Alumni

��Ƶ dairy judging team reflects on international experience

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 12:56:55 +0000

��Ƶ dairy judging team reflects on international experience valenzfr@morri… Tue, 08/04/2026 - 08:56

Thanks to the support of the Galbreath Family Professional Development Fund, members of the ��Ƶ Dairy Judging Team had the opportunity to represent the college on an unforgettable journey through Scotland, Ireland and England, where they competed internationally and gained firsthand insight into agriculture, history and culture.

The trip began in Scotland, where the team competed in the dairy judging contest at the Royal Highland Show, one of the country’s premier agricultural events. Beyond the competition, students explored Edinburgh and the historic town of St Andrews, experiencing Scotland’s history and traditions.

In Ireland, the team toured local dairy farms, visited an auction house, explored Kilkenny Castle, traveled the scenic Ring of Kerry and attended the Charleville Show. Each experience gave students a deeper understanding of Irish agriculture and the unique practices that shape the industry.

The journey concluded in London, where students visited iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the London Eye and the National Gallery.

For students, traveling abroad allowed them to compare agricultural practices in different countries, meet new people, broaden their perspectives and create lasting memories while representing ��Ƶ on an international stage.

In a letter of appreciation to the Galbreath Foundation, team members expressed their gratitude for helping make the experience possible.

“Thank you for investing in students and making experiences like this possible,” they wrote. “Your generosity has given us opportunities to learn, grow and represent our teams and communities abroad. We are truly grateful for your support.”

Led by coach Jessica Kennedy, a 2016 ��Ƶ dairy graduate who competed on the college’s dairy judging team as a student, the group gained momentum during the fall semester. They competed at three of the most prestigious dairy judging events in the country: the All-American Dairy Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin; and the North American International Livestock Exhibition (NAILE) in Louisville, Kentucky. At the World Dairy Expo, the team earned a third-place team finish, along with multiple individual honors, which earned them the invitation to Scotland.

Team members are:
Jessica Kennedy, coach, of Tully
Kelly Niefergold, of Lawtons
Reese DeVito, of Avon
Megan Klossner, of Turin
Elanna Gelser, of Dalton

Niefergold and Gelser graduated this year with an associate degree in animal science – dairy and plan to continue in the college’s agribusiness management bachelor’s degree program.

Klossner and DeVito are pursuing bachelor’s degrees in agricultural science with a specialization in dairy management.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

August 4, 2026

Gallery

8 a.m.

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See how ��Ƶ is shaping the future of farming during Open Farm Day

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:25:28 +0000

See how ��Ƶ is shaping the future of farming during Open Farm Day valenzfr@morri… Mon, 07/20/2026 - 15:25

As part of Madison County’s Open Farm Day, held Saturday and Sunday, July 25-26, ��Ƶ’s Arnold R. Fisher Dairy Complex will be open to visitors on Saturday, July 25, only, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The complex is among the many farms throughout Madison County participating in the annual event, which gives visitors an opportunity to experience working farms, meet local farmers, enjoy tours and demonstrations, animals and sample products.

��Ƶ will offer tours of its Dairy Complex, located on the west side of Eaton Street. The state-of-the-art free-stall dairy facility is home to 170 milking cows, an electronically enhanced milking parlor and a student-managed computer system.

Visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at how students turn classroom lessons into real-life skills and learn more about milk production and different commercial dairy operations throughout the United States.

Meet faculty and staff, who will share information about the college’s agriculture programs, the impact of the Dairy Complex and how ��Ƶ is shaping the future of farming.

Be sure to try some ice cream from Gilligan’s Island in Sherburne, a business operated by some of ��Ƶ’s alumni!

��Ƶ’s Dairy Complex continues to earn recognition for its excellence, receiving a 2024 Progressive Genetics Herd Award by Holstein Association USA, Inc., along with high-quality milk awards from Dairy One and DFA (Dairy Farmers of America).

Behind these achievements is a dynamic leaning environment with multiple barns for heifers, calves and livestock that provide students with invaluable hands-on experience. The college’s 400 acres of cropland provide essential forage to support the herd.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

July 20, 2026

1 p.m.

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��Ƶ faculty/staff honored

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:06:01 +0000

��Ƶ faculty/staff honored valenzfr@morri… Tue, 07/14/2026 - 11:06

��Ƶ faculty and staff members were honored with Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence by the State University of New York and SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr., and another received a distinguished award.

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service
Rebecca Hargrave, of Norwich, associate professor of environmental sciences

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service recognizes the consistently superior service contributions of full-time teaching faculty.

Hargrave, of Norwich, has made significant contributions to ��Ƶ and the broader community through her teaching, research and outreach efforts in arboriculture and urban forestry. Since joining the ��Ƶ faculty in 2012, she has taught a wide range of courses, including arboriculture, dendrology, recreation management, natural resources measurements and forest protection, while leading the environmental sciences internship program.

Hargrave manages the college’s Arboretum and the Callaghan Brook Nature Trail and has secured grants to support campus tree inventories, research and collection expansion, helping earn repeated Tree Campus USA® recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation.

Beyond campus, she is active in several professional organizations, including the New York State Urban Forestry Council and the International Society of Arboriculture and contributes to public tree care education and conducts research focused on urban forestry program management in New York State.

Hargrave holds a Ph.D. in forest resources and arboriculture from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a master’s degree in forest science with an urban forestry emphasis from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree in forest science – urban forestry option from Pennsylvania State University.

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching
Justin Mikuszewski, complex manager, Morrisville Auxiliary Corporation

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching recognizes adjunct faculty members for outstanding instructional performance, dedication to student learning and significant contributions to the academic mission of their institution.

Since 2016, Mikuszewski has taught a variety of writing, communications and speech courses, delivering instruction in online, hybrid and in-person formats. Known for his student-centered approach, he works with learners from diverse educational backgrounds and mentors students inside and outside the classroom.

In addition to his teaching role, Mikuszewski serves as complex manager for the Morrisville Auxiliary Corporation, where he supports student engagement, residential life and campus programming.

He holds a master’s degree in English/creative writing from Binghamton University and a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York College at Oneonta.

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service
Julie Wright, administrative assistant 1

The Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service recognizes employees who have consistently demonstrated superlative performance within and beyond their position.

Wright has worked in the Business Office since 2013, where her responsibilities include supporting research grant activity, purchasing, accounts payable, travel and training new employees.

Throughout her tenure, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to ��Ƶ through her service on numerous campus committees and initiatives, contributing her time and expertise to support the college’s mission and foster a positive campus environment.

She also works at the New Woodstock Free Library.

��Ƶ Distinguished Librarian Award
Adam Saunders, of Penfield, associate librarian and online learning and instruction librarian

Saunders has served the ��Ƶ community with distinction since 2013, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to student success, innovation and service. Promoted to Associate Librarian in 2020 and previously recognized with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Librarianship, Saunders has led impactful initiatives ranging from AI literacy instruction and 3D printing services, to student success outreach and enhanced library accessibility resources.

Beyond his work in the library, Saunders has dedicated countless hours to campus governance and student support through leadership roles on College Senate, the Student Success Council and numerous campus committees. His service extends across the SUNY system, including leadership as President of the SUNY Library Association and advocacy for library resources benefiting communities throughout New York State.

Saunders holds a Master of Library Science from the University at Buffalo, a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the State University of New York at Geneseo and an associate degree in liberal arts from Monroe Community College.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

July 14, 2026

8 a.m.

News Type

��Ƶ welcomes incoming Educational Opportunity Program class for summer orientation

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:51:22 +0000

��Ƶ welcomes incoming Educational Opportunity Program class for summer orientation valenzfr@morri… Fri, 07/10/2026 - 13:51

Students wheeled suitcases, carried bedding and moved boxes into Cayuga Hall today as families said their goodbyes and a team of energetic peer mentors welcomed ��Ƶ’s newest Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) students to campus.

For 130 incoming students — one of the largest EOP Summer Academy cohorts in the college’s history — the day marked the beginning of a three-week residential experience designed to ease the transition to college before fall classes begin.

“For nearly 60 years, SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program has supported tens of thousands of students, helping them move forward on a path to upward mobility and success," said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “The program has made higher education more accessible for students throughout New York State and opened doors for meaningful and successful careers.”

EOP helps students with demonstrated financial need succeed in college by providing comprehensive academic, financial and personal support. Many EOP students are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.

Benjamin Scott, an incoming criminal justice student participating in the EOP Summer Academy, made the four-hour drive from Staten Island with his mother and uncle, arriving after leaving home in the early morning hours.

“I like that EOP is going to help keep me on track with my studies,” Scott said. “This is a whole new experience for me, and I am really looking forward to it.”

Asked what comfort from home he couldn’t leave behind, Scott laughed before answering: his cell phone.

Helping students settle into their new surroundings was Thomas Eison, of Queens, a criminal justice student entering his third year as an EOP peer mentor.

“I had a great experience coming here my first year and I like being a part of that for others,” he said. “EOP really helped me financially by buying my books and the staff is accessible. They always have the answers.”

Delilah Siejack, of the Bronx, is also a former EOP student and now serves as a peer mentor.

“I have a passion for helping people and I hope to be an EOP counselor in the future,” she said.

This year’s Summer Academy, themed “One Team. One Goal,” runs through Aug. 1, giving students an early introduction to campus life before the fall semester begins. Participants live on campus while strengthening their academic skills, building friendships and learning about the many resources available to help them succeed.

Before scholars arrived, the program’s 16 peer mentors spent a week participating in team-building exercises, leadership development and planning. Serving as guides, motivators and role models, they completed intensive training designed to strengthen collaboration and leadership. This year, mentors also earned First Aid, CPR and AED certifications.

“We want each scholar to see themselves not only as college students but also as capable, confident scholars with the potential to thrive academically, socially and personally,” said Kayle Light-Curtin, executive director of ��Ƶ’s Opportunity and Access Programs. “Through programming, mentorship and engaging academic experiences, we aim to foster a strong sense of belonging, purpose and academic identity from day one.”

The EOP program at ��Ƶ is supported in part by the historic $10.7 million increase in EOP funding in the fiscal year 2026-27 state budget thanks to the strong support and commitment by Gov. Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

Since 2022, SUNY EOP enrollment has increased by 21 percent. Throughout its 59-year history, the program has graduated nearly 90,000 students, making it one of the nation’s most successful college access initiatives.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

July 10, 2026

Gallery

1 p.m.

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��Ƶ Organic Farm shares summer harvest, horticulture staff and students keep things growing during summer break

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:08:50 +0000

��Ƶ Organic Farm shares summer harvest, horticulture staff and students keep things growing during summer break valenzfr@morri… Wed, 07/08/2026 - 10:08

By early morning, before much of the ��Ƶ campus has stirred, the organic farm on Eaton Street in Morrisville is alive with activity. Students and interns move between high tunnels and garden beds, harvesting flowers, tending crops and preparing for another busy day.

Inside one high tunnel, rows of snapdragons and craspedia are being harvested. Another tunnel is filled with bell peppers, jalapenos, raspberries, three kinds of tomatoes and mahagony-red hibiscus foliage destined for handcrafted bouquets. The high tunnels provide a protected environment that helps extend the growing season and supports a steady harvest.

The Organic Farm serves as a living classroom where students gain hands-on experience that complements what they learn in their courses. Summer offers opportunities to see entire growing cycles unfold, troubleshoot real-world challenges and learn what it takes to produce healthy crops from planting through harvest.

From the road, passersby catch only a glimpse of the colorful landscape, but behind every row is a season of steady work by students and staff who keep the farm thriving long after classes end for summer break.

By 9 a.m., horticulture student and summer intern Kierra Merkle has already snipped blooms from a bed of snapdragons that will become bouquets by afternoon.

“It’s a great learning experience,” Merkle said of her internship, where she is building hands-on skills in pest management, pruning, harvesting, crop care, flower production and more.

Working alongside fellow four-year horticulture student Natasha Kazarian and Lucy Dixon, instructional support assistant, Merkle helps tend the fields and high tunnels throughout the summer. The work means long days of weeding, scouting for pests, harvesting flowers and vegetables, and nurturing everything from seed to harvest.

Dixon, a graduate of the college’s horticulture program, helps students learn everything from crop selection to harvesting. “Bachelor’s buttons have a short harvest window, whereas the snapdragons are more forgiving,” she explained.

This summer also brings several new additions to the farm. Students have seeded an area of sweet corn with plans to sell it after harvest, while newly installed fencing supports climbing crops such as luffa gourds and other vegetables.

Those crops, along with fresh-cut flowers, are shared with the community through on-campus and pop-up sales, giving residents access to locally grown bouquets and produce throughout the summer. Sales are typically held on Fridays at the college, with additional pop-ups in the Morrisville community, while bouquets are also available at Dougherty Pharmacy in Morrisville.

For Kazarian, the experience is helping shape her future. She already operates a small-cut flower stand from her home and hopes to own a greenhouse one day. Working on the farm is giving her firsthand experience in growing, harvesting and marketing crops while reinforcing the skills she will need to turn that goal into a career.

“I am gaining so much experience that I could work on a floral farm,” Kazarian said. “I am getting so much exposure to pests and plant identification, and it has all helped with my flower stand.”

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

July 8, 2026

Gallery

10 a.m.

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��Ƶ powers up workforce with second electric vehicle training

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 16:20:46 +0000

��Ƶ powers up workforce with second electric vehicle training valenzfr@morri… Fri, 06/26/2026 - 12:20

Participants in ��Ƶ’s second electric vehicle (EV) training program spent the week gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, from working on a 2026 Tesla to diagnosing hybrid vehicles and learning the skills needed for the rapidly growing EV industry.

The hands-on training, offered through a Workforce Development Grant, brought together automotive instructors, renewable energy faculty, students and industry professionals eager to expand their knowledge of EVs and the growing clean-energy sector.

“They are here because they are excited to learn as much as they can,” said Matt Heckerman, associate professor of automotive technology and one of the trainers.

Throughout the training, participants worked on hybrid vehicles and two EVs purchased through the grant, which also enabled the college to install instructional charging stations.

The second training focused on advanced EV diagnostics, battery safety and high-voltage systems and included training on a 2026 Tesla and exploring its advanced touchscreen technology.

“The technology on this is so impressive,” Heckerman said. “So much with this vehicle is done through the touch screen in terms of diagnostics. It’s easier to understand what is going on when you can see it on the screen versus having to read a lot of information.”

For Loren Maki, associate professor of automotive technology and a trainer, participants’ enthusiasm stood out.

“The fact that they signed up during the summer, took time off from work and everybody is here because they want to be here speaks volumes,” he said.

To bring training to campus, Maki and Heckerman spent countless hours preparing and participating in specialized EV training programs themselves to ensure participants receive the most up-to-date instruction and industry knowledge.

“The goal is to teach industry and prepare people for jobs in the industry,” Heckerman said.

Noted in the training is the increasing crossover between electric vehicles and renewable energy, attracting participants from both disciplines who recognize the growing demands for skills that span the two industries.

“It is important to the renewable industry as well, to have technicians get experience and this is great hands-on experience that applies to both industries,” said Jeremy Scibetta, a participant and adjunct professor in ��Ƶ’s renewable energy program.

Morgan Nowak, an instructor in the college’s renewable energy program, attended the training alongside some of his students.

“I am taking this because of the crossover with renewable energy and sending my students to take these classes so that they can use these skills in their industry,” he said.

For ��Ƶ student Will Shamblen, who is pursuing degrees in mechanical engineering technology and renewable energy and already owns an EV, the training was a natural fit.

“I felt the most valuable investment is an EV car,” Shamblen said.

Participant and automotive student Coco Swick said the hands-on nature of the training made the experience especially meaningful.

“I am here to learn more about EVs and didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to get more exposure to it,” she said. “There is lots of hands-on learning, which I really benefit from and lots of new experiences.”

Steve Mann, an instructional support associate in the college’s automotive programs, saw the course as an opportunity to continue expanding his knowledge.

“I want to add on to my education,” he said.

Participants also worked on the college’s fleet of hybrid vehicles, exposing them to a wide range of technologies and manufacturers.

“They are getting exposed to more than 20 years’ worth of variations with six different manufacturers,” Maki said. “This is really showing that the younger generation is embracing change.”

For Maki, the training experience is also a learning opportunity.

“I’m not just teaching the class,” he said. “The best way to learn is to teach it.”

The training is another example of ��Ƶ’s commitment to preparing students and professionals for careers in emerging industries. Earlier this year, the college hosted a one-day, workforce training, Electric Vehicles Part 1: Introduction & Safety, at its Automotive Technology Facility.

The non-credit EV training course and future offerings will eventually lead to credit-bearing microcredentials currently being developed through the grant.

The initiative is part of SUNY’s broader efforts to build a skilled green workforce and support New York state’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan, helping ensure the next generation of technicians and energy professionals is prepared.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

June 26, 2026

Gallery

12 p.m.

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��Ƶ Expands Opportunities for Adult Learners Through SUNY Reconnect

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 19:07:23 +0000

��Ƶ Expands Opportunities for Adult Learners Through SUNY Reconnect valenzfr@morri… Wed, 06/17/2026 - 15:07

��Ƶ has been added as a participating school in SUNY’s Reconnect initiative, which offers eligible adults a tuition-free pathway to associate degrees in high- demand fields.

As part of the 2026-27 Enacted New York State Budget, Gov. Kathy Hochul expanded SUNY Reconnect to include eligible associate degree programs at ��Ƶ and seven other SUNY campuses. The initiative provides free tuition, fees, books and supplies for eligible New Yorkers ages 25-55 who pursue associate degrees in fields aligned with workforce needs.

“The cost of a college degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Through the expansion of SUNY Reconnect and CUNY Reconnect, education will be made affordable and accessible for more of our adult learners. Everyone should have a chance to achieve their personal and professional dreams. Now, students — no matter their age — can do just that and lend us a helping hand in high-demand industries, which will help power New York State’s economy.”

“��Ƶ has long been committed to providing accessible, career-focused education that meets the needs of students and employers,” said ��Ƶ President David Rogers. “The expansion of SUNY Reconnect will help more adult learners access the hands-on education and workforce preparation that have long defined the Morrisville experience. We are proud to offer pathways that help students build new skills, advance professionally and contribute to the growth and success of their community.”

Reconnect includes the following fields of study: advanced manufacturing, air traffic control and aviation management, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering, emergency management, supply chain/logistics, nursing and allied health fields, green and renewable energy, and pathways to teaching in shortage areas.

��Ƶ will offer the following programs in Reconnect: automotive technology, data processing: computer information systems, diesel equipment technology, diesel technology, environmental conservation science, natural resources conservation, nursing, renewable energy technology and residential construction.

For adult learners balancing careers, families and other responsibilities, SUNY Reconnect offers a pathway to earn a college credential while preparing for careers in industries experiencing significant workforce demand. The program is designed to help New Yorkers return to college, complete a degree and enter high-demand careers that strengthen both local communities and the state’s economy.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. praised the program’s continued growth.

“Governor Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect initiative has made it possible for adult learners throughout the state to embark on a path to upward mobility and pursue the careers of their dreams,” King said. “We are grateful for her continued investment in affordable public higher education.”

To learn more about SUNY Reconnect and eligible programs at ��Ƶ, visit /reconnect For more information, contact Admissions at admissions@morrisville.edu or call 315-684-6046.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

June 16, 2026

Gallery

2 p.m.

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��Ƶ alumnus helps build the future of spaceflight at SpaceX

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:21:41 +0000

��Ƶ alumnus helps build the future of spaceflight at SpaceX valenzfr@morri… Wed, 06/03/2026 - 09:21

��Ƶ graduate Thomas Knapp is helping build the technology behind one of the world’s most innovative aerospace companies.

As a manufacturing engineer and tool-and-die machinist at SpaceX in Bastrop, Texas, Knapp produces precision components used in rockets, spacecraft and the company’s Starlink satellite network. While much of his work is confidential, Knapp is proud to contribute to innovations in space exploration and global connectivity.

SpaceX is a leading aerospace company known for its reusable rockets and spacecraft, including Dragon, which delivers cargo and supplies to the International Space Station for NASA.

The journey to SpaceX began at ��Ƶ, where Knapp earned a degree in mechanical engineering technology in 2019. There, he developed a strong foundation in machining and applied engineering principles that would prepare him for a career in high-precision industries.

Knapp’s interest in engineering and manufacturing started long before college. Raised in Walworth, New York, a rural community outside Rochester, he grew up on a hay farm and spent time around his father’s welding and fabrication business.

When it came time to choose a college, ��Ƶ stood out for several reasons.

“Morrisville a great choice for me because they had a great mechanical engineering technology program, a good lacrosse team, and the location was perfect — close to home and family,” Knapp said.

Those experiences provided the foundation for the career he has built since graduation.

“��Ƶ was great for my early development because it rolled out a solid foundation and fundamentals of engineering and machining,” Knapp said.

Beyond the classroom, Knapp was a midfielder on the ��Ƶ men’s lacrosse team, where he developed leadership, discipline and teamwork skills that continue to influence his professional career.

“It’s been an incredible career working my way up to this,” Knapp said.

After graduating, he built a strong foundation in the manufacturing industry. One of his first major accomplishments was earning his Journeyman Toolmaker papers in New York after completing an apprenticeship. He went on to work for Harbec Inc., and Syntec Optics, gaining experience in advanced manufacturing and precision machining. Along the way, he became proficient in five-axis CNC machining, CAD/CAM software including Mastercam, SolidWorks and Siemens NX, as well as Mitsubishi wire EDM and surface grinding.

Knapp believes the manufacturing and machining industries offer major opportunities for the next generation.

“There are huge opportunities available in my career path,” he said. “A lot of that comes from the lack of younger people entering technical and blue-collar careers. The age gap is significant in this field, making it critical that we train the next generation to carry on these skills.”

It also means many companies are actively looking for young talent and investing in career development, he noted.

Among Knapp’s fondest memories from ��Ƶ is receiving his first tabletop Kennedy machinist toolbox and metrology equipment from his professor, John Giess. He still uses the tools today.

As he looks to the future, Knapp is excited about the continued advancement of aerospace technology and the role he plays in helping make that happen.

“I’m excited to see the rocket technology keep developing and find out where we’re capable of going,” he said. “We have some super exciting stuff coming down the pipeline.

It’s rewarding to see Starlink continue expanding worldwide and improving connectivity for people who previously didn’t have access to reliable service.”

The excitement fuels his career.

“I always imagined I’d do great things and I am still excited to show up to work every day and help advance technology,” he said. “I’m amazed every day that I have the opportunity to work here while continuing to develop my skills and advance my career.”

The opportunity came through years of hard work.

“I got recruited by SpaceX by building connections demonstrating my abilities in the right environments,” Knapp said. “The interview process was very rigorous and extensive, lasting more than two months. It included multiple Zoom interviews and trips to the Bastrop, Texas facility for panel and one-on-one interviews.

“I remember being extremely excited, and a little nervous, when I read through my offer letter.”

Knapp takes pride in seeing the results of his team’s efforts.

“It’s amazing to see myself and everyone on this team put in tons of effort every day,” he said. “The best part is watching it pay off when a new rocket launches successfully or a new version of Starlink is deployed and brings service to places that previously didn’t have access.”

He is quick to credit the support system that helped him reach his goals.

“I want to give a shoutout to my parents and the rest of my family for being supportive for everything I do in life, including my career,” Knapp said, naming his mother, Pam Knapp; his father, Mark Knapp; his sister, Samantha Walsh; and his brother-in-law, JJ Walsh. “Without them I wouldn’t be half as far in life.”

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

June 3, 2026

Gallery

8 a.m.

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��Ƶ to host automotive training fair

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Wed, 20 May 2026 17:16:33 +0000

��Ƶ to host automotive training fair valenzfr@morri… Wed, 05/20/2026 - 13:16

From AI-powered repair documentation to EV safety training and classic cars, this year’s Automotive Training Fair at ��Ƶ is geared toward the future of the industry.

The 36th annual Automotive Training Fair returns to ��Ƶ June 15–18, bringing four days of hands-on learning, emerging technology and industry updates for automotive educators and students.

Open to area instructors and students, the event allows educators to complete required NATEF-accredited industry update training while connecting with industry professionals and exploring the latest automotive advancements. Registration begins daily at 8 a.m. in the Automotive Technology Building and costs $90 per day. Overnight accommodations are available for an additional fee.

This year’s sessions focus on the latest tools, technology and teaching strategies shaping the automotive field, including:
• Artificial Intelligence: Learn how Ford uses AI for repair order documentation
• Hands-on Diagnostics: Participate in a lab scope jamboree and receive tech updates from BMW, Snap-On and Chrysler/Stellantis
• EV Safety: Take part in an optional eight-hour course on high-voltage electric vehicle systems and safety
• Classroom Strategy: ��Ƶ new teaching techniques to improve student accountability in the lab
• Bonus Experiences: Attend a 3D printing workshop and tour the Norwich Classic Car Museum

For more information, email Angela Schwebe at schwebar@morrisville.edu.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 20, 2026

10 a.m.

News Type

Side by side to the finish: Friendship defines commencement journey for two ��Ƶ graduates

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 18 May 2026 13:56:37 +0000

Side by side to the finish: Friendship defines commencement journey for two ��Ƶ graduates valenzfr@morri… Mon, 05/18/2026 - 09:56

When Jordan Scantlebury and Kedrin Connor crossed the commencement stage at ��Ƶ, it was one more milestone reached the same way they had reached so many others — together.

Best friends since middle school, the two have navigated college side by side as classmates, roommates, workout partners and aspiring nurses, building a friendship that has become central to their journey.

Surrounded by family and friends, Scantlebury and Connor celebrated alongside fellow graduates during the college’s 2026 Commencement ceremony, held Saturday, May 16. They both earned associate degrees in nursing, with plans to continue together in ��Ƶ’s bachelor’s degree nursing program.

Cheering graduates on were family, friends and proud faculty and staff. ��Ƶ President David Rogers was joined by school deans and members of the College Council in presiding over the ceremony, with the stage adorned with ferns and flowers grown by students in the college’s horticulture program.

“Wherever your life may take you, ��Ƶ will go with you,” said President Rogers. “Farewell. Do us proud. Be proud to tell the world, by your words and your work, that you are a graduate of ��Ƶ and the State University of New York.”

Among those embodying that pride were Scantlebury and Connor.
For the Brooklyn natives, friendship has been more than companionship — it has been a source of motivation.

Whether preparing for demanding nursing coursework, heading to the fitness center or navigating campus life, the two have built a routine rooted in accountability and support. Both previously earned associate degrees in computer information technology before enrolling in the nursing program.

Their partnership has extended beyond the classroom. Scantlebury recently won the Cotton Business competition, with Connor by his side — another example of the teamwork that has defined their college experience. That kind of support, they say, has become second nature.

Their story echoed one of the themes woven throughout the day — that success is often strengthened by support.

Student speaker Shani Hedge, who graduated with a degree in agricultural business, shared a similar message in remarks to classmates.

“One thing Morrisville taught me is that not everything is in our control. But what is in our control is how we show up for each other,” she said. “And if there’s one thing I hope people remember about me, it’s this: no matter how busy I was, I always tried to say, “I got you. Because none of us got here alone.

“So, to the Class of 2026: don’t let the fear of making a decision stop you from making one at all. We didn’t have perfect paths. We had real ones, messy ones, growing ones. But we kept showing up anyway. And look at us now. We made it.”

Commencement speaker Adam Saunders, associate librarian, online learning and instruction librarian and recipient of the ��Ƶ Distinguished Librarian Award, encouraged students to be “uniquely human” in a world increasingly shaped by AI. “Congratulations, Class of 2026 — go out there and show the world what it means to be uniquely human.”

For Scantlebury and Connor, commencement marked not only the completion of one chapter, but the continuation of a path they plan to pursue together in the college’s online bachelor’s degree nursing program. Both aspire to be nurse practitioners and hope to one day work side by side.

They were high-achieving students, both named to the Dean’s List multiple semesters. Their shared faith also connected them; they held a Bible study group in the library and both participate in Brothers and Sisters in Christ and CSTEP.

“There is no other person I could have done this with,” Scantlebury said of Connor. “We both have the same outlook on life — to do our best and leave this world with no regrets.”

“This is another stepping stone to add to our journey,” Connor said. “It shows how far hard work can get you.”

That spirit of perseverance and achievement was also reflected in several awards presented to faculty, staff and students during the ceremony:
•    SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence
o    Harper Callard, ’26 aquaculture & aquatic science
o    Ethan Unthank, ’26 automotive technology
•    SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service: Rebecca Hargrave, associate professor of environmental sciences
•    SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Adjunct Teaching: Justin Mikuszewski, complex manager, Morrisville Auxiliary Corporation
•    SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service: Julie Wright, Administrative Assistant 1
•    ��Ƶ Distinguished Librarian Award: Adam Saunders, associate librarian; online learning and instruction librarian

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 18, 2026

Gallery

8 a.m.

News Type

Alumni

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