Achievements

Board of Trustees Chair Deborah Briggs Appointed to National Association of Community College Trustees Board of Directors

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SUNY Ulster Press Release

Deborah BriggsOctober 29, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY- SUNY Ulster proudly announces that Deborah Briggs, Chair of the SUNY Ulster Board of Trustees, has been elected to the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Board of Directors as a Northeast Regional Director. Her three-year term was confirmed at the 56th Annual ACCT Leadership Congress, Reimagining Community College: Innovation for a Changing World, held in New Orleans, LA.

ACCT is a nonprofit educational organization representing more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees serving on over 500 community, technical, and junior college governing boards across the United States and beyond. Its 26-member Board of Directors is elected by member boards to represent the voice of community college governance nationwide.

Briggs has served on the SUNY Ulster Board of Trustees since 2018, and as Board Chair since 2022, leading the College’s Presidential Search Committee in 2022.  She has previously served with distinction on ACCTs 2024 Finance and Audit Committee and, for 2025, is serving on ACCTs Public Policy and Advocacy Committee.

“Chair Briggs brings a powerful, place-based perspective to the national stage,” said Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President of SUNY Ulster. “She understands firsthand the transformative power of community colleges and is committed to expanding opportunity, advancing equity, and driving student success and institutional innovation—especially for those too often left out of the conversation. Our institution has benefited greatly from her engagement with trustees across the country, and we are proud to see her continue advancing ACCT’s mission as a member of its Board of Directors.”

“The SUNY Ulster Board of Trustees affirms that ACCT will benefit from Chair Briggs’ active and passionate advocacy,” said Tim Sweeney, Vice Chair of the SUNY Ulster Board of Trustees. “She has been a steadfast voice for the community college sector, and we know she will continue to represent our students and institutions with distinction.”

Reflecting on her appointment, Briggs said, “I believe the strength of America’s community colleges lies in their diversity. As a first-generation graduate and trustee, I am committed to ensuring that all colleges—and the students they serve—are fully represented, supported, and empowered through national policy, advocacy, and leadership. Representing SUNY Ulster and our Board of Trustees on the ACCT Board of Directors is an honor and privilege.”

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SUNY Ulster Presents “time Again” an Exhibit of Drawings, Paintings, and Sculpture by Marie Mastronardo and B. Robert Johnson at the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery

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SUNY Ulster Press Release

October 7, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – The Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery at SUNY Ulster is proud to present “time Again”, a two-person exhibition featuring the diverse works of Marie Mastronardo and B. Robert Johnson. The exhibit runs from October 16 through December 4, with an opening reception on October 16 from 4-6 p.m. This exhibition is sponsored by the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc.

“time Again” brings together selected works of Johnson and Mastronardo on the 50th anniversary of their first exhibition together at the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery in 1975.

“time Again” images by Marie Mastronardo and B. Robert Johnson

Marie Mastronardo is showing sculptures, sculpted in clay, coil built, and some done in plaster reliefs. Voluminous, yet fragile, her pieces take shape one thin coil at a time from the ground up and evolve into free-flowing figurative vessels and sculptures. Ms. Mastronardo holds a B.A. in art from Hunter College followed by a year’s travel in Europe, a decade long association with the Art Students” League, studying drawing with Marshall Glasier, painting with Julian Levi, and sculpture with John Hovannes. She has participated in both solo and group shows in New York City and upstate New York.

Robert Johnson is a multidisciplinary artist who describes his paintings and drawings as geometric landscapes and interpretations of the natural world, balancing realism and abstraction to represent the essence of beauty that nature possesses. Mr. Johnson holds a B.F.A. from Pratt Institute and is the Director of Graphic & Printing Services at SUNY Ulster, designing award-winning visual communication publications for the promotion of the College. In addition, he serves on the Exhibition Committee for the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery, was a past board member of the Art Society of Kingston, curated the city-wide outdoor Sculpture Biennial in 2011, and has been making art cars for the Kingston Artists Soapbox Derby since 1999.

“time Again” reflects both artists’ life-long commitment to art making and the way art invites the viewer to return, reconsider, and see their work anew.

For more information, please contact Chris Seubert at seubertc@sunyulster.edu.

About the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery

The Muroff-Kotler Visual Arts Gallery at SUNY Ulster serves as a center for creative activity at the College and within the community. It also functions as an environment for teaching, performing, and exhibiting.

About the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc.

Since 1976, the Ulster Community College Foundation has been committed to advancing student success, academic excellence, and community impact at SUNY Ulster. Rooted in a mission to bridge opportunity with action, the Foundation has awarded over $8.5 million in scholarships to more than 8,700 students. Each year, the Foundation offers almost $1 million in scholarships, enabling students to pursue degrees across disciplines ranging from Nursing and STEM to Business and the Arts. The Ulster Community College Foundation’s impact extends far beyond scholarships. The organization invests in cultural enrichment, academic innovation, teaching technologies, and student-centered programming. The Foundation also plays a pivotal role in alumni engagement, donor cultivation, and positioning SUNY Ulster as a hub of innovation and opportunity in the Hudson Valley.

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SUNY Ulster Director of New Start, Arie Drewes Named SUNY Basic Needs Champion

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SUNY Ulster Press Release

October 3, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster is proud to announce that Arie Drewes, Director of New Start, has been named a SUNY Basic Needs Champion, one of only five honorees selected from across SUNY campuses statewide. The recognition was announced on September 18, 2025, by SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King, Jr. during the SUNY Basic Needs Summit in Albany.

The Basic Needs Champion award honors faculty and staff who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to removing barriers to student success by advancing holistic support services. Honorees are recognized not only as advocates, but also as leaders who help foster a culture of care and equity across the SUNY system.

Drewes joined SUNY Ulster in April 2021 and has served in various academic administration and program development roles. Since June 2023, she has led New Start, an opportunity program designed to promote academic success and economic mobility for adult and parenting students. She brings a strong academic and professional background, holding advanced degrees and credentials from studies spanning Boston University, Trinity College Dublin, Berklee College of Music, New York University, and Dutchess Community College. Drewes is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Adult Learning at Empire State University.

“For students to succeed, their basic needs—housing, food, childcare, and transportation—must be met. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in our community, at SUNY Ulster, and across the SUNY system, who are committed to making this possible and work with me to connect students with essential resources. This recognition is truly a testament to that collective effort,” said Arie Drewes.

“Arie’s work reflects the very best of SUNY Ulster—putting students at the heart of everything we do,” said Alison Buckley, Ed.D., president of SUNY Ulster.  “She is relentless in removing barriers, amplifying student voices, and ensuring that every learner has the resources to thrive. This recognition affirms the impact of her leadership and the culture of care she is helping to build at our college.”

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Arie Drewes portrait

 

Police Basic Training Program at SUNY Ulster Celebrates a New Class 94% of Graduate Secure Employment

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August 8, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster proudly announces the graduation of its latest class from the Police Basic Training program. In a ceremony held on July 24, 17 cadets were officially recognized for completing the rigorous program that prepares them for careers in law enforcement.

This year’s class achieved a 94% employment rate, with 16 of the 17 graduates hired by area police departments, including the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, Town of Ulster Police, Town of New Paltz Police, Town of Goshen Police, Town of Woodstock Police, and the Village of Ellenville Police. The remaining student is expected to be employed before the end of this year.

Several students were recognized for their academic achievements, including Natalie Welsh of the Town of Goshen Police Department who was presented with the Top Cop Award and the Top Physical Fitness Award for having the highest overall average for academics as well as physical fitness. Dominick Almeida received the Top Academic Award and the Krupica Scholarship Award. This award was created by George Krupica, a proud SUNY Ulster alumnus and retired law enforcement professional, to support students pursuing careers in criminal justice and law enforcement.

Acceptance into the Police Basic Training program is competitive based on performance on the physical agility test. The 30-credit hour certificate program is achieved through collaboration between SUNY Ulster and the Ulster County Law Enforcement Training Group (UCLETG) and incorporates all of the NYS approved pre-employment curriculum and objectives. In addition to preparing recruits for future employment in law enforcement, SUNY Ulster’s Police Basic Training Certificate Program satisfies 30 college credits of Criminal Justice coursework towards SUNY Ulster’s A.A.S. in Criminal Justice.

SUNY Ulster President, Alison Buckley, Ed.D. stated, “SUNY Ulster is dedicated to helping students succeed—preparing them to launch meaningful careers and earn family-sustaining wages. Our Police Academy graduates are entering the local workforce with a strong commitment to serve and protect, helping to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. We are proud of all they have accomplished in the Academy and look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in the years ahead.”

SUNY Ulster’s Police Basic Training program, which celebrated its 20th year in 2024 has a long track record of excellence in preparing students for a rewarding career in law enforcement. And, a new class of 28 students recently started the program on August 4th.

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police academy graduation

SUNY Ulster Announces President’s and Dean’s Lists for Spring 2025

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June 25, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster releases its President’s List and Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester. Of the 316 full-time and part-time students who made the President’s and Dean’s lists, 65 are Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. scholarship recipients.

Full-Time President’s List

 A total of 108 students who attended classes on a full-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the President’s List for the Spring 2025 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.75 and higher, plus other requirements.

The full-time Spring 2025 President’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Accord:  Rebecca Gamar, Hunter Ridgely.
  • Bearsville:  Navah McElroy.
  • Big Indian:  Kylie Apolito.
  • Boiceville:  Deli Smith.
  • Chester:  Melanie Rolon.
  • Clinton Corners:  Ally Gullo.
  • Cottekill:  Gunnar Bednarz, Lily Bednarz.
  • Ellenville: David Castro, Denilson Morales, Ashley Nunuvero, Michelle Wang, Karla Zhuno.
  • Gardiner:  David Velasquez Sierra.
  • Goshen:  Natalie Welsh.
  • High Falls:  Chloe Goodin.
  • Highland:  Giovanni Arpino, Liam Held, Anthony Silverio, Ariana Terrell, Jack Vett, Melissa Williams.
  • Hopewell Junction:  Amanda Scirbona.
  • Hurley:  Aidan Banbury, Troy Hajba, Apollo Liewa, Austin Uhl.
  • Kerhonkson: Keitha Brown, Jennifer Drouin, Emily Lawlor, Paige Lawlor, Isabella Shaw, Aurora Tisman.
  • Kingston:  Jhadai Ajiataz, Addison Bryant, Lindzy Carlson, Cristian Chun Coy, Benjamin Cunningham, Henry Davies, Lauren DuBord, Jacob Franklin, Helaisha Hernandez Vega, Anne Larsen, Rui Li, Catherine Maisonet, Daniil Malinoski, Adriana Marano, Kubra Ozyildirim, Alannah Rolph, Jair Rosas Chavez, Gianna Vianello.
  • Lake Katrine:  Brianna Constable, Jenna Smith.
  • Malden-On-Hudson:  Emma Maxwell.
  • Middletown:  Dominick Almeida.
  • Millerton:  Fig Sielaff.
  • Milton:  Candace Kharbedia, Sofia Leon Escobar, Timothy Liu.
  • Monroe:  Holly Berra, Jordan Fusco, Maeve McGinn.
  • Napanoch:  Tyler Beadle, Daniel Farfan.
  • New Paltz:  Ivy Arnade, Kristie Benel, Declan Chase-Salerno, Braxton Lehman, Jonah McDuffie, Natalia Seager, Gabriella Walsh, Max Zurlini.
  • New York:  Erkut Toygan
  • Olivebridge:  Adelaide Braunstein, Xiaohui Wen.
  • Pine Bush:  Jesse Morse.
  • Pleasant Valley:  Katherine Keeney.
  • Port Ewen:  Sarah Hewitt, Kyla Kelley.
  • Red Hook:  Lillian Carey.
  • Rhinebeck:  Alexis Howard.
  • Saugerties:  Raya Ackert, Spencer Benzenhoefer, Jack Bucci, Gil Hartrum, Joe Maloney, Alfredo Martinez, Riley Naccarato, Caelin Piper, Noah White.
  • Shokan:  Dylan Edelstein, Alivia Zahorsky.
  • Tillson:  Chris Cook.
  • Ulster Park: Nicholas Coutant, Olivia Sachse.
  • Walden:  Nathan Hall.
  • Wallkill:  Chase Godwin, Justin Sprankle.
  • Warwick:  Alexandria Garnot.
  • Wawarsing:  Gina Garofolo-Goodman.
  • West Hurley:  Tristan Nielsen.
  • West Kill:  Zora Gookin.
  • Woodstock:  Sable Bielawa, Alex Bonilla, Angus Maxwell.
  • Wurtsboro:  Hailey Murphy, Kimberly Sullivan.

Part-Time President’s List

A total of 25 students who attended classes on a part-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the President’s List for the Spring 2025 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.75 or higher, plus other requirements.

The part-time Spring 2025 President’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Albany:  Trisha Churchill.
  • Cottekill:  Melissa Frumenti.
  • High Falls: Theodore Gresler, Violet Sinatra.
  • Highland:  Samantha Durand.
  • Kerhonkson:  Ella Drouin, Yana Pylypiv.
  • Kingston:  Macey Hahne, Nadya Pallak, Derek Snyder, Shamira Young.
  • Lake Hill:  Sean Delbridge.
  • New Paltz:  Julia Breaux, Bryce Casamento, Austin Moore, Marisa Morreale.
  • New Windsor:  Savannah Ordonez.
  • Port Ewen:  Matthew Wright.
  • Rosendale:  Freja Ermer.
  • Saugerties:  Debbie Auer, Denis Cooke, Terri McAleer, Graciela Reyes-Bondar, Jacob Spitzberg.
  • Woodstock:  Maria Mazariego-Moran.

Full-Time Dean’s List

A total of 142 students who attended classes on a full-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is 3.30 or higher, plus other requirements.

The full-time Spring 2025 Dean’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Accord:  Olivia Olechowski, Jacob Stange, Terrence Stange.
  • Bloomington: Thomas Van Tassell.
  • Boiceville:  Hudson Anderson, Arely Tapia.
  • Chester:  Dwayne Clarke.
  • Clintondale:  Lucia DeAngelo.
  • Ellenville:  Payton Exner, Sara Gonzalez, Jeremy Lopez, Heather Ramos, Gabriella Sorbara, Dina Stewart, Meghan Stone-Wardnyski.
  • Glasco:  Noah Travis.
  • Goshen:  Samantha Brown.
  • Grahamsville:  Jesper Whitted.
  • Haverstraw:  Cristofer Moscozo.
  • High Falls:  Kanoekapuaokawa Mann, Jasmine Maschotta-Edwards, Meribelle Stringham.
  • Highland:  Gabriella Acosta, Emma Fritche, Maddyson Jones, Rachel Robinson, Katie Schaeffer.
  • Hurley:  Austin Bonse, Sean Cornelison, Johnathan Helsley, Bryan Monz.
  • Hyde Park:  Joshua Mittermaier.
  • Kerhonkson:  David Santillo.
  • Kingston:  Aina Anjum, Jayden Berard, Mariah Bravo, Kailee Cammarata, Makayla Chapman, Benjamin Davis, Aiden Day, Infiniti Dueno, Sahja Ector, Alexi Fallon, Yadira Gonzalez Hernandez, Daeanna Green, Austin Grosin, Kyle Guido, Imari Harris, Madison Hunlock, Cloe Jones, Elasha Jones, Jennifer Lopez-Garcia, Shantol Martin, India Martinson, Daniel Moeykens, Charlie Molyneaux, Madelyn Nelson, Kimberly Olson, David Osterhoudt, Kadijha Peterson, Ashley Rios-Palma, Giovanni Rosas Chavez, Benjamin Rounds, Jamie Seward, Ayla Sickler, Demario Smith, Lilith Soechting, Marina Souza, Jasmine Tiano, Sean White, Tyliisa Williams, Conrad Witte.
  • Lake Katrine:  Sharon Gomez-Reyes.
  • Marlboro:  Jillian Rosenberg.
  • Maybrook:  Gia Pfleger.
  • Middletown:  Shemar McDonald, Tori Meurer.
  • Modena:  Marie DeStefano, James Poirier.
  • Montgomery:  Abigayle Wilson.
  • Mt. Marion:  Mason Beck.
  • New Paltz:  Samrina Amjad, Nina Brady, Julia Brooker, Joshua Finch, Braden Hulbert, Daniel Morreale, Melissa Nieves, Zorian Shepko-Hamilton, Matthew Tanner.
  • Newburgh:  Ennis Cruz, Melazia Jackson, Irving Mejia, Yaseen Saleh.
  • Port Ewen:  Jasmine Daley, Jason Deising, Rayan Khan.
  • Port Jervis:  Jake Harford, Bronson Krupunich.
  • Poughkeepsie:  Autumn Beeman, Abby Jones, Majalon Teye, Samantha Vumbico.
  • Red Hook:  Joe Alveira, Connor Gibson, Gabriela Gomez-Mendoza, Colin MacDonald.
  • Rifton:  Riley Chambers.
  • Saugerties:  Kierstin Benson, Sophia Buono, Christina Cox, Alivia Dyke, Kasandra Frye, Kerrie Hockx, Hunter Nelson, Frankie Nuzzi, Mya Pineiro, Caden Powers, Ava Zagoreos.
  • Shokan:  Shea Delisio, Tessa Delisio.
  • Spring Valley:  Jonathan Barajas.
  • Stone Ridge:  Faith Avello, Danielle Driekonski, Aaron LeBlanc, Matthew Locke, Caroline Stafford.
  • Tillson:  Brian Ferry.
  • Ulster Park:  Salvador Acosta, Rebecca Daley.
  • Walden:  Hunter Norman.
  • Wallkill:  Alana Boutureira, Stormy Dyckman, Shannon Lovitt, Kaley Slader, Laila Stoner, Laura Thorenz.
  • Wappingers Falls:  Amanda Matuskovic.
  • West Shokan:  Skylar Naughton.
  • Westtown:  Luke McKeon.
  • Woodstock:  Kylie Osterhoudt.
  • Yonkers:  Lourdes Suarez.

Part-Time Dean’s List

A total of 41 students who attended classes on a part-time basis at SUNY Ulster have been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester, reported Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The list, compiled each semester, is comprised of students whose final average for the period of all courses taken is at least 3.30 or higher, plus other requirements.

The part-time Spring 2025 Dean’s List, by area, is as follows:

  • Albany:  Amber Streett.
  • Ellenville:  Lily Horvath, Marcus Lewis-Rivera, Jessica Santos, Jonathan Torres, Alvaro Urquia.
  • Gardiner:  Oswaldo Rosa.
  • Highland:  Tyler Benitez, Rose Toder.
  • Kerhonkson:  Courtney Hill.
  • Kingston:  Nadia Formisano, Emma Ivy, Sabrina Tarantino.
  • Lagrangeville:  Maria Dube.
  • Lake Katrine:  Loris Pemberton.
  • Marlboro:  Giovanni Felicello.
  • Napanoch:  Benjamin Gazsi, Angelina Lopez, Emily Raiban, Bethany Rodriguez.
  • New Paltz:  Margaret English, Isabella Finch, Jonah Grossman, Luke Murphy, Alyson Murray.
  • Olivebridge:  Ava Fox, Jessica Johnson.
  • Pine Bush:  Christine DeGroodt, Alida Goldsmith.
  • Poughkeepsie:  Ashley Dajer, Abby Marino.
  • Red Hook:  Prestell Pinckney.
  • Rhinebeck:  Margaret Gutmann.
  • Saugerties:  Anya Meneses, Ruth Zaccardo.
  • Shady:  Rio Frisina.
  • Sparrow Bush:  Madelyne Somma.
  • Stone Ridge:  Tess Pitcock.
  • Ulster Park:  Hannah Schaber.
  • Wallkill:  Mica Rickman.
  • Wappingers Falls:  Janiece Cirilo.

SUNY Ulster Faculty and Staff have been awarded the 2025 Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence

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 May 29, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster is proud to announce four members of the faculty and staff have been awarded the 2025 Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence. These members include; Dr. Mark Stewart, P. Matthew DeLaMater, Rebecca Mercado, and Kirk Maisch.

The Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence are system-level honors conferred to acknowledge and provide system-wide recognition for consistently superior professional achievement and to encourage the ongoing pursuit of excellence. These programs underscore SUNY’s commitment to sustaining intellectual vibrancy, advancing the boundaries of knowledge, providing the highest quality of instruction, and serving the public good. Through these awards, SUNY publicly proclaims its pride in the accomplishment and personal dedication of its instructional faculty, professional and classified staff across its campuses.

Dr. Mark Stewart, Assistant Professor of Engineering and Coordinator of Engineering received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. A colleague stated, “Mark is always active beyond engineering, helping in math. He’s a pleasure to work with and is kind to our students.”

Matthew DeLaMater, Adjunct Instructor, Social Sciences, History & Education received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching. A peer stated, “Matthew started teaching here in the midst of the Covid pandemic in 2020 and proved adept at teaching remote, online, and HyFlex courses.  He always makes time for his students and treats them with dignity and respect.”

Rebecca Mercado, Enrollment & Success Counselor received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. A colleague stated, “Rebecca is such a vibrant light and positive force at SUNY Ulster. As an Enrollment and Success Counselor, she treats every prospective student with the utmost respect, care, kindness, and consideration. She is an excellent co-worker and team player, always lending a helping hand to her colleagues.”

Kirk Maisch, Campus Maintenance Specialist, Maintenance & Plant Operations received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service. A peer commented, “Kirk wears many hats here on campus. What some people do not realize is that when Kirk works, he gives 100% of himself to the job. That is the way he shows us he cares and his only reward is to see you smile when he has completed his job.”

Individuals selected for this tribute are the SUNY community’s role models in their respective areas. In acknowledgment of their selection, recipients will be given recognition for the particular award received in the college catalog, a letter, certificate, and a Chancellor’s Award for Excellence Medallion are also bestowed to commemorate selection. Each individual has long lists of impressive professional achievements in addition to their remarkable comradery with the campus community. Even more telling is the high praise they have received from colleagues for their dedication, commitment, and inspiration to students and our College community. SUNY Ulster applauds their hard work and effort in going above and beyond for both their colleagues and students.

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Photo caption: Dr. Mark Stewart, Rebecca Mercado, and Kirk Maisch. No photo included for P. Matthew DeLaMater.

Four Students Recognized by SUNY, Phi Theta Kappa, & EOP for Academic Achievements

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Phi Theta Kapa

 May 27, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster celebrates its students recognized for their academic achievements. Each of these individuals are pursuing careers in different fields and are on a successful path toward realizing their collegiate and personal goals.

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence recognizes students for outstanding academic achievements, leadership, campus involvement, community service, and the arts. This award is the highest honor bestowed upon a student by the State University of New York. The 2025 Chancellor’s Awards go to Gia Pfleger and Deli Smith.

Gia Pfleger graduated with an Associate in Arts degree in Adolescence Education 7-12 with a concentration in social studies. Committed to academic excellence, Gia has been on the President’s List for multiple semesters and is graduating with a 3.8 GPA. Gia plans to pursue a double major in Education and Political Science when she transfers to SUNY New Paltz. Her hope is to use her degrees by mentoring students and making a difference in society through teaching.

Deli Smith graduated with an Associate in Science in Individual Studies. Taking pride in their academic portfolio, has maintained a 4.0 GPA. Deli will be attending SUNY Oneonta in the fall to major in Media Studies with the plan of obtaining a Master’s degree in Communication and work in the music industry. Deli is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, has maintained a place on the President’s List, and has contributed as a Student Trustee for the 2024-2025 academic year. Deli also is a member of SUNY Ulster’s Student Government Organization and Student Engagement Board where they work with fellow students on club activities and special events.

The Phi Theta Kappa All-New York Academic Team recognizes high achieving college students who demonstrate academic excellence and intellectual rigor combined with leadership and service that extends their education beyond the classroom to benefit society.  Gabriella Acosta is the 2025 Recipient of the Phi Theta Kappa – All New York Academic Team.

Gabriella Acosta of Highland, NY, started her journey at SUNY Ulster as a L.A. Humanities and Social Sciences major who graduated this semester. She aspires to transfer to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees with a career goal of becoming a school psychologist.  A member of Phi Theta Kappa, Gabriella is committed to academic excellence and leadership in her community, as a passionate advocate for her town and its residents.

SUNY’s Norman R. McConney, Jr. Award for Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Excellence is awarded to Princess Giselle Burden-Green. Now celebrating its sixth class of honorees, the award recognizes outstanding EOP students for their academic merit and perseverance.

Princess Giselle Burden-Green’s goal is to become a therapist, social worker, and business owner. Over the course of her time at SUNY Ulster Princess has been a dedicated, responsible EOP student proactively improving her academic standing. She has been accepted to SUNY New Paltz where she will attend in the fall and major in psychology. Princess volunteered to speak to EOP students about her college experience and convey tips for new EOP students during our pre-college summer program this year. Princess works for a youth organization focused on developing leadership skills for underserved youth. She holds the position of Girls Lead Counselor.

SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. said, “I am proud of our students’ individual and collective commitment to academics, service, and excellence as they reach their educational goals by starting here at SUNY Ulster and Going Far!”

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High School Seniors Compete in Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition for Scholarships

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Press Release

Kingston High School Seniors to Compete in Anita Williams Peck

Public Speaking Competition for $7,500 in Scholarships

Sponsored by the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc.

May 22, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – On Monday, June 9 at 6:00 p.m., Kingston High School students will compete in the annual Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition for $7,500 in scholarship awards for the best public speaking presentations. The event will be held at SUNY Ulster in the College Lounge in Vanderlyn Hall on the Stone Ridge campus.

The event will feature qualifying seniors presenting five-minute persuasive speeches on current event topics of their choice before a panel of noted judges.

Three scholarship awards totaling $7,500 will be presented: 1st place, $3,500, 2nd place, $2,500 and $1,500 for 3rd place. Judging the competition will be Stephen Balantzian, Associate Professor of Communication & Theatre, and Coordinator of Media & Performing Arts and Mary Tarzca ‘78, Professor of Communications.

Established through a partnership between the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. and Kingston High School with a charitable gift from Anita Williams Peck who continued to support the program annually, the competition is designed to encourage students to refine their oral communication skills.

The College and members of the community experienced a great loss with the unexpected passing of Ms. Peck in January, 2019. Longtime proprietor of Williams Lake, Ms. Peck is also remembered for her civic leadership and guidance as a past chair of the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. Anita Williams Peck’s legacy includes her personal dedication to others, her spirit, and her generosity to so many.  She endowed the Anita Williams Peck Public Speaking Competition with a major gift to the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc., one which ensures the continuation of this event in perpetuity.

This event is free and open to the public. To make your required reservation, please contact the Foundation Office at (845) 688-6042.

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SUNY Ulster’s 61st Commencement on Saturday, May 24, 2025

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2025 Commencement

May 20, 2025 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster will proudly celebrate its 61st Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the Senate Gymnasium on the Stone Ridge campus. Presiding over the event will be President Alison Buckley, Ed.D., who will confer degrees and certificates upon 143 graduates during the ceremony.

The Class of 2025 comprises 340 students in total. Of those, 288 will receive associate degrees, and 81 will be awarded certificates. The graduating class spans generations—its youngest members are three 17-year-olds, and its oldest is 65.

Of the class, 51 students will graduate with highest honors, and 112 with honors, 8 students will receive the President’s Medal of Highest Honor for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, 52 graduates are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society, 15 students are recipients of the President’s Challenge Scholarship, who will receive the Darlene L. Pfeiffer Medallion of Excellence, and 6 are recognized as College Scholars.  14 nursing students will receive their pins as part of the ceremony.

Each participating graduate will receive six guest tickets, and the Senate Gymnasium will open for seating at 9:00 a.m. For friends and family unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed and available on the college’s website  and on the SUNY Ulster YouTube channelr.

The keynote address will be delivered by Elliott Auerbach, former New York State Deputy Comptroller and current Director of the Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. A dedicated steward of education and opportunity, Mr. Auerbach has devoted nearly five years to advancing the Foundation’s mission, championing scholarship initiatives that have profoundly enriched the lives and futures of our students.

Representing the student body, Deli Smith, this year’s Student Trustee, will serve as the student speaker. Smith is graduating with an Associate Degree with High Honors, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and was recently honored with the 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. They plan to continue their education at SUNY Oneonta.

Introductions will be made by Jenn Zell, Chief of Staff & Secretary to the Board and Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President. Other participants include Grand Marshal James Hobbs, Professor of Psychology; Faculty Marshal Candice Van Dyke, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of Faculty; Deborah Briggs, Board of Trustees Chair; The Honorable Peter Oberacker, NYS Senator; The Honorable Peter Criswell, Ulster County Legislative Chair; Dr. Mark Stewart, Assistant Professor of Engineering & Academic Senate Chair, Rebecca Mercado, ESC Counselor & Staff Assembly Co-Chair, and John DeGasperis, Esq., Ulster Community College Foundation, Inc. Chair.

The invocation and benediction will be offered by The Rev. Gregory Simpson, Ph.D., SUNY Ulster Trustee and Pastor of Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church.

Musical performances will feature the College Chorus, under the direction of Janet Gehres, and the Old Capital Brass, directed by Victor Izzo, Jr.

Security Notice: Guests are advised that large bags and backpacks are not permitted. Large purses and diaper bags will be subject to inspection, and strollers must be left in designated areas.

SUNY Ulster looks forward to honoring the achievements of its graduates with family, friends, and the community in attendance.

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SUNY Ulster GED Graduates Celebrate Milestone and Pursuit of Bright Futures

by
Press Release GED Grads 2025

May 5, 2025 – Kingston, NY – SUNY Ulster celebrated the graduation of 18 community members upon receiving their GED on April 25, 2025. The ceremony took place at the Kingston Center of SUNY Ulster.

Dressed in caps and gowns and attended by families, President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. and Vice President for Workforce, Economic Development, and Community Partnerships, Christopher Marx Ed.D., presented each graduate. Robert R. Jacobsen, Esq., Trustee, was present to represent the SUNY Ulster Board of Trustees on the platform party. Curtis Turner, GED Coordinator was the Master of Ceremony, Chief of Staff, Jenn Zell sang the National Anthem, and Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs, Candice Van Dyke was the keynote speaker. The invocation and benediction were performed by the Reverend Gia Lynn Hall, Pastor of St. James Methodist Church in Kingston. Student reflections were given by graduates Shawn Michael Jackson and Aiden Ryan.

“It takes courage to go back and finish. Many faced obstacles yet all of the 18 students achieved their goal of attaining their GED. And, achieving this goal means opportunities lie ahead for these graduates in terms of continuing their education and gaining better jobs with higher salaries,” said Curtis Turner, GED Coordinator.

Of the 18 graduates, four are already enrolled at SUNY Ulster and seven more are exploring SUNY Ulster as the next step of their educational journey.

“We are inspired by our 2025 GED graduates and were honored to participate in the inaugural graduation ceremony at the KCSU. We look forward to their bright futures as they attain their goals.”  Alison Buckley, Ed.D., President, SUNY Ulster.

The next two GED sessions run from May 27 through July 3 and September 9 through October 16. To learn more, email Mr. Turner at turnerc@sunyulster.edu or call 845 339-2025.

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