SCCC Annual Report | 2015
SCCC crew team members (from upper left) Kayla Belschwinder, Emma Boersma, Morgan Winnie and Natalie Pavelock. Read more on page 19. 2 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Schenectady County Community College Board of Trustees Ann Fleming Brown, Chair Raymond R. Gillen Director of Admissions, Chair, Schenectady County Union College Metroplex Development Authority Dr. William Levering, Vice Chair Pastor, First Reformed Church Gary E. Hughes Renee Bradley, Secretary Independent Communications Bureau Manager, Office of Consultant, Gary Hughes Program and Community Communications, Schenectady County Legislator Development, NYS Office of Michael W. Karl Children and Family Services Dr. Alton Brisport Executive Vice President, First Occupational Therapist/Certified Niagara Risk Management Hand Therapist (OTD, OTR/L, CHT), Tina Chericoni Versaci, Esq. Hand and Upper Quadrant William Pattee, Student Trustee Rehabilitation Specialist, Albany (Stratton) Veterans Affairs Medical Center Operating Under the Auspices of the State University of New York Nancy L. Zimpher, Chancellor Supported by the State of New York Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor Hugh T. Farley, Senator, 49th Senate District George Amedore, 46th Senate District Angelo Santabarbara, Assemblyman, 111th Assembly District Phil Steck, Assemblyman, 110th Assembly District Sponsored by the County of Schenectady Schenectady County Legislature Anthony Jasenski, Sr., Chair Cathy Gatta Karen B. Johnson, Vice Chair Jeffrey M. McDonald Philip Fields, Deputy Chair Brian McGarry Gary Hughes, Majority Leader Randy Pascarella James Buhrmaster, Minority Richard Patierne Leader Richard Ruzzo Thomas Constantine Grant Socha Rory Fluman Holly Vellano
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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SCCC Welcomes New President
SCCC Foundation Board of Directors Jeanne Maloy, Chair Dr. Margaret King Richard Kotlow, Chair-Elect Ceil Mack Dr. Steady Moono, Secretary Lynn Manning, SPHR Michael Tobin, Treasurer Victor L. Mazzotti, Esq. Angelicia Morris Michael Wollman, Immediate Terry Phillips Past Chair Susan Baker Widjiono (Yono) Purnomo, CEC, Valerie Bleser CFBE Ann Fleming Brown Tina Chericoni Versaci David Wallingford Vera Dordick Diane Smith Faubion Barbara Bishop Ward Jamison R. Flora Christian Wessell ’00 Michael Hoffman Robin Wiley
The Schenectady County Community College Annual Report is published annually for alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents and friends of the College by the Office of Planning, Accountability and Advancement. Schenectady County Community College Office of Planning, Accountability, and Advancement 78 Washington Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12305 P: 518-381-1323 | pr@sunysccc.edu Crew picture at left: Erik Dresser, row2k.com
The Silhouettes of Alien Worlds
2015 Foundation Donors
College Administration - President’s Council Dr. Steady Moono, President Paula Ohlhous, Chief of Staff Dr. Penny A. Haynes, Vice President of Academic Affairs Charles J. Richardson, Vice President of Administration Dr. Martha Asselin, Vice President of Student Affairs Anna Miarka-Grzelak, Assistant Dean of Planning, Accountability, and Advancement Susan Beaudoin, Associate Vice President of Business Development Odo Butler, Acting Assistant Dean of Assessment and Institutional Effectiveness Denise Zieke, Executive Director of Workforce Development Antoine Harrison, Chief Information Officer Dr. DeShawn McGarrity, Executive Director of SUNY College and Career Counseling
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DEPARTMENTS ACADEMIC INITIATIVES...................................................... 5 ATHLETICS.........................................................................22 DOING GOOD WORK IN OUR COMMUNITY...............18 FACULTY ACCOMPLISHMENTS.....................................14 FOUNDATION ...................................................................26 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE..................................................... 4 SPECIAL EVENTS...............................................................23 STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS....................................13
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE As President, I am most thankful for the many individuals and businesses who give generously to provide support for scholarships, programs, facilities, technology, and equipment. Thousands of Schenectady County Community College (SCCC) students have been able to realize their academic and career dreams because of the generosity of donors, the SCCC Foundation and Board of Trustees. Because of your support and generosity, many more students will be able to write their own success stories. SCCC benefits significantly from the generosity of you – our caring community. For 42 years, philanthropic support through the SCCC Foundation has played a vital role in helping the College improve programs and services for our students and meet the changing needs of our community. As a result of your continued generosity, SCCC is now positioned as a leader in providing the highest in quality education and workforce training. Truly, this report shares stories about some of our extraordinary donors whose giving spirit makes a difference in the lives of our college community every single day. It also provides a snapshot into the lives of some of our students, many of them scholarship recipients, who work hard to ensure a secure future for themselves and for their families. Their success often entails significant personal sacrifice as they juggle home, work, and academic responsibilities. It is a privilege to be educational partners and help our students follow their dreams to a bright tomorrow. Also, we share with you the excellent work being done by our talented faculty who exemplify their commitment to student success. Dr. Ben Placek, of the Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health is a stellar example of this dedication, as well as the innovative work being done by our faculty, as his essay demonstrates. Thank you to the individuals, organizations, foundations, and businesses that support SCCC and believe in our mission to foster educational excellence and economic growth. Now, more than ever, SCCC’s ability to retrain and retool the workforce is critical to the future of our region and state. Your generosity makes it possible for our students to succeed and for SCCC to meet the workforce development needs of the entire community.
Sincerely,
Steady H. Moono, Ed.D. President
For College updates, follow us at @SUNYSCCCNEWS. scccnews and SUNY.SchenectadyCountyCommunityCollege
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ACADEMIC INITIATIVES
Dr. Steady Moono Named Seventh President of SCCC As an ebullient group of students in the Health Profession Opportunity Grants program sat patiently in the Taylor Auditorium during a graduation ceremony in November 2015 preparing to hear their names called as Certified Nurse Aides, Home Health Aides, Personal Care Aides and Community Health Workers, Dr. Steady Moono began delivering his remarks. Peppered among his words of congratulations and encouragement, was the story of how SCCC’s new President grew up in a poor family in Zambia, in southern Africa. As the health care students listened intently, Dr. Moono painted a picture for them of how through the support of his parents, family and those in his small village and a strong belief in the importance of an education to change one’s life, he travelled as a young man more than 7,600 miles away from his home to the United States to attend college in Pennsylvania. He let the graduates know that he understood the sacrifices they have made and challenges they have faced, and commended them on pursuing a career in the health care field, striving every day to help others. Since beginning his work on July 1, 2015, as the College’s seventh President, Dr. Moono has made it his mission to connect with students, faculty, staff, administrators and trustees, as well as governing leaders, donors, those working with the Foundation, administrators from local school districts and Colleges, and friends of SCCC. This fall, with a warm smile and hearty handshake, he greeted students in the Elston Hall Student Center on the first day of classes. He holds regular forums with faculty and staff to listen to their input and to share with them the early visions for his presidency. His advocacy work has brought him not only to governmental venues in Schenectady County and New York State, but also to the offices of Congressman Paul Tonko and other leaders in Washington, D.C. Dr. Moono joined SCCC possessing a wealth of knowledge and experience about higher education and community colleges and the transformative role both play in the lives of our students. Before joining the College, he most recently served as Vice President at Montgomery County Community College’s West Campus in Pottstown, Penn. He holds a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Immaculata University, an M.A. in English from Arcadia University, an M.A. in Counseling and Theology from the Biblical Theological Seminary and a B.A. in Education from Messiah College. He and his wife Kelly have a son, Micah, and a daughter, Naomi.
(l. to r.) Dr. Moono congratulates Shannell Brown and her daughter Ughmani, age 6, during an HPOG graduation ceremony in November 2015. Speaking with Dr. Moono during a special breakfast for Capital Region School Superintendents are Dr. Susan M. Swartz, Superintendent of the Scotia-Glenville Central School District, and Christine Crowley, Superintendent of the Duanesburg Central School District. An exciting day on campus, as Dr. Steady Moono, President, addresses a packed auditorium during New Student Orientation on Sept. 1, 2015.
“ I am especially grateful to our students who not only are our clients but who also ultimately testify to the very essence of what we are. As long as we can close our eyes at the end of the day knowing we have done our very best for them, I feel grateful for the opportunity to work with so many fine people to make the community college dream a reality.” Dr. Steady Moono, President
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ACADEMIC INITIATIVES Retention Committee Eyes Opportunities A special Retention Committee, with Assistant Professor Aaron Tolbert as Chair, was convened on campus and completed its findings in Fall 2015. Tasked with the challenge of helping the College understand its trends in relation to student retention, persistence, and completion, the team conducted a thorough review of IPEDS (Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data), SUNY Student Opinion Survey, and CSSEE (Community College Survey of Student Engagement) data. The committee found that SCCC continues to retain nearly the same amount of students as peer community colleges. In the opinion survey, students consistently said “yes” to the question, “If you could start over, would you choose to attend this college again?” However, the College struggles more with persistence or how students successfully complete the coursework they take in a given semester/how quickly they attain their degree. The Retention Committee is working to identify the factors that SCCC can reasonably change to better support student persistence and student success including developing a student exit survey to study why students exit their studies before completing their degree, creating a new advising intake form to better help advisors place students in manageable class schedules and re-envisioning a campus activities calendar.
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A Studio Set Among the Books “It’s a nice workspace. You are more independent to do what you have to do,” Kristin Brazell (left). “It’s a good place to study. We study for all of our criminal justice tests over here,” Lexi Reamer (right), both Criminal Justice majors.
There’s a new area in the Begley Library and it’s been a crowd-pleaser with students since its debut in October 2015. The Academic Studio: Writing and Research gives students an area to study, read, and work on class projects, with access to a writing consultant and librarian. College-wide workshops and readings will also take place in the studio, a collaborative project by Academic Affairs’ Begley Library and Academic Services. It’s located in the back of the library, on the first floor.
New Grant Aims to Increase STEM Opportunities
Keeping an Eye on Stocks in New Business Center
SCCC was awarded a five-year Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (C-STEP) grant exceeding $500,000, designed to increase the number of students from under-represented groups who are pursuing professional licensure and careers in mathematics, science, technology and health-related fields. Funded by the New York State Education Department, this new initiative focuses on applied learning opportunities, including internships and on- and off-campus STEM research experiences, academic support services and building bridges for academic success. The program, funded from Fall 2015 for five consecutive years, is under the direction of Dr. Lorena Harris and under the umbrella of Academic Affairs.
Want to know how your stock is doing? Students and faculty can now check the Stock Market ticker in the Division of Business, Criminal Justice and Law’s new Business Center in Elston Hall. The Business Center is designed to simulate a modern business environment for students, and is equipped with an executive conference table and chairs, executive podium with microphone, plasma screens and Stock Market ticker. It helps students develop skills in business communication and strategic planning, and a working knowledge of Stock Market operations. The Business Center will also serve as a classroom for some of the honorsdesigned business course offerings available in Fall 2016.
New Partnerships for “What’s Next After SCCC” The Hartt School at the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Conn., Nazareth College in Rochester, N.Y., and John Jay College/CUNY in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, are now on the impressive list of SUNY and private four-year colleges and universities with which SCCC has articulation or transfer agreements. Students can transfer in as juniors on their way toward earning their bachelor’s degrees. The Hartt School, one of the most prestigious conservatories in the country, has agreed to accept credits from SCCC students, the first such agreement between the School of Music and an out-of-state institution. “Partnering with the SCCC School of Music to fully honor credits earned here was not a difficult decision to make,” said T. Clark Saunders, Interim Dean of The Hartt School. “We have seen first-hand the high caliber of students produced by the programs here. These are the kinds of students who flourish at The Hartt School and go on to do great things in the world of performing arts.” Students can now be assured that their credits will also transfer to Nazareth College as they pursue bachelor’s degree there, as the result of a new articulation agreement signed in November 2015 between SCCC and Nazareth’s Department of Music. SCCC and John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) recently created a partnership to enable Criminal Justice students to participate in its Summer Immersion Program in New York City. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in John Jay College’s Virtual Cyber-Security Internship Program. SCCC and John Jay College are presently writing articulation agreements for graduates who want to transfer to John Jay College’s Criminal Justice and Fire Science programs.
Dr. William A. Meckley, Dean of the School of Music, and Dr. Penny Haynes, Vice President of Academic Affairs, sign a transfer agreement in October 2015 with Dr. T. Clark Saunders, Interim Dean of The Hartt School. With them are Music students (l. to r.) Kristin Gordon, Kattie Brighon, Vince Caccamo and Joe Pagano.
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ACADEMIC INITIATIVES Success Stories During SUNY College and Career Counseling Center Ceremony
SUNY CCCC students with Lisa McKay, Associate Provost/Director, SUNY’s University Center for Academic and Workforce Development; Dr. Martha Asselin, Acting President; and Dr. DeShawn McGarrity, Executive Director, of the SUNY CCCC.
Despite the different paths that led them to the first SUNY College and Career Counseling Center (SUNY CCCC) Recognition Ceremony in June 2015, students who shared their inspiring stories had a lot in common. All of them are now either employed or enrolled in postsecondary educational institutions or educational training programs. Also, they all attributed much of their success to utilizing the resources and staff expertise at the SUNY CCCC, located in SCCC @Center City. The SUNY CCCC is a part of the Student Affairs Division and is sponsored by SUNY’s University Center for Academic and Workforce Development. The Center serves eligible adult learners through career, life, educational and financial aid counseling; self-assessments; resume assistance; employment and education referrals; community resources; and a registry for job announcements and vacancies.
Problem Gambling Course Addresses Need For Credential
Community Connections Through Applied Learning Task Force
SCCC is one of only four colleges in New York state to offer a course in problem gambling. New this fall, the 60-hour, four-credit problem gambling course is offered through the Division of Liberal Arts and provides students with the educational component for the New York State Problem Gambling Specialist Designation (CASAC-G). The course is geared toward individuals who already have their New York State Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) and CASACT and want to gain the Problem Gambling Curriculum-Treatment track essential for problem gambling certification. The course explores the assessment and treatment of problem gambling and its impact on the health and well-being of both the individual and communities.
SCCC is part of an exciting SUNYwide initiative on Applied Learning, an educational approach where students learn by engaging in direct application of skills. SCCC formed an Applied Learning Task Force, chaired by Professor Renee Adamany, LMSW, of the Division of Liberal Arts, with representation from each academic division and Student Affairs. The Task Force gathers information on the types of Applied Learning activities that already exist at SCCC and aims to increase Applied Learning opportunities for students. Currently, students experience applied learning in credit-bearing courses, internships, cooperatives, and work-study programs, including researching community needs, organizing dinners, conducting arts and crafts activities, collecting personal care items for those in need, sharing the story of a person of color in American society and spreading awareness about recycling and childhood diversity.
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TRIO Grant Renewal TRIO Program grant totals more than $1 million. The TRIO Program earned another five-year grant, totaling $1.3 million or $281,511.00 per year, for 2015-2020. TRIO assists eligible students with adjusting to the college environment, achieving success academically, and planning and preparing for fruitful careers or transfer to a fouryear college. TRIO counselors offer all students an intake appointment to find out about their academic, financial aid, career and personal needs. The grant will allow TRIO to serve 175 students.
$15 Million for Health Care Training A new federal grant that could total $15 million, one of the largest awards the College has received, means that thousands more students will be trained to enter the growing field of health care. In September 2015, Dr. Steady H. Moono, President, joined with Schenectady County leaders to announce that SCCC secured a $3 million healthcare job training grant that is renewable for five years, bringing the total award to $15 million. Dr. Moono thanked Senator Charles Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Paul Tonko for their strong support and leadership in securing the new grant funding. The grant will help fund training for 2,200 students over five years, providing students with pathways to four industry credentials, eight certifications and eight distinct degrees required for a variety of in-demand positions in the healthcare industry. The new federal funding expands on the success of the Health Profession Opportunity Grants by forming the Upstate Partnership for Healthcare Pathways (UPHP). This will add two more colleges to the training program including Fulton-Montgomery Community College and SUNY Adirondack. Both schools will work with SCCC, Albany Community Action Partnership and Schenectady Community Action Program to provide training across a nine-county service area.
Nicol Taylor, HPOG graduate, R.N. HER STORY This December, as Nicol Taylor graduated from Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing making her the first HPOG (Health Profession Opportunity Grant) student to become an R.N., she also made good on a promise. “My GPA was a 4.0,” said Nicol, a single mother of three daughters, ages 14, 16 and 20. “I promised (Project Director) Dr. (Tiziana) Rota that if she gave me this opportunity that I would get straight A’s and so I did.” She started in the HPOG program after the words of advice she was giving to her daughter began resonating with her instead. “I was trying to talk my daughter into going into nursing because she was getting ready to start deciding on colleges,” Nicol said, “it’s a secure job, there’s always work available and the income is good. I started listening to myself saying all these things and thought, why am I not doing this? My daughter decided not to do it, but I did.” She took all of her pre-requisites at SCCC from Anatomy and Physiology to Chemistry and Pharmacology, and after doing extensive clinical hours at Samaritan Hospital, in areas including all medical surgical floors, orthopedics, pediatrics, cardiac care, dialysis, ICU, Nicol is set on working in the emergency room. “I have fallen in love with the emergency department,” she said. “I love the pace. I think a lot of that is because in my life with having a household, it’s always organized chaos and it’s a similar atmosphere. I’m comfortable in that organized chaos. I love the diversity; every minute is different, every day is different. There’s no way to plan your day. You just have to go with the flow.” The HPOG program financed Nicol’s books, a burden she couldn’t have afforded on her own. “If it wasn’t for the HPOG grant, this wouldn’t have been doable for me.”
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ACADEMIC INITIATIVES New Concentrations in Beverage Management and Nanoscale Science “We have created something that allows students to be better equipped going out into the beverage industry to show owners and managers - or if they become owners themselves - truly how to control what is a highly profitable area. We’re teaching them all aspects of the industry from beer, spirits and wine to how well beer can be paired with menus, warehousing, sales and merchandising.” Jay Larkin, Assistant Professor, School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism
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new Beverage Management Concentration, part of the Hotel and Restaurant Management A.A.S. degree program, began in Fall 2015. Courses range from Introduction to Beverage Management, Fundamentals of Beer, Brewing, Managing Beverage Operations to Spirits, Distillation and Mixology, Beverage Sales and Merchandising, and Inventory Control and Warehouse Management, as well as an internship. The beverage industry continues to expand, according to Assistant Professor Jay Larkin. “It’s interesting the things people are exploring right now – beers, history of beer, current beer styles, the ‘what’s old is new again’ approach that the industry is taking,” Larkin said. “We’re teaching the history of spirits, as well as how to create a greater marketplace for a product. From tastings to displays at stores, we’re showing our students the value in that.” Positions for students after they graduate include location beverage managers for restaurants, working with catering companies, banquet facilities, restaurants to retail liquor and wine stores.
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David Kosineski, Hotel and Restaurant Management A.A.S.: Beverage Management Concentration, Niskayuna High School graduate (2013) HIS STORY David began in the Culinary Arts program in Fall 2014, and quickly realized that he wanted to major in Hotel and Restaurant Management. The Beverage Management concentration peaked his interest and he was among the first cohort in the concentration in Fall 2015. During a 12,000-mile cross-country trip with a friend this past summer, he noticed the lack of New York state niche beverages available in other parts of the country and wants to be in on the ground floor of that changing. “With New York State being one of the bigger states in the country, it’s sad that we’re not in the national market more, but the state is in the growing stages for beverages and it’s cool to be a part of that. New York State is starting to give more money toward hop production because we want to have more breweries here instead of importing from other states, and it’s great to be an advocate for that.”
“This new concentration is an excellent opportunity for students to begin their first two years of a nanoscale science degree with the community college price tag and then transfer seamlessly into a very prestigious school.” Tania Cabrera, Associate Professor, Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health
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tudents began taking classes in the new Nanoscale Science Concentration, part of the Mathematics and Science A.S. degree program, in Spring 2015. The concentration is a perfect example of one of SCCC’s myriad partnerships with four-year colleges and universities. Through a curriculum crafted by Associate Professor Tania Cabrera, Robert Geer and Daniel White at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) in Albany, students in the Nanoscale Science Concentration can cross-register for courses at CSNE during their second year at SCCC. With courses in mathematics, science, and nanoscale material, graduates of the concentration are prepared to transfer to CNSE to pursue bachelor’s degree in the interdisciplinary fields of nanoscale science and nanoscale engineering.
Shorna-kay Hamilton, Mathematics and Science A.S.: Nanoscale Science Concentration, Niskayuna High School graduate (2013) HER STORY Shorna-kay Hamilton took an alternative energy class while she was still a student at Niskayuna High School that was soon followed by a Nanotechnology class. She knew she wanted to learn more about the field, but her interest was really sparked by a classroom visit from a GE scientist. “He did an experiment where coins float on top of liquid and that really got me interested in it,” Shorna-kay said. From there, she visited GE during field trips and decided that SCCC’s Nanoscale Science degree program was the right fit for her. When Tania Cabrera, Associate Professor in the Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health, noticed Shorna-kay was acing calculus, she urged her to switch to the Nanoscale Science Concentration and transfer to the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE). While a student at SCCC, Shorna-kay has earned the Fred and Catherine Kindl Scholarship. She’ll take her first class, Computer Control of Instrumentation, at CNSE this spring and plans to transfer there full time in Fall 2016. Then, she sees herself using her nanoscale expertise to either work with cancer research or enter the semi-conductor world of computer chips or manufacturing.
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ACADEMIC INITIATIVES SCCC and Richmor Aviation Soar
“I like the program because it’s quick and it gets you your ratings fast. The flying environment’s very dynamic. No two days are the same and it’s very challenging.” – A.J. Benoit, Aviation Science, Colonie Central High School graduate (2014).
It was a memorable occasion in January 2015, as SCCC and Richmor Aviation marked 15 years of stimulating the minds and shaping the skills of aspiring aviators by renewing an enduring partnership that provides students the opportunity to earn their degrees through the Aviation Science degree program. Graduates have gone on to become airline pilots, private pilots, commercial pilots, flight instructors and pilots in the armed services. Students take all of their flight training laboratory courses at the Schenectady County Airport through Richmor. They fly in single engine aircraft to acquire a private pilot’s license with dual and solo flight time to meet the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) practical testing standards, learning and practicing basic flight maneuvers, takeoff and landing, night flying and cross-country procedures.
Schenectady Foundation Invests in Smart Scholars Just as SCCC has made a commitment to create a pathway to higher education for hundreds of Schenectady High School (SHS) students, so too has the Schenectady Foundation. In November 2015, the Schenectady Foundation announced that it was awarding a $135,000 grant to the Schenectady Smart Scholars Early College High School Program. The award will support the summer college credit program held at SCCC by helping to pay for tuition, books, transportation and covering the cost of scientific calculators for each student. 500 SHS students, including 150 freshmen, are currently enrolled in the program, now in its sixth year. In order to become a Smart Scholar, students must have average grades between 65 and 85 percent and be first-generation college-bound students. They have the ability to earn at least 22 college credits at no cost. In 2015, the Smart Scholars graduation rate rose to 97 percent.
SCCC Launches Community Health Worker Certificate Program According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in the emerging Community Health Worker (CHW) field is expected to increase 22 percent from 2012 to 2022 nationwide and SCCC is right on trend, launching the first CHW program at a community in the Capital Region in January 2015. 11 students completed the CHW Certificate Program offered through the Allied Health Care Trainings program. The certificate trains individuals to work with diverse communities who are at risk of illness, as CHWs bridge services for individuals with medical issues through community outreach and education, advocacy, informal counseling, basic health screening, and social support. The seed money for the CHW program was provided through a $200,000 Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) grant awarded to SCCC in September 2014 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration. Jamel Walton, of Schenectady, is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who completed the Community Health Worker program and is now working in the health care field. After earning her Certified Nurse Aide training under the Health Profession Opportunity Grants program, she enrolled in the Community Health Worker certificate program with the goal of working with fellow veterans. “You’re taught to fight through the pain in the military, so when veterans come back they often don’t want to go to doctor’s offices,” Jamel said. “I want to be a liaison for them, working with them to get to their appointments and let them know that it’s all right.” 12 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Special Events
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1. A special Chamber Music Series 45th Anniversary Concert in March 2015, featured Vivaldi’s Gloria performed by the Vocal Chamber Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Yiping Wu, Professor and the world premiere of Oot-kwa-tah by Professor Brett Wery. 2. Artist-in-Residence Rex Richardson, trumpet, performed and conducted master classes with music students. 3. Andrew McKenna, author of Sheer Madness, voted Best Local Crime Book for 2015 by Metroland magazine, spoke about the perils of heroin addiction during his visit to campus in March 2015. 4.
4. Ray Vega, one of the innovators of the international jazz and Latin music scenes, joined the award-winning Empire Jazz Orchestra as the featured Jazz Master in April 2015, performing music of Dizzy Gillespie, Lee Morgan, Chick Corea, Thelonious Monk and others. 5. Alumna Michele Von Haugg ’98 shared the work she does with students of Korongoni Secondary School in Moshi, Tanzania, during a performance in April 2015. Michele is the founder of Clarinets for Conservation, promoting awareness of conserving Mpingo trees by actively engaging students and the community with the power of music 6. Former student Dion Flynn, who portrays President Barack Obama and others on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, thrilled students by returning to campus in September 2015, to perform SCCC: Ticket To Your Dream stressing how his days as an SCCC student shaped much of who he still is today as a performer.
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FACULTY ACCOMPLISHMENTS SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching Anthony “Toby” Strianese Professor School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching Cliff Brucker School of Music SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence inClassified Service Ellyn Delos Executive Secretary II Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs
SUNY Chancellor’s Award Recipients SCCC salutes our faculty and staff members chosen as recipients of the 2015 SUNY Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence. It is with great sadness that we announce that SCCC community had to say farewell to Professor Anthony “Toby” Strianese prior to the publication of this report. He and his commitment to his students and the College will always be remembered. All recipients’ indefatigable energy and dedication is admired and appreciated.
Schenectady’s the Place
Schenectady’s the Place (1st Verse) It’s in our DNA, it’s what we are today Our history abounds, you can see it all around, Edison and Steinmetz brains, ALCO built the trains we lit and hauled the world, innovation is our fame (Climb) Just look at us today, a renaissance is under way A community reborn, success is here to stay; (Chorus) Schenectady’s the place, a city tried and true Schenectady’s the place, we’re the city right for you
On the steps inside Schenectady’s City Hall, following the presentation of a congratulatory resolution by the City Council, are (front row) student vocalists Brendan Donavan, Amanda Cuthbert and Tessa Smith and (back row) School of Music Faculty members Cliff Brucker and Sten Isachsen. “Schenectady’s the Place!” Set to a snappy melody, the lyrics to a new official song for the Electric City resonated through the City Council Chambers in September 2015 as Cliff Brucker, well-known area musician and Adjunct Faculty Member in the School of Music, led City Council members and the public in a sing-along. Brucker composed the new song celebrating the rebirth of the city at the request of Mayor Gary McCarthy. The recording was done in the Vianna-Brignola Studio in the School of Music. Performing Arts - Music students and faculty all volunteered their time and talents: (Students) Amanda Cuthbert and Brendan Donavan, vocals, (Faculty members) Cliff Brucker, composer, producer, piano, bass, drums; Sten Isachsen, recording engineer, guitar; Allyson Keyser, trumpet; William Meckley, trombone; Brian Patneaude, tenor saxophone; Mia Sirocco-Rhodes, vocals; and Brett Wery, alto saxophone. Credit also goes to Bob Father Studio and lyricists Frank Visco and Steve Weisse. 14 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
(2nd Verse) Arts and culture for your eyes, from Proctors to MiSci Educational opportunity, from Union College to SCCC Casino by the shore, hotels, restaurants galore It’s such a fabulous place, there’s so much to explore (Climb) Central Park’s a place to play, a renaissance is under way, A community reborn, here’s what we have to say, (Modulate up) Come check us out today (Chorus) Schenectady’s the place, a city tried and true Schenectady’s the place, we’re the city, we’re the city, we’re the city right for you www.dailygazette.com/videos/ 2015/sep/23/2313/
Faculty Members Published Dr. Babette Faehmel, Assistant Professor in the Division of Liberal Arts, had her essay The Hamburg Hafenstrasse Squat published in the October 2015 inaugural edition of Seneca Falls Dialogues. The theme of the paper focused on communities “that have rejected the status quo, embraced counter-hegemonic values, and thrived in spite of scarce resources and adversity.” Dr. Faehmel takes the reader to 1980s Hamburg, Germany, when a group of young adults took possession of a block of houses in one of the city’s major commercial arteries, the Hafenstrasse (harbor street). The squatters established a communal kitchen, shared child care, a café, non-profit bars and a democratic/inclusive form of self-government, erecting barricades and refusing substitute housing. What Cell Death Does in Development, by Dr. Carlos Penaloza, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs, is a review article that documents what is currently known of cell death, and the roles cell death plays during development. Historical and technical perspectives of the field are addressed with data documenting each procedural stage of cell death in development. The article was published by the International Journal of Developmental Biology. Characterization of Kepler-91b and the Investigation of a Potential Trojan Companion Using EXONEST, by Dr. Benjamin Placek, Instructor, is an article addressing an independent re-analysis of the Kepler light curve of Kepler-91. The article presented four possibilities in explaining observed dimming events using all photometric data from the Kepler Space Telescope and was published in The Astrophysical Journal. Deconstructing the Iboga Alkaloid Skeleton: Potentiation of FGF2-induced Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Release by a Novel Compound, by Dr. Teresa Jacques, Assistant Professor, is an article addressing a novel iboga analog XL-008 which potentiates the release of GDNK induced by fibroblast growth factor 2, mediated though the MEK and PI3K signaling pathways. This work has implications and potential in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The article was published in the American Chemical Society Chemical Biology Journal.
Employees Honored
Influential Artists
Angela West Davis, Director of Educational Opportunity Programs and Access, and Alicia Richardson, Associate Professor in the Division of Liberal Arts, both received the Capital District Leadership Council on Inclusion Multicultural Service Award. The award “honors local college presidents, faculty, staff and students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in diversity and inclusion on our campuses.” They are shown with Antoine Harrison, Chief Information Officer, and Dr. Penny Haynes, Vice President of Academic Affairs.
A new CD, The Brett L. Wery Chamber Music Project, has been released. The CD features new compositions by Professor Brett Wery of the School of Music. Each composition was written for a chamber ensemble comprised of area high school musicians who participated in a summer chamber music camp at SCCC.
Chef Stamets is Now ACF Judge Chef Michael Stamets, Assistant Professor in the School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism, is now an American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Tao Sun Photography Judge, meeting the ACF’s rigorous standards of earning gold medals himself at competitions and serving five apprenticeships under ACF judges. Stamets, a Certified Executive Chef, travels across the country judging students and professionals during hot and cold food competitions. In the past year, he’s judged intense competitions in New York, Pennsylvania and Michigan, all along gauging what’s in store for our palates down the line. “I’m getting to see what the future of food is, not what was done 10 years ago,” Chef Stamets explained. “I see modern style plating and more cutting-edge techniques.”
Stephen J. Tyson, Adjunct in the Division of Liberal Arts, delivered opening remarks for “Avel deKnight: Visionary Master” at the Manhattan campus of Berkeley College in February 2015. DeKnight, a cousin of Tyson, was an influence on the development of his artwork. Tyson, who teaches art classes at SCCC, also was co-curator of “Many Rivers,” Black Dimensions in Art’s 40th Anniversary Exhibit in November 2015 at The Saratoga Arts Center Gallery. ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 15
STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS A Summer of Research, a Mind for Medicine
This past summer Math and Science major Yannick David spent two months conducting research with other students through the 2015 Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the Wadsworth Center in Albany, part of the New York State Department of Health. He was one of just 10 students to be accepted into the program, chosen from among 300 applicants from across the country. Yannick conducted research on a daily basis, working alongside his mentor Dr. Nicholas Mantis, a Research Scientist with the Wadsworth Center who specializes in Immunology and Infectious Diseases. As for his longrange goals, he credits Dr. Sheila Lutz, Adjunct in the Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health, with showing him how to successfully combine two passions for the sciences. “After SCCC I plan to attend a fouryear college and currently I’m aiming at going into research and then studying medicine in the long run,” he said. “I learned from Dr. Lutz that you can do research and be a doctor at the same time.”
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Silver Medals for Student Chefs
Tao Sun Photography
Hot Food Competition Team members and coaches (clockwise from left): Valentino Federico-Maietta, Tasha Kilmer, Assistant Professor Thomas Alicandro, CEC, CHE, Assistant Professor Michael Stamets, CEC, Giovanni Lontoc (captain), Jasmine Solana, Tayler Warner and Samantha Gliganic.
The School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism’s Competition Team earned a silver medal during the New York State Hot Food Team Championship sanctioned by the American Culinary Federation and hosted by SCCC in November 2015. Every Saturday since September, team members worked hard to perfect their skills, practicing more as the competition drew closer. They competed in two areas: skills and four-course menu against Niagara Culinary Institute, SUNY Delhi, and Monroe College. Earlier in the month, an SCCC competition team competed in the Societe Culinair Philanthropiqe sanctioned culinary competition at the Hotel Experience in New York City, earning four silver medals.
A Top Grade for a Smoke-Free Campus “I believe that our tobacco-free campus policy at SCCC is good for everyone,” William Pattee, Student Trustee, told a crowd in September 2015. “It benefits those of us who don’t want to be exposed to secondhand smoke; it will support new college students who decide not to pick up that first cigarette; and it will help students who already smoke, quit for good.” William’s remarks illuminated the reason why SCCC went tobacco free in September 2014 and why the College earned an “A,” the top mark from the American Cancer Society and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) as part of the Tobacco Free U: 2015 NYS Dean’s List.
William Pattee, Business Administration major and Student Trustee, is interviewed by a local news crew after SCCC was included on the American Cancer Society’s “Tobacco Free U: 2015 NYS Dean’s List.”
It’s About Safety First for Flight Team The Aviation Club Flight Team, coached by Associate Professor/ Aviation Liaison Barbara Jones, won the coveted Safety Award at the 2015 National Intercollegiate Flight Safety Competition (NIFA SAFECON) at Bridgewater State University’s New Bedford, Mass., in October 2015. The team earned the award based on the team’s safe operation of flight arrivals, ramp procedures, pre-competition practice, staging, taxi, and flight procedures while demonstrating sound safety operations on the ground and sound judgment and adherence to safety procedures in the air. Seven members of the flight team, all Aviation Science majors, competed in flight and ground events. (l. to r.) Harry Gochee III, Charles McFadden, Matthew Wilson, Captain, Joseph SCCC was the only community college at the event, competing O’Connell, Kyle Anderson, Allan Benoit, Luke Sniffen against teams from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Army Academy at Westpoint, Dowling College, SUNY Farmingdale, Bridgewater State University and Delaware State University. The team took fifth place (Allan Benoit) overall in power-on landings (out of 45 total competitors) and fifth place in the navigation flight event (Luke Sniffen and Allan Benoit) with 16 competing teams.
Downbeat Award Brian Patneaude, an Adjunct Faculty Member in the School of Music, reverentially describes his long relationship with Downbeat magazine: “Downbeat has been the leading jazz music publication for many generations of musicians and fans. I’ve been a subscriber since I was a teenager and the magazine has been an invaluable tool for me, both as a musician and educator.” So for Patneaude, seeing the group he directs, the SCCC Jazz Combo, recognized by the magazine in March 2015 was quite an honor. The combo received the prestigious Community College Outstanding Performance Jazz Combo Award. (Top row, l. to r.) Adjunct Faculty Member/Director Brian Patneaude, Ben Martin, drums; Nick Kozak, bass; Matt Griffin, guitar. (Front row) Joshua Nelson, alto saxophone; Connor Dunn, tenor saxophone.
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STUDENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS Bowler Chosen as Scholar Athlete
Vanguard Award Winner: There’s a Nice Sound to That
Justin Carl first picked up a bowling ball at the age of 3 and hasn’t stopped improving his average since. In fact, his grade point average and bowling average were impressive enough to earn him a SUNY Chancellor’s Scholar Athlete Award in April 2015, the highest honor given to a student athlete in the State University system. A graduate of South Colonie Central High School, Justin was a member of SCCC’s 2015 NJCAA National Championship Team and All-American Team. He was ranked 27 among “top players” and third for “top rookies” from college teams across the country, according to College Bowling.com.
Kristin Gordon, a Music Audio Technology/Performing Arts: Music major, was one of just eight students from colleges across the state to receive the Vanguard Student Recognition Award, for students in academic programs not traditional for their gender, through the New York State Nontraditional Employment and Training (NET) Program. Kristin describes live sound this way: “It’s an art form. You need to know not only how to route everything and how electricity works and how to have a signal chain going...(you also) need to know how to make someone sound good,” she said. In addition to tutoring music majors taking piano and other music classes, Kristin was an intern with Nick Relation Recording and worked on sound and lights at Public Parish House in Albany.
Top Honors for Winners of SUNY Chancellor’s Award Two SCCC students, one a decorated veteran and the other an All-American athlete, were recognized by SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher with the prestigious 2015 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence. Sean Cochrane, a Human Services/Chemical Dependency Counseling major, is a veteran of the U.S. Army who twice earned the National Defense Service Medal, among other commendations. He was President of the SCCC Veterans Club, a student mentor, a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and a volunteer basketball coach with the Boys and Girls Club of Rotterdam. Casey Frankoski, a Liberal Arts: Honors Concentration major, was a member of the SCCC Women’s Bowling Team - NJCAA National Champions, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Student Affairs Committee and was awarded All-American status by the National Junior College Bowling Coaches Association.
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ATHLETICS Crew Team Makes History in Boston The roster of rowing teams at this year’s 51st Annual Head of the Charles read something like this: Black Prince Boat Club out of Cambridge, United Kingdom; Princeton University; University of Pennsylvania; the University of Wisconsin and Schenectady County Community College (along with names of other teams from throughout the world). The SCCC Royals were ecstatic to find out that they were chosen to compete in October 2015 at the international regatta on the Charles River in Boston, Mass., marking the first time that a team from a community college was selected to compete in the prestigious race. The team was selected based on previous merits and results earned during other U.S. Rowing regattas and rowed in the Women’s Club 4+ category, placing 58th out of 64 shells. Head Coach Cody Rule said, “It takes continued success to be selected to race at the Charles,” he said. “We owe our success to not only those on the team now, but to all of our alumni who have helped us get here.” The College held a special send-off for the team a few days before they left for Boston and the athletes were featured on Upstate Sports Edge, a half-hour sports show on the CW 15.
Sportsmanship is All Part of the Game SCCC again earned the Sportsmanship Award from Region III of the National Junior College Athletic Association, along with a select group of other SUNY colleges, for making the athletics experience a positive one before, during and after competition. The College was recognized for “exhibiting dedication to the honor and integrity of intercollegiate athletics with student-athletes and staff display outstanding sportsmanship during competition.”
Women’s and Men’s Bowling Teams Win National Championships
National Champs (front row, l. to r.) Casey Frankoski, Deanna Lee, Cassidhe Whalen, Samantha Noxon and Chenya D’Arcangelis. Back row (l. to r.) Zachery Porter, AJ Indovina, Head Coach Ray Ross, Justin Carl, Patrick Hoey, Andrew Marotta and Nick Peckowitz.
The SCCC Men’s and Women’s Bowling Teams were crowned National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Champions in 2015. Led by Head Coach Ray Ross and Assistant Coach Will Coons, the Royals took home two national championship titles. For the men’s team, this was their second championship in three years and for the women, this was the first national championship title in the history of the women’s bowling program.
Kudos to Student Athletes Five student athletes were named to the Academic All Region, a roster of exceptional student athletes from community colleges in Region III. The students, all May 2015 graduates, had GPAs of 3.5 or above and completed at least 45 credit hours of study toward degree programs at SCCC. They were nominated for the honor by David Gonzalez, SCCC Athletic Director. Congratulations to: Mike Anziano – Men’s Baseball Team, Business Administration; Casey Frankoski – Women’s Bowling Team, Liberal Arts: Honors Concentration; Augustine Indovina – Men’s Bowling Team, Business Administration; Tom Moore – Men’s Baseball Team, Business Administration; and Samantha Noxon – Women’s Bowling Team, Liberal Arts.
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The Silhouettes of Alien Worlds By Ben Placek, Ph.D., Instructor, Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health
oday we have entered into an unprecedented era of planetary exploration. However, the planets that we are exploring are not the solar system planets we have known about for hundreds of years (planets like Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter). This new era of planetary exploration is occurring outside of our solar system in newly discovered solar systems around other stars. Planets that orbit other stars are called extrasolar planets, or exoplanets for short. The presence of other worlds throughout the universe has been a question that humans have pondered since they first started looking up at the sky. From the Greek philosopher Epicurus, “There are an infinite number of worlds both like and unlike the world of ours.” Aristotle also stated, “There cannot be more worlds than one.” The debate has lasted over two thousand years until definitive proof of planets outside the solar system came in 1992. Since then we have discovered 1,975 exoplanets. Over 4,000 exoplanet candidates, which are objects that are likely planets, also have yet to be confirmed. We have found that the universe is literally teeming with planets.
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How do we find these alien worlds? These are planets whose distances from Earth are not measured in millions of miles, like the plants in our own solar system, but rather trillions of miles. How can we hope to find things that are so far away? We accomplish this by monitoring the brightness of distant stars over a long period of time. If we’re lucky, a planet will be situated in just the right orientation and we will see it periodically pass in front of its host star. This results in a drastic decrease in the stars brightness as the planet is blocking a portion of the star’s light. These periodic planetary eclipses are called transits and they have allowed us to increase the number of detected exoplanets per year by a factor of ten! Now that we have a large population of known exoplanets, the questions we concern ourselves with are no longer about whether they exist, but rather what they are like. Are they similar to our solar system, or vastly different? Both options are equally tantalizing. While the goal of most astronomers is to detect worlds similar to Earth, the task is extremely difficult. Most of the planets we are currently aware of are exotic and have no analog in our own solar system. For example, HD-209458b was the first exoplanet to be detected using transits in 1995. This planet is similar in size to Jupiter; however, it orbits its star in just three and a half Earth days! This means that it is incredibly close to its sun, and thus extremely hot. Indeed, it is so hot that its atmosphere is actually evaporating, leaving a trail of hot hydrogen gas in its wake. Astoundingly, planets like this, dubbed Hot-Jupiters, are very common throughout the galaxy. Despite finding many exotic worlds like HD-209458b, we have made great progress on finding smaller, Earth-like planets. Just recently, astronomers
discovered Kepler-452b using the Kepler Space Telescope. This planet is just a bit bigger than our home world and is therefore called a Super-Earth. What makes this planet so fascinating is that it orbits a star very similar to the Sun, and it is located in the habitable zone of its star, which means that water can exist in liquid form on its surface. In fact, it is estimated that the average surface temperature on Kepler-452b ranges from a brisk 20 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Discoveries such as this are occurring at a rapid pace. It won’t be long before we start finding Earthtwins instead of Earth-cousins. I have spent the last five years studying exoplanets by looking at their transits through the Kepler Space Telescope. In particular, I developed state of the art software that analyzes the brightness of stars over time to not only detect exoplanets, but also to determine properties of their orbits and atmospheres. I have written nine peerreviewed papers on the subject, which have been published in various astronomical journals. Recently, I have been looking toward the future and NASA’s next-generation space telescopes: the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) set to launch in 2017 and 2018, respectively. TESS is going to be the first mission that will map exoplanets over the entire sky; Kepler only observed a patch of sky approximately the size of your palm when extended at arm’s length. James Webb will also be the first of its kind. It will not focus on finding exoplanets, but rather determining the chemical make up of their atmospheres using a technique known as spectroscopy. This will take us to an entirely new level of exoplanet science. Until now, we had the capability of determining the size and temperature of exoplanets, but JWST will allow us to
peer into the atmosphere of these planets to study chemical processes on these exotic worlds, exoplanetary weather, and most importantly, habitability. One day in the distant future we will need to leave Earth in order to continue the human race. At this moment, we are actively searching for our next home amongst the stars in the silhouettes of exoplanets.
Dr. Ben Placek, Instructor, teaches courses in physics and astronomy, including The Cosmic System. He holds his Ph.D. and master’s degree, both in Physics, from the University at Albany. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Alfred University and an associate’s degree in Math and Science from Corning Community College.
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DOING GOOD WORK IN OUR COMMUNITY Getting into the Groove
Miles of Smiles
Members of the Rotaract Club hold a planning meeting for Mission Dance. Front row: Brittany Palazeke, Emma Pasquali and Brittney Czub. Standing, Advisor Bob Frederick, Matthew Schultz, Wanya Berry, Sajid Khan, Eric Emmons and Rotary Club Liaison Fred Daniels.
Whether it was feeling and connecting with the beat of a hip hop song or exercising a plie’ during a ballet class, dancers of all levels and abilities made Mission Dance an overwhelming success. The daylong event at Schenectady High School in March 2015 raised money for the City Mission of Schenectady’s Drive to Success program, that provides reliable transportation to the under-resourced workforce. It was the brainchild of Business Administration major Emma Pasquali, Vice President of SCCC’s Rotaract Club service organization. She and her fellow Rotaract Club members raised $2,500 for the Drive to Success program and the club was recognized with the Emerging Leaders Award from the City Mission of Schenectady.
Serving a Delicious Meal
Sprucing Up a Local Park
The Student Volunteer Organization (SVO) prepared and served their annual dinner at the City Mission of Schenectady in April 2015. Other SVO projects included making and donating no-sew blankets, raising money to purchase holiday gifts for low-income families, collecting tabs from cans to donate to the Ronald McDonald House and making encouragement cards for the Girls on the Run Club in Schenectady city schools.
The Science Club helped to clean up Hillhurst Park during the Schenectady Inner City Ministry (SCIM) Day of Service-Outdoor Clean Up in April 2015. The city parks are used for SICM’s Summer Lunch Program. Left to right are: Andrew Cross, Math/Science major; Danielle Vallee, Science major; Tessa Smith, Science major and Associate Professor Renato Tameta, the Club’s Advisor.
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Students, faculty and staff were among the 1,000 people lined up along State Street, from MVP Health Care to SCCC, in August 2015 for “Miles of Smiles” in support of Habitat for Humanity of Schenectady County.
Service Learning Brings Many Benefits
Exploring Opportunities
Serving their community while practicing interpersonal communication skills and learning to work in a group - this sums up the meaningful experiences that students in SOC 127: Interpersonal and Group Dynamics had while completing service learning projects.
The Career and Transfer Services Office continues to link students with prospective employers and professionals during special events held throughout the year.
(Left) Youngsters from the Montessori Preschool proudly show off some of the books that SOC 127 students collected for several weeks during the Spring 2015 semester. They donated the books, 52 total, to the preschool. Left to right are: Jennifer Wade and Kristen Drago, both Human Services majors, and Kevin Sweeney Jr., Liberal Arts major and team leader, with Cainen Aceto, Devon Escobar, Mia Ozgur, Sarah Van Epps-Croto (teacher), Angelina Robaina and Anna Repicky. (Right) Students in Professor Renee Adamany’s (second from right) class with some of the items they collected and donated to the City Mission of Schenectady, the YMCA and Heritage Home for Women. Left to right are: Justin Augustus, Robert Schmidt, Chanel Buckner, Autumn Flannery, Blaire Allison, Andrew Carpenter and Taylor O’Brien.
Amelia Izzo, Human Services, Mohonasen High School graduate (2014) HER STORY After she leaves campus, Amelia Izzo looks forward to the hours she spends as an afterschool counselor at Brown School. “I love to talk to the kids and play with them,” she said. “I love putting a smile on their faces and listening to their ideas and imaginations.” So, for Amelia, serving as the group leader for her sociology class project was a natural extension of her passion for working with children. She and her fellow students, through bottle drives Amelia Izzo is shown with Lisa Duggan, Child Life Specialist and donations, purchased at the Bernard and Millie Duker Children’s Hospital, Albany T-shirts and fabric paint, creating Medical Center. the design of a snowman on the shirts. Then, in November 2015, they visited children undergoing cancer treatment at Albany Medical Center and the kids decorated the snowmen on their new T-shirts. “We just focused on the kids and providing them with a really fun day so they could relax and enjoy themselves and forget about anything else that was going on.”
Making Connections Globally A group of international students attending SCCC participated in the Global Connections Networking Night at TecSmart in Malta, along with Bob Frederick, Director of Career and Transfer Services. Pictured are Robert Banchev, Alternative Energy Technology major; Shantal Plass, Business Administration major; Bob Frederick; and Rodrigo Polanco, Business Administration major. The students rotated among nine tables of professionals to discuss workplace issues and opportunities that exist for international students. Some of the businesses included: Turner Construction, The Ayco Company, GE Power & Water, Applied Materials, Global Foundries, Latham Pool Products, Cleveland Polymer Technologies, International Center of the Capital Region and the Capital Region Language Center.
A Day of Speed Networking You’ve heard of speed dating - the Career and Transfer Services Office’s uses the model for their Speed Networking program. Students have a few moments to make an impression on a local professional, while building resumes and developing their speaking skills and critical thinking skills, all at the same time. Shown above, Emily Jasuta, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist with American National Insurance asks questions of Teyana Harres, Michaela Coyle and Cody Sumner, all Business Administration majors. Speed Networking events are held at the College several times during the semester. ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 23
Commencement 2015 SCCC held its 45th Commencement on May 21, 2015, at Proctors. The ceremony featured Keynote Speaker Antonio Civitella addressing the Class of 2015 and Student Trustee Jesse Stewart addressing his classmates in a lively speech that concluded the event.
1. Featured student speaker Jesse Stewart, Student Government Association President, addresses the Class of 2015.
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2. Keynote Speaker Antonio Civitella, Chairman and CEO of Transfinder, congratulates Culinary Arts graduate Francisco Alecia.
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Fall 2015 Student Information Gender F M Race Asian Black Multi-Racial Native American and Alaskan Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Unknown White Ethnicity Non-Hispanic Hispanic Age Distribution Under 18 18-21 22-24 25-29 30-34 35-39 40-49 50-64 65 and up
Full-time Part-time Total 1113 (50%) 1098 (50%)
914 (61%) 591 (39%)
2027 (55%) 1689 (45%)
112 (5%) 468 (21%) 78 (4%)
82 (5%) 266 (18%) 37 (2%)
194 (5%) 734 (20%) 115 (3%)
20 (1%)
23 (2%)
43 (1%)
18 (1%) 97 (4%) 1418 (64%)
23 (2%) 54 (4%) 1020 (68%)
41 (1%) 151 (4%) 2438 (66%)
2024 (92%) 177 (8%)
1394 (93%) 111 (7%)
3428 (92%) 288 (8%)
113 (5%) 1311 (59%) 258 (12%) 203 (9%) 125 (6%) 74 (3%) 93 (4%) 31 (1%) 3 (0%)
22 (1%) 405 (27%) 239 (16%) 269 (18%) 168 (11%) 115 (8%) 148 (10%) 106 (7%) 33 (2%)
135 (4%) 1716 (46%) 497 (13%) 472 (13%) 293 (8%) 189 (5%) 241 (6%) 137 (4%) 36 (1%)
Median 22.02 Mean 23.54 Matriculated 2168 Non-Matriculated 43
20.42 26.22 30.66 26.42 1124 3292 381 424
County of Residence Schenectady County Albany County Saratoga County Rensselaer County Montgomery County Schoharie County Fulton County Other
875 (58.14%) 242 (16.08%) 200 (13.29%) 62 (4.12%) 41 (2.72%) 18 (1.2%) 16 (1.06%) 51 (3.39%)
1196 (54%) 396 (18%) 252 (11%) 88 (4%) 60 (3%) 29 (1%) 28 (1%) 162 (7%)
2071 (56%) 638 (17%) 452 (12%) 150 (4%) 101 (3%) 47 (1%) 44 (1%) 213 (6%)
Note: SCCC has 2,439 University in the High School (full- and part-time) students in Fall 2015 not included in the total. Total Students 2211 1505 3716
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Student Internships in the Community 2015 SCCC partners with community agencies and businesses, listed below, providing opportunities for students to gain invaluable experience during internships, fieldwork assignments and workplace observations.
Business Administration Lia Toyota of Colonie Walt Disney World - Florida Wealth Advisory Group
Chemical Dependency Counseling Conifer Park Hope House New Choices Peter Young HYT St. Mary’s Hospital (Addiction Services) St. Peters Addiction Recovery Services (SPARC) Transitional Services Association, Inc. Trinity Alliance
Criminal Justice Albany Police Department Amsterdam Police Department Schenectady County Sheriff ’s Office Schenectady Department of Probation Schenectady Police Department Schoharie County Sheriff ’s Office Scotia Village Court SCCC Administrative Office Victim’s Advocacy, Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office
Early Childhood Bethlehem Preschool Berne-Knox-Westerlo School Fulton Community Action Agency Head Start Gateway Montessori Preschool Glenville Cooperative Preschool Home Away from Home Child Care Howe Early Childhood Center Our World Montessori Parson’s Early Head Start Schenectady Day Nursery YWCA Children’s Center
Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau Albany Marriott American Automobile Association BBL Hospitality Centerplate at Belmont and Saratoga Race Course Chartwells Desmond Hotel Disneyland (Anaheim, Calif.) Embassy Suites, Saratoga Springs Empire Meeting Solutions Golub Corporation – Market Bistro Hilton Garden Inn, Albany, N.Y. Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, Louisville, Ky. KeyBank Mazzone Hospitality Meeting Industry Experts NYS Veterinary Medical Society NYS Bar Association NYS Department of Tourism NYS Hospitality and Tourism Association Otesaga Resort Hotel
Human Services Alternative Living Group- Capital District Baptist Health and Rehabilitation Home Bethesda House of Schenectady Boys and Girls Clubs Catholic Charities Senior Services The Center for Community Justice Center for Disability Services City Mission of Schenectady Men’s Program City Mission of Schenectady Family Life Center Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region Craig Elementary School/Niskayuna Central School District Crossroads Center for Children Dayhaven Social Adult Day Care Ellis Hospital Girls Incorporated of the Greater Capital Region Headstart Schenectady Heritage Home for Women Kingsway Nursing Home Living Resources Mohawk Opportunities Northeast Parent and Child Society Parsons Family and Child Center Safe Inc. Saratoga Bridges Saratoga Catholic Central High School Schenectady County Career Center
Schenectady Advocacy, Resources and Choices (ARC) Schenectady City School District Schenectady Community Action Program (SCAP) Schenectady County Department of Social Services Schenectady County District Attorney- Victim/ Witness Program Schenectady County Probation Department Schenectady County Public Health Services Schenectady County Senior and Long Term Care Service St. Catherine’s Center For Children Albany St. Mary’s Hospital Amsterdam Wesley Healthcare Center-Saratoga Wildwood Program Youth and Family Services YMCA of The Greater Capital Region YWCA of Northeastern New York Domestic Violence Shelter YWCA of Northeastern New York Children’s Center
Medical Coding and Billing Baptist Health Nursing and Rehabilitation The Center for Disability Services Ellis Hospital Malta Emergent Care NYSDOH- Congenital Registry Dr. Venkateswararao Voleti
Music Brown School Niskayuna Central School District North Colonie School District Schenectady City School District Scotia-Glenville School District
Paralegal Capital District law firms Conflict Defender’s Office, Schenectady NYS Assembly NYS Attorney General’s Office U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants YWCA, Schenectady
SCCC Budget
The College’s operating budget was $30,670,731 for 2014-2015 and decreased to $29,317,686 for 2015-2016. 2014/2015 2015/2016 Personnel Services 48.8% 48.8% Benefits 223.6% 25.2% Equipment 1.8% 2.0% Contractual Services 25.7% 24.0% Total 100.0% 100.0%
Expenditures
Louis F. Nicolella, Income Tax Service
Price Chopper Proctors Saratoga and Belmont, N.Y. State Racing Association Saratoga Casino and Raceway Saratoga Convention and Tourism Board ShopRite Site Solutions Worldwide Sodexo Spectrum Concessions TGI Fridays Turning Stone Resort Casino Valley Cats Walt Disney World (Orlando, Fla.) Yankee Trails
Revenues
Accounting
Tuition and Fees 49.1% 48.4% County 6.8% 7.3% Chargeback 5.3% 8.8% State Aid 35.2% 34.1% Other (including fund balance) 3.6% 1.4% Total 100.0% 100.0% ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 25
FOUNDATION THANK YOU! The SCCC Foundation gratefully acknowledges the following individuals, businesses, civic and professional organizations, and local foundations for their annual fund and scholarship gifts, as well as their participation in our special events. For the period September 1, 2014 – August 31, 2015
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE ($25,000 - or more) General Electric Foundation The Schenectady Foundation LEGACY SOCIETY ($10,000 - $24,999) The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region Joan R. Dembinski ’10 Galesi Group KeyBank Catherine Kindl Marshall and Sterling Upstate, Inc. James R. McNerney Richmor Aviation Saratoga Casino and Raceway The Smachlo Foundation Women’s Fund of the Capital Region FOUNDER’S SOCIETY ($5,000 - $9,999) College Publications Confrerie De La Chaine Des Rotisseurs Foundation The Honorable Karen B. Johnson Lamar Companies Martin, Harding and Mazzotti, LLP Mazzone Hospitality The Pepsi Bottling Group Inc. Terry and Anne Phillips Chef and Mrs. Yono Purnomo EMERITI ($2,500 - $4,999) Albany County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Dr. Martha J. Asselin and Mr. Ed Asselin Capital District Transportation Authority CSArch Architecture/Construction Management Vincent DePasquale ’91 William Faubion and Diane Smith Faubion General Electric Power Systems David A. Harris Lavelle and Finn, LLP Lessing’s Food Service Management Douglas and Susan Lohnas MVP Health Care Dr. and Mrs. Thaddeus Raushi Lewis and Gretchen Rubenstein Stewart’s Shops SUNY-Student Affairs and Special Programs Trustco Bank - Judkins Trust Fund Michael and Stephanie Wollman LAUREATES ($1,000 - $2,499) 1st National Bank of Scotia The Adirondack Trust Company
26 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Anonymous ’87 Ballston Spa National Bank Dr. Lyle Barlyn and Betty Carol Barlyn BBL Hospitality Bechtel Group Foundation Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #2 CAP COM Federal Credit Union Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan CapitalCare Medical Group Diana O. Carter Tony Civitella Confrerie De La Chaine Des Rotisseurs Bailliage D’Albany Evelyn M. Currie Dr. and Mrs. Thomas D’Andrea Deily and Glastetter, LLP Michael J. Della Rocco, Jr. Dimension Fabricators, Inc. Herbert Ellis Fenimore Asset Management Inc. First New York FCU First Niagara Bank Gilbane Building Company Lawrence J. Gioia Golub Corporation/Price Chopper Matthew and Melissa Grattan Dr. Penny A. Haynes Thomas Isabella John C. and Susan K. Hubbard Foundation Inc. Kingsway Arms Nursing Center Richard and Kathy Kotlow Legere Restorations, LLC M/E Engineering, PC Jeanne M. Maloy Lynn D. Manning Maple Leaf Childcare Center, Inc. Marvin and Company, P.C. Massry Charitable Foundation David and Allison Meyers Maie Mills Mohawk Honda Gerard Moser National Grid NBT Bank New York Propane Gas Association Pioneer Bank Quirky Charles J. Richardson SCCC Student Government Association Allen and Anna Slaterpryce ’84 Soroptimist International of Schenectady Sunmark Federal Credit Union Synthesis Architects, LLP Total Events, LLC Transfinder Tri-County Council of Vietnam Era Veterans Trustco Bank Tina Chericoni Versaci, Esq.
Barbara Bishop Ward and Anthony Ward Chet and Susan Watson ’78 Watson, Peterson and Company, CPA’S, PLLC Workforce Development Zonta Club of Schenectady Inc. SCHOLARS ($500 - $999) A Place For Jazz,LTD AAUW, Inc. Adirondack Beverages Albany Marriott Wallace and Jane Altes Ambition Bistro Gabriel and Diane Basil Elmer and Olga Bertsch Blackbaud Raymond and Valerie Bleser Professor Grayce S. Burian C.T. Male Associates Mark ’74 and Deborah Cieslak ’73 County of Schenectady Crush & Cask Wine and Spirits Christopher Del Vecchio ’11 and Michael Dzikowski ’01 Vera L. Dordick ’04 Christina Plattner Evola FirstLight Fiber Ann Fleming Brown William Harris and Holly Katz Home Instead Senior Care Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga The Honorable Margaret C. King Dr. William Levering and Rev. Abigail Norton-Levering M&T Bank Charitable Foundation Joshua W. Murphy ’00 Dallas Newton ’75 NYS Hospitality and Tourism Association Chester and Karen Opalka Todd Reichelt Dr. and Mrs. Cornelius V. Robbins Rotary Club of Schenectady Eugene and Eleanor Rowland SCCC - The Hospitality Club Donna M. Slavik ’81 Christopher Law and Lois Smith-Law* Socha Plaza Judith D. Spitz Spoon & Whisk Robert Starbuck The Rotary Club of Schenectady Foundation Michael and Betsy Tobin Michael and Lynette Tucker UHY Advisors NY, Inc. United Group of Companies, Inc. Edward ’77 and Karen Uttberg ’77 David T. Wallingford Christian T. Wessell ’00
Drs. John and Jean Wilkinson James and Carolyn Williams EDUCATORS ($250 - $499) Dr. Stephen K. Astmann Astria Solutions Group, LLC Karen Bradley Renee Bradley Dr. David E. Brough ’81 and Mary Birbilis-Brough Margaret K. de Koning Carol A. DeFries Mary Jane Dike Susan C. Ferris Bradley J. Fisher Jamison R. Flora Friendship Baptist Church Raymond R. Gillen Marie A. Giokas Dr. and Mrs. Jack Gold George ’84 and Justina Goldhoff Dr. Brian E. Hagenbuch Eileen Handelman John C. Heid Paola Horvath Hudson Valley Community College Carol A. Hyde Margo Janack Sharon A. Jordan Michael W. Karl and Sharon Roberts-Karl David Leon Dr. and Mrs. Bradley G. Lewis Elizabeth Linehan Jim and Ceil Mack Angelo Marcotullio Mayor Gary R. McCarthy ’77 Sabrina E. McGinty Neil - Jane, William - Estelle Golub Family Foundation, Inc. Northeastern Fine Jewelry Paula Ohlhous ’87 Dr. Carlos G. Penaloza
Thomas and Barbara Rider Patricia Rodriguez Terry L. Ross ’71 Rowlands and Barranca Agency Richard Ruzzo David G. Sampson Schenectady County Disabled Veterans Inc. Helga A. Schroeter Ann-Marie B. Schwartz Rick Stegmann ’99 Robert and Rosemary Sullivan Congressman Paul D. Tonko Nick B. Valentino Dr. Richard J. Van Ness Diana Vianna-Brignola Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Wickerham, Esq. Kimberly S. Williams ’85 ASSOCIATES ($100 - $249) Frederick J. Acunto ’90 Catherine Barbaro Nicholas C. Barber Victoria R. Barber ’86 Dr. Patricia P. Barker Batcheller Mansion Inn Mary C. Bauer Alan and Andrea Baum Paula A. Bianchi Carloyn Birbilis L. Ann Bish Maxine H. Borom Susan A. Braidwood Kevin and Catherine Brauer Rodger and Judith Brodeur ’94 Clifford and Denise Brucker Dr. Gerard B. Buckhout Louis and Judith Buhrmaster Kathleen M. Burke ’99 Dee Burkins Burnt Hills Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake Rotary Club Odo Butler
Dr. Tracy M. Caldwell Roy Casper The Chamber of Schenectady County Robert and Dianna Clifford ’97 Gordon Collier Randolph Collins Al Congemi Anneliese S. Conley Charlene M. Cornell Thomas L. Czerwinski Linda D. Czub Carmine DeCrescente, III Bruno and Ilah DePaoli The Desmond Hotel and Conference Center David J. DeVito ’98 Patricia M. DiCarlo Takis Dikas ‘94 Mr. and Mrs. Alden J. Doolittle Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation Bernice Dunn Dr. John Ebersole Ellis Medicine Peter and Jean Endryck Faculty Student Association Palmer Fargnoli John Ferarri Fort Orange Wine Society, Inc. Stephen and Linda Fragale Merry A. Frey Dr. Ivar and Mrs. Inger Giaever ’79 Patricia M. Gioia Richard L. Golding Marion M. Grimes Julia Hayden Bernard and Nancy Heller Stephen and Doreen Hennessey Christopher G. Henry ’92 Leonard A. Herman Julia F. Hewitt Carrie Hillenbrandt Patricia A. Hogan ’89 Norma J. Hudson
A New Beginning for a Powerful Building The Office of Workforce Development has officially moved to its new location in the Kindl Building, located at 201 State St. The building was graciously donated to SCCC by the Kindl family in 2009. On November 4, 2015, SCCC held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate the space.
ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 27
FOUNDATION David M. Hughes Dr. Roger Hull Amanda L. Jeffes ’12 Darren Johnson Cynthia S. Kanser ’02 Michael and Lois Keefrider ’11 Joseph E. King Lynne O. King Kristin Koehler Isabel Krempa Jayme Lahut and Katherine Robinson Gregory Laird Thomas J. Link David and Lois Linster ’89 Helen MacDonald Christine Mallozzi Dorothy E. Mancusi Christopher C. Marney ’13 Captain David M. Massaro ’05 Dominick ’83 and Josephine Massaro Anne McCoy ’91 Dr. DeShawn N. McGarrity William S. McMillan Peter McNamara Dr. and Mrs. William A. Meckley Julee Miller Lynn Miller Paul Milton Thomas Minnick Wayne and Carol Mizerak Dr. and Mrs. Steady Moono David S. Moore Arlene Moran Thomas and Mary Beth Nolan Otesaga Hotel Cooper Inn Gioia Ottaviano Michael J. Pallozzi ’12 Carmel Patrick Paul Mitchell The School Robert L. Payne ’85 Marilyn A. Pendergast Lester H. Perlee Phillips Lytle, LLP Constance S. Pollock Printz & Patterns LLC John and Heather Quaintance Kathleen M. Quandt Donald L. Riggs ’00 Walter and Anne Robb Dr. Tiziana Rota ’03 Saybrook Point Inn and Spa Ralf W. Schauer Dr. Thomas J. Schwarz Judith A. Seltzer ’92 Siena College Laura M. Simiele Skidmore College Suzann Smart and Thomas Merklinger C. Sandra Smith Jan A. Smith John M. Smith ’03 Bernard L. Socha Carol Spensieri Chef Michael J. Stamets Chuck and Marcy Steiner The Stockade Inn Stanley and Ellen Strauss 28 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Esther M. Swanker Martha Szuminskyj Rowie Taylor Richard ’00 and Donna Tessitore ’92 Dick and Rosemarie Thornton ’84 Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region The Van Dyck Restaurant and Lounge William Volkmann Michael and Mary Wade Ernest and Barbara Walton Amiee S. Warfield ’91 Robert and Cathie Wells Angela A. West-Davis ’94 Virginia D. Wicks Charles Wiff Robin Wiley The Wine Bar Kathleen R. Ziobrowski FRIENDS ($1 - $99) William S. Aiken, Jr. ’81 Laurie Akbar Eileen I. Alessandrini Anonymous ’88 Joseph and Jody Anson David A. Ashley ’87 Dr. Lois Atkinson Jane M. Azia Dr. and Mrs. Edward S. Baker, III Thomas J. Baker Pamela P. Baldasaro Barbara A. Barbaro Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Batzinger ’81 Kevin Bauer Susan E. Beaudoin Eleanor M. Beson Joseph C. Bierman James ’76 and Mary Lauren Bigley Kenneth and Natalie Bollerud Domenica Bonacquist Vladia C. Boniewski ’71 and Daniel R. Vallely David Bonitatibus ’83 Carol A. Borthwick Paul F. Boyarin ’74 Daniel and Patricia Bradt Brent’s Express Stop @ The Capital Paul and Margaret Bryant David M. Buicko James and Judith Burns Ralph D. Caparulo Sharon Carter Mirissa A. Casey Ansel R. Castellano ’95 Norman Chambers Mr. and Mrs. M.V.K. Chari George B. Christian Linda A. Clemente Janel Cocoma Shelia V. Coleman ’11 Justine M. Connelly Thomas and Jane Conway Mary A. Cooper Mary K. Crimi ’79 George and Katarina Curtis Debbie D’Agostino
Joseph D’Antoni Yolanda N. Davis ’06 Robert and Arlene Davison John and Antoinette De Vita Rebecca T. Debiase ’77 Charleen DeLorenzo Ellyn Delos Jill M. DeMatteo ’90 John DeMatteo, Jr. Albert Demutiis Phyllis Devonish Mr. and Mrs. Ralph DiGiorgio, Jr. Elizabeth J. Dinovo ’01 John D. Dohring John and Susan Donahue Robert M. Donlon Mary D. Dornbush Frank and Patricia Duci Gary and Kathleen Dunkerley Patricia A. Durham Eric K. Edlund ’96 Arthur and Marcelle Etringer Cynthia F. Farmer Linda L. Farmer Kenneth T. Fichtel First United Methodist Church Ylva E. Fisher ’00 Maurice S. Fitzgerald Therese C. Fitzgerald Mark Fleischer and Jasmine Elridge-Fleischer Donna F. Foley ’71 Leroy and Bernadine Foley ’82 Patrick and Barbara Foti Raymond ’73 and Eileen Fox ’07 David and Donna Franchini Robert G. Frederick Donald ’95 and Michele Freeman Sylvia E. Frieman ’80 Judith R. Fruiterman Virginia Gajewski Eduardo E. Garcia ’14 Hope Geisler ’94 C G. Gerster-Zubrick Daniel Gioia Walter and Patricia Godlewski Dr. and Mrs. John J. Gorman Judith M. Grassia ’98 Bernard and Christine Grossman Dr. Keri A. Hagenston Ruth Hallenbeck Jones ’77 Marjorie A. Hanna ’06 Lynn B. Harkness Terry L. Harlow ’83 Lorena B. Harris Antoine W. Harrison Christopher T. Hart ’02 Deborah J. Havens ’08 Timothy and Annette Heilman Chavonna Henderson Rachel A. Henley ’12 Catherine M. Hesler John A. Hoetker ’73 Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Hoff Honest Weight Food Co-op Charles D. Horowitz Peter J. Houghton Donna M. Houley ’05
IBM Corporation Freddy Ingleton Wa’kena M. Jackson Victor and Catherine Jakway Kent Johnson and Gillian Thomson Dawn A. Jones ’97 John W. Kalas Kathleen M. Kane Michael R. Kane ’11 Jill Kavanaugh Arionda L. Kearse Mr. and Mrs. Philip B. H. Kelly Thomas and Dorothy Kelly K. Scott Kilbourn ’97 and Diane Bengston Kilbourn Bethann Kissinger ’86 Dennis and Mary Ann Kling Susan Knapik ’02 David ’79 and Kelly Kornacki Robert and Kathleen Korycinski Edward ’97 and Elizabeth Kurtik Mary T. Law ’83 William J. Lawrence Michael J. Lee ’77 Joseph and Vera Legnard Ryan Lewis-Merrit Frances and George Loeffler Macy’s Joann Maender Charles Mara Sandy Martin Edmond G. Massa Miriam Maul Brian and Corinne McGarvey Heather L. Meaney Nicasio and Lynda Mendez ’74 Oriana Miles Sarah T. Miller Rochelle A. Minnick Paul Mlodzianowski Patricia Mogro ’83 Rozanne M. Monteparo Malcolm M. Moran Robert and Andrea Morehouse Sharon Nania Michael and Barbara Naumoff Jezette Nelson Thomas Nelson and Ann Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Russell A. Newnham ’74 Kathleen J. Ostermann-Aldi ’97 LaSandra Owens Margie Owens David L. Paniccia ’81 Sylvia H. Papa ’87 Jack and Dawn Parisi ’73 William Payne Lindsay T. Peck Peter F. Pedone ’81 Sandra Petronis ’83 Peter E. Pink Angela M. Prestigiacomo Barbara Prewencki ’92 Jenny Quirk Richard and Shirley Ratajak Will Reid Retirees Association of SCCC Pamela C. Rew ’03
The SCCC Foundation’s Royal Gala, in November 2015, honored Joan Dembinski ’10, Betty Carol Barlyn and Stewart’s Shops/the Dake Family for their outstanding support. Pictured here congratulating Stewart’s Shops President Gary Dake on his award are Jeanne Maloy, SCCC Foundation Chair, and Dr. Steady Moono, President.
More than 300 people packed the Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia in November 2015 to honor three leaders who have supported SCCC for many years. Betty Carol Barlyn, a resident of Schenectady County since 1972 received the College’s Distinguished Community Volunteer Award. Betty served as a member of the SCCC Foundation’s Board of Directors for upwards of 16 years and chaired its Special Events Committee during her tenure on the board. She is actively engaged in volunteer work throughout the region in activities that are closest to her heart; education, children, and the theatre. Betty has also been instrumental in recruiting and mentoring several Foundation Board members and has seen the Foundation grow and develop through her efforts. Joan Dembinski ’10 received recognition as the College’s Distinguished Alumna. Joan returned to SCCC after a successful career in medical research to pursue a Culinary Arts degree. As an active and engaged student, Joan reminded her classmates that learning never ends and motivated them to always do their best. Upon graduation, she created a scholarship for Culinary Arts students to pursue their dreams of
a career in the field. Joan continues to be engaged with the School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism through her participation in study abroad programs in Italy and the Far East. She is always available to assist the faculty, staff, and students of the program and lend a hand where needed. The Dake Family/Stewart’s Shops were honored with the Distinguished Community Partner Award for their long history of supporting education in the Capital Region and their creation of scholarship opportunities for current students. Through the company’s annual holiday match program, SCCC has been a beneficiary for many years and a significant number of current students are employed as store associates while pursuing their education. The lively evening featured a cabaret style cocktail hour followed by an elegant dinner. Music for the evening featured SCCC music students past and present providing a wide array of musical offerings. A make-your-own sundae bar paid tribute to Stewart’s Shops while providing a unique way to enjoy dessert. This signature event provides important resources for the funding of scholarships for current and future students. ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 29
FOUNDATION Carol W. Reynolds ’88 Dr. Richard A. Rose Margaret E. Rosenfield ’77 Robert and Anelia Roy ’90 Elaine Rozniewski ’91 Yogeswari Sasangan ’12 Donna B. Scavullo SCCC CSEA Local Unit 8508 SCCC Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Department George and Celia Schiffner Gerald Fuschino and Mary Scicchitano ’99 Clifford R. Semerad Mark and Patricia Shapiro ’86 Mary Ann Sheehy Sharon K. Small Laurene Smith Anton M. Solomon Sons of Italy, Lodge #321 Elaine Springsted Donald and Andrea Stalpinski ’85 Stanley and Dolores Stankes John M. Stofa ’94 Elizabeth M. Sullivan ’05 Professor Cynthia A. Taber Amanda Terry Ernie and Ann Tetrault Gary Thomas ’94 and Dr. Lindsay Gennari Randolph S. Thomas ’79 Rose Thomas Samuel Tolliver Theodore and Katie Toskaner Michael J. Tousignant Justina E. Treventi ’05 Sandra M. Troiano Lynn C. Trudell ’81 Twill LLC Christine Urbano John and Jody Van Voris Thomas and Susan Vanwert ’87 Eugene and Nancy Vermilyea ’80 Donovan and Patricia Wade Adelynne A. Waldie ’94 Barbara L. Walton Andrew M. Wexler Brent D. Wheat Jeanne L. Wildgrube Patrick ’74 and Geraldine Wilkinson Dawn Winkler Sheraqua Woodard Louis P. Yapo In Memory of Nicholas Barbaro ’03 Joseph and Jody Anson Jane M. Azia Pamela P. Baldasaro Catherine Barbaro Eleanor M. Beson Joseph C. Bierman Kenneth and Natalie Bollerud Kevin and Catherine Brauer Linda A. Clemente Robert and Arlene Davison John and Antoinette De Vita Albert Demutiis Mark Fleischer and Jasmine Elridge-Fleischer David and Donna Franchini 30 | SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Robert and Susan Hoff Robert and Kathleen Korycinski Joseph and Vera Legnard Wayne and Carol Mizerak George and Celia Schiffner Christine Urbano John and Jody Van Voris In Honor of Carol DeFries Douglas and Susan Lohnas In Memory of Mary Gioia Lawrence J. Gioia Patricia M. Gioia In Honor of Andrea Hart Christopher T. Hart In Memory of Joel Hollingsworth Rozanne M. Monteparo In Memory of Eileen Lemley Rozanne M. Monteparo In Memory of Richard Leveroni Dr. Tracy M. Caldwell James R. McNerney In Honor of Jamaica Miles Oriana Miles In Honor of Christopher Rieck Pamela C. Rew
In-Kind Gifts Albany County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Batcheller Mansion Inn Dee Burkins Crush & Cask Wine and Spirits The Desmond Hotel & Conference Center Honest Weight Food Co-op KeyBank Lamar Companies David Leon Mazzone Hospitality Paul Mlodzianowski Gerard P. Moser Marcine Palkovic Saratoga Casino and Raceway Saybrook Point Inn & Spa SCCC Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Department Dr. Thomas J. Schwarz The Stockade Inn Total Events, LLC The Van Dyck Restaurant & Lounge The Wine Bar
*In memoriam We are so grateful for each gift given in support of the SCCC Foundation, and we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this list. Please excuse any errors and notify Stacy McIlduff, Coordinator of Development, of any inaccuracies by calling (518) 381-1322 or emailing her at mcildusm@sunysccc.edu.
Tao Sun Photography
Record-breaking Million Dollar Donation Goes to Foundation For the first time in its 43-year history, the SCCC Foundation received a $1 million dollar donation from an anonymous donor in October 2015 to benefit the programs and facilities in the School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism. The Foundation extends its gratitude to this donor and all those who make a difference in the lives of our students through their support of the College.
Honors Convocation
Food for Thought 2015
Record crowds attended the 24th Annual Food for Thought celebration at the College in April 2015. Highlighting the skills of students from the School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism and the School of Music, the event is a perennial favorite in the Capital Region.
More than 75 students, all scholarship and awards recipients, were recognized at Honors Convocation in May 2015. Pictured here are Dr. Martha J. Asselin, then Acting President; Jeanne Maloy, SCCC Foundation Chair; Shantal Plass, Business Administration major who earned two scholarship awards; Steve Fragale, then Acting Vice President of Student Affairs; and Ann Fleming Brown, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Due to the generosity of many donors, the SCCC Foundation awarded more than $100,000 to 75 students at the annual Honors Convocation ceremony on May 21. The event provides the opportunity for donors and the recipients of their scholarships to meet. For returning students who receive the vast amount of scholarships at Honors Convocation, these awards provide recognition of their good scholarship and needed assistance to continue their studies. The impact of these scholarships may best be summed up in the words of student Martina O’Leary, Chemical Dependency Counseling major, who received the Broughton Fellowship for Excellence. “Being granted the Broughton Fellowship for Excellence is truly a game-changer for me,” Martina said. “I am allowed relief of many of my financial stressors and will be able to focus freely on my education. I will one day support a student similarly and until then pledge to pay it forward.”
The 24th Annual “Food for Thought and All that Jazz” in April 2015 was a huge success. Honoring Transfinder Chairman and CEO Anthony Civitella, more than two 250 guests enjoyed the sounds of the SCCC Jazz Ensemble and dined on the culinary offerings made and served by students of the School of Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism. More than $75,000 was raised from the evening, providing the SCCC Foundation with additional scholarship funds to award current students. The Foundation appreciates the loyal following of many who have supported the event since its inception in 1991.
Scholarship Established in Name of Longtime Professor Generations of SCCC students were influenced by Dr. Richard Leveroni and now future generations of SCCC students will benefit from a memorial scholarship that has been established in his name. Dr. Leveroni joined SCCC in September 1970 as an Instructor and taught a wide range of courses including English, Literature, Speech, Sociology and Education. He was instrumental in founding the Teacher Education Transfer A.S. degree program, which he shepherded for many years. Richard was the first individual in the history of the College to receive the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1973. He was also named a recipient of the SCCC Foundation Award in this same category in 1992 and he received the SCCC Foundation Award for Excellence in Faculty Service in 2008. He retired in 2010 and passed away in 2014. This past year, a memorial scholarship was established that will benefit students studying in the humanities field. Additional contributions in memory of Dr. Leveroni may be made to the scholarship by contacting the SCCC Foundation Office at (518) 381-1324. ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 31
Schenectady County Community College 78 Washington Avenue Schenectady, NY 12305 www.sunysccc.edu