Campus Life

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

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May 14, 2026 – 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 2026 Chancellor’s Awards go to Aidan Banbury and Tuwana Leonard.

Since enrolling at SUNY Ulster in Fall 2024, Aidan Banbury, a resident of Hurley, NY, has demonstrated strong leadership as a Student Admissions Ambassador and as Student Government President for the 2025–26 academic year. A member of Phi Theta Kappa and a President’s List recipient, this reflects his strong commitment to academic excellence. Aidan is completing an Associate in Science in Individual Studies and plans to transfer to Siena College to major in Political Science. Following his undergraduate studies, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career in multiple areas of civil law.

Tuwana Leonard, an Individual Studies major who earned her certificate in General Management, is graduating with an Associate in Science while simultaneously completing the Medical Office Assistant microcredential, as the first SUNY Ulster student to earn this microcredential. Additionally, she recently earned certification as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant. Committed to academic excellence, Tuwana is a Dean’s List recipient, a member of Phi Theta Kappa and is proud to serve as President of SUNY Ulster’s Black Student Union. A Kingston-based community advocate, Tuwana inspires and uplifts those around her, including her family through leadership exemplifying resilience, purpose, service, and learning, demonstrated by completing six credentials in three years.

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.  Aidan Banbury and David Velasquez Sierra are the 2026 recipients of the Phi Theta Kappa – All New York Academic Team.

David Velasquez Sierra of Gardiner, NY, started his journey at SUNY Ulster as a Human Services major earning his Associate in Science in Fall 2025. He aspires to transfer to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees with a career goal of working in healthcare and/or education in the discipline of psychology or sociology.  A member of Phi Theta Kappa, David is committed to academic excellence, is an active volunteer in his community and is a passionate advocate for people with learning disabilities.

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

After arriving in New York from Jamaica at age 14, with Jamaican Creole as her primary language, Shantol worked diligently graduating in two years with her A.A. from SUNY Ulster in Fall 2025. Throughout her time at Ulster, Shantol demonstrated discipline and determination by consistently attending tutoring sessions, meeting with counselors and professors, and staying committed to her studies while also serving as a caregiver for her siblings at home. Beyond the classroom, Shantol has contributed generously to the campus community as a student ambassador, admissions event volunteer, tour guide, and EOP student mentor. Shantol is attending SUNY New Paltz where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. said, “I am extremely 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!  Their hopes, ambitions, hard work, and needs remain at the heart of everything we do. As we educate the individual and elevate the community, our students’ achievements continue to give purpose and meaning to our work and inspire our unwavering commitment to their success.”

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SUNY Ulster to Celebrate 62nd Commencement on May 16

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2026 Graduates

87% of SUNY Ulster’s Class of 2026 Graduates Debt Free

May 14, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – As SUNY Ulster prepares to celebrate its 62nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16, preliminary data shows that 87% of the college’s Class of 2026 completed their education debt free, a powerful reflection of SUNY Ulster’s commitment to affordability, access, and student success.

The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in the Senate Gymnasium on the Stone Ridge campus, where President Alison Buckley, Ed.D., will confer degrees and certificates upon 124 graduates participating in the event.

The Class of 2026 includes 326 graduates overall, with 270 students earning associate degrees and 60 receiving certificates. The graduating class spans generations, ranging in age from 16 to 72.

Among this year’s graduates:

  • 72 students earned Highest Honors
  • 69 students earned Honors
  • 9 students will receive the President’s Medal of Highest Honor for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA
  • 49 graduates are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for community colleges
  • 16 students will receive the Darlene L. Pfeiffer Medallion of Excellence as recipients of the President’s Challenge Scholarship
  • 6 students are recognized as College Scholars

In addition, 23 nursing students will participate in the annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony, and 18 Veterinary Technology students will take part in SUNY Ulster’s inaugural Vet Tech Pinning Ceremony on Friday, May 15.

“Our graduates have inspired us through their hard work, perseverance, and passion for learning,” said SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley, Ed.D. “What makes this class especially remarkable is that 87% of our graduates completed their education debt free, demonstrating that a high-quality college education can remain affordable, accessible, and transformational for students and families across our region.”

“As both a SUNY Ulster alumnus and Chair of the Board of Trustees, I am especially proud to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026,” said Robert R. Jacobsen, Esq. “Our graduates represent the strength and promise of this institution, and I look forward to the many ways they will contribute to our communities and beyond.”

The commencement keynote address will be delivered by Rodney Shealey, Advisor with HarbourView Equity and former Executive Vice President of Def Jam Recordings. Throughout his career, Shealey has worked with internationally recognized artists including Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez. A strong advocate for higher education and economic mobility, he has spoken at Columbia University, New York University, and Syracuse University.

The alumni address will be delivered by Marcia Zwilling, entrepreneur, songwriter, and Managing Director of the Diane Warren Foundation. Zwilling is the founder of EquestrianSingles.com, a nationally recognized platform featured on Today, CNBC, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Representing the graduating class, student speaker Natalia Seager will address attendees. Seager is graduating with High Honors in Liberal Arts: Math and Science and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She serves as a math and psychology tutor at SUNY Ulster, volunteers with the Ulster County SPCA and the American Red Cross and founded the college’s Criminal Justice Club.

“Being part of the SUNY Ulster community has shown me how transformative an accessible and supportive education can be,” said Seager. “I’m honored to represent my classmates as we celebrate everything we’ve accomplished together.”

Student Trustee Gunnar Bednarz, graduating with High Honors in Environmental Studies, will serve as a student marshal. Bednarz will continue his studies at Binghamton University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree focused on botany and marine science.

Guests attending commencement should note that large bags and backpacks are prohibited. Large purses and diaper bags will be subject to inspection, and strollers must be left in designated areas.

Each participating graduate will receive six guest tickets. Doors to the Senate Gymnasium will open at 9 a.m. Family and friends unable to attend may watch the ceremony live at SUNYUlster.edu/graduation and on the SUNY Ulster YouTube channel.

SUNY Ulster looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 alongside family, friends, and the community.

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SUNY Ulster Celebrates 2026 GED Graduates

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GED students with diplomas

May 4, 2026 – Kingston, NY  – Fifteen students successfully earned their General Educational Development (GED) certificates in a ceremony at the Kingston Center of SUNY Ulster on April 24, marking a significant academic achievement and opening new doors for their futures. Twelve of these graduates took part in a ceremony honoring their dedication, perseverance, and hard work.

Of the fifteen students, four graduates completed their GED requirements as early as January and have already transitioned to SUNY Ulster, where they are currently enrolled and finishing six spring semester classes.

In addition, seven graduates are actively moving forward in the application process to attend SUNY Ulster in the Fall 2026 semester. Another four graduates are in the process of evaluating their next steps, considering both educational and career opportunities.

“This group of graduates has demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience,” said Curtis Turner, GED Coordinator at SUNY Ulster. “We are proud to see so many continuing their education and taking meaningful steps toward their future goals.”

The Spring 2026 GED cohort represents a diverse group of learners united by a shared commitment to personal growth and achievement. Their success highlights the importance of accessible educational pathways and the transformative impact of adult education programs.

For more information on SUNY Ulster’s GED program and to see when the next session starts, visit SUNY Ulster’s website or contact the Continuing Education Office at cereg@sunyulster.edu.

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Photo:

Back Row (left to right) Isaiah Cintron, Sophia Van Curen, Daniel Tobey, Amilian Dorsainville, Daneisha Robinson, Robert Sauers, Lilli Sanchez
Front Row (left to right) Scarlett Zubee, Jasmin Hernandez, Ileana Montalvo, Aaliyah Johnson, Paola Lopez
Not pictured: Kacie Boynes, Yeindhi Macias, Ansis Gengo Mergins

SUNY Ulster Announces Summer Youth Art Studios Led by Faculty Artists 

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 April 29, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster is excited to announce its lineup of Summer Youth Art Studios, offering hands-on creative experiences for young artists in a professional studio environment. These engaging programs invite students to explore new artistic techniques, develop skills, and bring their ideas to life under the guidance of experienced artists and instructors.

Each week-long session provides immersive, studio-based learning designed to inspire creativity and confidence across a variety of artistic disciplines. All classes are held from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the Stone Ridge Campus.

Program Offerings:

Fashion Program Summer Studio with Angela Kunz

Students will explore fashion design, drawing, and sewing while creating their own wearable pieces.
Ages 8–15 | NCC 2204 | Monday–Friday | July 6–10

Printmaking Workshop with Joan Ffolliott

Participants will learn foundational printmaking techniques such as linocut, collagraph, and monotype to create original prints.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 1104 | Monday–Friday | July 13–17

Stop Motion Animation with Cassiopeia Ottulich

Students will bring stories to life by creating their own stop-motion animations using hands-on techniques and imaginative storytelling.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2207 | Monday–Friday | July 20–24

Color & Line: A Drawing and Painting Workshop with MariaElena Feerer

This course focuses on developing drawing and painting skills while exploring color, composition, and creative expression.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2206 | Monday–Friday | July 20–24

Sculpture Workshop with Sam Goldberg

Participants will design and construct unique three-dimensional artworks while learning the fundamentals of sculpture and form.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2191 | Monday–Friday | July 27–31

Film Without a Darkroom with Bryce Cassamento

This innovative photography workshop introduces alternative methods, including developing film with coffee and creating prints using sunlight-based techniques.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2205 | Monday–Friday | July 27–31

Animation Workshop with Cassiopeia Ottulich

Students will learn core animation principles and create their own projects using both traditional and digital techniques.
Ages 11–15 | NCC 2194 | Monday–Friday | August 3–7

These summer studios provide a unique opportunity for young creatives to work in real art studios, experiment with new media, and gain confidence in their artistic abilities.

For more information or to register, visit SUNY Ulster’s website or contact the Continuing Education Office at cereg@sunyulster.edu.

The Filmmaking Club at SUNY Ulster Debuts Uncanny Ulster Film Premiere on Friday, May 1

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April 28, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – SUNY Ulster’s newest club – The Filmmaking Club – will debut the Uncanny Ulster Film Premiere on Friday, May 1 at 5 p.m. in Quimby Theater on the Stone Ridge campus. The event is free and open to the public.

 This event will feature a selection of original short films created entirely by club members and represents a significant milestone for the student organization.  Officially recognized by Student Government on January 30, 2026, the Filmmaking Club has quickly established itself as a dynamic and creative force on campus.

Led by president Sebastian Alarcon and advised by Stephen Balantzian, Associate Professor, Communication & Theatre and Coordinator of the Media & Performing Arts Associate degree program, the club has built an impressive roster of student filmmakers, all united by a shared commitment to storytelling.  The club has also fostered meaningful connections within the local film industry, welcoming guest speakers such as representatives from HUDSY and sound engineer, Carl Welden, offering students a firsthand look into the professional world of filmmaking.

The Filmmaking Club and SUNY Ulster invite the community to attend the premiere and support this upcoming generation of filmmakers as they bring their stories to the big screen. For more information, please contact StudentLife@sunyulster.edu.

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SUNY Ulster Presents 2026 Annual Student Exhibition: “Years in the Making”

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various student drawings

April 22, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – The Art Department at SUNY Ulster is proud to present the Spring 2026 Student Exhibition, “Years in the Making”, a dynamic showcase of original work by Fine Art/Visual Art and Fashion students.

The exhibition will run from Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, May 16, concluding on Commencement Day. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 23 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., offering the public an opportunity to meet the student artists and experience the work firsthand.

This annual exhibition celebrates the culmination of years of artistic exploration, technical development, and creative growth. Featuring a diverse range of media and perspectives, “Years in the Making” highlights the dedication and talent of SUNY Ulster’s emerging artists.

Participating student artists include: Lily Bednarz, Fiona DiBella, Alivia Dyke, Emmett Feldman, Joseph Garment, Camila Gomez, Nylla Gullickson, Chris Millian, William Reed, Skylar Naughton, Hunter Nelson, and Kaley Slader.

SUNY Ulster’s Fine Art/Visual Arts program is recognized for its strong foundation in both technical skills and creative development, preparing students for continued success in competitive art fields. Many students transfer to some of the nation’s top four-year art institutions.

This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of the Ulster Community College Foundation. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

For more information, please email gallery@sunyulster.edu.

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Photo caption: a collage of drawings from the participating students

Elizabeth Gross Horticulture Lecture Series at SUNY Ulster Presents “Twelve Months of Garden Inspiration” with Karl Gercens

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Karl portrait

April 22, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – Just in time for gardening season, the Ulster Garden Club presents the Elizabeth Gross Horticulture Lecture Series, featuring an engaging program, “Twelve Months of Garden Inspiration,” by renowned horticulturist Karl Gercens. Sponsored by the Ulster Garden Club, the lecture takes place on April 28 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. in the College Lounge, Vanderlyn Hall on the Stone Ridge campus. This event is free and open to the public.

Born in Mississippi, Gercens’ passion for horticulture began early. The long Southern growing seasons gave him room to experiment and innovate, eventually leading him to earn a B.S. in Ornamental Horticulture from Mississippi State University. His impressive career includes internships at Walt Disney World and the Filoli Estate in California, and today he curates many of the spectacular seasonal displays in Longwood’s world-famous four-acre Conservatory. With a distinctive eye for combining colorful trees, shrubs and perennials, Karl’s work has earned him recognition across the country and around the world. He has visited public gardens in all 50 U.S. states and over 24 countries, each journey deepening his expertise and inspiration.

This annual program is made possible through a generous bequest from longtime member and Kingston resident, Mrs. Elizabeth Terry Gross. Affectionately known as Betty, Mrs. Gross was part of a prominent Kingston family that owned and operated the Terry Bros. Brickyard. Alongside her husband, Conrad “Bob” Gross, she was deeply committed to civic engagement and philanthropy, contributing to numerous local and national organizations. Betty is fondly remembered for her warmth, generosity, and deep appreciation of flowers—an enduring passion that inspired her legacy gift to the Ulster Garden Club.

Founded in 1914, the Ulster Garden Club has spent more than a century enhancing the community through horticulture, conservation, and civic improvement initiatives. Among its longstanding contributions, the Club maintains the gardens at the Senate House Museum in Kingston and has led transformative efforts at Academy Green Park.

The Club’s impact extends throughout the region, with support for landscaping and tree planting projects at Frog Alley Park, the Ulster County Historical Society, SUNY Ulster, Forsyth Nature Center, and Storm King Art Center.

The Elizabeth Gross Horticulture Lecture Series continues this tradition by fostering education, appreciation, and community engagement in horticulture. Through this series, the Ulster Garden Club honors Betty Gross’s legacy while inspiring future generations to cultivate both gardens and community connections.

For more information about the lecture series or the Ulster Garden Club, please contact foundation@sunyulster.edu.

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SUNY Ulster Launches Media & Performing Arts A.A.S. Program to Meet Hudson Valley Creative Boom

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four students in a broadcast room with pro audio gear

April 16, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – To meet a soaring demand for versatile digital storytellers in the Hudson Valley, SUNY Ulster is launching a new Media & Performing Arts Associate in Applied Science degree. The interdisciplinary program is designed to move students directly into the local workforce or prepare them for transfer to four-year institutions.

The new program blends content creation, media production, storytelling and performance into a single interdisciplinary curriculum that takes place in the classroom and in SUNY Ulster’s state-of-the-art media lab.

“Today’s communications industry demands versatile creators who can tell compelling stories across formats,” says Stephen Balantzian, the program’s coordinator. “This degree gives students real-world experience and the tools needed to succeed in this fast-evolving field.”

The Hudson Valley has experienced significant growth in the film, media, and communications industries, with expanding production facilities, soundstages, and post-production companies creating demand for skilled professionals.  New York State Department of Labor data shows an expanding demand for qualified digital creators as the shift from traditional to digital media continues to grow.

 With flexible learning options, small class sizes, access to experienced faculty, and exceptional student support, SUNY Ulster continues its mission to provide accessible, career-focused education that meets the region’s workforce needs.

Prospective students can learn more about the Media & Performing Arts A.A.S. program by visiting the Media & Performing Arts Program Page and registering for SUNY Ulster’s registering for SUNY Ulster’sOpen House on Saturday, April 25.

About SUNY Ulster

Located in Stone Ridge and Kingston, New York, SUNY Ulster is a comprehensive community college within the State University of New York system, offering more than 60 degree and certificate programs designed for transfer and career success.

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SUNY Ulster Presents Annual Spring Concert Series

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band musicians with conductor

April 16, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – The SUNY Ulster Music Department will present its second and third concerts of the spring semester on Wednesday, April 29, and Wednesday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. The performances will be held in the Quimby Theater in Vanderlyn Hall on the Stone Ridge campus. These concerts are free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted.

The music ensembles are comprised of SUNY Ulster students, faculty and staff, community members, collegian students, area music educators, and SUNY Ulster alumni guests.

The April 29 concert will feature the College Chorus, directed by Janet Gehres and accompanied by Edward Leavitt. They will be presenting music from the Renaissance, a Gaelic Folk Song, a Spiritual, music from an Operetta, and other music filled with hope and inspiration. The concert will feature collaborative instrumentalists on violin, oboe, and hand drum.

Also, on April 29, the String Ensemble, directed by Anastasia Solberg will perform music by Arcangelo Corelli, Bela Bartok, and Shin-Itchiro Yamamoto. Paul Chambers will be directing the African Music Ensemble with a selection of traditional drum rhythms from Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, and Ghana. The April 29 concert will also feature the Best Performances from the Spring 2026 “Wednesdays@1:30” LIVE Music Series voted by the Music Faculty.

The third and final concert will be held on May 6, with Victor Izzo directing the Tuba Quartet. The Percussion Ensemble, directed by Paul Chambers will perform music ranging from Traditional Mexican marimba band arrangements to contemporary compositions for mallet keyboards, drum, and everything in between.

The evening will conclude with the College/Community Band, directed by Carla Newsome. They will perform a variety of pieces including Molly on the Shore by Percy Grainger, Our Cast Always by Julie Grioux, Give Us This Day by David Maslanka, and KWYJIBO by David Maslanka. Guest conductors, Samuel Newsome and Jaelyn Twitchell, will be presenting two additional works as well.

For more information, contact Janet Gehres at gehresj@sunyulster.edu.

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music concerts

Acclaimed Poet Sarah Kay Inspired a Standing Room Only Audience at SUNY Ulster 

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April 10, 2026 – Stone Ridge, NY – Sarah Kay, known for her powerful, fun, and honest performances delivered a series of poems interwoven with personal anecdotes at SUNY Ulster to a packed audience of SUNY Ulster students, high school students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Her poems explored themes of identity, relationships, and personal growth that garnered laughter, reflection, and extended applause throughout the event. Her reading was followed by a thoughtful series of moderator and audience questions that offered insight into her creative process, emphasizing the importance of storytelling as a way to understand oneself, others, and the world around us.

When asked about her inspiration, Sarah explained, “The act of reaching for poetry is something I’ve done my whole life. I turn to it when there’s something I’m trying to figure out and I’m having a hard time figuring it out. It might be an interpersonal relationship, people, memories, or something in the news. I say, okay, I might have to poem my way through this.”

Kay’s visit was part of SUNY Ulster’s ongoing commitment to bringing arts and cultural programming to campus to enrich students and the community.

About SUNY Ulster

SUNY Ulster provides Ulster County residents and the surrounding population with an exceptional and affordable education in a student-focused environment. The College offers over 60 academic programs – associate degrees, certificates, and credentials – at its Stone Ridge Campus and the Kingston Center of SUNY Ulster where students are prepared to either enter the workforce or transfer to four-year colleges to complete their bachelor degrees. 

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Sarah Kay gesturing
Acclaimed poet Sarah Kay performs for a packed audience at SUNY Ulster on April 9, 2026