Announcements

Press Release:

Genesee Community College is proud to announce that Ayaka Hibino and Ruby Hoyt have each received the prestigious 2025 SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence (CASE), the highest honor bestowed upon SUNY students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community engagement.

Ayaka Hibino, originally from Omihachiman, Shiga, Japan, graduated from GCC in Fall 2024 with a degree in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management and an overall GPA of 3.90. As an international student, Ayaka distinguished herself not only through academic excellence but also through extraordinary campus involvement. She served as Vice President of the Student Government Association, President of the International Student Organization, President of Phi Theta Kappa, and President of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Ayaka was also the innovator behind GCC's inaugural Cultural Fusion Festival, a vibrant celebration of the college's diverse international community. Her commitment to cultural awareness and student leadership has left a lasting impact on the GCC campus. She was accepted into the Disney College Program for the Spring 2025 semester.

Ruby Hoyt, a Biology major from Brockport, NY, embodies the spirit of SUNY excellence through her accomplishments in academics, athletics and leadership. With a GPA of 3.74, Ruby has excelled in the classroom while also making her mark on the soccer field. She was named to the Region 3 Women's Soccer All-Region Team and the Mid-State Athletic Conference, and earned Academic All-Conference, All-Region, and All-American honors. Ruby is also deeply engaged in student leadership, serving as Secretary for the Athletic Leadership Committee, and as an active member of both Phi Theta Kappa and the National Society of Leadership and Success.

"Ayaka and Ruby represent the very best of Genesee Community College," said Dr. Craig Lamb, president of GCC. "Their dedication to academics, leadership and community service exemplifies the qualities we strive to cultivate in our students. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing all they will achieve in the future."

This year, 193 students from 63 SUNY campuses were recognized with the Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence. Recipients were honored at a special celebration where SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. commended them for their work ethic, determination and leadership.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

On May 17 Genesee Community College celebrated its 57th annual Commencement Ceremony with a group of 7 students from area high schools and homeschools deserving special mention. They completed their GCC degree requirements concurrently with their high school diplomas or New York State High School Equivalency. These graduates participated in the seventh annual cohort of the Excel Program (formerly Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Enrichment Program) through GCC's Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Office.

These high-achieving individuals include the following: 

• Zoey Berggren (Attica)
• Jeremiah Childs (Batavia)
• Paige Harding (Oakfield)
• Holden Kelly (Perry)
• Tess McLaughlin (Perry)
• Kenadie Patten (Albion)
• Olivia Swyers (Perry)

The Excel program began in 2012 allowing the students to start their college studies as early as the seventh grade. In addition to their traditional schoolwork, they enrolled in college level coursework each year taking advantage of many academic opportunities and successfully completing all of the rigorous challenges of an associate degree.

"We are extremely proud of these 7 exceptional students who have not only earned their high school diplomas but also completed their GCC degree requirements. Their dedication and hard work demonstrate the power of early college enrollment and the opportunities it provides. They are truly an inspiration to future generations of students," said Ann Valento, director of Accelerated College Enrollment programs at Genesee Community College.

Kaitlyn Harloff, Excel program coordinator at Genesee Community College, added, "This program highlights the remarkable achievements of our students and their ability to excel in demanding academic environments. Their success is a testament to the effectiveness of the Excel Enrichment Program and the commitment of our faculty and staff to support and guide them."

Genesee Community College's 57th annual Commencement Ceremony was held at the Richard C. Call Arena and featured special guest Keynote Speaker Kate Welshofer. To view the ceremony, please visit: https://www.genesee.edu/commencement/.

For more information contact Director of ACE Programs, Ann Valento at 585-343-0055 x6316, or via email amvalento@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Sarah Forness of Corfu was named to the Dean's Honor List at Cedarville University for Spring 2025. This recognition requires the student to obtain a 3.75 GPA or higher for the semester and carry a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation's top three evangelical universities.

Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.

Press Release:

Catholic Charities of Buffalo today announced the recipients of this year’s Catholic Charities Cup, a fundraising competition among Western New York Catholic high schools, elementary schools, and faith formations. The schools that raised the most money for Appeal 2025 in their division are awarded with the Catholic Charities Cup trophy and a victory party.

This year’s Catholic Charities Cup winners are:

Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart won the High School Division, raising $2,300

SS. Peter and Paul School in Hamburg won the Elementary School Division, raising $1,580

Life Long Faith Formation Ascension and Resurrection Parish in Batavia won the Faith Formation Division, raising $1,138

In the coming weeks, the winning schools will be awarded their trophies and will be treated to a victory celebration with ice cream treats made possible through a sponsorship donation by James Desiderio, Inc.

“Just in its second year, this competition is a fun way to engage our community in the important work of Catholic Charities, and to educate the youth about the importance of service and charity,” said Michael Noe, MD, MPH, Appeal 2025 chair. “We wish to pass along to the next generation the rich spirit of generosity that has brought HOPE to those in need.”

Added Gina Geise, chair of the parish and community committee for Appeal 2025, “Congratulations on winning the 2025 Catholic Charities Cup! Your hard work and effort are greatly appreciated and will spread the love and compassion of Christ to those in need.”

Overall, the students, staffs, and families throughout all the participating schools raised $11,398, which is $2,500 more than what was raised during last year’s Catholic Charities Cup.

Press Release:

Students have been named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2025 semester at Clarkson University:

• Emma Fontaine of Darien Center
• Matthew Frieday of Darien Center
• Everett Hartz of Corfu
• Brooke Jarkiewicz of Byron 

Press Release:

Air Force Major General Michael Bank, the commander of the New York Air National Guard, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Air National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Tess Barone from Batavia, and assigned to the 107th Attack Wing, received a promotion April 29 to the rank of staff sergeant.

Brandon Hackett from Pavilion, and assigned to the 107th Attack Wing, received a promotion April 17 to the rank of senior airman.

Air National Guard promotions are based on a Airman's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

"The New York Air National Guard is built on a foundation of talented and motivated Airmen, and this month's promotions are a shining example of that excellence," Bank said. "I am honored to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our Airmen, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth and contributions to our organization."

These promotions recognize the best qualified Airmen for a career in the New York Air National Guard.

Press Release:

Ana Mateos, of Byron, was among 103 students who earned diversity awards as part of the Kente Graduation Recognition Ceremony at SUNY Oneonta. 

The ceremony took place on campus in the Alumni Field House on April 26. Sponsored by the university's Department of Africana/Latino Studies and Center for Racial Justice and Inclusive Excellence (CRJIE), the annual ceremony recognizes the achievements of SUNY Oneonta's Diverse student population of African-American, Latinx, Asian, and Native American (AALANA) and non-AALANA students and allies.

Mateos is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science, and will graduate in 2025.

Press Release:

Pennsylvania Western University is proud to announce that Cal Koukides of Le Roy was named to the Spring 2025 Dean's List.

Koukides, who studies at the California Campus, was among nearly 3,000 PennWest students recognized for outstanding academic excellence during the spring semester.

In order to attain this highly regarded academic honor, degree-seeking students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.4 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 graded credit hours.

Press Release:

Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Zachary Albright from Elba and assigned to the Company B, 3rd Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, received a promotion on April 9 to the rank of sergeant.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

Press Release:

Carly Cerasani of East Pembroke, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at Syracuse University.

Cerasani is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College (GCC) is proud to announce that student Emma Sternberg has received the prestigious 47th Annual Tom Hope Memorial Media Scholar Award presented by the Rochester Association for Film Arts and Sciences (RAFAS).

The award recognizes one outstanding media student from each of the Rochester area's ten colleges. Sternberg, a standout in GCC's Media Arts program, was nominated by GCC faculty for her exceptional academic performance, high character and the quality of her media work.

"Emma represents everything we strive for in our students - creativity, dedication and a passion for storytelling," said Barry Chow, director of Humanities, Global Languages and Media Arts at GCC. "Her work not only reflects her talent, but also her commitment to professional growth. We are thrilled to see her receive this well-deserved recognition."

As part of the Tom Hope Memorial Media Scholar Program, Sternberg participated in a professional portfolio review session in February, where she received feedback from practicing media professionals, collaborated with peers from other colleges and began building a local professional network. In April, she showcased her best media project at the annual Tom Hope Memorial Media Scholar Award Ceremony, where she was honored alongside other top scholars.

In addition to the recognition, Sternberg received a cash grant to support her continued education and media production goals. The award encourages recipients to pursue careers in the Rochester area and carry on the mentoring legacy of Tom Hope - a revered media professional and mentor whose impact spanned eight decades. To learn more about the Tom Hope Memorial Media Scholar Program, please visit: https://rafasny.org/resources/scholarships/

For more information contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin M. Johnston at 585-345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Each year, Elmira College awards upperclassmen students with the Iris Leadership Award. The award is based on a student's activities at the College and in support of the recognized activities program. This year, Johanna Knickerbocker of Linwood was one of two recipients.

Ytzel Flores Cristiansen, Associate Dean of Students, presented Knickerbocker with the award.

Press Release:

Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Emmanuel Fisher of Le Roy, and assigned to the Company E, 427th Brigade Support Battalion, received a promotion on March 14 to the rank of private 1st class.

Wendy Lagunas Perez of Elba, and assigned to the Company A, 642nd Aviation Support Battalion, received a promotion on March 13 to the rank of specialist.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism, and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

Press Release:

Noah Pickard, Batavia, was one of 241 SUNY Oneonta students recognized for academic excellence during the 2024-2025 Susan Sutton Smith event on Tuesday, April 8. The Susan Sutton Smith awards are given each spring to first-year students, sophomores and juniors who have earned a grade-point average of 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Pickard is majoring in Dietetics at SUNY Oneonta.

The on-campus event featured the annual Susan Sutton Smith Lecture, delivered this year by Professor of English Dr. Mark Ferrara. Dr. Ferrara received the faculty Susan Sutton Smith Award, and his lecture was titled "From Local to Global: How Place-based Studies Engage International Movements that Lead to Sustainable and Just Futures."

This lecture and the awards for academic excellence are made possible by the generous gifts of SUNY Oneonta alumni to the Fund for Oneonta. The Susan Sutton Smith Faculty Prize for Academic Excellence is made possible by an endowment created through the generosity of Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Mary Smith in memory of their daughter, Susan, in honor of her commitment to academic excellence.

Press Release:

Air Force Major General Michael Bank, the commander of the New York Air National Guard, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Air National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Librock Wyatt from Darien Center, and assigned to the 107th Attack Wing, received a promotion on March 24 to the rank of senior airman.

Air National Guard promotions are based on a Airman's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

"The New York Air National Guard is built on a foundation of talented and motivated Airmen, and this month's promotions are a shining example of that excellence," Bank said. "I am honored to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our Airmen, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth and contributions to our organization."

These promotions recognize the best qualified Airmen for a career in the New York Air National Guard.

Press Release:

232 students from Genesee Community College named to Provost's List. Students honored on the Provost's List have maintained part-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

• Naomi LaDuke of Alexander
• Kristian Natalizia of Alexander
• Ian Edmonds of Alexander
• Katie Strohm of Alexander
• Olivia Tobias of Batavia
• Amanda Pietrak of Batavia
• Daniel DiMartino of Batavia
• Jeremiah Childs of Batavia
• Elizabeth Clark of Batavia
• Aden Chua of Batavia
• Caleb Smith of Batavia
• Lisa Heath of Batavia
• Alexander Frank of Batavia
• Seth Coburn of Batavia
• Brittany Gallaway of Batavia
• Isabella Redden of Batavia
• Avelin Tomidy of Batavia
• Robert Stokes of Batavia
• Camryn Dulkiewicz of Corfu
• Joy Bartel of Corfu
• Grace Wheeler of Darien Center
• Elenora Kelley of East Bethany
• Chloe Stevens of Elba
• Caden Muehlig of Elba
• Henry Stratton of Elba
• Hunter Tobolski of Oakfield
• Aaron Bosse of Oakfield
• Jacob Say of Oakfield
• Jenna Babbitt of Stafford
• Rebecca Cummings of Bergen
• Luke Smith of Bergen
• Kaitlyn Windhauser of Bergen
• Tonya Craig of Bergen
• Amy Elmore of Le Roy
• Reese Koukides of Le Roy
• Abbey Rose Root of Le Roy
• Matthew Privitera of Le Roy
• Corinne Rhoads of Le Roy
• Joy Gayhart of Le Roy
• Shyann Ruffino of Le Roy
• Joshua Bolton of Le Roy
• Elizabeth Smith of Pavilion 

Press Release:

Alayna Streeter of Le Roy, was named to Hartwick College's Fall 2024 Dean's List. Streeter, who is pursuing a major in Nursing, was among the approximately 425 students who were named to the Fall 2024 Dean's List.

Making the Dean's List is an indication of excellence in academic work. To qualify, students must complete at least 12 academic credits during a term with a grade point average of at least 3.50 and no incompletes.

Press Release:

Josh Fleming, a senior Management major at Grove City College from Bergen, has been named to the Dean's List for the fall 2024 semester. Josh is a 2021 graduate of Byron Bergen High School and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fleming (Mariann) from Bergen.

Students eligible for the Dean's List have a GPA of 3.40 to 3.59; for the Dean's List with Distinction a GPA of 3.60 to 3.84 and for the Dean's List with High Distinction a GPA of 3.85 to 4.0.

Press Release:

Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Kerri Boyle from Oakfield, and assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company, received a promotion on February 12, to the rank of sergeant.

Ian Hinz from Alexander, and assigned to the Company C, NY Recruiting & Retention Battalion, received a promotion on February 14, to the rank of private.

Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

These promotions recognize the best qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

Army National Guard Citizen Soldiers who serve our state and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits (from the state and federal government), travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance and contributions towards retirement programs similar to a 401(k).