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Sep 29
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Joan Wolfgang Award

Former SUNY Niagara Trustee Joan Wolfgang Receives State Award Posthumously

By News Archive

September 29, 2022

Joan Wolfgang Award

SUNY Niagara Trustee Jerald I. Wolfgang (l) accepts the NYCCT award for Trustee Leadership on behalf of his late wife, former Trustee Joan Wolfgang, at the annual meeting held in Saratoga Springs, NY. Also attending the conference was SUNY Niagara President William Murabito (r).

Joan W. Wolfgang, former SUNY Niagara Board of Trustee Chairperson, was honored this past weekend as the posthumous recipient of the Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr. Trustee Leadership Award at the annual meeting of the New York Community College Trustees (NTCCT), held in Saratoga Springs.  Wolfgang was appointed to the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees by the Niagara County Legislature in 1982.   She served as the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for three different terms during her tenure, which lasted twenty-six years.   She was the second-longest serving member of the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees.   While serving on the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees, Wolfgang was instrumental in bringing to fruition many of the college’s higher-profile projects, including state-of-the-art campus housing on the Sanborn campus.  Joan Wolfgang passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy of the lasting impact of service and leadership on her community and SUNY Niagara.

The Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr. Trustee Leadership Award is presented to a trustee who demonstrates a significant commitment to the community college mission through exceptional leadership, inspired vision, and outstanding professional contributions to support their local institution.

Joan W. Wolfgang, former SUNY Niagara Board of Trustee Chairperson, was honored this past weekend as the posthumous recipient of the Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr. Trustee Leadership Award at the annual meeting of the New York Community College Trustees (NTCCT), held in Saratoga Springs.  Wolfgang was appointed to the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees by the Niagara County Legislature in 1982.   She served as the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for three different terms during her tenure, which lasted twenty-six years.   She was the second-longest serving member of the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees.   While serving on the SUNY Niagara Board of Trustees, Wolfgang was instrumental in bringing to fruition many of the college’s higher-profile projects, including state-of-the-art campus housing on the Sanborn campus.  Joan Wolfgang passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy of the lasting impact of service and leadership on her community and SUNY Niagara.

The Donald M. Mawhinney, Jr. Trustee Leadership Award is presented to a trustee who demonstrates a significant commitment to the community college mission through exceptional leadership, inspired vision, and outstanding professional contributions to support their local institution.

 

 

Joan Wolfgang Award

SUNY Niagara Trustee Jerald I. Wolfgang (l) accepts the NYCCT award for Trustee Leadership on behalf of his late wife, former Trustee Joan Wolfgang, at the annual meeting held in Saratoga Springs, NY. Also attending the conference was SUNY Niagara President William Murabito (r).

Media Contact Information

Barbara M. DeSimone
Asst. Vice President of Institutional Advancement
Phone: 716-614-5904
Email: DeSimone@niagaracc.suny.edu

Mar 25
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SUNY Niagara Alumni Association Seeking Nominations for Annual Award

By News Archive

March 25, 2022

The SUNY Niagara Alumni Association is seeking nominations for its Distinguished Alumni Award. This award is bestowed to deserving alumni who exemplify educational achievements, career success, community involvement, and support to SUNY Niagara. The award will be presented at the SUNY Niagara Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Gala to be held on October 22, 2022.

The nominated individual must have completed 50 or more credit hours at SUNY Niagara; yet it is strongly recommended that she/he is a graduate. Nomination applications are available to download at https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/alumni/awards/ or a hard copy can be requested. Applications can be submitted directly online or mailed in to the SUNY Niagara Alumni Association, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd., Sanborn, NY 14132.

All materials are due to the Alumni Office by May 4, 2022 to be eligible for consideration for the award.  If you have any questions, please contact Deb Brewer in the Foundation/Alumni Office at (716) 614-5910 or via email at alumni@niagaracc.suny.edu.

The SUNY Niagara Alumni Association is seeking nominations for its Distinguished Alumni Award. This award is bestowed to deserving alumni who exemplify educational achievements, career success, community involvement, and support to SUNY Niagara. The award will be presented at the SUNY Niagara Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Gala to be held on October 22, 2022.

The nominated individual must have completed 50 or more credit hours at SUNY Niagara; yet it is strongly recommended that she/he is a graduate. Nomination applications are available to download at https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/alumni/awards/ or a hard copy can be requested. Applications can be submitted directly online or mailed in to the SUNY Niagara Alumni Association, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd., Sanborn, NY 14132.

All materials are due to the Alumni Office by May 4, 2022 to be eligible for consideration for the award.  If you have any questions, please contact Deb Brewer in the Foundation/Alumni Office at (716) 614-5910 or via email at alumni@niagaracc.suny.edu.

Media Contact Information

Barbara DeSimone, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement
3111 Saunders Settlement Rd.
Sanborn, NY 14132
Phone: 716-614-5904
Email: desimone@niagaracc.suny.edu

Feb 17
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Chancellors Awards Donna Simiele and Cheri Yager

Simiele and Yager Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

By News Archive

February 16, 2022

Donna Simiele and Cheri Yager with SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

Donna Simiele and Cheri Yager with SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

A virtual recognition ceremony was held to honor faculty and staff at SUNY Niagara on Thursday, February 3.  During the event, a special acknowledgment featured the recipients of the 2020-2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence.  These annual awards are honors conferred to acknowledge and provide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence within the State University of New York (SUNY) system.  Donna Simiele was recognized for Excellence in Classified Service and Cheri Yager was recognized for Excellence in Professional Service.

Donna Simiele has been an employee of SUNY Niagara since 1986, working in various roles to support SUNY Niagara, its faculty and students.  She has been an invaluable team member in online learning, serving as the campus leader in training faculty to meet the accessibility requirements for delivery of online content.  She participates in numerous SUNY groups and training to keep up on her own professional development and stays abreast of the technology, compliance requirements, and best practices in the advancement of online education.

Donna has always provided quality training and support to faculty, but when COVID-19 struck and the College needed to go fully remote, she kicked into crisis mode, and worked tirelessly days, nights, and even on weekends to support faculty in moving to this new instructional medium.  Her department of Online Learning supported 140 section of Online and Blended Courses, and this past fall supported 82% of all course’s offerings in the online, hybrid, and blended modes. “As if she did not already show her commitment to SUNY Niagara through all her previous years, this year she was one of the most dedicated and flexible employees I’ve ever worked with,” says Donna’s supervisor, Lisa Dubuc.

Through Donna’s excellent customer service skills, she has built an excellent rapport with faculty, staff, and students.  She is a true professional committed to the SUNY Niagara community, and proved herself to be deserving of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service.

Cheri Yager has dedicated her life to nursing for over 40 years, and has supported SUNY Niagara since 1992.  As the Wellness Center nurse, Cheri has contact with students, faculty, staff, administrators, children in the child development center, and visitors. The Wellness Center and her role there have evolved over the years to better serve the needs of the community and now includes counseling services.

In the spring of 2020, Cheri took a lead role in ensuring safety on campus amidst the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.  She has afforded her expertise and research into the COVID transmission, representation on the SUNY Niagara Reopening committee, and development of procedures and protocols specific to COVID.  She supplied her personal cell phone and access for consult when other campus departments were closed for any person who had questions pertaining to accessing campus when we had COVID screening protocols in place. She even used her personal vehicle and credit card to help secure PPE for the college.

Cheri was instrumental in getting NARCAN® and AED units on campus as standards of care have necessitated this transition. She put together emergency NARCAN® boxes for the campus and student housing to allow SUNY Niagara to be the first college in the area to have such a resource.  Additionally, Cheri contributes in the Nursing Curriculum Advisory Board at SUNY Niagara. Cheri’s dedication to the health and safety of the SUNY Niagara community is evident and she truly embodies the standards of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service.

A virtual recognition ceremony was held to honor faculty and staff at SUNY Niagara on Thursday, February 3.  During the event, a special acknowledgment featured the recipients of the 2020-2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence.  These annual awards are honors conferred to acknowledge and provide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence within the State University of New York (SUNY) system.  Donna Simiele was recognized for Excellence in Classified Service and Cheri Yager was recognized for Excellence in Professional Service.

Donna Simiele has been an employee of SUNY Niagara since 1986, working in various roles to support SUNY Niagara, its faculty and students.  She has been an invaluable team member in online learning, serving as the campus leader in training faculty to meet the accessibility requirements for delivery of online content.  She participates in numerous SUNY groups and training to keep up on her own professional development and stays abreast of the technology, compliance requirements, and best practices in the advancement of online education.

Donna has always provided quality training and support to faculty, but when COVID-19 struck and the College needed to go fully remote, she kicked into crisis mode, and worked tirelessly days, nights, and even on weekends to support faculty in moving to this new instructional medium.  Her department of Online Learning supported 140 section of Online and Blended Courses, and this past fall supported 82% of all course’s offerings in the online, hybrid, and blended modes. “As if she did not already show her commitment to SUNY Niagara through all her previous years, this year she was one of the most dedicated and flexible employees I’ve ever worked with,” says Donna’s supervisor, Lisa Dubuc.

Through Donna’s excellent customer service skills, she has built an excellent rapport with faculty, staff, and students.  She is a true professional committed to the SUNY Niagara community, and proved herself to be deserving of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service.

Cheri Yager has dedicated her life to nursing for over 40 years, and has supported SUNY Niagara since 1992.  As the Wellness Center nurse, Cheri has contact with students, faculty, staff, administrators, children in the child development center, and visitors. The Wellness Center and her role there have evolved over the years to better serve the needs of the community and now includes counseling services.

In the spring of 2020, Cheri took a lead role in ensuring safety on campus amidst the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.  She has afforded her expertise and research into the COVID transmission, representation on the SUNY Niagara Reopening committee, and development of procedures and protocols specific to COVID.  She supplied her personal cell phone and access for consult when other campus departments were closed for any person who had questions pertaining to accessing campus when we had COVID screening protocols in place. She even used her personal vehicle and credit card to help secure PPE for the college.

Cheri was instrumental in getting NARCAN® and AED units on campus as standards of care have necessitated this transition. She put together emergency NARCAN® boxes for the campus and student housing to allow SUNY Niagara to be the first college in the area to have such a resource.  Additionally, Cheri contributes in the Nursing Curriculum Advisory Board at SUNY Niagara. Cheri’s dedication to the health and safety of the SUNY Niagara community is evident and she truly embodies the standards of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service.

 

Chancellors Awards Donna Simiele and Cheri Yager

Donna Simiele and Cheri Yager with SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

Media Contact Information

Sara Harvey
Assistant Director of Public Relations
Phone: 716-614-6220
Email: sharvey@niagaracc.suny.edu

Jan 24
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Dr. Carol Jamieson Award Recipients

SUNY Niagara Faculty Members Presented Prestigious Award

By News Archive

January 24, 2022

Carol Jamieson Award 2022

Ms. Carolyn Stanko and Dr. Matthew Clarcq, recipients of the Dr. Carol Jamieson Award at SUNY Niagara.

Faculty members Dr. Matthew Clarcq and Ms. Carolyn Stanko recently accepted the Dr. Carol Jamieson Award at SUNY Niagara. This honor recognizes faculty members who exemplify the traits of the late Dr. Jamieson, who was best described as “A veteran academician with in-depth historical perspective and acute foresight, a can-do attitude, ever-present resilience, and willingness to serve as a mentor to many.”

Dr. Matthew Clarcq has been a faculty member since 2004. He is a Professor who teaches History, coordinates the Liberal Arts & Sciences: Humanities and Social Science program, and serves as the Vice President of the SUNY Niagara Faculty Senate. Dr. Clarcq received the State University Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in 2011-12. His teaching inspires students in and out of the classroom. He cultivates many opportunities for students to shine, including the development of the annual Student Showcase. For many years, he led the Instructional Resource Committee (IRC) awarding grants, supporting robust lessons, projects, and research, directly benefiting the student experience. He has been featured as the keynote for many series across campus and created the faculty lecture series, “Building a Bridge to the Liberal Arts.”

Ms. Carolyn Stanko, the coordinator for the Horticulture program and co-coordinator of the biology program, has been with the College since 2007. Known for her hospitable, communicative, and quality relationships with adjunct faculty members, Carolyn was also recognized for her forward-thinking towards cannabis education. She created a new curriculum before its legalization in New York State and had an action plan ready when the plant was written into legislation. She is in constant contact with leaders in the local horticulture community, connecting students to internships and learning the latest and greatest lessons in the field to teach her classes. Ms. Stanko has increased enrollment within the Horticulture program despite the nationwide trend of dwindling college applications. Students within this program gain classroom as well as hands-on experience in the campus’ greenhouse, design arrangements for the College’s annual gala, and participate in the annual WNY Plantasia Garden and Landscape Show.

Dr. William Murabito, President of SUNY Niagara describes the two recipients as “A joy to work with” and that “They add quality and professionalism to our staff.”

Faculty members Dr. Matthew Clarcq and Ms. Carolyn Stanko recently accepted the Dr. Carol Jamieson Award at SUNY Niagara. This honor recognizes faculty members who exemplify the traits of the late Dr. Jamieson, who was best described as “A veteran academician with in-depth historical perspective and acute foresight, a can-do attitude, ever-present resilience, and willingness to serve as a mentor to many.”

Dr. Matthew Clarcq has been a faculty member since 2004. He is a Professor who teaches History, coordinates the Liberal Arts & Sciences: Humanities and Social Science program, and serves as the Vice President of the SUNY Niagara Faculty Senate. Dr. Clarcq received the State University Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in 2011-12. His teaching inspires students in and out of the classroom. He cultivates many opportunities for students to shine, including the development of the annual Student Showcase. For many years, he led the Instructional Resource Committee (IRC) awarding grants, supporting robust lessons, projects, and research, directly benefiting the student experience. He has been featured as the keynote for many series across campus and created the faculty lecture series, “Building a Bridge to the Liberal Arts.”

Ms. Carolyn Stanko, the coordinator for the Horticulture program and co-coordinator of the biology program, has been with the College since 2007. Known for her hospitable, communicative, and quality relationships with adjunct faculty members, Carolyn was also recognized for her forward-thinking towards cannabis education. She created a new curriculum before its legalization in New York State and had an action plan ready when the plant was written into legislation. She is in constant contact with leaders in the local horticulture community, connecting students to internships and learning the latest and greatest lessons in the field to teach her classes. Ms. Stanko has increased enrollment within the Horticulture program despite the nationwide trend of dwindling college applications. Students within this program gain classroom as well as hands-on experience in the campus’ greenhouse, design arrangements for the College’s annual gala, and participate in the annual WNY Plantasia Garden and Landscape Show.

Dr. William Murabito, President of SUNY Niagara describes the two recipients as “A joy to work with” and that “They add quality and professionalism to our staff.”

Carol Jamieson Award 2022

Ms. Carolyn Stanko and Dr. Matthew Clarcq, recipients of the Dr. Carol Jamieson Award at SUNY Niagara.

Media Contact Information

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

Nov 09
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Paul D. Reid, CEO of Reid Petroleum Corp., Recipient of the NYCCT Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

Reid Petroleum Corp. Receives Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

By News Archive

November 9, 2021

Paul D. Reid, CEO of Reid Petroleum Corp., Recipient of the NYCCT Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

Paul D. Reid, CEO of Reid Petroleum Corp.,
Recipient of the NYCCT Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

Reid Petroleum Corp., a longtime supporter of SUNY Niagara received the Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award at the New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) Awards Dinner on Friday, November 5 in Saratoga Springs, NY.  The award is presented annually to recognize commitment to a local community college, aiding in innovation that helps distinguish the recipient community college from its peer institutions.

The founder of Reid Petroleum, J. Ward Reid was a stalwart supporter of education as a means of establishing a more prosperous life, and the importance of higher education was instilled in the rest of the family as well. Under the leadership of CEO Paul D. Reid, Reid Petroleum Corp. has been a dedicated advocate for SUNY Niagara, donating more than $200,000 to support educational initiatives at SUNY Niagara.  Since 2012, the organization has provided funding for scholarships that has opened the door for students to fund their educational and career goals.  In addition to the monetary support provided for scholarships, Reid Petroleum Corp. has provided funding for the Business Resource Center Program at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute and Paul D. Reid hosted a business workshop for the community to encourage small business development.

Paul describes SUNY Niagara as “THE” local college, and notes its tremendous benefit for the local community and the Western New York Region.  “With the rising costs of college tuition, not everyone has the ability to start at a 4 year institution, and SUNY Niagara provides a solid stepping stone for individuals to receive the education needed to succeed,” says Paul.  Moving forward, he envisions a continuing relationship with SUNY Niagara, aspiring to make the Business Program more viable to potential students through scholarships and establishing training to keep content current and relevant.

Paul D. Reid serves on the Old Fort Niagara Association’s Board of Directors, the Grigg-Lewis Foundation’s Board of Directors, and as a trustee for All Saint Parish in Lockport.  He is also affiliated with the Lockport Children’s Memorial Park Committee, the Lockport Community Band, and the World President’s Organization.

Reid Petroleum Corp., a longtime supporter of SUNY Niagara received the Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award at the New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) Awards Dinner on Friday, November 5 in Saratoga Springs, NY.  The award is presented annually to recognize commitment to a local community college, aiding in innovation that helps distinguish the recipient community college from its peer institutions.

The founder of Reid Petroleum, J. Ward Reid was a stalwart supporter of education as a means of establishing a more prosperous life, and the importance of higher education was instilled in the rest of the family as well. Under the leadership of CEO Paul D. Reid, Reid Petroleum Corp. has been a dedicated advocate for SUNY Niagara, donating more than $200,000 to support educational initiatives at SUNY Niagara.  Since 2012, the organization has provided funding for scholarships that has opened the door for students to fund their educational and career goals.  In addition to the monetary support provided for scholarships, Reid Petroleum Corp. has provided funding for the Business Resource Center Program at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute and Paul D. Reid hosted a business workshop for the community to encourage small business development.

Paul describes SUNY Niagara as “THE” local college, and notes its tremendous benefit for the local community and the Western New York Region.  “With the rising costs of college tuition, not everyone has the ability to start at a 4 year institution, and SUNY Niagara provides a solid stepping stone for individuals to receive the education needed to succeed,” says Paul.  Moving forward, he envisions a continuing relationship with SUNY Niagara, aspiring to make the Business Program more viable to potential students through scholarships and establishing training to keep content current and relevant.

Paul D. Reid serves on the Old Fort Niagara Association’s Board of Directors, the Grigg-Lewis Foundation’s Board of Directors, and as a trustee for All Saint Parish in Lockport.  He is also affiliated with the Lockport Children’s Memorial Park Committee, the Lockport Community Band, and the World President’s Organization.

Paul D. Reid, CEO of Reid Petroleum Corp., Recipient of the NYCCT Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

Paul D. Reid, CEO of Reid Petroleum Corp.,
Recipient of the NYCCT Benefactor Vision for Tomorrow Award

Media Contact Information

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

Oct 04
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Elizabeth Corieri and Angelo (Zig) Fracassi

SUNY Niagara Alumni Association Selects 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients

By News Archive

October 4, 2021 

The SUNY Niagara Alumni Association has selected two recipients for their 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award. This year’s recipients are Elizabeth Corieri ‘83 and Angelo “Zig” Fracassi ‘85. Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the 2021 award recipients will be honored during the Foundation Scholarship Diamond Gala on October 22, 2022, kicking off SUNY Niagara’s 60th Anniversary celebration.

Elizabeth Corieri

SUNY Niagara 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient Elizabeth Corieri ‘83

Elizabeth Corieri graduated from SUNY Niagara in 1983 with her Associate’s Degree in LA&S: Humanities & Social Science. She continued her education at the University at Buffalo earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 1985. While working full-time teaching second grade at Military Road School, Elizabeth graduated from Niagara University in 1990 with her Master’s Degree in Education and in 1992 earned her degree in Administration and Supervision. During this time, she was transferred to Colonial Village Elementary School where she stayed for 2-years before starting at Tuscarora Indian School. Five years later in 1998, Elizabeth was promoted to Principal of Tuscarora School. For over 20-years, she has been an avid supporter of the Tuscarora Culture and Language program which is a vital part of the cultural revitalization at Tuscarora. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Native American Regional Forum which addresses issues in the Native American educational system. In addition to education, she has dedicated herself to different programming throughout the school by organizing their yearly Elder’s Day, Culture Night, and Graduation Dinner. Outside of work, Elizabeth is a certified children’s yoga teacher. She volunteers her time to the students at Tuscarora School teaching them positive mental health and proper breathing techniques.

Angelo “Zig” Fracassi

SUNY Niagara 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient Angelo “Zig” Fracassi ‘85

Angelo “Zig” Fracassi graduated from SUNY Niagara in 1985 with his Associate’s Degree in Communication & Media Art. While attending SUNY Niagara, Zig’s passion for radio grew by hosting his own show on WNCB and interning at WJJL. Upon graduation, Zig moved to Las Vegas where he attended the University of Nevada for just over a year before he landed his first professional radio job as a D.J. and Producer. In 1992, Zig received his first nationally syndicated sports talk show with Sports Entertainment Network. In 1994, he was offered a position with Sports Fan Radio hosting regular call-in shows as well as an NHL program titled “In the Crease”. He continued in this position until 2001 when he returned to Western New York as a host and sports anchor for WNSA 107.7 announcing pre-game shows for the Buffalo Sabres. After, he moved to New Jersey for a position with Sirius Satellite Radio (now XM Satellite Radio) as a part-time NFL Radio anchor.  This position evolved into his current role hosting full-time shows on NFL Radio, SiriusXM Channel 88. He is also a regular contributor to SiriusXM NHL Network Radio Channel 91 and is featured hosting college football and hockey shows for SiriusXM College Sports Nation and ESPNU Radio.

To read SUNY Niagara’s 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient’s full biographies and for updates on the Foundation Scholarship Gala, please visit https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/foundation/gala/.

October 4, 2021 

The SUNY Niagara Alumni Association has selected two recipients for their 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award. This year’s recipients are Elizabeth Corieri ‘83 and Angelo “Zig” Fracassi ‘85. Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the 2021 award recipients will be honored during the Foundation Scholarship Diamond Gala on October 22, 2022, kicking off SUNY Niagara’s 60th Anniversary celebration.

Elizabeth Corieri

SUNY Niagara 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient Elizabeth Corieri ‘83

Elizabeth Corieri graduated from SUNY Niagara in 1983 with her Associate’s Degree in LA&S: Humanities & Social Science. She continued her education at the University at Buffalo earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 1985. While working full-time teaching second grade at Military Road School, Elizabeth graduated from Niagara University in 1990 with her Master’s Degree in Education and in 1992 earned her degree in Administration and Supervision. During this time, she was transferred to Colonial Village Elementary School where she stayed for 2-years before starting at Tuscarora Indian School. Five years later in 1998, Elizabeth was promoted to Principal of Tuscarora School. For over 20-years, she has been an avid supporter of the Tuscarora Culture and Language program which is a vital part of the cultural revitalization at Tuscarora. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Native American Regional Forum which addresses issues in the Native American educational system. In addition to education, she has dedicated herself to different programming throughout the school by organizing their yearly Elder’s Day, Culture Night, and Graduation Dinner. Outside of work, Elizabeth is a certified children’s yoga teacher. She volunteers her time to the students at Tuscarora School teaching them positive mental health and proper breathing techniques.

Angelo “Zig” Fracassi

SUNY Niagara 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient Angelo “Zig” Fracassi ‘85

Angelo “Zig” Fracassi graduated from SUNY Niagara in 1985 with his Associate’s Degree in Communication & Media Art. While attending SUNY Niagara, Zig’s passion for radio grew by hosting his own show on WNCB and interning at WJJL. Upon graduation, Zig moved to Las Vegas where he attended the University of Nevada for just over a year before he landed his first professional radio job as a D.J. and Producer. In 1992, Zig received his first nationally syndicated sports talk show with Sports Entertainment Network. In 1994, he was offered a position with Sports Fan Radio hosting regular call-in shows as well as an NHL program titled “In the Crease”. He continued in this position until 2001 when he returned to Western New York as a host and sports anchor for WNSA 107.7 announcing pre-game shows for the Buffalo Sabres. After, he moved to New Jersey for a position with Sirius Satellite Radio (now XM Satellite Radio) as a part-time NFL Radio anchor.  This position evolved into his current role hosting full-time shows on NFL Radio, SiriusXM Channel 88. He is also a regular contributor to SiriusXM NHL Network Radio Channel 91 and is featured hosting college football and hockey shows for SiriusXM College Sports Nation and ESPNU Radio.

To read SUNY Niagara’s 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient’s full biographies and for updates on the Foundation Scholarship Gala, please visit https://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/foundation/gala/.

Media Contact Information

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

May 14
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(Left to Right) Arianna Morales and Miranda Fiore

SUNY Niagara Announces 2021 Student Awards

By News Archive

May 14, 2021

SUNY Niagara hosted its annual Student Life Awards Night on May 5, 2021, doling out more than 50 awards to individuals who made outstanding contributions to the college community. This event took place virtually and can be viewed on Student Life’s website: www.niagaracc.suny.edu/studentlife. The annual award ceremony recognizes the academic and co-curricular accomplishments achieved by students, faculty, and staff. Some of the most prestigious awards and recipients include:

  • 2021 President’s Medallion Award, presented to Miranda Fiore and Arianna Morales, both of Niagara Falls.
  • 2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Award, presented to Allyson Knuutila-Clark of Lockport, Miranda Fiore and Arianna Morales.
  • The All New York Academic Team for Phi Theta Kappa, presented to Aliyah Carroll of Tonawanda and Jordyn Fisher of Grand Island.
  • Club Member of the Year, presented to Jason Dittly of Lockport for his dedication to the Art Guild.
  • Club Officer of the Year, presented to Nathan Lee of Lockport for his leadership in the Gaming and Anime Club.
  • The Community Impact Award, presented to the SUNY Niagara Student Nurses Association.
  • Educational Opportunity Program Academic Achievement Award, recognized by the SUNY Provost and Office of Opportunity Programs, presented to: Carolina Candelaria of Amherst; Elaine Champagne-Lewis of Niagara Falls; Brianna Doxey of Lockport; Emily Kolek of Lockport; Neahsia Maye of Niagara Falls; Justin Mercado of Brooklyn; Alisha Rivers of Lockport; Victoria Skalski of Tonawanda; and Karen Walker of Niagara Falls.
  • Exemplary Student Involvement, presented to Allison Knuutila-Clark.
  • Program of the Year, present to the Campus Activities Board.
  • The Spirit of SUNY Niagara Award, presented to the 2020-2021 Student Trustee, Maurice Jackson of Niagara Falls.
  • Student Leader of Character Award, presented to Mikaysjiah Allen of Syracuse.
  • Student Organization of the Year, presented to the Gaming and Anime Club.
  • Thunderwolves Award, given posthumously in memory of SUNY Niagara Student, Chester Miles of Niagara Falls.
  • The Unsung Hero Award, presented to Conner Henner of North Tonawanda from the Veteran’s Association.
  • Volunteer and Service Award, presented to Elizabeth Enterline of Eden.

SUNY Niagara’s Office of Student Life hosts more than 80 social events for students on a yearly basis including leadership trainings, workshops, and community service projects. The Office supports more than 25 clubs, facilitating a space for students to explore mutual interests and academic fields. Student Life builds community outside of the classroom through promoting the well-being of the whole student and developing life-long leaders which enhance campus life and benefit the surrounding community.

(Left to Right) Arianna Morales and Miranda Fiore

(Left to Right) Arianna Morales and Miranda Fiore show their President’s Medallion Awards during SUNY Niagara’s Graduate Celebration.

Media Contact Information

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

Apr 16
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Arianna Morales, Allyson Knuutila-Clark, and Miranda Fiore, 2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Award Winners.

SUNY Niagara Students Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Award

By News Archive

April 16, 2021

Three sophomores at SUNY Niagara have received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. Miranda Fiore, Allyson (Ally) Knuutila-Clark, and Arianna (Ari) Morales have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in academics, campus involvement, and community service.

The trio of strong women share many attributes.  All three are Liberal Arts: Humanities and Social Science majors and they are active members in numerous clubs, including SUNY Niagara’s Student Government Association (SGA). Miranda is the student event coordinator, Allyson is vice president, and Arianna is president of the SGA. In addition to planning and attending student events, they have played a vital role in representing SUNY Niagara’s student body to faculty, staff, and the SUNY system.

Miranda also serves as a student ambassador, an orientation leader, and has attended SUNY Niagara’s alternative spring break twice. This journey is for students who want to give back on their spring break, often times traveling hundreds of miles to complete community service projects. Miranda shares, “SUNY Niagara was the smart place to start for me because I met so many amazing people who wanted to help and support me and my journey. I also switched my major a few times and it led me to find what I wanted to do in a cost-effective, caring, and growing environment.”

Ally holds multiple leadership roles at SUNY Niagara. She is a member of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, co-founder and co-president of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), is involved with the Campus Activity Board, and is the manager for the SUNY Niagara wrestling team. Ally is an exemplary student, earning top grades in her courses. She states, “My proudest accomplishment as an SUNY Niagara student was obtaining a 3.58 GPA the semester we were sent home because of the pandemic.”

Ari is a first-generation college student who credits her SUNY Niagara family, specifically, the Office of Student Life, for encouraging her to follow her dreams. Arianna is co-founder and co-president of the NSLS and she is the SUNY Student Assembly Community College Caucus chairwoman. Arianna is passionate about mental health awareness and equity in our education system.

Julia Pitman, Vice President of Student Services shared, “Ally, Ari, and Miranda are strong campus leaders here at SUNY Niagara. They are extremely invested in our campus community and represent the students well both locally and with the SUNY Student Association. I’m very proud that the three were chosen by SUNY to be honored as Students of Excellence. This is the highest honor that can be bestowed on a student within the SUNY system and all three are very deserving.”

Miranda, Allyson, and Arianna were recognized for their award on April 14 during a virtual SUNY ceremony. Their next big accomplishments will include successfully completing their final exams and earning their degrees this May.

Arianna Morales, Allyson Knuutila-Clark, and Miranda Fiore, 2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Award Winners.

(L to R) Arianna Morales, Allyson Knuutila-Clark, and Miranda Fiore, 2021 SUNY Chancellor’s Award Winners.

Media Contact Information

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

Mar 29
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Distinguished Alumni Wall - Facebook

SUNY Niagara Alumni Association Seeking Nominations for Annual Award

By News Archive

March 29, 2021

The SUNY Niagara Alumni Association is seeking nominations for its Distinguished Alumni Award. This award is bestowed to deserving alumni who exemplify educational achievements, career success, community involvement, and support to SUNY Niagara. The award will be presented at the SUNY Niagara Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Gala to be held on October 23, 2021. Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, the format of the 2021 Foundation Scholarship Gala is still to be determined.

The nominated individual must have completed 50 or more credit hours at SUNY Niagara, yet it is strongly recommended that she/he is a graduate. Nomination applications are available to download at http://niagaracc.suny.edu/alumni/awards or a hard copy can be requested. Applications can be submitted directly online or mailed to the SUNY Niagara Alumni Association, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd., Sanborn, NY 14132. All materials are due to the Alumni Office by May 5, 2021, to be eligible for consideration for the award.  If you have any questions, please contact Allison Korta in the Alumni Office at 716-614-5910 or via email at alumni@niagaracc.suny.edu.

Distinguished Alumni Wall

Media Contact Information

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

Feb 04
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Rebekah Keaton and Maureen Winters with SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

Keaton and Winters Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

By News Archive

Keaton and Winters Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

February 4, 2021 

A virtual recognition ceremony was held to honor faculty and staff at SUNY Niagara on Thursday, February 4th.  During the event, a special acknowledgment featured the recipients of the 2019-2020 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence.  These annual awards are honors conferred to acknowledge and provide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence within the State University of New York (SUNY) system.   Dr. Rebekah Keaton was recognized for Excellence in Creative Activities and Maureen Winters was recognized for Excellence in Classified Service.

Dr. Keaton is currently an Associate Professor of English in the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences at SUNY Niagara.  She was nominated by a committee of her peers who noted her dedication to developing her craft as a complement to the scholarly and academic goals of the college community.  She has had nearly forty poems published in peer-reviewed publications, including prestigious journals including Arts in Buffalo, Blueline, Common Ground Review, New Plains Review, Slipstream, The Stonecast Review, A Harvard Review, and True Poet Magazine.  Dr. Keaton shares her talent at SUNY Niagara through presenting her work and by facilitating the inclusion of poetry in campus culture.  She served as a co-editor of the campus publication The Writer’s Review and coordinates On the Edge, an on-campus poetry series in which poets are invited to campus, attend selected classes, and give public readings.  In reference to his English Department colleague, Dr. Marc Pietrzykowski wrote, “I can think of no one better to be given a Chancellor’s Award in Creative Activities, as she embodies the role of teaching artist.”

After more than 30 years of dedicated service to SUNY Niagara, Maureen Winters, Stenographer in the Faculty Resource Center for Academic Excellence (FRCAE) was recognized with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service.  She was nominated for the award by former Professor Gail Tylec who noted Maureen’s extensive knowledge of the college operations, extraordinary organization skills, and willingness to learn new skills.

Her pleasant and efficient manner makes her an asset in her support staff position, and she is known to go above and beyond her duties to help others.  Maureen spends countless hours outside of her work schedule to coordinate a holiday giving event each year which raises over $1,500 to provide financial support to members of the SUNY Niagara community that have suffered hardships.  The receipt of the Chancellor’s Award coincided with Maureen’s retirement at the end of January.

Rebekah Keaton with SUNY Chancellor’s Award

Rebekah Keaton with SUNY Chancellor’s Award


Maureen Winters with SUNY Chancellor’s Award

Maureen Winters with SUNY Chancellor’s Award

Media Contact Information

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