Empire State Plaza Convention Center | Albany, New York | www.suny.edu

CHANCELLOR’S AWARD forStudent Excellence

April 2, 2014

April 2, 2014

Dear Students, Family, Faculty, and Friends,

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to recognize some

of the most gifted and talented students at SUNY. The

achievements of these students reflect their impressive

hard work and dedication, as well as the support provided

by their families and friends and SUNY’s world-class faculty.

The State University of New York is proud to be not only

the largest comprehensive public university system in the nation but also New York’s

leading economic driver and partner in creating better opportunities and a better quality

of life for all New Yorkers. SUNY’s relationship with its communities in every part of the

state is so important to our state’s vibrancy — and it is exceptional students like those

we are honoring today who will be instrumental in building a better, stronger, healthier

New York in the years to come.

The students we recognize today have combined outstanding academic excellence with

significant contributions to their institutions and communities. We are extremely proud

of their achievements, and I know I can speak on behalf of the entire State University of

New York system when I congratulate each of you on your distinguished achievements

and wish you the best of luck in the years to come.

With best wishes,

Nancy L. Zimpher

Chancellor

2 Introduction

Events 3

WELCOME

Tremayne T. PriceStudent Trustee and

President of the Student Assembly

REMARKS

Dr. Nancy L. ZimpherChancellor

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

The Chamber Singers from SUNY New Paltz are the featured performers for today’s event.

RECEPTION IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE CEREMONY

ALFRED STATE COLLEGE

Joshua AltemoosBuffalo, NYInformation TechnologyJoshua served as president of the StudentSenate, student director of the AuxiliaryCampus Enterprise Services Board of Direc-tors, and director of information services &technology for the SUNY Student Assembly.

Rachel HowardPittsford, NYVeterinary TechnologyRachel served as president of the VeterinaryTechnology Club and was a supplemental instructor for Anatomy & Physiology of Large& Small Animals. Rachel volunteered weeklyat the Hornell Humane Society.

Carley YoungmanSpencerport, NYArchitectural Technology & Construction Management Engineering TechnologyCarley served as team captain of the DesignBuild Team at the American Schools of Construction Region 1 Student Competition,where the team placed second. Carley wasalso a project intern at LeChase and servedas captain of the volleyball team.

NYS CERAMICS AT ALFRED UNIVERSITY

Eric TellerGranville, NYGlass Science EngineeringEric presented at the Material Science andTechnology Conference. Eric represented thecampus on the American Ceramic Society’sPresident’s Council of Student Advisors. Heserved as vice president of the Outdoors Club.

Gavin TougherDelmar, NYSculptureGavin served as president of the ReusableMaterials Depot, curated three art exhibitionsin the Robert C. Turner Student Gallery, anddisplayed works in ten different exhibitions.

BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY

Tiffany ChoiForest Hills, NYManagementTiffany served as founding president of theWomen in Business Advisory Board, was amember of Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Soci-ety, and organized events for numerous community groups, such as the YWCA andthe Girl Scouts.

4 Awardees

SUNY ADIRONDACK

Karen CoseyGreenwich, NY Communication & Media ArtsKaren was recognized for superior academicachievement by the NCJAA for softball andtennis. Karen was a tutor and interned for the women's tennis team head coach.

Gabriela Hernandez CapriniSan Jose Villanueva, SpainManagement, Marketing & EntrepreneurshipGabriela volunteered to teach Spanish tochildren at the Saratoga Public Library andstudents with special needs at the Accessi-bility Services Office. She also co-foundedHola Amigos Spanish Art Camp.

UNIVERSITY AT ALBANY

Umaru BarrieNew York, NYHuman Biology & ChemistryUmaru founded the Sankofa Africa Organiza-tion and Minority Association of Pre-MedicalStudents. He presented on his research atthe Annual Biomedical Conference for Minor-ity Students, and volunteered and recruited atRefugees and Immigrant Support Services atEmmaus Church.

Kathryn FanningManlius, NYBiologyKathryn published an article in the Journal ofNeuroscience and volunteered at the VeteranAffairs Hospital in Syracuse. She was namedMost Valuable Player of the women’s crosscountry team.

Brittany FrederickBronx, NYHistoryBrittany volunteered at the Albany CountyHall of Records. She was a resident assistantand served as assistant treasurer for the Antigua and Barbuda Council of Organizations.

Sarah GauthierSchenectady, NYSocial WorkSarah founded Trans*Action, a student organization representing the transgendercommunity, founded Transgendered Aware-ness Week, and served as the equity and diversity chairperson for Middle Earth PeerAssistance Program.

Kelsey HansonClifton Park, NYHistoryKelsey served as president of Pi SigmaAlpha, was a member of the Rockefeller College Dean's Leadership Council, and won three America East Conference Championships in the pentathlon.

Brian JunqueraScotia, NYPolitical ScienceBrian interned at the National Center for Se-curity and Preparedness. He served as asso-ciate justice for the Student Association andwas a member of Rockefeller College Dean’sLeadership Council.

Margaret LevineDelmar, NYMusicMargaret interned at Universal RepublicRecords, was a teaching assistant for MusicTheory I-IV, and choreographed for the Uni-versity Dance Council for five semesters.

Temitope OmoladunStaten Island, NYBiologyTemitope received the Katherine Vario Schol-arship. She served as vice president of theSankofa Africa Organization and was a mem-ber of Omicron Delta Kappa.

Kimberly SeguraAlbertson, NYPublic PolicyKimberly founded and served as a member of Rockefeller College Dean’s LeadershipCouncil, was a resident assistant, and interned at the New York State Assembly.

Steven ValentineStaten Island, NYEnglish & SociologySteven served as president of the Phenom-enal Voices Performing Arts and CommunityService Organization. He served as the director of marketing of the Student Associa-tion, and was a teaching fellow at the Break-through Collaborative Organization.

David WiegmannBreese, ILHuman BiologyDavid served as captain of the men’s basket-ball team and was an executive board mem-ber of the Student Athletic Advisory BoardCommittee. David also interned at AlbanyBone and Joint Center.

Awardees 5

Tasfia RahmanBrooklyn, NYAnthropology, Latin, & Medieval StudiesTasfia participated in the Fulbright SummerInstitute at Durham University and served as editor-in-chief of Binghamton ProspectMagazine. Tasfia conducted research and authored a paper on the Pan-Arab Movement.

Nicole SantaluciaBinghamton, NYEnglish Literature and Rhetoric & Composition Nicole founded Binghamton Poetry Project,where she was a workshop leader and program director. She served as the poetryeditor for the Harpur Palate Literary Journaland taught a fifth grade class after HurricaneLee.

Kaitlin ToporowskiSaugerties, NYNursingKaitlin served as a nurse intern at the AlbanyStratton VA Medical Center. She volunteeredfor A Horse Connection in Rhinebeck, andserved as an executive board member of theNursing Student Association.

THE COLLEGE AT BROCKPORT

Jonathan AllentoffPittsford, NYInterdisciplinary Arts for ChildrenJonathan founded and served as music director and president of the Brockport Symphony Orchestra. He was certified asmusic educator by the National Associationfor Music Education, and was recognized bythe American Society of Composers, Authorsand Publishers.

Joseph JacksonSpencerport, NYComputer Information SystemsJoseph served as a computer informationsystems program scholar. He also founded a personal e-business, and served as thewebmaster for the Student Government.

Mackenzie MeyerLivonia, NYBiological SciencesMackenzie served as president and vicepresident of the Biology Honors Program.Mackenzie received the United States Presi-dential Volunteer Service Award, and was anAnn and Allegra Ford National Scholar.

Dana HallEast Northport, NYPsychologyDana served as vice president of the StudentPsychology Organization, editor-in-chief ofthe Undergraduate Psychology Review, andhead student researcher in the EnvironmentalNeuropsychology Lab.

Jin Woo LeeSuffern, NYMechanical EngineeringJin Woo conducted research on the “Steril-ization of Catheters Using Optically HeatedGold Nanorods.” He served as vice presidentof Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society,and played cello with the Binghamton University Symphony Orchestra.

David LuiFlushing, NYComputer Science & Mathematical SciencesDavid interned at IBM in software develop-ment and was a member of the team thatwon IBM’s 2012 Smarter Cities Mobile App Challenge. He is co-founder and served aschief technology officer of a financial startup,DowRisk.com.

Mallory MeccaWappingers Falls, NYEconomics & SociologyMallory served as director of the BinghamtonHigh School Mentoring Program for at riskhigh school students. She received the Presi-dent’s Award for Undergraduate Student Excellence and conducted research in sociol-ogy on “Bombs and Books: The Militarizationof the University.”

Benjamin NicholsonLondon, EnglandEnglish & PhilosophyBenjamin was the leading point scorer for themen’s soccer team. He was a charity eventorganizer for the Student-Athlete AdvisoryCommittee, and was a community soccercoach.

Arielle NissenblattWhite Plains, NYGeographyArielle was a teaching assistant at ZhenjiangInternational School in China and served aspresident of Gamma Theta Upsilon HonorSociety. She co-authored a paper on the reflections of students in Binghamton's firstcollaborative online international course.

Elizabeth MorganOwego, NYPsychologyElizabeth interned at St. John of God Hospitalin Dublin, Ireland. She received the PsiChi/APS Undergraduate Research Award for Summer Research and co-presented research at a national conference.

Cullen WegmanRochester, NYArtCullen received the Undergraduate ResearchScholarship. Cullen received acceptance intothe national adjudicated ceramic exhibition,and was a certified firefighter.

SUNY BROOME COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Barbara FerreseEndicott, NYLiberal ArtsBarbara served as vice president of membership of Phi Theta Kappa, executiveboard member for The Bleeding DisordersAssociation of the Southern Tier of New YorkState, and group counseling facilitator atUnited Health Services for the Breast CancerSupport Group and The Caregivers SupportGroup.

Alexa KrowiakEndicott, NYElementary EducationAlexa served as president of Phi ThetaKappa, was named an All-American Athletefor Fall 2012 by NJCAA in women’s tennis,and received the Phi Theta Kappa HallmarkAward of Distinguished Chapter Officer.

Kathryn SlatteryJohnson City, NYEarly Childhood EducationKathryn was a member of Phi Theta Kappa,mentored first grade students at JohnsonCity Elementary School, and received the Excellence for Teaching Award fromDancescapes Dance Studio.

Isaac WardCastle Creek, NYEngineering ScienceIsaac served as president of the AmericanSociety for Engineering Education Club, tutored peers in mathematics, computer science, and physics, and received first placein the Musselman Half-Ironman Triathlon2013.

Elise MartinOrchard Park, NYBiomedical EngineeringElise served as president of Impulse DanceForce and as a project leader for the Biomed-ical Engineering Society’s “Imagine It Recy-cling.” She was inducted into Tau Beta Pi.

Kayla MaxwellEast Amherst, NYPharmacyKayla pioneered the Dual Doctorate DegreeProgram (PharmD/PhD), served as classpresident of the Pharmacy Class of 2014, and volunteered on a medical missions trip.

Daniel OvadiaEast Meadow, NYFinance, Marketing & Human ResourcesDaniel assisted in the creation of a manage-ment poster, was a member of the campuscouncil, and served as chief public relationsofficer for a student investment fund.

Elise RobertsBuffalo, NYSocial SciencesElise co-founded and served as student director of the SUNY Buffalo Model EuropeanUnion, was an ambassador for the College ofArts and Sciences, and was a student repre-sentative at five international summits.

Amanda ShermanGuilderland, NYBiomedical SciencesAmanda served as research assistant for Dr. Epstein's clinical research study and wasa member and mentor of the honors college.She volunteered for the Millard Fillmore Sub-urban Hospital Patient Ambassador Program.

Matthew SilverPlainview, NYAccountingMatthew served as president of Beta AlphaPsi, volunteered with the Income Tax Assis-tance Program, and interned at Pricewater-houseCoopers.

Christine Tjahjadi-LopezGetzville, NYInternational TradeChristine founded and served as executivedirector of the girls leadership conference,co-edited and founded the Bloggers AgainstSocial Injustice and Freedom Walk Buffalo,and conducted research on corporate socialresponsibility and ethical retail.

6 Awardees

SUNY BUFFALO STATE

Melissa AshBinghamton, NYArt EducationMelissa served as captain of the women’s ice hockey team, was a member of the SUNYAthletic Conference All-American Team, andserved as secretary for the Art Education Association.

Adza BedaBuffalo, NYCommunication StudiesAdza was a member of the National Societyof Leadership and Success. She received theUndergraduate Summer Research Fellowshipand Outstanding AmeriCorps Award.

Anthony BrunoGrand Island, NYMechanical Engineering TechnologyAnthony volunteered with Special Olympicsand was a member of the SUNY AthleticConference All-Academic Team for swim-ming and diving. He was a member of theSociety of Mechanical Engineers.

Daniel FronteraWest Seneca, NYHigher Education AdministrationDaniel founded the WNY Iraq AfghanistanMemorial Effort, and received the BronzeStar Medal Land Combat Action Badge fromthe United States Army. He presented at theNational Association of Student Personal Administration Region I and SUNY Meetingthe Needs of Student Veterans conferences.

Timea KernacovaSpisska Nova Ves, SlovakiaSecondary English EducationTimea served as president of Sigma TauDelta, edited "If a Tree Falls" blog, and published the "Book Autopsy.”

Jeff OyoCambria Heights, NYEconomicsJeff served as summer undergraduate research assistant at the Center for HumanResources. He received the Ross B. KenzieFamily Presidential Scholarship and FirstYear Mentor of the Year Award.

Eric SauerzopfDowningtown, PABusiness Marketing & Business AdministrationEric served as president of the United Stu-dent Government and was a member of theSUNY Athletic Conference All-AcademicTeam in track and field. He received the Eagle Scout Award.

UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO

Kelsey BarbourClifton Park, NYSocial SciencesKelsey was a member of the women’s swim-ming team and a student recruitment special-ist for the Admissions Office. Additionally,she co-founded the “Hope Floats” swim meetfundraiser for the American Cancer Society,which raised $10,000.

Erin EllisKenmore, NYCommunity Health & Health BehaviorErin received the Society of Behavioral Medi-cine’s 2012 Award for Outstanding TraineeAbstract in Health Decision Making. She pub-lished in the Journal of Behavioral Medicineand served as president of the department’sGraduate Student Association.

Emily FioreFreeport, NYBiology & AnthropologyEmily founded both the BuildOn Chapter and Global Brigades Chapter, and served as a domestic violence and sexual assault advocate for Crisis Services.

Courtney KodweisHilton, NYBiomedical EngineeringCourtney taught two courses in EngineeringPrinciples and Forensic Anthropological Os-teology, conducted research in Hyderabad,India, funded by the National Science Foun-dation, and published and presented researchat two national conferences.

Taylor LansingVestal, NYPsychology and Health & Human ServicesTaylor received an NCAA Division I Scholar-ship as a member of the women’s swimmingteam, and co-founded the “Hope Floats”swim meet fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, which raised $10,000. Shewas a research assistant in two labs.

Andrew LyonsWebster, NYMechanical & Aerospace EngineeringAndrew served as president of the RoboticsClub, worked at a product-engineering co-opat Moog Inc., and introduced speakers andmanaged the main presentation hall at Space Vision 2012, a national student-runconference.

Awardees 7

Phillip TucciaroneWashingtonville, NYChemical & Biological EngineeringPhillip served as a resident assistant andteaching assistant. He was awarded the Association of Council Members and CollegeTrustees of the State University of New YorkScholarship.

Trenton Van EppsSpencerport, NYArchitectureTrenton served as president of Alpha RhoChi. He organized a study abroad exhibitionand leadership conference.

SUNY CANTON

Lydia DaleNorwood, NYGraphic & Multimedia DesignLydia served as vice president of the American Institute of Graphic Arts, receivedfirst place in Drawing and Painting in theOptic Appeal Art Show, and illustrated a children's book.

Meghan GibsonCanton, NYSports ManagementMeghan interned with the sports informationdepartment on campus, served as a summercamp counselor at Oswegatchie EducationalCenter, and was a student note taker.

Tiffany MooreBrooklyn, NYVeterinary Science TechnologyTiffany served as president of Chi Alpha Epsilon and was a member of the NationalAssociation for Veterinary Technicians inAmerica. She volunteered at the BarbadosRoyal Society for Prevention of Cruelty toAnimals.

CAYUGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Kaitlin PullisAuburn, NYStudio Art & DesignKaitlin was a member of Phi Theta Kappa andwas a tutor on campus. She was mentionedin Who's Who Among American Universitiesand Colleges.

Sara RandallAuburn, NYMath & ScienceSara served as president of the music cluband as secretary of the tutor club. Addition-ally, she was member of Phi Theta Kappa.

Crystal SearorFulton, NYGraphic DesignCrystal served as president of the GreenTeam, was a teaching assistant, and was amember of Phi Theta Kappa.

CLINTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Matthew CoupalChamplain, NYComputer Information TechnologyMatthew served as president of Phi ThetaKappa, volunteered at Northern Housing, asenior housing facility, and presented at the SUNY Conference on Instructional Technology.

Vihan WickramasingheAbu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesLiberal ArtsVihan was member of Phi Theta Kappa and atutor on campus. He fundraised for the ROTAGallery, a non-profit community arts andmusic center.

SUNY COBLESKILL

Earl BradyColumbia, NYAnimal ScienceEarl served as vice president for the Pre-Vet Club and was a resident assistant. Hewas named outstanding Beef and LivestockAssociate Student.

Tracee SchiebelVernon, NYAgricultural Business ManagementTracee served as captain of the women'sbasketball team and was a resident assistant.Additionally, she received first place at thePost-Secondary Agricultural National Conference.

COLUMBIA-GREENE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Blair DelDucoMellenville, NYCriminal JusticeBlair was a peer tutor in the SPARK PeerTutor Program and served as secretary of Phi Theta Kappa. Blair also volunteered withGo Greene!

Danielle LownGermantown, NYEducationDanielle was an outfielder on the softballteam, received the David A. Rarich FreshmanStudent Athlete Scholar of the Year Award,and volunteered at the Alzheimer’s Walk.

CORNELL-AGRICULTURE & LIFE SCIENCES

Spenser ReedClearwater, FLNutritional SciencesSpenser published articles in medical andbiomedical journals, and presented at state,regional, and national medical and researchsymposia. Spenser volunteered as a research coordinator at the Center for Autism & Related Disorders.

James SpanjaardAnnapolis, MDApplied Economics & ManagementJames was a member of a Social BusinessConsulting Organization, and was a teachingassistant and research assistant for a reportby the United Nations Food and AgricultureOrganization.

Martin ZorrillaSanta Rosa, EcuadorInterdisciplinary StudiesMartin co-created and served as an under-graduate instructor for an Innovative ServiceLearning class. He served as president ofVon Cramm Cooperative and he was recog-nized as a Public Service Center Scholar.

CORNELL-HUMAN ECOLOGY

Evelyn FokHong Kong, ChinaHuman DevelopmentEvelyn served as president of the AIESEC,received the Cornell Undergraduate ResearchBoard Business Award in Industrial & LaborRelations, and founded the United World College Society.

Juhi PurswaniTarrytown, NYBiology & SocietyJuhi served as president of the Student Association Cover Africa and was a residentadvisor. Additionally, she conducted researchon international nutrition and maternal healthoutcomes.

CORNELL-INDUSTRIAL & LABOR RELATIONS

Danielle AbadaWoodbury, NYIndustrial & Labor RelationsDanielle was a Hansard Society Scholar and served as president of Phi Alpha Delta.She served as a parliament intern with theHouse of Commons and London School ofEconomics.

Sheretta NoelBrooklyn, NYIndustrial & Labor RelationsSheretta served as president of Baraka KwaWimbo, an a cappella group. She served aspresident of Advent Christian Fellowship andas mentor for Project Lansing, mentoring at a correctional facility for minors.

CORNELL-VETERINARY MEDICINE

Daniel JacksonNew York, NYVeterinary MedicineDaniel received a National Science Founda-tion Graduate Research Fellowship, and published research articles in peer-reviewedjournals. He served as president of Veteri-narians Interested in Developing Areas.

Michelle WhiteOntario, OHVeterinary MedicineMichelle founded and served as president of the Humane Society Veterinary MedicalAssociation and was a representative to theGraduate and Professional Student Assem-bly. She participated in the American Veteri-nary Medical Association’s “Can You Hear Me Now?”

CORNING COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Ryan FrenchNewark Valley, NYEngineering ScienceRyan served as vice president of the StudentVeterans Association, participated and con-tributed in Research Experience for Under-graduates, and tutored at the Math LearningCenter.

Francis LaLomiaKeene, NHBusiness AdministrationFrancis was a resident assistant and assis-tant scoutmaster after receiving the EagleScout with a Bronze Palm. He also receivedthe Student Leadership Scholarship.

Renee StaffeldCorning, NYLiberal Arts and SciencesRenee served as president of Phi ThetaKappa and was a NYS Wildlife Rehabilitator.She was also co-founder and vice presidentof the Science Club.

SUNY CORTLAND

Khalia BrownBrooklyn, NYCommunication StudiesKhalia sang the National Anthem at campuscommencement in 2012 and 2013. She was ateaching assistant in Ghana, and an admis-sions tour guide.

Michael RosenthalSyracuse, NYPolitical ScienceMichael received the Willi Uschald StudyAbroad Scholarship. He volunteered as a precepting attendant for Campus Rescue andserved as a peer tutor for the EducationalOpportunity Program.

Kyle SheaWallkill, NYPhysical EducationKyle served as coordinator for Adopt-A-Family and was a student host for the Multi-cultural Life and Diversity Conference. Addi-tionally, he received the Northeast Affiliate of College and University Residence HallsMINI-No-Frills 2013 Award.

LeighMarie WeberWilliston Park, NYSpeech & Hearing ScienceLeighMarie served as president of the Student Government Association and was ateaching assistant. She interned for Interna-tional Programs, Campus Activities and theMulticultural Life and Diversity Office.

SUNY DELHI

Virginia GilesSouth Kortright, NYInformation Systems AuditingVirginia served as president of the StudentVeterans Association, volunteered for morethan 800 hours of community service, andreceived the Student Life Leadership Award.

Drew LaemmermannWatertown, NYConstruction ManagementDrew served as vice president of the ArtCenter and was a member of the Mayor’sTask Force. He also received the GeneralContractors of America Scholarship.

SUNY DOWNSTATE MEDICAL CENTER

Craig NessBrooklyn, NYMedicine & Public HealthCraig served as the director of Mexican operation for One Small House and as a room makeover construction manager for the Oncology Club. He delivered weekly lecturesin physiology, pathology, and cardiology tohigh school students.

Jasmine PatelStaten Island, NYMedicineJasmine served as chief medical officer ofthe Brooklyn Free Clinic and was a residentdirector. She volunteered with Medicine inAction to provide Women's Health and Primary Care Services in Jamaica.

DUTCHESS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Angelika JuerssClinton Corners, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesAngelika was an exploring transfer scholarand a member of the Honors Program. Sheserved as secretary for Phi Theta Kappa.

Unshin KittelRed Hook, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesUnshin served as vice president of StudentGovernment Association, was a delegate forthe Model United Nations, and was a studentambassador.

Yoshorini TsujiToyonaka-shi Osaka-fu, JapanBusiness AdministrationYoshorini served as president and presidentpro-tempore of the Student Government Association. He also was a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

Keara WrightSaugerties, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesKeara served as president pro-tempore of the Student Government Association and asvice president of the Ultimate Frisbee Club.She was a representative for Model UnitedNations.

8 Awardees

Awardees 9

Joshua WrightPoughkeepsie, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesJoshua was a member of the Eleanor Roosevelt Community College EmergingLeaders Program and served as a senator of the Student Government Association. Additionally, Joshua received the McCannFoundation Scholarship.

EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE

Sandra BarkevichAmsterdam, NYBusiness, Management & EconomicsSandra served as editor of the studentnewsletter and was a student representativein SUNY-wide discussions regarding OpenSUNY. She was named as one of New York’s2013 “40 Under 40 Rising Stars.”

Ashley CaldwellAshburn, VABusiness, Management & EconomicsAshley was on the 2010 and the 2014 USOlympic Freestyle Skiing Teams and servedas a team leader for the U.S. women’s aerialteam. She won both a gold (2011) and silver(2013) medal in the women’s aerials WorldCup Competition.

Danny FerreyraBronx, NYLabor StudiesDanny volunteered on the Rapid ResponseTeam for Hurricane Sandy and served as astudent representative on the Student AffairsCommittee. Additionally, he founded andserved as president of SASSY, a student club focused on civil and human rights.

Elizabeth HughesRochester, NYHuman DevelopmentElizabeth co-authored two scholarly paperson parasocial attachment. She was recog-nized twice as an Outstanding Adult Studentand volunteered at Brookside ElementarySchool.

Lori MouldDelevan, NYArtLori served as a co-chair on the Student Affairs Committee and was a university colleges representative on the SUNY StudentAssembly. Additionally, Lori organized a Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Trip.

Mark RiderFarmington, NYEducational StudiesMark founded and served as volunteer director of the Victor Summer Music LessonProgram. He served as the director of salesoperations at Getinge North America, andwas a member of Victor Outreach in ChildrenEducation Parent Group.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND FORESTRY

Beverly AgtucaHolbrook, NYBiotechnologyBeverly authored and co-authored publica-tions pertaining to scientific manuscripts andexperimentations. She assisted in significantresearch and presentations with faculty, andreceived an award at the 2013 BiotechnologySymposium.

Lauren AlteioMontgomery, NYEnvironmental BiologyLauren created improvements in the wastereduction practices on campus, received theSUNY ESF Honors Program Scholarship, andconducted research at Mohonk Preserve inNew Paltz.

ERIE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Daniel ChengBuffalo, NYLiberal ArtsDaniel served as secretary of the StudentGovernment Association, was an active partner in his family-owned restaurant, andvolunteered at events on campus.

Michael ChristopherKenmore, NYDental HygieneMichael served as president of the Dental Hygiene Class of 2014 and was New YorkState Novice Light Welterweight GoldenGloves Boxing Champion. He also receivedthe Schott Bieler and Western New YorkDental Group’s Dental Hygiene Scholarships.

Richard DavisBuffalo, NYLiberal ArtsRichard served as wellness coordinator forBaker Victory Services and was a member ofPhi Theta Kappa. He received the first Now UKnow Stellar Partner Award from RoswellPark Office of Cancer Health Disparities Re-search.

Nicholas JonesWest Seneca, NYLiberal ArtsNicholas served as captain of the footballteam, was a member of the Student VeteranVolunteer Group, and was a Regional ScholarAthlete.

Morgan MillerHamburg, NYLiberal ArtsMorgan served as president and studenttrustee of the Student Government Associa-tion, as chair of the Board of Trustees Student Affairs Committee, and as secretaryof the Women's Lacrosse Team.

Janine SmithBuffalo, NYParalegalJanine served as president of Phi ThetaKappa, founded a paralegal study group, andinterned at Andrews, Bernstein, Maranto &Nicotra, an office of local attorneys.

Nicholas VernaMorgantown, WVLiberal ArtsNicholas served as captain of the footballteam. He was a member of the Student Veteran Volunteer Group and member of the Academic Honors Platoon.

Alexa WajedCheektowag, NYCulinary ArtsAlexa received the Travel Abroad Scholarshipfor an internship experience in Italy and participated in a cooking demonstration tele-vision program - Winging It! She volunteeredat the food pantry at St. Girard's Church.

FARMINGDALE STATE COLLEGE

Joy GrynkoPort Jefferson Station, NYApplied PsychologyJoy was a resident assistant and an orienta-tion leader. She served as a president of theInternational Honor Society.

Kristine MeyerDix Hills, NYNursingKristine received the Sigma Theta Tau Inter-national Award, served as treasurer for theStudent Nurses Association, and adminis-tered more than 400 flu shots at SenatorSkelos’ Golden Gathering.

John ScuteriFarmingdale, NYComputer ProgrammingJohn served as chief justice of Student Government, vice president of the StudentVeterans Club, and as a member of SigmaBeta Delta.

Jade TruongBeacon, NYBioscienceJade served as vice president of Golden KeyInternational and was a peer tutor for biology.Additionally, she participated in the MaristCollege Internship Program.

Sarina TurbendianFarmingdale, NYProfessional CommunicationsSarina served as the president of the GoldenKey International, as executive of the Armen-ian Youth Federation, and received the 2013Eugene P. Link Undergraduate Scholarship.

FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Monike Bartley-WilliamsSurrey, United KingdomProduction Management in Fashion Related IndustriesMonike served as manager of films for theStudent Association, as vice president of theProduction Management Club, and as a senior resident assistant.

Fernanda DeSouzaBethpage, NYAdvertising and Marketing CommunicationsFernanda served as editor-in-chief of W27, a student newspaper, and as captain of thewomen’s tennis team. Additionally, she authored a 110-page novella and three shortstories.

Jaime DuncanMassapequa, NYFashion Merchandising ManagementJaime won the Retail Futures Challenge atthe World Retail Congress, received theBarnes & Noble ‘Pursue Your Passion’ Grant,and organized a mural painting project at theAmerican Hospital of Paris.

Elizabeth HalberstadtIndianapolis, INFabric StylingElizabeth received the Barnes & Noble ‘Pursue Your Passion’ Scholarship Grant,contributed writing and research reports forStylesight, and was an industry buyer of theMerchandising Society.

Zara KhalidScarsdale, NYAdvertising & Marketing CommunicationsZara served as student ambassador, and wasco-founder and editor-at-large for Student’sBlog Magazine. She also received the Bakerand NYS Diversity Scholarship.

Sanya KhannaNatick, MAAdvertising & Marketing CommunicationsSanya served as vice president of the Stu-dent Association and co-founded and servedas president and treasurer of the MulticulturalAssociation of South Asians Living in Amer-ica Club. She also volunteered with New YorkKids Enjoy Exercise Now.

Hyuna NaGwangju-si, KoreaPackaging DesignHyuna was a resident assistant. She servedas co-president of the Packaging Design Cluband as treasurer of the Student Association.

FINGER LAKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Kelly BroderickCanandaigua, NYLiberal ArtsKelly served as captain of the Women's Basketball Team and was a member of PhiTheta Kappa. She received the Omega DeltaKappa Gamma Scholarship.

Sean MurphyPenn Yan, NYHorticultureSean served as president of the HorticultureClub, as coordinator of fundraising for PhiTheta Kappa, and volunteered at blood drivesfor the American Red Cross.

Carley ShickPrattsburgh, NYRegistered NursingCarley served as a student trustee to theBoard of Trustees and as a chair of the Cam-pus Activities Board. She was a co-founderof the Habitat for Humanity AlternativeSpring Break Trip.

10 Awardees

SUNY FREDONIA

Laura HirstWatertown NYPolitical Science & HistoryLaura studied abroad at Univerzita Karlova inPrague and the Czech Republic. She servedas an English translation editor with Memoryof Nations Project at Cesky rozhlas (CzechRadio) and as vice president and foundingmember of the International Club.

Cory JacksonSchenectady NYBiologyCory conducted research in neurobiology andbiochemistry at the University of Rochester,tutored peers in biology, chemistry, physics,and calculus and served as treasurer of theHealth Professions Club.

Samantha JemioloOrchard Park, NYPsychologySamantha served as president of the GoldenKey International Honor Society, participatedon medical service trips to Honduras andCosta Rica, and presented research at theWestern Pennsylvania Undergraduate Psychology Conference.

Carl LamHamburg, NYAudio Production & Applied Music/JournalismCarl received the Louis C. Adler Scholarship.Additionally, he was a member of the Symphony Orchestra and served as chair of the Student Relations Committee.

FULTON-MONTGOMERY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Luis MartinezFar Rockaway, NYGeneral StudiesLuis was a member of the Residence LifeClub, volunteered with residence life and student activities, and fundraised in the community.

Gregory RuddyTroy, NYGeneral StudiesGregory served as president of the Student Government Association, and was a memberof the campus Board of Directors and thebaseball team.

Awardees 11

GENESEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Michelle NagleRandolph, NYTourism & Hospitality ManagementMichelle was a member of Phi Theta Kappaand a project manager for the Annual FashionShow Reception. She served as captain ofthe women's volleyball team and she wasnamed Western New York Athletic Confer-ence Player of the Year.

Yuki SasaoFukuoka, JapanBusiness AdministrationYuki received Competent Leader and Communicator Awards from ToastmastersInternational, while she served as webmasterfor Phi Theta Kappa and treasurer for the International Student Organization.

Emmeline VacantiAlexander, NYTeacher EducationEmmeline received the Presidential Scholar-ship and was Student of the Month. She alsoserved as vice president of Phi Theta Kappa.

Kelly WetherbyOlean, NYFashion Merchandising & Event PlanningKelly coordinated a luncheon that hostedProject Runway winner Anya Ayoung Chee,and coordinated and hosted a professionalworkshop guided by Susan Makai, founder of Susan Makai's Personal Best. She also assisted in raising $2,523 during the 5th Annual Duck Derby.

SUNY GENESEO

Mary AldridgeRochester, NYBusiness AdministrationMary earned the Emerald Certificate in Geneseo Opportunities for Leadership Development program, served as captain ofthe cross-country team, and was a two-timenational championship qualifier.

Laura DuclosClifton Park, NYBiology & Cognitive ScienceLaura was a summer Undergraduate Research Fellow with Upstate Medical University, served as a leader in Admissionsand Residence Life, and volunteered as astate and regional judge for NY Odyssey ofthe Mind.

Rena PazienzaCastleton, NYPsychology & PhilosophyRena received the Edgar Honors Scholarshipand served as president and vice president ofWomen's Action Coalition. She was certifiedby New York State as a rape crisis advocate.

Marty RogachefskyBrighton, NYPolitical Science & EconomicsMarty received first place in a Moscow EssayCompetition. Additionally, he was a seniorresident assistant and was a Council on Public Liberal Arts Research Scholar.

HERKIMER COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Kathryn DollyHerkimer, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesKathryn was a member of Phi Theta Kappaand the women’s softball team. She volun-teered with the American Heart Association,the Great American Irish Festival, andCatholic Daughters Court Reardon #841.

Kayla GuidiHerkimer, NYCriminal JusticeKayla served as president of the SociologyClub, vice president of Outdoors/Go GreenClub and Criminal Justice Club, and publicrelations officer for Phi Theta Kappa.

Avery McLemorePoughkeepsie, NYPhysical Therapist AssistantAvery served as president of the Student Association, student trustee on the Board ofTrustees, and president of the Physical Therapist Assistant Club.

HUDSON VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Shauna AndersonGreenville, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesShauna was named a Phi Theta KappaScholar, was a member of the Student Senate, and taught American Sign Languageand deaf culture at the Greenville Public Library.

James GregClifton Park, NYEngineering ScienceJames was named a Phi Theta Kappascholar, served as vice president of the Student Senate, and volunteered as a groupleader with Sports Are For Everyone.

Charles ParslowFonda, NYEngineering ScienceCharles served as captain of the baseballteam, was a representative on the Chancel-lor's Award for Excellence and TeachingCommittee, and was a peer tutor in mathe-matics and physics.

Bryan VandenburghValatie, NYBusiness AdministrationBryan was a Phi Theta Kappa Scholar andserved as vice president for chapter mem-bership for Phi Theta Kappa. Additionally, heserved in the United States Marine Corps.

JAMESTOWN COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Nolan FarrJamestown, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesNolan was a student ambassador and servedas captain of the men's soccer team. He received the All-Conference First TeamAward for Soccer.

Amy HulinBolivar, NYLiberal Arts & SciencesAmy was a student ambassador and servedas captain of the women's soccer team. Additionally, Amy ranked in the Top 15 ofGoalies in NCJAA.

Tyler SilagyiCherry Creek, NYBusiness AdministrationTyler was a student ambassador, a studentrepresentative on the Presidential TransitionTeam, and a resident assistant.

SUNY JEFFERSON

Kate GehrkeBelleville, NYBusiness AdministrationKate was named Enrollment Management andStudent Life’s Student of the Year, receivedthe Steven Can Scholarship for AcademicExcellence, and served as captain of thewomen's soccer team.

12 Awardees

Juliann SchindlerDexter, NYHospitality & TourismJuliann served as president of the StudentGovernment and as president of the ClaytonFigure Skating Club. Additionally, she was amember of the Campus Life Committee.

MARITIME COLLEGE

Brandon BaranyarFairfield, NYMarine TransportationBrandon was a top three deck cadet on asummer cruise, and participated on the cadetship with Alaska Tanker Company. He alsoserved as drummer in a bagpipe band.

Julia PaxtonSebastopol, NYMarine Environmental ScienceJulia was a deck training instructor andserved as squad leader for the Regiment of Cadets. Additionally, she served as co-captain of the sailing team.

MOHAWK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Meghan CarloRome, NYEngineering ScienceMeghan was selected as a 2nd Team All-American for the NJCAA. She interned in the Research and Development Departmentat Indium Corporation and served as an ambassador, promoting STEM career fields.

Nicolai GiedraitisNorth Brookfield, NYEngineering ScienceNicolai received the Exceptional StudentScholarship and Presidential Scholarship,volunteered at the Children’s Museum of History, Science, and Technology andChristopher Columbus Elementary School.He performed in the Drama Club’s VarietyShow.

Keari LittleWhitesboro, NYPsychologyKeari served as president of Phi Theta Kappaand was a delegate to the Student Congress.She coordinated “Course to Career: An Exploration in MVCC’s Majors.”

Madison VitaleIllion, NYChildhood EducationMadison served as the vice president of service of Phi Theta Kappa and was a stu-dent assistant in the Admissions Office. Shereceived the Class of 1953 Scholarship andthe Dave and Virginia Ward Scholarship.

MONROE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Olivia ChomaWebster, NYLiberal ArtsOlivia served as vice president for Phi ThetaKappa and was a delegate to Model UnitedNations. She also chaired the Phi ThetaKappa Honors In Action Research Project.

Tashawn DesirBrooklyn, NYLiberal ArtsTashawn was a member of the men’s basketball team, was named Most ValuablePlayer of the Murph Shapiro Tournament, andvolunteered with the Rochester City SchoolDistrict.

Adrian HaleRochester, NYLiberal ArtsAdrian served as speaker of the senate in the Student Government Association andwas a senior airman in the US Air Force. Additionally, he coordinated a fundraiser for Hurricane Sandy victims.

Krista MaltzahnWebster, NYLiberal ArtsKrista was a member of the women’s volley-ball team, a member of the 2013 All-Confer-ence Volleyball Team, and a volunteer at theRonald McDonald House.

Rachel PedenRochester, NYPsychologyRachel was an orientation assistant andmember of Phi Theta Kappa. Rachel also received the Jack and Maureen Koch LiberalArts Scholarship.

Sean ReidFairport, NYEngineering ScienceSean served as president of the EngineeringLeadership Council, published an article onthe use of surface grinding and polishing toremove etch induced noise, and placed firstin the AMATYC and NYSMATYC National andState Math Competition.

Chloe VazzanaWebster, NYLiberal ArtsChloe served as president of the Holocaust,Genocide, and Human Rights Project, assisted with the Clinton Global Initiative’sproject Brighten A Child's Future, and received the SUNY Emerging Leader Award.

MORRISVILLE STATE COLLEGE

Daniel MiroccoStony Brook, NYAutomotive TechnologyDaniel served as president of the AutomotiveClub and was a member of Syracuse Nation-als Factory Five Build Team. He delivered theESBOCES Commencement Speech in 2012.

Amanda WatkinsCazenovia, NYEntrepreneurship & Small Business ManagementAmanda served as president of Phi BetaLambda and was a peer tutor. Additionally,she completed the Institute for Leaders at the Phi Beta Lambda National LeadershipConference.

SUNY NASSAU

Shanice BaileyFreeport, NYLiberal ArtsShanice was an orientation leader and a volunteer at Planned Parenthood. She alsoserved as representative to the NYPIRG State Board.

Kara CurtinWilliston Park, NYLiberal ArtsKara served as chair of the Student Govern-ment Association, was a representative onthe Academic Senate, and was a sports editor of the campus student newspaper.

Awardees 13

Ryan EltonPort Washington, NYAccounting & Business AdministrationRyan volunteered at the Community Chest of Port Washington and was a member of the Accounting Society. He also started two small businesses.

Michael GalloCarle Place, NYMarketingMichael was a member of the Board ofTrustees for the Development & OutreachCommittee of Catholic Charities of Brooklyn& Queens, and a co-chair of the Bishop Sullivan Memorial Classic. Additionally, hefounded the Michael J. Gallo Italian HeritageScholarship.

Joshua LafazanWoodbury, NYLiberal ArtsJoshua served as founder and CEO of SafeRide Syosset and was an elected official tothe Syosset School Board of Education. TheLong Island Press named him as one of the50 Most Influential People on Long Island.

Daniel MacDonaldLong Beach, NYBusiness Administration & AccountingDaniel chaired the Veterans Outreach Committee, founded and managed the Pergola Company of Long Beach, NY, andserved as an American Red Cross Volunteer.

William MahlanMassapequa, NYLiberal ArtsWilliam served as treasurer of the Phi ThetaKappa and as pianist in the Jazz Ensemble.Additionally, he won the break contest at theBamboozle Music Festival with his band,Bears and Motorcycles.

Swathi MardaWestbury, NYLiberal ArtsSwathi served as a senator in the StudentGovernment Association, volunteered at Nassau University Medical Center, and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

Emmanuel OzuruonyeQueens, NYLiberal ArtsEmmanuel served as president of the POPRecords Club. Additionally, he was a memberof Phi Theta Kappa and an orientation leader.

Justine ReWantagh, NYLiberal ArtsJustine served as features editor for the student newspaper, interned at CBS Prime-time Casting, and hosted a local campusradio station.

Kerry SweeneyBethpage, NYLiberal ArtsKerry served as secretary of Phi ThetaKappa. She was an orientation leader and awriter for the student newspaper.

Leslie TrigosLynbrook, NYParalegal Studies & Legal StudiesLeslie was ministry director and facilitator in a local church and a member of LambdaEpsilon Chi. She also served as president and owner of a small business.

Elyse ZappiaMalverne, NYLiberal ArtsElyse was a member of Phi Theta Kappa anda writer for the campus literary journal. Sheserved as academic senator of the studentgovernment.

SUNY NEW PALTZ

Chelsea AlloccoChatham, NJMath & Computer ScienceChelsea earned NCAA All-America honorsand was SUNYAC Champion six times. Additionally, she served as an intern at AT&T and founded the Robotics Club.

Stephen LawrenceBayport, NYOrganizational CommunicationStephen was a member of the President’sStudent Advisory Board and a peer careerassistant. He served as executive director for the “Up `Til Dawn” project.

Loucia PapaseraphimAstoria, NYEarly Childhood Education & EnglishLoucia was a member of Kappa Delta Pi andan emerging leader mentor. She volunteeredon the Alternative Spring Break in New Paltz.

Deborah WalnickiGlenmont, NYSociologyDeborah received the Cetrino Family Awardand Scholarship, served as a campus recruit-ment ambassador for City Year, and internedfor Fundacion Crecer in Equador.

Brendan WrightPatchogue, NYWomen's, Gender & Sexuality StudiesBrendan served as a board member of National Residence Hall Honorary, as associ-ate director of the North East Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls, andas departmental representative on the LiberalArts and Sciences Dean’s Advisory Board.

NIAGARA COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Jessica DolanskyNewfane, NYNursingJessica served as vice president of the Student Nurses Association. She was amember of Phi Theta Kappa and the Profes-sional Nurses Association.

Reid OkoniewskiRansomville, NYPublic CommunicationReid served as president and treasurer of theStudent Senate, as president of the StudentProgramming Board, and was a member ofthe intercollegiate golf team.

Linda SeefeldtEast Amherst, NYHuman ServicesLinda served as president and secretary ofthe campus Human Services Association, as social media editor for the Promise for Tomorrow Grant project, and was a memberof the campus advisory board.

Joshua WooldridgeNiagara Falls, NYPhysical EducationJoshua served as president of the Health,Physical Education and Recreation MajorsClub, as president of the Future Profession-als Section of New York State Associationfor Health, Physical Education, Recreation,and Dance. He received the Major of theMonth Award twice.

14 Awardees

NORTH COUNTRY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Melody BlackmoreHamilton, NYMassage TherapyMelody was a student trustee, a member ofthe Student Senate, and a member of thecampus association overseeing auxiliaryservices.

Epril NossentTromso, NorwayMath & ScienceEpril was a student ambassador and servedas captain of the women's soccer team. Additionally, Epril received the ScienceAward for Outstanding Achievement.

OLD WESTBURY

Susan RamirezBrentwood, NYBiological SciencesSusan presented research at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for MinorityStudents. She interned at the Women’s Center on campus and was a member ofthe Science Club.

SUNY ONEONTA

Raymond BossMacedon, NYAdolescent EducationRaymond served as vice president of the Association of Secondary Educators and received the Best and Brightest for AcademicExcellence award. He received recognitionfor College Engagement and CommunityInvolvement.

Kaylee HerzogDelmar, NYBiologyKaylee served as president of the BiologyClub, received a research grant for describ-ing a new species of stingray tapeworm, and published in a peer-reviewed scientificjournal.

Ashley LyWalton, NYBiochemistryAshley served as concert master for the Or-chestra, received the 2014 Student Grant forResearch and Creative Activity award, andtutored high school students in chemistry.

Mifuyu OtsukaTokyo, JapanMass CommunicationMifuyu served as a representative on thePresident's Council on Diversity, as presidentof the Japanese Society for All, and asfounder of the Annual Global Movement Festival.

ONONDAGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Christopher EllisLaguna Beach, CAEngineering Science & Electrical EngineeringTechnologyChristopher served as the founding chair of the Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers, as student representative on theBoard of Directors, and as vice president ofevening programs for Phi Theta Kappa.

Emir LjucaManlius, NYEngineering ScienceEmir served as treasurer of the Institute ofElectrical and Electronics Engineers and wasa tutor for physics, chemistry, and calculus.Additionally, his team scored in the top five at the New York State Mathematics Associa-tion of Two-Year Colleges’ Math LeagueCompetition.

Rebekah TannerSyracuse, NYHumanities, Social Sciences & ArtRebekah received the Faculty EndowedScholarship for Academic Excellence andserved as chair of the campus committee for "Out of the Darkness Campus Walk." She volunteered as zoo educator and tourguide at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

Casey TaylorMinoa, NYHumanities & Social SciencesCasey served as vice president of the Student Association for Entertainment andProgramming, as president of the NationalSociety for Leadership and Success, and was a volunteer coach for youth basketball.

Zachary TraverVestal, NYBusiness AdministrationZachary was named NJCAA DistinguishedAcademic All-American. He served as cap-tain of the campus baseball team and was amember of Phi Theta Kappa.

COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY

Kevin WillefordEaston, PAOptometryKevin published four papers in various scien-tific journals, received the Student TravelGrant from the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilita-tion Association, and implemented smokingcessation services on campus.

SUNY ORANGE

Joanna DykemanMontgomery, NYEnglishJoanna presented at the Northeast RegionalHonors Council Conference in 2013 and 2014,served as student representative to the Foun-dation Board, and received the President'sHonors Program Scholarship for OutstandingAcademic Achievement.

Amanda QuintanaNewburgh, NYPsychologyAmanda served as president of the Newburgh Board of Activities, as secretaryof the Student Senate, and was a studentambassador.

Vivek SoodMiddletown, NYBusiness AdministrationVivek received the President's Honors Pro-gram Scholarship, presented at the NortheastRegional Honors Council Conference, andserved as vice president of the BusinessClub.

SUNY OSWEGO

Larissa AssamCameroon, AfricaBiologyLarissa served as president of the MinorityAssociation of Pre-Health Students, wasnamed Peer Educator of the Year by the National Alliance of Black School Educators,and conducted research at the University ofCalcutta in India.

Awardees 15

Kyle BraytonFulton, NYAccountingKyle served as president of the FinancialManagement Association and Accounting Society, volunteered with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, and interned at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Lindsay KingTroy, NYGlobal & International Studies and CommunicationLindsay received the Jose Ramon Perez International Beijing Scholarship, interned for Congressman Daniel Maffei and SenatorKirsten Gillibrand, and served as internationalmarketing intern for the Great Wall Club Incorporated.

Nicole LeaderBaldwinsville, NYChildhood Education & Earth ScienceNicole received the Dean’s Writing Prize inCurriculum and Instruction, served as captainof the women’s tennis team, and tutoredpeers in mathematics.

Rhiannon PeshniakHopewell Junction, NYHistory & AnthropologyRhiannon was a campus tutor and a researchlab assistant in the NAGPRA ArchaeologyLab. Additionally, she presented scientific papers at national and international confer-ences.

SUNY PLATTSBURGH

Maura DaneheyHopewell Junction, NYPublic Relations & Multimedia JournalismMaura interned at the Department of Stateand NBC Sports Group Communications, received the Richard Semmler CommunityScholarship, and was a teaching assistant.

Rebecca RobbinsEssex, NYNutritionRebecca interned within the Lake ForestSenior Living Community, Green Mountain atFox Run, and DAK Bar. She presented at theNational Association of Biology Teachers andthe National Science Teachers Associationand volunteered at Planned Parenthood.

Nikki SchiebelVernon, NYPolitical ScienceNikki presented at the NYS Political ScienceAssociation Conference, interned for Con-gressman Richard Hanna, and volunteeredmore than three hundred hours of communityservice.

Kym TaylorChazy, NYEnglish LiteratureKym served as co-president and secretary of Sigma Tau Delta. She also was an internand academic program co-coordinator andteaching assistant.

SUNY POTSDAM

ChaRon BrabhamBrooklyn, NYTheaterChaRon served as president of the DanceTeam, and as vice president of the Black Student Alliance. She was an Oscar trophypresenter at the 2013 Academy Awards ceremony.

Kate ClaussBloomfield, NYPsychologyKate served as captain of the women’s soccer team and was a member of the General Education Committee. Additionally,she received the Mt. Emmons Scholarship.

Samantha DiPietroNew Hartford, NYEarly Childhood Education & DanceSamantha served as vice president of PhiKappa Phi. Additionally, she was a residencelife assistant and an orientation leader.

PURCHASE COLLEGE

Lauren BrittonPurchase, NYVisual ArtsLauren received the Presidential Scholarship,participated in the Art Show: Best of SUNYStudent Art Exhibition, and was a residentassistant.

Michaela EllingsonJackson, WYDanceMichaela served as class representative forConservatory of Dance Class of 2014 andwas a resident assistant. She also performedand choreographed performances in a varietyof venues internationally.

Elizabeth PysarenkoRiverhead, NYArt HistoryElizabeth received the Philip H. Steckler, Jr.Memorial Scholarship. Additionally, sheserved as a nurse educator and healthcarevolunteer at a tribal nursing home and as curator of an art exhibit, “In Search of theEphemeral: Sublime Explorations of UrbanDecay.”

SUNY ROCKLAND

Norman Cottrill, Jr.Mays Landing, NJCommunication & Media ArtsNorman served as president of the StudentVeterans Honor Society. He was a memberof Phi Sigma Omicron and a volunteer at thecampus multi-media center.

Lazar Lipa SchmeltzerAirmont, NYPerforming ArtsLazar Lipa served as a leader of the congre-gation at a local synagogue and was a mem-ber of Phi Theta Kappa. He also releasedmany Jewish pop albums world-wide.

Mendel TaubRamap, NYPre-LawMendel presented at Yale Writers' Confer-ence, in addition to having served as studentrepresentative on the Board of Trustees andas vice president of fellowship at Phi ThetaKappa.

SCHENECTADY COUNTY CC

Thomas BamburySchenectady, NYChemical Dependency Counseling & Human ServicesThomas served as vice president of RestartClub, as vice president of the Student Veterans Organization, and as student trustee on the Board of Trustees.

Elisabeth SmithSchenectady, NYTeacher EducationElisabeth served as vice president of the Student Government Association, as co-leader of Second Blessings Clothes Project,and as board member of the Faculty-StudentAssociation.

16 Awardees

STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY

Safa AbdelhakimSt. James, NYBiologySafa served as president of the Golden KeyInternational. She was a member of GlobalMedical Brigades and an undergraduate researcher.

Connor BeierleCentereach, NYMechanical EngineeringConnor interned at NASA Ames ResearchCenter and NASA Glenn Research Center. He also served as founder and president ofthe American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics and was a captain of the rugby team.

Dara Bobb-SempleNew York, NYChemistryDara published in a peer-reviewed journal,received the UNCF-Merck Science Research& American Chemical Society Scholarships,and presented at the annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students.

Kevin ChavezFlushing, NYBiochemistryKevin published in a scientific journal, received a poster award at the annual Bio-medical Research Conference for MinorityStudents, and served as student representa-tive on the Student Health Advisory Committee.

Olivia ChengJackson Heights, NYBiochemistryOlivia was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and received the Undergraduate Research & Creative Activities Fellowship. She was selected Homecoming Queen.

Derek CopeGlen Cove, NYNursingDerek served as vice president for academicaffairs in the undergraduate Student Govern-ment, as founder and president of the SportsClub Council, and as coordinator of the Pediatric Cancer Center Volunteer/Bone Marrow Drive.

Kara DeSannaNew Hyde Park, NYHistory & Political ScienceKara was named a JFEW-SUNY Global Affairs and International Relations Scholar,organized a service learning project at theSouthern US Model United Nations Confer-ence, and presented at the UndergraduateResearch & Creative Activities Symposium.

Raniah EL-GendiRocky Point, NYPsychology & SociologyRaniah was a student ambassador and afreshman seminar teaching assistant. Sheserved as a Jewish Foundation for Educationof Women Scholar.

Neha KinariwallaSayville, NYSociologyNeha founded the Humanology Project,served as student representative on theAsian Program Advisory Committee, and delivered remarks at the inaugural TEDxevent.

Ariana LevinStorrs, CTBiologyAriana was a teaching assistant and volunteered at a nursing home in Costa Rica.She was named a Shaps Scholar at MemorialSloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Surinder MoongaEast Meadow, NYBiologySurinder was a resident assistant and servedas event coordinator for the Tis’ the Seasoncharity event. Additionally, he authored fiveresearch publications.

Bryan NguyenBrooklyn, NYBiologyBryan was a teaching assistant and an orientation team leader. He also worked on biology education research.

Ali SyedEast Patchogue, NYBiology & SociologyAli founded and served as president of theStudent Health Initiative to Network and Educate and was named a Truman ScholarFinalist. She completed undergraduate research in the Department of Sociology.

Justin ThomasFloral Park, NYBiochemistry & PhilosophyJustin was a teaching assistant, volunteeredas an emergency medical technician, andperformed as a vocalist and guitarist for patients at local hospitals.

Jean-Claude VelasquezHicksville, NYPolitical Science & PhilosophyJean-Claude was a Summer Public HealthScholar at Columbia University, and pub-lished an article in the Political Science Journal. He also served as freshman repre-sentative on the Educational Opportunity Program Student Association.

SUFFOLK COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Elizabeth AmmenworthBayport, NYBusiness AdministrationElizabeth served as president of the Community Service Club and as chair of theCommunications Club. She also received theGet There From Here Scholarship.

Sameer AnandBaiting Hollow, NYComputer ScienceSameer served as vice president of the Community Service Club, volunteered as an emergency medical technician and first responder at Riverhead Volunteer AmbulanceCorps, and founded a software engineeringcompany.

Amie BernsteinHolbrook, NYLiberal ArtsAmie served as president of Phi Theta Kappa,assisted with various Community CollegeCompletion Corps events, and was certifiedas a New York State Licensed OpticalTrainee.

Taylor BiondiHolbrook, NYNursing Taylor received the Get There From HereScholarship, volunteered at Stony Brook University Hospital, and served as a studentrepresentative on the CTEA Local AdvisoryCouncil.

Awardees 17

Angelina CurleySayville, NYLiberal ArtsAngelina served as president of the BiologyClub, interned at Stony Brook University for the National Science Foundation, and received a NSF Scholarship in Science,Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Felipe Espitia CetinaBrentwood, NYBusiness AdministrationFelipe served as a student trustee on theBoard of Trustees and as president of theAssociation of Latin American Students. Additionally, he was included in Who's WhoAmong Students in American Colleges andUniversities.

Jennifer IlgazEastport, NYAccountingJennifer served as president of Alpha BetaGamma, as vice president of Phi Theta Kappa,and as senator of Student Government.

Amanda KoscikCommack, NYLiberal ArtsAmanda served as editor-in-chief of WesternStudent Press, as public relations officer ofthe Speech and Debate Team, and as the student representative on the AssessmentAdvisory Council.

Suzanne LoevnerBohemia, NYChemical Dependency CounselingSuzanne served as the communication system administrator for the Chemical Dependency Program and vice president ofPhi Theta Kappa. Additionally, she receivedfirst place in the 2013 Undergraduate PoetryProject.

Bryan NeeEast Setauket, NYTheatre ArtsBryan received the Get There From HereScholarship, was a member of Phi ThetaKappa, and volunteered with clean up effortsafter Hurricanes Sandy and Nemo.

Maryam Yahya RabbaniBayshore, NYLiberal ArtsMaryam Yahya served as managing editor of the Western Student Press and as vicepresident of Phi Theta Kappa. Additionally,she received the Chancellor's EducationalPipeline Biomedical Research Award.

Deborah RehmShirley, NYBusiness AdministrationDeborah founded and served as president ofSOULS in Business and founded the JammieChicks Project, and was included in Who'sWho Among Students in Universities andColleges.

Danielle SafatyHauppauge, NYLiberal ArtsDanielle served as president of the NationalScience and Discovery Club, as a senator forthe Student Government, and was a memberof the Special Olympics Committee.

Jorge VallecilloWest Islip, NYLiberal ArtsJorge served as vice president of the StudentGovernment Association and as president of the Sigma Kappa Delta. He was included in Who's Who Among Students in AmericanColleges and Universities.

SUNY SULLIVAN

Rachelle WalkerMonticello, NYLiberal ArtsRachelle served as president of the StudentGovernment Association, received seventhplace in the State of New York for PublicForum Debate, and presented at the North-east Regional Honors Conference.

April WhiteCochecton, NYLiberal ArtsApril was a member of Phi Theta Kappa andtutored in the Learning Center Peer TutoringServices. She was certified as an EmergencyMedical Technician.

SUNYIT

Rachel BarbatoBinghamton, NYPsychologyRachel served as chair of the nominatingcommittee and active board member of theTown of Western Historical Society. She wasa member of Phi Theta Kappa and a researchassistant.

Brittani HowellWhitney Point, NYInterdisciplinary StudiesBrittani was a resident advisor and memberof the Student Athlete Advisory Council. She received the National Eastern AthleticConference Scholar Athlete Award forWomen's Soccer and Women’s Lacrosse.

TOMPKINS CORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Cheyenne GortonLansing, NYHotel & Restaurant ManagementCheyenne served as the student trustee onthe Board of Trustees, as president of theHospitality and Restaurant Association, andas vice president for student involvement forthe Student Government Association.

Audreykate OrdwayFreeville, NYNursingAudreykate served as captain of the women's basketball team and was a tourguide. Additionally, she volunteered overthirty hours per week.

Taylor PolicayIthaca, NYSport ManagementTaylor was on the Mid-State Athletic Conference All-Conference Softball Teamand served as captain of the women’s soft-ball team. She was named NJCAA Region IIICo-Athlete of the Week.

SUNY ULSTER

Kyle KnuffkeKingston, NYCriminal JusticeKyle interned with the New York State Police,received certification as an exterior fire-fighter, and was a member of the CriminalJustice Club.

Courtney SheeleyTillson, NYScience Adolescent EducationCourtney served as vice president of the Student Government. She also was a mem-ber of the Ulster County Youth Board and the Vocal Ensemble.

18 Awardees

UPSTATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

Daniella PalermoBronx, NYMedicineDaniella received the SUNY Upstate StudentCitizen Award, served as the president’s student ambassador, and volunteered at theWestside Family Health Center.

Tiffany Telarico CazaClay, NYMedicineTiffany received the American College ofRheumatology Research and Education Foundation Medical and Graduate StudentAchievement Award, served as a mentor forfirst-year medical students, and volunteeredas an interpreter at migrant farm clinics.

SUNY WESTCHESTER

Komala Kotramada BheemaiahKarnataka, IndiaParamedicKomala was an admissions ambassador, an orientation leader, and a peer advisor.

Ryan HaslauerWhite Plains, NYBusiness AdministrationRyan served as regional vice president for Phi Theta Kappa’s New York RegionalDistrict. He was an orientation leader and a peer advisor.

Raisza LatifScarsdale, NYMath & ScienceRaisza served as vice president of market-ing for the Westchester Events Board, was a peer advisor, and interned as a graphic designer for the Office of Student Involvement.

Hyun Ho LeeAregentia, Buenos AiresLiberal ArtsHyun Ho served as a senator of the StudentGovernment Association and was an orienta-tion leader. He was also named a DavisGlobal Scholar.

Felicia MalcolmYonkers, NYLiberal ArtsFelicia served as secretary of the StudentGovernment Association, was a peer advisor,and was named a Kathryn Davis GlobalScholar.

Jessica PalmaNorth Salem, NYLiberal ArtsJessica served as secretary and treasurer for the Westchester Events Board, as vicepresident the Student Alumni Association,and was a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon.

Patrick SluiterWhite Plains, NYVisual ArtsPatrick served as vice president of the ArtClub, received the Initial Teaching ExperienceProgram Grant, and curated a pop-up gallery.

Hei Tsun TseHong Kong, ChinaEngineering ScienceHei Tsun served as student trustee on theBoard of Trustees. He was an orientationleader and a peer advisor.

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence was created to recognize studentswho have best demonstrated and been recognized for the integration of academicexcellence with accomplishments in the areas of leadership, campus involvement,athletics, community service, creative and performing arts, or career achievement.

Each campus president established a selection committee, which reviewed exemplary members of their college communities who are graduating this year.Nominees were forwarded to the Chancellor’s Office for a second round of review,and finalists were recommended to the Chancellor to become recipients of theChancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.

This year, we honor 274 students from each of the 64 institutions within The State University of New York. Recipients of this year’s award have an overallgrade point average of 3.8 and records of significant contributions to their campuses and communities.

Each recipient receives a certificate and a medallion that may be worn at commencement.

Congratulations to this year’s awardees!

CH

ANCELLOR’S AW

ARD

FOR

STUDENT EXCELLEN

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Empire State Plaza Convention Center | Albany, New York | www.suny.edu

CHANCELLOR’S AWARDfor Student Excellence