseling, advisement, and financial assistance to historically under-served students who require additional academic support.

Currently, the SUNY Niagara EOP has funding through the State University of New York (SUNY) Office of Opportunity Programs to support 70 students.  As of Tuesday, November 17, EOP students have a brand new space to call home as SUNY Niagara cut the ribbon on a larger, more student-friendly office.  More important than the office is the people who run the program on campus.  As an SUNY Niagara Alumna and former EOP student herself, Angela Jackson, EOP Coordinator at SUNY Niagara has a valuable perspective when it comes to the population she serves.  “Being able to work at my alma mater is awesome in and of itself, however being a former EOP student and being able to oversee and help shape the new EOP at SUNY Niagara was a dream opportunity for me,” says Angela.

Not all high school students receive the guidance and support needed to pursue their goals in higher education, or may not feel they are “college material” according to Angela.  Because of her own experience, she recognizes the importance of having a presence in high school to illustrate possibilities firsthand.  As part of her duties, Angela will now spend one day a week on-site at Niagara Falls High School allowing her to have 1-on-1 time with students to share information about EOP and inform students on exactly what services may be available to them.

While COVID has transitioned many of the services typically offered on-campus to a virtual experience, EOP is still very active in making a positive impact in the lives of the students it serves.  Angela notes that colleague Ted Mallwitz, Academic Support Specialist is amazing at disarming students and creating a safe space for them while directing them to the appropriate resources needed to assist them in their academic journey.  When asked about the vision of the future of EOP at SUNY Niagara, Angela envisions the program doubling the population it serves and hopes to provide even more financial support for students.  “The program has survived 52 years; I hope we have another 52.”

The SUNY Niagara Educational Opportunity Program helps through mentorship, academic programs, financial assistance, counseling/advising, and other campus support services to those who are first-generation college students, and/or from low-income and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. The comprehensive program of support services includes advising, learning skills development, tutoring, and academic advisement.  For more information about the SUNY Niagara EOP Program, please call (716) 614-5977 or email: eop@niagaracc.suny.edu


Media Contact Information

Barbara M. DeSimone
Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-481-3775
Email: desimone@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara TO OFFER FREE WEBINAR ON OSHA – WORKING TO STAY SAFE

By News Archive

December 3, 2020

The SUNY Niagara Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will present Nick Donofrio, Compliance Assistance Specialist with the New York State Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Labor/OSHA, to speak on the topic of “Working to Stay Safe,” on a free webinar on Wednesday, December 9, 2020, from 9:00 – 10:30 am.

The webinar’s goals are to present the fundamental OSHA requirements for all employers, OSHA compliance assistance, review the three parts of a basic safety program, and explain an OSHA inspection.

To register for the webinar and more information, please call SUNY Niagara SBDC at (716) 210-2515 or visit the website: http://www.NiagaraSBDC.org.


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu

Day of Giving

SUNY Niagara Hosts Second Annual Day of Giving

By News Archive

December 2, 2020

SUNY Niagara participated in its 2nd Annual Day of Giving on Tuesday, December 1, 2020.

Thunderwolves from all over – faculty, staff, alumni, and friends – came together to give back to SUNY Niagara raising $7,347 from 105 donors. Their donations were designated towards programs that support SUNY Niagara’s students and further the College mission. Areas that were included were the SUNY Niagara Annual Fund, Athletic Department, Honors Program, Horticulture Program, and English Department.

The outpouring of support and enthusiasm for SUNY Niagara, especially during these unprecedented times, has been overwhelming. Thank you to all those who participated and made this day a success!

Although the SUNY Niagara Day of Giving is over, donations can still be made online to support the College at www.niagaracc.suny.edu/dayofgiving. Your continued support allows SUNY Niagara to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow’s world by inspiring creativity, responsibility, and leadership.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Alli Korta, SUNY Niagara Foundation Assistant Director, at akorta@niagaracc.suny.edu or 716-614-5910.


Media Contact Information

Allison Korta
Foundation Assistant Director
Phone: 716-614-6231
Email: akorta@niagaracc.suny.edu

Collin Lacki

SUNY Niagara student advocates for accessibility at SUNY campuses

By News Archive

November 30, 2020

Collin Lacki is a sophomore at SUNY Niagara studying music in hopes of pursuing a career in music therapy one day.  He decided to enroll at SUNY Niagara because of the quality education he could receive at the College, while still getting a typical on-campus experience away from his home in Brocton, New York.  As a student with a disability, a quality education for Collin also meant receiving support through the Accessibility Services Office on campus.

As a blind student growing up in the small Chautauqua County Village of Brocton, Collin did not always have access to the resources he needed to set him up for academic success in elementary and high school.  “Many younger students with disabilities are not sure if they want to continue on to higher education because of all of the barriers they encounter,” says Collin.  He wants to push those students toward higher education and points to the commitment made by the State University of New York (SUNY) System in providing services and resources needed for students with disabilities to succeed.

Having years of experience advocating for his own needs has given Collin the confidence to take on a new challenge to help other students statewide.  He was recently selected to be a part of the newly formed SUNY Student Voices Action Committee to advise SUNY leadership on emerging, critical issues, and challenges facing students across the SUNY System.  He was chosen after receiving a nomination from Alissa Shugats-Cummings, Director of Career and Transitional Services at SUNY Niagara.

“I suggested Collin for a seat on the SUNY Student Voices Action Committee because during his time at SUNY Niagara I have seen him develop and demonstrate skills that make him a model not only for students with disabilities but for all SUNY students. He is a hard worker, a diligent student, a friend to all. We are proud to have him represent SUNY Niagara SUNY-wide,” says Alissa.  As one of 27 students statewide to participate in the committee, Collin is using his voice to ensure the topic of accessibility remains in the focus of SUNY administration, and he hopes his contributions will promote positive changes that improve the educational experience for all students.

Collin has high praise for Accessibility Services Coordinator Steve Burns and Alissa Shugats-Cummings, two employees who go out of their way to assist students through their roles in the Career and Transitional Services Department at SUNY Niagara.  This department is an umbrella for Accessibility Services, Career Services, Transfer Services, and the Student Success Center.  “The staff makes the office what it is,” says Collin.  He is hopeful that through relationships he has established on campus and his new appointment to the SUNY-wide committee, he can continue to make a positive impact not only for himself but empower others as well.  Collin has advice for others with disabilities: “Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.  The only way you’ll get the help you need is by speaking up!”

The mission of Accessibility Services is to provide academic adjustments and appropriate support to students with disabilities in the most inclusive setting possible and to enhance student independence while promoting self-advocacy.  For more information on Accessibility Services at SUNY Niagara, visit: https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/accessibility-services/ or call 716-614-6285.


Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: saharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu