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Jan 12
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EOP Student

NCCC student honored with statewide award

By News Archive
Elaine Champagne-Lewis

NCCC Student Elaine Champagne-Lewis, recipient of the 2020 Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence

January 12, 2021

On December 14, 2020, State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor Dr. Jim Malatras hosted a virtual Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Honors Awards Ceremony recognizing the achievements of 45 students from 49 SUNY campuses statewide. Elaine Champagne-Lewis of Niagara County Community College (NCCC) was chosen to receive the 2020 Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for EOP Student Excellence, which celebrates EOP students who have overcome significant obstacles in life to achieve their educational and personal goals.  The award is named after the late Norman McConney, one of the architects of the statewide EOP program and a champion of youth empowerment.  The EOP program provides academic support services, counseling, advisement and financial assistance to historically under-served students from low-income families in New York.

A mother of two, Elaine is a non-traditional student who was motivated to pursue a degree in human services after working several minimum wage jobs while trying to support her family.  “I struggled so much to get by, and I want to set an example for my kids,” says Elaine.  A friend encouraged her to look into studying at NCCC and Elaine worked with an advisor who helped her through the process of enrolling.  Once on campus, she saw that she met the qualifications for the EOP program and was accepted.  “The EOP workshops helped me to learn balance and self-care, to ask questions when I don’t understand things and connected me to appropriate resources when I needed help.”

Since enrolling at NCCC, Elaine has excelled.  “Elaine has consistently demonstrated the utmost commitment, perseverance, and resiliency in pursuing her academic goals. She has maintained a perfect GPA throughout two semesters of the pandemic while also working as a single mother to not only provide for her children, but help assist in their education as well. Her strength and dedication is an inspiration to me as her advisor and I believe her example can be an inspiration to others,” states Ted Mallwitz, the EOP Academic Support Specialist who nominated Elaine for the EOP Award for Student Excellence.

When asked if she had any advice for other non-traditional students in a similar circumstance, Elaine offered the following: “Ask questions and put in the effort, because it will pay off.  There are so many people ready and willing to help you if you just ask.  Going back to school feels like something you can’t do, but just put one foot in front of the other to make changes in your life.”  Elaine expects to finish her degree at NCCC in the fall of 2021 and plans to continue her education at Buffalo State College studying social work. She currently participates in an internship with a local substance abuse and mental health organization where she hopes to gain full-time employment after graduation.

Media Contact Information

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

Jan 12
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genealogical photos

NCCC to Offer Course Examining Genealogical History

By News Archive

January 12, 2021

Niagara County Community College 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

NCCC 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 Niagara County Community College 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

Jan 05
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Fall 2020 Dean's List

NCCC 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 Niagara County Community College.  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

Dec 22
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Delaney Adams

High School Students Get a Jumpstart on College at NCCC

By News Archive

December 22, 2020

At a time when the pandemic has brought challenges for many in the academic realm, Niagara County Community College (NCCC) 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 NCCC 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 NCCC 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 NCCC 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

Dec 08
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NCCC 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 Niagara County Community College (NCCC).  The program started at NCCC 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 NCCC 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 NCCC 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 NCCC Alumna and former EOP student herself, Angela Jackson, EOP Coordinator at NCCC 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 NCCC 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 NCCC, 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 NCCC 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 NCCC 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

Aug 11
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Retired NCCC Professor Gail Tylec

NCCC’s Tylec receives statewide recognition

By News Archive

August 11, 2020

Professor Gail Tylec has shown dedication to Niagara County Community College (NCCC) since she graduated from the institution in 1980 with her Associate in Arts Degree.  She was hired by the College not long after in 1988 when she began a career spanning 32 years.  Tylec retired this summer from her role as a Professor of Dietetic Studies, for which she was recently recognized by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Inc. (NYS AHPERD).

In July Tylec was selected as the Western Zone’s Higher Education Teacher of the Year by the NYS AHPERD.  She received this award based upon a nomination from a colleague who noted her extraordinary teaching ability and the impact on students and staff alike.  The award highlights Tylec’s commitment to providing a quality and comprehensive physical and health education program that enables students to engage in healthy and physically active lifestyles.  Following this recognition, Tylec will present her innovative ideas through the organizational newsletter and presentations at regional events.

Media Contact Information

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

Jun 22
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Meagan Swartz, 2017 NCCC Physical Therapist Assistant Graduate.

NCCC Physical Therapist Assistant Program Rewarding in Clinics and Community

By News Archive

June 22, 2020

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at Niagara County Community College (NCCC) paves the way for a rewarding career in the healthcare field. Physical Therapist Assistants play a vital role in helping patients who need to improve mobility, decrease pain, and increase their quality of life. NCCC PTA graduates help patients build strength after surgery, recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and even improve pre-natal and post-partum health.

Meagan Swartz 2017 PTA Grad

Meagan Swartz 2017 PTA Grad

Meagan Swartz, a 2017 graduate of the program explains, “As a PTA, we see people in a vulnerable state following an injury, accident, or surgery. We help them physically by taking them through exercises and stretches or by using manual therapy like massages. We also help mentally, and emotionally by lending a listening ear, explaining things to them regarding their recovery, and helping them to understand the process. It makes a world of difference when you actually listen to someone’s concerns and help to clarify things for them in a way that they understand.” She adds, “Seeing your patients’ happiness and excitement when their pain has decreased or their strength has increased is the most rewarding part of the job.”

The desire to help others is crucial to being a PTA. Outside of the physical therapy world, Meagan is leading the charge in an “Adopt-a-Senior” program in both North Tonawanda and the City of Tonawanda. Creating an online platform where the community can “adopt” local high school seniors, Meagan has helped to coordinate relationships between local residents who shower seniors with contactless doorstep goodies as the pandemic halted their graduations and end of year celebrations. Meagan’s NCCC professors saw the impact she was making in the community and decided to embrace the same program for NCCC 2020 PTA graduates.

In addition to inspiring alumni, the program boasts experienced faculty with a strong interest in evidence-based practice and instruction. A 2019 American Physical Therapy Association’s Emerging Leader recipient, David Faccini ’94, sits on the NCCC faculty roster. He is one of many experienced instructors who is providing a rewarding academic journey to students. David explains, “NCCC has become one of the premier schools in WNY for Physical Therapy Assistant Education. I contribute this to the dedication, compassion, and professional work ethic of NCCC instructors. I have certainly applied these skills to my every day practice over the years which have helped to shape me into the PTA that I am today.”

Well-trained faculty and dedicated students have created an impressive 100% pass rate for the PTA licensure examination from 2011-2018. In addition, graduate employment rate was 100% of those who sought employment. The U.S. News and World Report states, “Physical Therapist Assistants rank #3 in Best Healthcare Support Jobs and #26 out of 100 Best Jobs” overall. NCCC’s PTA degree can be completed in as little as 20 months and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

The NCCC PTA program is part of the State University of New York Higher Education system which helps to keep tuition rates at a lower cost. Enrolled students can take advantage of the NYS Excelsior Scholarship program as well as a myriad of other scholarship opportunities available by the NCCC Foundation. Please visit

for more information.

Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Event Coordinator
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

Jun 10
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Gap Year

NCCC Offers Exploratory “Gap Year” Options

By News Archive

June 10, 2020

While the pressure to attend a four-year college, trade school, or enter the workforce can weigh heavy on high school seniors, the option for a “gap year” may be an option that facilitates career exploration while moving forward with purpose. Bob McKeown, Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management at Niagara County Community College is a strong supporter for prospective students who are on the fence between committing to a full course load and cautiously planning their path.

McKeown explains, “Typically a gap year is a semester or year that students use for experiential learning and exploring educational options. It’s typically taken after high school and before post-secondary school. However, it can be taken at any time throughout your college career. Students use this time to deepen their professional and personal awareness.” And, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to alter plans later into the year, more students are considering a gap year closer to home.

NCCC offers more than 60 programs and many ways to attend class. While NCCC’s Sanborn campus and Niagara Falls Culinary Institute are home to state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, athletic facilities, and student spaces during regular daytime hours, the College also offers evening class formats and online learning options. There is truly something for everyone.

Topics span a diverse spectrum of liberal arts courses, hands-on technical training, allied health classes, and specialized hospitality and culinary arts experiences at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. Students have the option to sample an array of subjects to find their passion without much of a cost to their time or their wallets. “NCCC is literally the ‘Smart Place to Start’ because students can earn credit online, continue to work their job, and save money simultaneously. This is also a good option for students who may be undecided. They can sign up for classes in several different academic majors, take some of the their core courses like English and Math, and then when they know the exact major they are interested in, they can switch into that specific program, complete the remaining required courses, and earn their degree,” says McKeown.

NCCC’s homegrown podcast, “Morning Thunder” recently discussed the idea of a gap year with Academic Center for Excellence host, Madison Ebsary. The riveting discussion focused on the value of earning credits online while exploring your options, saving money, and then transferring those credits to a four-year institution in the future. If you are interested in learning more about exploratory education and taking a gap year at NCCC, you can tune into Morning Thunder at http://niagaracc.suny.edu/morning-thunder/ to hear the full episode.

For those who are ready to begin their gap year, McKeown encourages future students to, “Apply to NCCC in order to get started. There is no application fee or obligation. Go to the NCCC Admissions page at http://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/admissions/ and click on the “Apply Now” tab in the upper right-hand corner.” You are also encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see how much financial aid you would qualify for. NCCC Admissions counselors and Financial Aid representatives are happy to guide you through the application process and talk to you about your options.

Media Contact Information

Denyel Beiter
Events Coordinator
Phone: 716-614-5974
Email: dbeiter@niagaracc.suny.edu

May 01
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Laura Scaletta teaching

New Psychology degree taught by published faculty at NCCC

By News Archive

May 1, 2020

The newest addition to the catalog of programs at Niagara County Community College is a Psychology, Associate in Science degree.  This degree is offered in both a traditional classroom format and online as well. The online courses give students the opportunity to earn their degree with a flexible schedule and learning environment.

The Psychology curriculum has been curated for students who are interested in the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The program was designed by a team of outstanding staff and advisors from the Humanities and Social Sciences department who also teach the Psychology courses. Committed to life-long learning, NCCC’s exemplary Psychology faculty members bring decades of research and field experience to the classroom. Professor of Psychology and Program Coordinator, Laura Scaletta, was recently involved with the production of a new textbook, Psychology in Your Life (Third Edition) by Grison and Gazzaniga, published by W.W. Norton & Company, Inc. She contributed as a principle reviewer for the book and web-based resources.  In addition, Scaletta’s work as a professor at NCCC was featured on the Northeast Psychology Regional document, “Northeast Students Love InQuizitive for Psychology,” a resource that is disseminated to all colleges and universities across the United States.

The Psychology program is currently growing with the expansion of faculty and essential Psychology courses on the horizon. The curriculum currently offers introductory classes in general psychology as well as advanced subjects that investigate abnormal, developmental, social psychology, as well as methods of scientific inquiry. Graduates are prepared to transfer into baccalaureate programs with an aim to become counselors, therapists, psychologists, and researchers.

For more information regarding NCCC’s Psychology program and the College’s 60 other degree and certificate opportunities, please visit http://niagaracc.suny.edu/.

Media Contact Information

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

Apr 21
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Student Showcase

NCCC Student Showcase is virtually remarkable

By News Archive

April 21, 2020

The Niagara County Community College (NCCC) Student Showcase has become an annual tradition, featuring students working with the help of Faculty mentors to create projects highlighting every division on campus.  In its third year, the Showcase was not able to be held on campus due to COVID-19, but that did not stop organizers from pushing forward in a virtual format.  “Knowing how much time and passion students pour into these projects, it seemed wasteful not to find a way to give the public at least a taste of what the students intended. Once presented with the new format, many students chose to add additional materials to their posters and abstracts so the public would understand the project’s real intention,” says Dr. Matthew Clarcq, Professor and Chairperson of the Student Showcase.

In the past, NCCC employees contributed donations that funded monetary prizes for winners in each category.   With the complexity of trying to assess projects remotely this year, and judges determined that all twenty-four participants deserved an equal cut of the prize money.  This additional income is likely a welcome boost for financially strapped college students, and well-deserved for the extra effort required to complete projects outside of their normal classroom assignments.

One additional prize will be awarded in the “People’s Choice” category, with the winner receiving $250.  The public is invited to view submissions for the Student Showcase and vote on their favorite entry through Friday, May 1, 2020 by visiting: http://niagaracc.suny.edu/showcase/

Media Contact Information

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