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Aug 16
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John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

John D Strong Accepted in Lumen Circles Fellowship Program

By News Archive

August 16, 2021 

In an effort to connect with other faculty members and share best practices in teaching and supporting students, John D Strong will participate in the Lumen Circles Fellowship Program this fall.  The nine-week program is sponsored by the State University of New York (SUNY) Open Educational Resources (OER) in conjunction with the SUNY Center for Professional Development.

Strong, an Assistant Professor in Health and Physical Education and Personal Trainer Certificate Coordinator was appointed as Chief Diversity and Equity Officer in the fall of 2020.  In the Lumen Program, Strong will be focusing on the theme, Belonging & Inclusive Teaching Fundamentals.  This is one of six cohort groups participants in the program can select.  This focused theme will allow him to develop as a teacher by exploring evidence-based practices that support a diverse group of students, building on the strengths of each individual.  This experience will help him to develop his ability to engage students and help them to feel seen, respected, and included as capable partners in the learning process.  When asked what he’s hoping to learn from the Lumen Program, Strong states, “Ultimately, I’m looking to be the best teacher I can be, and offer the greatest access to information possible to as broad a student population as possible.”

Instructors at NCCC routinely take part in professional development opportunities both on campus and through SUNY.  “I appreciate the opportunity to grow as a professional and enhance the NCCC academic community.”  As both an Assistant Professor and the Chief Diversity and Equity Officer, Strong will be able to share his experience with others at NCCC, creating a more inclusive and effective learning environment for students of all backgrounds.

John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

Media Contact Information

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

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

NCCC Students Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Award

By News Archive

April 16, 2021

Three sophomores at Niagara County Community College 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 NCCC’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 NCCC’s student body to faculty, staff, and the SUNY system.

Miranda also serves as a student ambassador, an orientation leader, and has attended NCCC’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, “NCCC 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 NCCC. 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 NCCC wrestling team. Ally is an exemplary student, earning top grades in her courses. She states, “My proudest accomplishment as an NCCC 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 NCCC 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 NCCC. 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

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 Niagara County Community College (NCCC) 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 NCCC.  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 NCCC 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 NCCC, 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 NCCC 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

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

Nov 30
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Collin Lacki

NCCC student advocates for accessibility at SUNY campuses

By News Archive

November 30, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Contact Information

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

Nov 04
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Career and Transfer Fair

NCCC students receive Pathway Scholars Awards

By News Archive

November 4, 2020

Fifty students at Niagara County Community College (NCCC) received SUNY Pathways Scholars Awards as part of the State University of New York (SUNY) initiative to assist high-performing students committed to completing their associate’s degree within two years and bachelor’s degree within four years.  These students received a $250 stipend in the fall semester and will receive another $250 stipend after completion of the spring semester at NCCC.  Pathways Scholars will receive an additional $1,000 stipend upon completion of their associate’s degree and enrollment in a SUNY bachelor’s degree program.

In addition to the financial assistance received, Pathways Scholars receive academic counseling, career guidance, and a network of support services to keep them on track for success.  At NCCC, students have access to the Office of Career and Transitional Services, which helps them to determine transfer paths for programs on the SUNY transfer path list.  NCCC has established transfer articulation agreements with many colleges within SUNY, including Empire State College, SUNY College at Brockport, SUNY College at Buffalo, SUNY College at Fredonia, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Cortland, SUNY Cobleskill, the University at Buffalo, and SUNY Upstate Medical University.  Students can take advantage of the lowest tuition rates in the region at NCCC and then seamlessly transfer their credits to other local four-year institutions.

Media Contact Information

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

Nov 03
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Emily Welch Ruth ’19 poses with billboard

NCCC Public Relations Department Wins SUNY Award for Advertising

By News Archive
Emily Welch Ruth ’19 poses with billboard

Emily Welch Ruth ’19 poses with billboard

November 3, 2020

The Niagara County Community College (NCCC) Office of Public Relations and Event Management received a Judge’s Citation award in the Excellence in Advertising Category for its 2019-2020 billboard campaign. The award was presented at the virtual SUNY CUAD (State University of New York Council for University Advancement) award ceremony held last month. NCCC Graphic designer Marlee McCabe was responsible for the photographs and design and several of the PR staff contributed key words to use on the billboards.

This is the second consecutive year the NCCC Public Relations Department has been recognized for its graphic design and photography by this organization.

Media Contact Information

Barbara M. DeSimone
Director of Public Relations and Event Management
Phone: 716-481-3775
Email: desimone@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 05
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Student Emergency Relief Fund

SUNY Impact Foundation to Match Donations in Niagara County Community College Student Emergency Relief Fund

By News Archive
Relief Fund recipient

Relief Fund recipient

June 5, 2020

The Niagara County Community College Foundation Office has continued to work tirelessly to raise funds for our students who are struggling with financial hardships caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. As of today, the NCCC Foundation has raised $15,000 to support 150 current students. Each student has received a $100 gift card to help purchase groceries, medicine, and other basic necessities.

This offering puts only a small dent in the mounting bills our students are facing due to unemployment and other hardships. Making even a small contribution can ensure that students do not have to choose between buying groceries for their families and maintaining the internet connection necessary to do their studies.

NCCC has now been provided with an incredible opportunity to double our donations and your impact on the Student Emergency Relief Fund! The SUNY Impact Foundation has promised to match dollar for dollar any gift made to the Relief Fund up to a total of $50,000 if made before July 1, 2020. Our goal is to maximize this match opportunity to provide as many students as possible relief from their financial struggles. Your support is crucial in ensuring successful outcomes for our students and they are counting on us!

Donations can be made online by visiting http://niagaracc.suny.edu/coronavirus/giving or checks can be made payable to the NCCC Foundation, 3111 Saunders Settlement Rd, Sanborn, NY 14132. If you have any questions, please email Deb Brewer, NCCC Foundation Director, at found@niagaracc.suny.edu or call 716-438-6388.

Media Contact Information

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

Apr 02
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NFCI student club

Niagara County Community College Establishes Student Emergency Relief Fund Amidst Coronavirus Crisis

By News Archive

April 2, 2020

Joining other SUNY campuses across New York State, Niagara County Community College has established a Student Emergency Relief Fund in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. This fund is designated to support the highest, short-term financial needs to students currently enrolled at NCCC who are now facing extenuating circumstances related to housing, food, and other vital resources.

Your gift will assist students and provide immediate relief for expenses related to their basic necessities such as food, medicine, toiletries, and more.

Now more than ever, our students are counting on us. You can make an immediate impact today by donating to the Student Emergency Relief Fund. Every dollar does make a difference. Donations can be made online at http://niagaracc.suny.edu/coronavirus/giving/. If you have any questions about donating, please contact Barbara DeSimone, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement at desimone@niagaracc.suny.edu.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and continued support of NCCC as we work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our Thunderwolves!

Media Contact Information

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