SUNY Archives - SUNY Niagara

Jul 26

Discover your path: College and Career day at Tuscarora nation House

By Matt Gagliardi Nations Connect

July 26, 2023

While out in the community, it is tasked to showcase information on technology programs such as Computer Aided Draft Design(CADD), Welding Technology, Hospitality Management, and Hospitality Operations including to inform on the expanded number of programs at SUNY Niagara.
The first event of many, the Employment and Education Day at the Tuscarora Nation House took place on March 10, 2023. The event hosted many agencies and organizations for local education, training, and employment. This kind of event is one of the best ways for current and prospective students to explore their options and connect with professionals in various fields. There were representatives from the healthcare, finance, and technology fields. Another great thing about this event is the opportunity to meet with college representatives. Whether you are interested in a four-year university, a community college, or a trade school, you will be able to speak with representatives from a variety of institutions. Not sure how you are going to fund your education? There are local and regional funding sources available.

Jul 19

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Welcome to the Nations connect!

By Matt Gagliardi Nations Connect

July 19, 2023

Cory and Mark represented SUNY Niagara at the 30th Annual Conference NAIEA/NY held at Seneca Niagara Casino, where they provided educational information on Technology and Hospitality courses to educators, community members, and students, also having the chance to network with local county and state education personnel.

Welcome to the Nations Connect blog. Here we are working through the REACH grant. The REACH grant initiative focuses on local communities located West of SUNY Niagara as Tuscarora Nation and Niagara Falls throughout New York State and within the nations.
The efforts began in November of 2022 with Mark Voisinet (REACH Coordinator) and Cory Hewitt (Outreach Coordinator), collaborating with Will Brinson (Multicultural Advisement Coordinator). The SUNY REACH Grant is part of the Lumina Foundation’s Racial Equity for Adult Credentials in Higher Ed (REACH) grant initiative. In partnership with community colleges and community partners, SUNY will seek to increase the attainment of non-degree credentials and associate degrees in community colleges for adults of color, building off our guided pathways work.

Apr 28

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

SUNY Chancellor Recognizes Local SUNY Niagara Student

By Ryan Herman News Archive

April 28, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Contact Information

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

Aug 16

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John D Strong, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer

John D Strong Accepted in Lumen Circles Fellowship Program

By Ryan Herman 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 SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara, creating a more inclusive and effective learning environment for students of all backgrounds.

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.

SUNY Niagara Students Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Award

By Ryan Herman 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.

(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 Ryan Herman 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 4^th. 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

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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SUNY Niagara student honored with statewide award

By Ryan Herman News Archive

SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara, 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 SUNY Niagara 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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SUNY Niagara student advocates for accessibility at SUNY campuses

By Ryan Herman News Archive

November 30, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Contact Information

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

Nov 04

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SUNY Niagara students receive Pathway Scholars Awards

By Ryan Herman News Archive

November 4, 2020

Fifty students at SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara. 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 SUNY Niagara, 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. SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara 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

SUNY Niagara Public Relations Department Wins SUNY Award for Advertising

By Ryan Herman News Archive

Emily Welch Ruth ’19 poses with billboard

November 3, 2020

The SUNY Niagara 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. SUNY Niagara 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 SUNY Niagara 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

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Discover your path: College and Career day at Tuscarora nation House

Welcome to the Nations connect!

SUNY Chancellor Recognizes Local SUNY Niagara Student

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John D Strong Accepted in Lumen Circles Fellowship Program

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SUNY Niagara Students Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Award

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Keaton and Winters Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

Keaton and Winters Receive SUNY Chancellor’s Awards

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SUNY Niagara student honored with statewide award

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SUNY Niagara student advocates for accessibility at SUNY campuses

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SUNY Niagara students receive Pathway Scholars Awards

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SUNY Niagara Public Relations Department Wins SUNY Award for Advertising

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