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Meredith Preve SUNY Niagara

Student Persuades SUNY Niagara Administration to Adopt Composting Program

By News Archive

April 28, 2023

Meredith Preve SUNY Niagara

Environmental studies student and 2023 SUNY Chancellor’s Award recipient, Meredith Preve, smiles next to SUNY Niagara’s first compost bin.

During the spring 2022 semester, several SUNY Niagara students from Professor Marc Pietrzykowski’s Writing for STEM class completed a group research project about waste management at SUNY Niagara. Inspired, one of the group members, Meredith Preve, lifted the words from their paper and molded them into a new, hands-on project at the College.

“With encouragement from Professor P, I decided to pursue making composting, which was a major focus of our paper, into a reality at SUNY Niagara,” said Meredith. Working with SUNY Niagara’s College Association, Dining Services, and Facilities departments to research potential partnerships that could bring this project to fruition, the team was able to draft a formal proposal and present it to the Vice President of Administration Wayne Lynch.

“We made the recommendation to stick with our current waste management company, Casella, to compost all organic waste from SUNY Niagara’s Dining Commons.” Given the green light by the College, the team ordered their first barrel to house food scraps, including meats and fats.

The first successful pickup was in early March. According to Meredith, all departments involved say the new composting program is going well. There are even plans to expand the program to the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute (NFCI). The project has also inspired the Dining Commons and Operations staff to pursue more options like recycling programs to increase the sustainability of the campus.

“This was an easy issue to choose,” said Meredith. “Food waste is not a controversial issue.” When it comes to the environment, there are hundreds of things that we can all agree on that just makes sense. Apathy is silly and it weaponizes hopelessness. We can all make a difference.”

When Meredith isn’t incorporating sustainability programs at SUNY colleges, she is leading the SUNY Niagara Outdoor Activities Club. During Earth Week, the group of environmentalist students spent time making do-it-yourself “Seed bombs,” packed with wildflower seeds that can be grown to feed pollinating insects. The group also hosted a mushroom hunt where Professor Scott Sackett led a fungi foraging session with proper tools and instruction on finding delicious morsels across the 287 acre campus.

In addition to her green efforts, Meredith is active in SUNY Niagara’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Team Compost, Master Gardeners of Niagara County, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. An environmental studies major, Meredith plans to graduate next month with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Her impact at SUNY Niagara has made waves all the way to Albany as she is a 2023 recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the State University of New York higher education system. She will officially receive her award from the Albany Capital Center on Monday, April 24.

Homeschooled from middle through high school, Meredith states, “College is truly what you make of it. SUNY Niagara offered me a meaningful, interdisciplinary education. I was amazed by what I could achieve here in only two years.”

During the spring 2022 semester, several SUNY Niagara students from Professor Marc Pietrzykowski’s Writing for STEM class completed a group research project about waste management at SUNY Niagara. Inspired, one of the group members, Meredith Preve, lifted the words from their paper and molded them into a new, hands-on project at the College.

“With encouragement from Professor P, I decided to pursue making composting, which was a major focus of our paper, into a reality at SUNY Niagara,” said Meredith. Working with SUNY Niagara’s College Association, Dining Services, and Facilities departments to research potential partnerships that could bring this project to fruition, the team was able to draft a formal proposal and present it to the Vice President of Administration Wayne Lynch.

“We made the recommendation to stick with our current waste management company, Casella, to compost all organic waste from SUNY Niagara’s Dining Commons.” Given the green light by the College, the team ordered their first barrel to house food scraps, including meats and fats.

The first successful pickup was in early March. According to Meredith, all departments involved say the new composting program is going well. There are even plans to expand the program to the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute (NFCI). The project has also inspired the Dining Commons and Operations staff to pursue more options like recycling programs to increase the sustainability of the campus.

“This was an easy issue to choose,” said Meredith. “Food waste is not a controversial issue.” When it comes to the environment, there are hundreds of things that we can all agree on that just makes sense. Apathy is silly and it weaponizes hopelessness. We can all make a difference.”

When Meredith isn’t incorporating sustainability programs at SUNY colleges, she is leading the SUNY Niagara Outdoor Activities Club. During Earth Week, the group of environmentalist students spent time making do-it-yourself “Seed bombs,” packed with wildflower seeds that can be grown to feed pollinating insects. The group also hosted a mushroom hunt where Professor Scott Sackett led a fungi foraging session with proper tools and instruction on finding delicious morsels across the 287 acre campus.

In addition to her green efforts, Meredith is active in SUNY Niagara’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Team Compost, Master Gardeners of Niagara County, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. An environmental studies major, Meredith plans to graduate next month with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Her impact at SUNY Niagara has made waves all the way to Albany as she is a 2023 recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the State University of New York higher education system. She will officially receive her award from the Albany Capital Center on Monday, April 24.

Homeschooled from middle through high school, Meredith states, “College is truly what you make of it. SUNY Niagara offered me a meaningful, interdisciplinary education. I was amazed by what I could achieve here in only two years.”

 

Meredith Preve SUNY Niagara

Environmental studies student and 2023 SUNY Chancellor’s Award recipient, Meredith Preve, smiles next to SUNY Niagara’s first compost bin.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara President William J. Murabito, SUNY Trustee Eunice A. Lewin, and SUNY Niagara EOP Student Gabrielle Kramer at the fourth annual EOP Student Excellence Awards Ceremony.

SUNY Chancellor Recognizes Local SUNY Niagara Student

By News Archive

April 28, 2023

SUNY Niagara President William J. Murabito, SUNY Trustee Eunice A. Lewin, and SUNY Niagara EOP Student Gabrielle Kramer at the fourth annual EOP Student Excellence Awards Ceremony.

SUNY Niagara President William J. Murabito, SUNY Trustee Eunice A. Lewin, and SUNY Niagara EOP Student Gabrielle Kramer at the fourth annual EOP Student Excellence Awards Ceremony.

SUNY Niagara sophomore Gabrielle Kramer was one of 46 students across the state who were recognized with the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Student Excellence. Presented by the State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor John B. King, Jr., this award identifies the achievements of Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) students who are in pursuit of their associate and bachelor degrees.

Students who demonstrate academic merit and perseverance are eligible for the award. Gabrielle’s determination to complete her degree at SUNY Niagara while overcoming personal triumphs was noted by EOP Director Angela Jackson. “Gabby is working, taking classes and taking care of her home. I am amazed by her tenacity, her inner strength and also her excitement for the next chapter of her life!”

Gabrielle is just as proud to be a SUNY Niagara student as the college is to have her enrolled. “EOP has helped tremendously. Without EOP Director Angela Jackson, I don’t think I would have succeeded in reaching my academic goals,” said Gabrielle.

Chancellor King noted, “When I visit our campuses, I am continuously awed and inspired by the dedicated, hardworking EOP students I meet. EOP is a ticket to upward mobility for New York students, which is why I am honored to recognize these students who stand as role models demonstrating what is possible.”

In the 2022-23 academic year, EOP will serve nearly 8,000 students on 54 SUNY campuses. The EOP serves a diverse student body and many students are first in their family to go to college. EOP students dream big and those selected for the program possess the motivation and promise to succeed in college. Since the program’s inception in 1967, more than 80,000 EOP students have earned SUNY degrees, participate in the workforce and contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities.

SUNY Niagara sophomore Gabrielle Kramer was one of 46 students across the state who were recognized with the Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Student Excellence. Presented by the State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor John B. King, Jr., this award identifies the achievements of Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) students who are in pursuit of their associate and bachelor degrees.

Students who demonstrate academic merit and perseverance are eligible for the award. Gabrielle’s determination to complete her degree at SUNY Niagara while overcoming personal triumphs was noted by EOP Director Angela Jackson. “Gabby is working, taking classes and taking care of her home. I am amazed by her tenacity, her inner strength and also her excitement for the next chapter of her life!”

Gabrielle is just as proud to be a SUNY Niagara student as the college is to have her enrolled. “EOP has helped tremendously. Without EOP Director Angela Jackson, I don’t think I would have succeeded in reaching my academic goals,” said Gabrielle.

Chancellor King noted, “When I visit our campuses, I am continuously awed and inspired by the dedicated, hardworking EOP students I meet. EOP is a ticket to upward mobility for New York students, which is why I am honored to recognize these students who stand as role models demonstrating what is possible.”

In the 2022-23 academic year, EOP will serve nearly 8,000 students on 54 SUNY campuses. The EOP serves a diverse student body and many students are first in their family to go to college. EOP students dream big and those selected for the program possess the motivation and promise to succeed in college. Since the program’s inception in 1967, more than 80,000 EOP students have earned SUNY degrees, participate in the workforce and contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities.

 

SUNY Niagara President William J. Murabito, SUNY Trustee Eunice A. Lewin, and SUNY Niagara EOP Student Gabrielle Kramer at the fourth annual EOP Student Excellence Awards Ceremony.

SUNY Niagara President William J. Murabito, SUNY Trustee Eunice A. Lewin, and SUNY Niagara EOP Student Gabrielle Kramer at the fourth annual EOP Student Excellence Awards Ceremony.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

Film Fest Logo

2023 SUNY Niagara Film & Animation Fest Brings Industry Stars to WNY

By News Archive

April 26, 2023

Film Fest Logo

The SUNY Niagara Film & Animation Festival will take place on Saturday, May 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the college’s Sanborn campus, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road. The event features film and animation screenings, workshops, music, movie trivia contests, exhibits, food and refreshments. Admission to the festival is free and open to the public.

The annual event brings together filmmakers, animators, actors, and enthusiasts from across Western New York and beyond. Guests will experience continuous screenings of finalists’ films, displays, exhibits, workshops, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Gregory Lambersome, director of nine feature films, author of 15 published books, and co-founder of the Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival.

In addition, the College will honor Chris Cosgrave of Cheektowaga, NY, recipient of the 2023 WNY Filmmaker of the Year award. Cosgrave directed, co-wrote, edited, acted, and coordinated stunts and special effects for the film, which won the award for best drama at the inaugural SUNY Niagara film festival in 1998, and first prize in the Videomaker Magazine/Panasonic filmmaking contest. Since then, he’s racked up credits for his visual effects work on such films as Gave Up the Ghost, Sepulcher, Dick Johnson and Tommygun vs. the Cannibal Cop, Killer Rack, The Mongolian Connection, Guns of Eden, and Widow’s Point.

Free workshops will take place throughout the day. Actor David Autovino will teach voice-over techniques for film & video from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. in room E-107. He’ll provide a crash course for artists interested in voice over, either as a performer or as a content producer.

Improv acting and auditions will be taught by Bob Bozek, a graduate the prominent Second City Conservatory Program and the Upright Citizens Brigade. Bob will teach participants about improve games, techniques, connections, character development, and callbacks. Participants will have the chance to film a scene using these techniques. Bob’s workshop will run from 12 – 1 p.m. in room E-106.

Maria Friend, professional special FX makeup artist will host a shop about the design that goes into creating zombies, monsters, aliens, and other diabolical creatures for the big screen. Her lesson, “Special Effects Make-Up: Dark Fantasy, Gore & More” will run from 1-2 p.m. in room E-107.

Film industry veteran, Jay Vinitsky, will present “Making it in the Film Industry” from 2-3 p.m. in E-106. As Vice President of Post Production for New Line Cinema, Jay spent thousands of hours in editing rooms, theaters, mixing stages, and color timing sessions working with directors, editors, cinematographers, and supervising sound editors. His movie credits include: Elf, Final Destination, Hairspray, Horrible Bosses, Snakes on a Plane, Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, Keanu, Sex & The City, and Wedding Crashers.

For more information or to register for free workshops, visit: niagaracc.suny.edu/ncccfilmfestival.

The SUNY Niagara Film & Animation Festival will take place on Saturday, May 6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the college’s Sanborn campus, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road. The event features film and animation screenings, workshops, music, movie trivia contests, exhibits, food and refreshments. Admission to the festival is free and open to the public.

The annual event brings together filmmakers, animators, actors, and enthusiasts from across Western New York and beyond. Guests will experience continuous screenings of finalists’ films, displays, exhibits, workshops, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Gregory Lambersome, director of nine feature films, author of 15 published books, and co-founder of the Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival.

In addition, the College will honor Chris Cosgrave of Cheektowaga, NY, recipient of the 2023 WNY Filmmaker of the Year award. Cosgrave directed, co-wrote, edited, acted, and coordinated stunts and special effects for the film, which won the award for best drama at the inaugural SUNY Niagara film festival in 1998, and first prize in the Videomaker Magazine/Panasonic filmmaking contest. Since then, he’s racked up credits for his visual effects work on such films as Gave Up the Ghost, Sepulcher, Dick Johnson and Tommygun vs. the Cannibal Cop, Killer Rack, The Mongolian Connection, Guns of Eden, and Widow’s Point.

Free workshops will take place throughout the day. Actor David Autovino will teach voice-over techniques for film & video from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. in room E-107. He’ll provide a crash course for artists interested in voice over, either as a performer or as a content producer.

Improv acting and auditions will be taught by Bob Bozek, a graduate the prominent Second City Conservatory Program and the Upright Citizens Brigade. Bob will teach participants about improve games, techniques, connections, character development, and callbacks. Participants will have the chance to film a scene using these techniques. Bob’s workshop will run from 12 – 1 p.m. in room E-106.

Maria Friend, professional special FX makeup artist will host a shop about the design that goes into creating zombies, monsters, aliens, and other diabolical creatures for the big screen. Her lesson, “Special Effects Make-Up: Dark Fantasy, Gore & More” will run from 1-2 p.m. in room E-107.

Film industry veteran, Jay Vinitsky, will present “Making it in the Film Industry” from 2-3 p.m. in E-106. As Vice President of Post Production for New Line Cinema, Jay spent thousands of hours in editing rooms, theaters, mixing stages, and color timing sessions working with directors, editors, cinematographers, and supervising sound editors. His movie credits include: Elf, Final Destination, Hairspray, Horrible Bosses, Snakes on a Plane, Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, Keanu, Sex & The City, and Wedding Crashers.

For more information or to register for free workshops, visit: niagaracc.suny.edu/ncccfilmfestival.

 

 

Film Fest Logo


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

Live Music Returns to SUNY Niagara

By News Archive

April 25, 2023

The public is welcome to attend SUNY Niagara’s Audio Recording Production and Music Departments’ Spring Concert Series. Free of charge, guests can snap along to the jazz set directed by Josh Wagner, head bang to the rock band, directed by local musician Elliott Hunt, or lose themselves in an electronic music performance, directed by the legendary Buffalo Music Hall of Famer, David Kane. The music you will experience will be played by SUNY Niagara’s up-and-coming student musicians.

You can catch the performances on April 27 at 12:30 p.m., April 28 at 7 p.m. and April 29 at 2 p.m. All concerts will take place at SUNY Niagara’s Arts and Media Theatre, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd., Sanborn.

The public is welcome to attend SUNY Niagara’s Audio Recording Production and Music Departments’ Spring Concert Series. Free of charge, guests can snap along to the jazz set directed by Josh Wagner, head bang to the rock band, directed by local musician Elliott Hunt, or lose themselves in an electronic music performance, directed by the legendary Buffalo Music Hall of Famer, David Kane. The music you will experience will be played by SUNY Niagara’s up-and-coming student musicians.

You can catch the performances on April 27 at 12:30 p.m., April 28 at 7 p.m. and April 29 at 2 p.m. All concerts will take place at SUNY Niagara’s Arts and Media Theatre, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd., Sanborn.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara TO HOST JOB FAIR

By News Archive

April 20, 2023

SUNY Niagara invites job seekers from across the region to its annual Spring Job Fair April 25. This open house-style event will be free and open to the public. Attendees will have the chance to meet with representatives from area employers from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Learning Commons on the college’s Sanborn Campus at 3111 Saunders Settlement Road.

“We look forward to welcoming community members who are planning to enter the workforce, looking for new opportunities or just exploring job options,” said Spring Job Fair organizer Shannon Stott of the SUNY Niagara Career and Transfer Services office. “Our aim is to help participants take the next steps in their careers.”

Employers that will be recruiting at SUNY Niagara’s Job Fair include:

  • Arrow Systems, Inc.
  • Chiavetta’s
  • Empower
  • Erie County Medical Center
  • Fresenius Kabi
  • Horizon Health Services
  • Hospice & Palliative Care
  • Intandem
  • Just for Kids
  • Kelton Enterprises
  • McGuire Group
  • Mount St. Mary’s Child Care Center
  • New Directions Youth and Family Services
  • New York Power Authority
  • New York State Police
  • Niagara County Employment & Training
  • Niagara Falls Country Club
  • Niagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
  • NY Army National Guard
  • NY State Office of Parks & Recreation
  • Revlet Sales
  • Seneca Gaming Corporation
  • Six Flags Darien Lake
  • Tops Markets
  • Turf Tec of WNY Inc.
  • United States Border Patrol
  • United States Marine Corps
  • Venture Forthe Inc.
  • Wegmans

For more information about the SUNY Niagara Spring Job Fair, contact Stott at 716-614-6268.

SUNY Niagara invites job seekers from across the region to its annual Spring Job Fair April 25. This open house-style event will be free and open to the public. Attendees will have the chance to meet with representatives from area employers from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Learning Commons on the college’s Sanborn Campus at 3111 Saunders Settlement Road.

“We look forward to welcoming community members who are planning to enter the workforce, looking for new opportunities or just exploring job options,” said Spring Job Fair organizer Shannon Stott of the SUNY Niagara Career and Transfer Services office. “Our aim is to help participants take the next steps in their careers.”

Employers that will be recruiting at SUNY Niagara’s Job Fair include:

  • Arrow Systems, Inc.
  • Chiavetta’s
  • Empower
  • Erie County Medical Center
  • Fresenius Kabi
  • Horizon Health Services
  • Hospice & Palliative Care
  • Intandem
  • Just for Kids
  • Kelton Enterprises
  • McGuire Group
  • Mount St. Mary’s Child Care Center
  • New Directions Youth and Family Services
  • New York Power Authority
  • New York State Police
  • Niagara County Employment & Training
  • Niagara Falls Country Club
  • Niagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
  • NY Army National Guard
  • NY State Office of Parks & Recreation
  • Revlet Sales
  • Seneca Gaming Corporation
  • Six Flags Darien Lake
  • Tops Markets
  • Turf Tec of WNY Inc.
  • United States Border Patrol
  • United States Marine Corps
  • Venture Forthe Inc.
  • Wegmans

For more information about the SUNY Niagara Spring Job Fair, contact Stott at 716-614-6268.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara to Stage Comedic First Date: The Musical This Week

By News Archive

April 17, 2023

First Date

The SUNY Niagara Theatre department will present First Date: The Musical April 19-22 at the SUNY Niagara Arts & Media Theatre on the college’s Sanborn campus. The play follows, in real time, a date between Aaron, who is new to blind dating, with serial-dater Casey. Their casual meeting at a busy New York restaurant spins into a side-splitting, high-stakes dinner.

First Date: The Musical debuted on Broadway in 2013 after premiering in Seattle in 2012. It has since been staged in Toyko, Melbourne, Buenos Aires, London and Moscow.

Tickets, available at the door, cost $10 for general admission and $5 for seniors and veterans. Admission is free to students with student IDs. The performance schedule is as follows:

  • April 19, 7 p.m.
  • April 20, 12:30 p.m.
  • April 21, 7 p.m.
  • April 22, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

SUNY Niagara’s Theatre Arts curriculum prepares students for transfer to baccalaureate programs in performance and technical threat. It offers students opportunities to develop their potential through a combination of challenging coursework and practical theatrical training.

For more information about Blind Date: The Musical and other upcoming events at SUNY Niagara, visit the college’s performing arts website at http://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/pa/.

The SUNY Niagara Theatre department will present First Date: The Musical April 19-22 at the SUNY Niagara Arts & Media Theatre on the college’s Sanborn campus. The play follows, in real time, a date between Aaron, who is new to blind dating, with serial-dater Casey. Their casual meeting at a busy New York restaurant spins into a side-splitting, high-stakes dinner.

First Date: The Musical debuted on Broadway in 2013 after premiering in Seattle in 2012. It has since been staged in Toyko, Melbourne, Buenos Aires, London and Moscow.

Tickets, available at the door, cost $10 for general admission and $5 for seniors and veterans. Admission is free to students with student IDs. The performance schedule is as follows:

  • April 19, 7 p.m.
  • April 20, 12:30 p.m.
  • April 21, 7 p.m.
  • April 22, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

SUNY Niagara’s Theatre Arts curriculum prepares students for transfer to baccalaureate programs in performance and technical threat. It offers students opportunities to develop their potential through a combination of challenging coursework and practical theatrical training.

For more information about Blind Date: The Musical and other upcoming events at SUNY Niagara, visit the college’s performing arts website at http://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/pa/.

 


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SHowcase Student

SUNY Niagara Welcomes the Community to Open House and Student Showcase

By News Archive

April 17, 2023

SHowcase Student

2022 Showcase presenter and Welding student, Michael Levering, presented sports memorabilia and other creations he made with Welding tools and techniques.

For anyone considering a college education or workforce opportunity, make sure to add the following SUNY Niagara events to your calendar!

On Thursday, April 20 from 6 – 8 p.m., you’re invited to visit the Sanborn campus, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road and feel what it’s like to be a student. Experience our vibrant college in its entirety including the following favorite student spaces: Learning Commons, Student Housing Village, E-Gaming Lab, Academic Center for Excellence, outdoor courtyards, STEM labs, SMART classrooms, and professional athletic facilities.

Make sure to stop by the main gym where you can view the annual Student Showcase, a campus-wide event which highlights semester-long research, capstone projects, performances, and art exhibitions. You’ll be able to view the type of material you’d be learning in a SUNY Niagara classroom! This year’s projects include topics on fashion, processing cannabis, animation, artificial intelligence, quantum physics, fine arts, poetry readings, and the art of pastry layering, just to name a few!

On Saturday, April 22, the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute (NFCI), 28 Old Falls Street, will host an Open House from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prospective students who are interested in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, and Hospitality programs are encouraged to explore the European-influenced cooking labs, the student-run restaurant, “Savor” and the pastry shop, “La Patisserie,” as well as speak with professional culinary educators who are teaching the next generation of leaders in the food, beverage and hospitality industry.

Unique to many open houses across the nation, NFCI will simultaneously host the American Culinary Federation’s (ACF) Monte Dolce Spring Classic Competition. The public is welcome to be a part of the excitement on the second floor where they can view innovative dishes and table display submissions by students, culinary educators, and industry professionals. Parking is on the attached ramp on level 3 for both the NFCI Open House and ACF Competition.

For additional information or to register for Open House, visit niagaracc.suny.edu/oph.

SUNY Niagara is a diverse, inclusive center for education that encourages anyone who has a dream of earning a degree or certificate to come for a visit. Faculty and staff look forward to meeting with you at Open House to highlight educational, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities that could assist with your personal and professional goals.

For anyone considering a college education or workforce opportunity, make sure to add the following SUNY Niagara events to your calendar!

On Thursday, April 20 from 6 – 8 p.m., you’re invited to visit the Sanborn campus, 3111 Saunders Settlement Road and feel what it’s like to be a student. Experience our vibrant college in its entirety including the following favorite student spaces: Learning Commons, Student Housing Village, E-Gaming Lab, Academic Center for Excellence, outdoor courtyards, STEM labs, SMART classrooms, and professional athletic facilities.

Make sure to stop by the main gym where you can view the annual Student Showcase, a campus-wide event which highlights semester-long research, capstone projects, performances, and art exhibitions. You’ll be able to view the type of material you’d be learning in a SUNY Niagara classroom! This year’s projects include topics on fashion, processing cannabis, animation, artificial intelligence, quantum physics, fine arts, poetry readings, and the art of pastry layering, just to name a few!

On Saturday, April 22, the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute (NFCI), 28 Old Falls Street, will host an Open House from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prospective students who are interested in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, and Hospitality programs are encouraged to explore the European-influenced cooking labs, the student-run restaurant, “Savor” and the pastry shop, “La Patisserie,” as well as speak with professional culinary educators who are teaching the next generation of leaders in the food, beverage and hospitality industry.

Unique to many open houses across the nation, NFCI will simultaneously host the American Culinary Federation’s (ACF) Monte Dolce Spring Classic Competition. The public is welcome to be a part of the excitement on the second floor where they can view innovative dishes and table display submissions by students, culinary educators, and industry professionals. Parking is on the attached ramp on level 3 for both the NFCI Open House and ACF Competition.

For additional information or to register for Open House, visit niagaracc.suny.edu/oph.

SUNY Niagara is a diverse, inclusive center for education that encourages anyone who has a dream of earning a degree or certificate to come for a visit. Faculty and staff look forward to meeting with you at Open House to highlight educational, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities that could assist with your personal and professional goals.

SHowcase Student

2022 Showcase presenter and Welding student, Michael Levering, presented sports memorabilia and other creations he made with Welding tools and techniques.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

Two Initiatives at SUNY Niagara Increase Attention and Support for Students with Disabilities

By News Archive

April 12, 2023

A two-person team from SUNY Niagara has earned sponsorship to the world’s pre-eminent event for and advancing disability inclusion in higher education.

Professor Mark Voisinet of the college’s Business & STEM Division and Kevin Beato, SUNY Niagara’s accommodated testing and adaptive technology specialist, will participate in the 2023 Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) conference, Equity & Excellence: Access in Higher Education. They are one of just 20 teams nationwide to receive funding from the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute for Technology to attend the conference, which will take place in Portland, Ore., in July.

“We have accepted this grant to allow us to continue to gain more knowledge as well as build a network of colleagues nationally to assist the SUNY Niagara technology programs in building more diverse learning environments,” said Voisinet. “Being an alumnus of RIT and having been educated side-by-side with NTID students we are hoping to foster a more inclusive approach to disabled students and in particular those that are hearing impaired.”

Beato also is co-advisor of a club formed this month at SUNY Niagara for students with disabilities and their allies. The Wellness Club is a safe-space for disabled students and their advocates. Its goal is to create a community of belonging, awareness and acceptance.

“The Wellness Club’s launch will help our campus maintain a welcoming environment for all,” said SUNY Niagara Vice President of Academic Affairs Lydia Ulatowski. “Likewise, our presence at the AHEAD conference will ensure that our college continues to respond appropriately each student’s unique challenges.”

AHEAD is a leading professional organization committed to equity for persons with disabilities in higher education. Founded in 1977, AHEAD works to promote research, best practices and information about emerging issues related to disability in higher education. The organization’s membership now exceeds 4,000, representing all 50 states and more than 10 countries.

A two-person team from SUNY Niagara has earned sponsorship to the world’s pre-eminent event for and advancing disability inclusion in higher education.

Professor Mark Voisinet of the college’s Business & STEM Division and Kevin Beato, SUNY Niagara’s accommodated testing and adaptive technology specialist, will participate in the 2023 Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) conference, Equity & Excellence: Access in Higher Education. They are one of just 20 teams nationwide to receive funding from the National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute for Technology to attend the conference, which will take place in Portland, Ore., in July.

“We have accepted this grant to allow us to continue to gain more knowledge as well as build a network of colleagues nationally to assist the SUNY Niagara technology programs in building more diverse learning environments,” said Voisinet. “Being an alumnus of RIT and having been educated side-by-side with NTID students we are hoping to foster a more inclusive approach to disabled students and in particular those that are hearing impaired.”

Beato also is co-advisor of a club formed this month at SUNY Niagara for students with disabilities and their allies. The Wellness Club is a safe-space for disabled students and their advocates. Its goal is to create a community of belonging, awareness and acceptance.

“The Wellness Club’s launch will help our campus maintain a welcoming environment for all,” said SUNY Niagara Vice President of Academic Affairs Lydia Ulatowski. “Likewise, our presence at the AHEAD conference will ensure that our college continues to respond appropriately each student’s unique challenges.”

AHEAD is a leading professional organization committed to equity for persons with disabilities in higher education. Founded in 1977, AHEAD works to promote research, best practices and information about emerging issues related to disability in higher education. The organization’s membership now exceeds 4,000, representing all 50 states and more than 10 countries.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara’s Medical Assisting Program Earns Reaccreditation

By News Archive

April 11, 2023

SUNY Niagara Vice President of Academic Affairs Lydia Ulatowski announced that the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has awarded continuing accreditation to SUNY Niagara’s medical assisting program. “This accreditation acknowledges our faculty’s dedication to their students and their field,” Ulatowski said. “It marks SUNY Niagara’s medical assisting program as being on the forefront of both subject matter and practice.”

Reaccreditation comes as a result of demonstrated compliance with CAAHEP’s standards and other standards developed by Medical Assisting Education Review Board, American Association of Medical Assistants, American Medical Technologists, and National Healthcareer Association.

In his letter informing SUNY Niagara of the program’s reaccreditation, CAAHP President Donald Balasa noted the college’s pursuit of excellence. “CAAHEP accreditation is awarded due to the program’s demonstrated compliance with the standards,” wrote Balasa. “The commission recognizes your organization’s commitment to continuous quality improvement in health professions education.”

The medical assisting program is one of 12 programs within SUNY Niagara’s Division of Nursing, Physical and Allied Health. Its reaccreditation will last through 2032.

SUNY Niagara Vice President of Academic Affairs Lydia Ulatowski announced that the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has awarded continuing accreditation to SUNY Niagara’s medical assisting program. “This accreditation acknowledges our faculty’s dedication to their students and their field,” Ulatowski said. “It marks SUNY Niagara’s medical assisting program as being on the forefront of both subject matter and practice.”

Reaccreditation comes as a result of demonstrated compliance with CAAHEP’s standards and other standards developed by Medical Assisting Education Review Board, American Association of Medical Assistants, American Medical Technologists, and National Healthcareer Association.

In his letter informing SUNY Niagara of the program’s reaccreditation, CAAHP President Donald Balasa noted the college’s pursuit of excellence. “CAAHEP accreditation is awarded due to the program’s demonstrated compliance with the standards,” wrote Balasa. “The commission recognizes your organization’s commitment to continuous quality improvement in health professions education.”

The medical assisting program is one of 12 programs within SUNY Niagara’s Division of Nursing, Physical and Allied Health. Its reaccreditation will last through 2032.


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

SUNY Niagara Offering Enriching Community Events this Spring

By News Archive

March 24, 2023

Whether you’re looking for a new career, evening entertainment, or an interesting lecture, SUNY Niagara has something to offer everyone. All events are open to the public and will take place at the Sanborn campus unless otherwise stated.

March 30 – SUNY Niagara’s Faculty Resource Center for Academic Excellence will host a free presentation, “Sapere Aude: The Role of Expertise in Human Debate” by Dr. Fabio Escobar. It will take place at 3:30 p.m. in Room E-140. At this discussion, Escobar will discuss value of expertise within contemporary public dialog, drawing evidence from such disparate sources as philosophical debates and social media clashes. His presentation will examine the definition of reality, recount the historical role of expertise in determining what reality really is, and consider what happens when trust in experts disappears.

April 1 – The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office will host a free community Easter egg hunt beginning at 1 p.m. The event will take place outside in lot 4. Guests can park in lot 3 or 5 for easy access to the event.

April 4 – SUNY Niagara Associate Professor John D Strong will present “Purposeful Competition,” a discussion which focuses on people striving with one another to support environments of excellence, mutual dependence, and risk-taking toward a more intentionally purposeful existence. The lecture is free and will begin at 12:30 p.m. in room E-142.

April 5 – A job fair for those in the hospitality and culinary industry will take place at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, 28 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

April 19 – An Indigenous people’s celebration will take place in SUNY Niagara’s Learning Commons. Participants can experience traditional food, music, and even a painting class with members from the Tuscarora Nation from 12 – 5 p.m. Following the celebration, the SUNY Niagara Cinephiles Club will screen Secret Path, an animated feature written by Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip. The film tells the story of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year-old Anishinaabe boy who was forcibly removed from his family and sent to a residential school 400 miles away. Facing abuse and cultural assimilation, Chanie fled the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School in an effort to make the journey back home.

April 19-22 – The talented students of the SUNY Niagara theatre department will present First Date. This hilarious musical is about a casual blind date that turns into a sidesplitting, high-stakes dinner in a New York City restaurant. Show times are at 7 p.m. on April 19, 21, and 22. Two matinees will run on April 20 at 12:30 and April 22 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. Senior and veteran tickets are $5. All performances will take place at the Arts & Media Theatre.

April 25 – SUNY Niagara will host another job fair, however this time it will take place within the Learning Commons of the Sanborn campus. In addition to plenty of job recruiters from a variety of industries and skill levels, the event will offer assistance with resumes, networking tips, and other career-focused information.

May 6 – SUNY Niagara’s annual International Film and Animation Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. inside the Arts & Media Theatre. The event is free and brings together filmmakers, animators, actors, and enthusiasts from across Western New York and beyond. Guests will experience continuous screenings of finalists’ films, displays, exhibits, workshops, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Gregory Lambersome, director of nine feature films, author of 15 published books, and co-founder of the Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival. In addition, the College will honor Chris Cosgrave of Cheektowaga, recipient of the 2023 WNY Filmmaker of the Year award.

Whether you’re looking for a new career, evening entertainment, or an interesting lecture, SUNY Niagara has something to offer everyone. All events are open to the public and will take place at the Sanborn campus unless otherwise stated.

March 30 – SUNY Niagara’s Faculty Resource Center for Academic Excellence will host a free presentation, “Sapere Aude: The Role of Expertise in Human Debate” by Dr. Fabio Escobar. It will take place at 3:30 p.m. in Room E-140. At this discussion, Escobar will discuss value of expertise within contemporary public dialog, drawing evidence from such disparate sources as philosophical debates and social media clashes. His presentation will examine the definition of reality, recount the historical role of expertise in determining what reality really is, and consider what happens when trust in experts disappears.

April 1 – The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office will host a free community Easter egg hunt beginning at 1 p.m. The event will take place outside in lot 4. Guests can park in lot 3 or 5 for easy access to the event.

April 4 – SUNY Niagara Associate Professor John D Strong will present “Purposeful Competition,” a discussion which focuses on people striving with one another to support environments of excellence, mutual dependence, and risk-taking toward a more intentionally purposeful existence. The lecture is free and will begin at 12:30 p.m. in room E-142.

April 5 – A job fair for those in the hospitality and culinary industry will take place at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, 28 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

April 19 – An Indigenous people’s celebration will take place in SUNY Niagara’s Learning Commons. Participants can experience traditional food, music, and even a painting class with members from the Tuscarora Nation from 12 – 5 p.m. Following the celebration, the SUNY Niagara Cinephiles Club will screen Secret Path, an animated feature written by Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip. The film tells the story of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year-old Anishinaabe boy who was forcibly removed from his family and sent to a residential school 400 miles away. Facing abuse and cultural assimilation, Chanie fled the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School in an effort to make the journey back home.

April 19-22 – The talented students of the SUNY Niagara theatre department will present First Date. This hilarious musical is about a casual blind date that turns into a sidesplitting, high-stakes dinner in a New York City restaurant. Show times are at 7 p.m. on April 19, 21, and 22. Two matinees will run on April 20 at 12:30 and April 22 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. Senior and veteran tickets are $5. All performances will take place at the Arts & Media Theatre.

April 25 – SUNY Niagara will host another job fair, however this time it will take place within the Learning Commons of the Sanborn campus. In addition to plenty of job recruiters from a variety of industries and skill levels, the event will offer assistance with resumes, networking tips, and other career-focused information.

May 6 – SUNY Niagara’s annual International Film and Animation Festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. inside the Arts & Media Theatre. The event is free and brings together filmmakers, animators, actors, and enthusiasts from across Western New York and beyond. Guests will experience continuous screenings of finalists’ films, displays, exhibits, workshops, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Gregory Lambersome, director of nine feature films, author of 15 published books, and co-founder of the Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival. In addition, the College will honor Chris Cosgrave of Cheektowaga, recipient of the 2023 WNY Filmmaker of the Year award.

 


Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Public Relations Assistant
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: Dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu