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��Ƶ adult learner plants new roots; Returns to college with a purpose and a passion

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:03:57 +0000

��Ƶ adult learner plants new roots; Returns to college with a purpose and a passion valenzfr@morri… Tue, 06/17/2025 - 09:03

At 46 years old, Jeffrey Monette is proving that it’s never too late to follow your passion or to make a difference.

The Oswego resident commutes an hour and 15 minutes each way to ��Ƶ several times a week. But for him, the long drive is a small price to pay for a future rooted in sustainability and a chance to make a meaningful impact on the world.

Monette graduated in May with an associate degree in horticulture and a certificate in specialty crops & cannabis production. Now, he’s pursuing dual bachelor’s degrees in horticulture business management and agricultural science with a focus on agronomy.

“I have always been a lifelong learner and fell in love with Morrisville,” he said about his decision to return to college. “I like to play in my imagination a lot and going back to study expands my color palette. I reached a point in my life where I’ve been on auto pilot and am now looking for more.”

That desire for more — more knowledge, more purpose, more connection to the world around him — is exactly what he’s found at ��Ƶ. A full-time job, family and the demands of commuting aren’t slowing him down.

This summer, Monette’s undertaking a 15-credit internship focused on sustainability initiatives, including helping launch the college’s food forest, an innovative, regenerative agricultural project that mimics the structure of a natural forest to create a self-sustaining ecosystem of edible plants. The project will not only benefit the college, but also the community.

Monette is working with Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins, associate professor of agricultural science, on the one-acre plot. For the next two months, Monette will be helping to plant and develop a GIS map of the food forest to help organize and coordinate future planting efforts.

Signs of progress are everywhere on the property that was once an apple orchard. Amid the old trees, new life is taking root — clusters of rhubarb, marigolds, garlic, persimmons and much more. The space under an old apple tree will eventually thrive with mushrooms.

Driven by curiosity, Monette is making the most of his internship, which also includes composting and research into hemp fiber dyeing. His willingness to dive into every opportunity distinguishes him as a student.

“It is amazing how engaged he wants to be,” Gilbert Jenkins said. “As an adult learner, he brings a unique perspective to the classroom, enriching discussions with his life experience and unwavering commitment to sustainability. He has educational maturity and he takes it even further with all of his life experience.”

Halfway through his horticulture degree, Monette decided to add agricultural science to his studies.

“The magic happens in the crossover of the subjects,” he said. “Agriculture isn’t strictly outdoors anymore. There are so many new and exciting disciplines related to agriculture that are in the shades of both worlds,” he said.

With a strong background in facilities management and building science, Monette is eager to channel his expertise into the world of agricultural innovation. He’s already bringing that vision to life at home, where he’s built a personal lab and is conducting hands-on experiments and self-directed research with tissue cultures on succulent and orchid species during his weekends. His wife, Katrina, and daughter Robin, have been enthusiastic supporters of his journey every step of the way.

His passion is evident on campus, too. An active member of the college’s Sustainability Council, he’s contributed to reforestation efforts by planting trees and led an Earth Day initiative to construct owl boxes to support cavity-nesting owl populations.

“What inspires me is self-improvement and helping others,” said Monette, who is also teaching himself several languages, including Chinese. He has online contacts that communicate strictly in their native language and does not want to miss any opportunity to learn or share knowledge.

With no signs of stopping, he’s now setting his sights on graduate school at Cornell University, where he plans to study plant biotechnology through the School of Integrative Plant Science within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

June 17, 2025

Gallery

8:30 a.m.

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��Ƶ celebrates graduates, including its first cohort of Master of Science in food & agribusiness graduates

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 19 May 2025 15:08:48 +0000

��Ƶ celebrates graduates, including its first cohort of Master of Science in food & agribusiness graduates valenzfr@morri… Mon, 05/19/2025 - 11:08

Carrie Wafler’s dreams started small. She loved riding horses, gardening and spending time outdoors. And she had an entrepreneurial spark that set her apart.

When those passions came together at ��Ƶ, something extraordinary blossomed — quite literally.

Today, Wafler owns Barn Blooms Flower Farm, in Wolcott, a thriving floral business that blends artistry, horticulture and agriculture. A proud two-time graduate of ��Ƶ, she now gives back as an adjunct instructor, teaching courses in equine science, agricultural business and horticulture.

On Saturday, she reached another milestone, joining the first class of ��Ƶ’s food & agribusiness (FAB) master’s degree program.

Surrounded by family, many of them ��Ƶ alumni, Wafler celebrated alongside fellow graduates during the college’s 2025 Commencement ceremony, held May 17.

“It fills me with so much excitement to walk across the stage,” Wafler said. “Completing this master’s degree is a win for women in agriculture and women taking leadership roles in the industry.”

Cheering grads 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, which began with the Syracuse Scottish Pipe Band leading graduates into the formal commencement exercises.

The stage was adorned with ferns and flowers grown by students in the college’s horticulture program and artfully arranged by Gareth March, of Greece, New York, a graduate who earned his bachelor’s degree in horticulture business management.

“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 was Wafler, whose journey at ��Ƶ was shaped by immersive hands-on learning.

While earning her associate degree in equine science and later her bachelor’s degree in agricultural business development, Wafler made the most of every opportunity to learn, from caring for cattle, sheep and rabbits in the livestock barn, to competing with the Western Equestrian team.

After graduation, her passion for agriculture brought her to Wafler Farms, a family-run apple orchard and fruit tree nursery. It was there she met her future husband, Kyle Wafler ’17, and quickly became an integral part of the farm’s growth, helping to expand its human resources operations.

She later launched Barn Blooms, starting with just a small plot of land and a bucket of flowers. Today, the unique business offers floral design, event services, community workshops and a community-supported bouquet subscription service that brings fresh, locally grown flowers to customers each season.

As her business grew, so did her ambition. When ��Ƶ announced its flexible new online FAB program, Wafler jumped at the opportunity.

“I always wanted to get my master’s degree, but I was running a business,” she said.

Along with its flexibility, the large network of connections and meeting people in different parts of the industry have been invaluable parts of the program.

That same sense of connection and opportunity has been a driving force for other graduates like March.

“The hands-on experience I’ve acquired during my time at Morrisville has exposed me to many different aspects of horticulture, including greenhouse management, landscape design and nursery production,” March said. “My education has given me a toolbox of knowledge that I’m going to use during my summer internship, in my current position and in my future career endeavors.”

This summer, March will intern as a horticulturist at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park in Canandaigua. He’ll also continue working at VanPutte Gardens in Greece, where he serves in many roles, including landscape design apprentice and assisting the CEO & landscape finance manager.

In his parting words to fellow classmates, graduate Tron Smith, vice president of the Student Government Organization and this year’s student speaker, celebrated the shared journey of the Class of 2025 — a group of individuals from different walks of life who came together to form a tight-knit, supportive community at Morrisville.

He called on graduates to carry that legacy forward. “I leave you with this challenge: be the change you want to see in the world. Make a difference in someone’s life. Build community wherever you go. Congratulations, Class of 2025! The world is waiting for us. Let’s go make our mark.”

Elisa Livengood, the college’s Distinguished Faculty Award recipient, spoke to the strength, determination and potential of graduates, urging them to trust in their skills and to always have hope, even when facing adversity.

“If we keep this messaging of hope, we can make the world better,” said Livengood, associate professor of aquaculture & aquatic science and environmental and natural resources management. “And I know that graduates of Morrisville have this incredible capacity to make the world better together.”

She also reflected on the graduates’ readiness to take on the world beyond college.

“Here at Morrisville, we say ‘you learn by doing.’ And now, you know how to do what you’ve learned,” Livengood said. “You’re ready — not to just get the job, but to build the career, the life and the world you want to live in. So, go forward boldly. Believe in what you’ve learned. Believe in your resilience. And above all — have hope.”

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 19, 2025

Gallery

10 a.m.

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��Ƶ faculty/staff honored by SUNY Chancellor

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:23:55 +0000

��Ƶ faculty/staff honored by SUNY Chancellor valenzfr@morri… Tue, 05/13/2025 - 10:23

Three ��Ƶ faculty and staff members were recently honored with Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence by the State University of New York and SUNY Chancellor John B. King.

Receiving the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty Service is:

Laura Pierie, of Morrisville, associate professor of humanities

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

Since joining ��Ƶ in 2014, Pierie has demonstrated a commitment to campus leadership and academic excellence, serving in key roles in the Division of Human Development and Society for General Education and Liberal Arts, Journalism & Education. She served as past president of the College Senate and is currently past president.

As an Army veteran, Pierie continued her service through advocacy work for veterans at ��Ƶ and was a member of the college’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force. Outside campus, she works with women's Veterans groups.

Her contributions also include successful grant proposals, participation in numerous lectures and presentations, and co-authorship of a scholarly publication. Beyond the classroom, she served as assistant editor of the Online Learning Consortium (OLC).

Pierie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree as a dual major in literature and writing with secondary English teacher certification and a Master of Arts in discourse studies, both from SUNY Potsdam. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in educational theory and practice.

Receiving the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service is:

Marc Cianciola, of Canastota, Assistant Director of Student Activities

The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service recognizes outstanding job performance by professional staff in administrative positions and those who have transcended the normal definitions of excellence.

Cianciola, who joined the staff in 2013, has made significant contributions to the campus through his various service, which includes advising the Campus Activities Board, the Morrisville Outreach and Volunteer Efforts student group and co-supervising Student Government Organization event staff.

Additionally, he served as chair of the college’s commencement and New York State Fair committees. He also serves as the contingent officer for the ��Ƶ Chapter of United University Professions (UUP), as well as on the Statewide Outreach Committee for UUP and is vice president of professionals elect.

Cianciola was recently awarded Northeast Regional Advisor of the Year 2024 by the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities.

An active member in his community, he coached in the Canastota AYSO Program, assists with the Coliseum Soccer Club and is a member of the Canastota School Board, where he serves on the finance and policy committees. He is a member of Konosioni Masonic Lodge, Tigris Shriners and the Shriners International Hospitals for Children.

Cianciola earned dual Bachelor of Arts degrees from SUNY Potsdam and a Master of Education from Kaplan University.

Receiving the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service is:

Rhonda Davis, of Morrisville, payroll examiner 2

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

Prior to her current position, she was a Keyboard Specialist 2 in the Business Office, Administrative Assistant 1 to the Director of Business Affairs and Administrative Assistant 1 in the Athletics Department.

Davis co-owns and operates Davis Automotive Inc., Davis-Willowbrook Service and Repair and Davis Willowbrook Farm with her husband, Christopher, a 1995 graduate of the college’s diesel technology program.

The couple, who met at the college, live in Morrisville with their daughters, Joy, a 2024 graduate of ��Ƶ’s individual studies program, and Priscilla.

Davis earned an associate degree from the college’s former restaurant management program in 1996, where she was named to Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and was a member of the college’s former International Food Service Executives Association (IFSEA) branch.

��Ƶ’s curricula are enriched with applied learning and pave the way for opportunity at the Morrisville and Norwich campuses. An action-oriented, interactive learning lab, the college is a national leader in technology and has been lauded for its exemplary, innovative and effective community service programs.

For more information about ��Ƶ, visit www.morrisville.edu.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 13, 2025

Gallery

10 a.m.

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��Ƶ professor Elisa Livengood receives college’s Distinguished Faculty Award

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 12 May 2025 15:55:22 +0000

��Ƶ professor Elisa Livengood receives college’s Distinguished Faculty Award valenzfr@morri… Mon, 05/12/2025 - 11:55

Step into ��Ƶ professor Elisa Livengood’s classroom and you’ll find yourself surrounded by oversized tanks teeming with vibrant fish, anemones, clownfish, seahorses and a world of aquatic wonder.

Here, hands-on projects and cutting-edge research aren’t just part of the curriculum — they’re the foundation of an immersive learning experience that brings marine science to life.

This engaging approach has earned Livengood the admiration of students, colleagues and industry professionals and, most recently, the 2024-25 ��Ƶ Distinguished Faculty Award.

This prestigious recognition celebrates her unwavering commitment to student success, both in and out of the classroom, as well as her dedication to advancing education through innovative and interdisciplinary teaching methods.

Livengood, associate professor of aquaculture & aquatic science and environmental and natural resources management, has been driving student interest in aquatic life since she joined the ��Ƶ faculty in 2015.

Throughout her tenure, she has championed the importance of applied learning and student-driven research in environmental science and aquaculture, equipping students with essential skills to contribute to the scientific community and explore career opportunities.

Her dynamic lab, which features several small-scale recirculating saltwater systems to study marine organisms, evolves each semester based on student-chosen projects. Some require rebuilds in preparation for different species.

“There’s always something different and new focusing on our applied learning approach,” said Livengood, of Madison.

In addition to her unique lab experiences, aquaculture & aquatic science students gain hands-on skills in the college’s cold-water trout hatchery and the controlled environment agriculture (aquaponics) greenhouse known as the Aquaculture Center.

At the Center, students are able to work with unique species like burbot, Brook trout and paddlefish. Currently, the Aquaculture Center is the only facility in the Northeast exploring the aquaculture of burbot, a new species to aquaculture, with particular conservation concern as it was recently listed as protected in the State of New York.

Students also gain valuable field experience and industry exposure through field trips, including visits to the state-run Salmon River Fish Hatchery, Oneida Fish Hatchery and South Otselic working alongside Department of Environmental Conservation professionals.

They can further expand their knowledge about diverse ecosystems through travel courses she co-teaches, which take students to Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas and a Tropical Ecology course through Florida’s Springs, the Everglades and the Upper Keys.

“Professor Livengood is an incredible teacher,” said aquaculture student Harper Callard. “She is very good about finding places for us to see other ways of working with different species, even in our own Aquaculture Center. She is so passionate about her work and helping students become passionate about aquaculture.”

Livengood actively promotes undergraduate research, particularly in her research methods course, where students engage in independent data collection and small-scale projects.

“Research can be really impactful for student learning,” Livengood said.

“I came back to do my internship with Professor Livengood and it was such a great opportunity,” said Rowan Coates, a graduate of the environmental & natural resource management program.

“I knew I really wanted to work in saltwater,” said Coates, who studied the relationship between Aiptasia anemones and the cultivation of berghia nudibranchs, an important species in the aquarium fish trade.

“To have a professor who says okay to your research ideas and who helps to guide you, I think that is really important.”

Livengood’s enthusiasm for marine environments also inspired creative approaches to wellness.

In collaboration with the Exercise Science Wellness Center, she developed “Wavy Yoga,” a unique experience that combines high-resolution coral photography, electronic dance music, breathing techniques and yoga exercises. This initiative provided students with an opportunity for relaxation and gave them valuable stress management techniques.

Throughout her tenure, Livengood has served the campus community in various capacities, including as present department chair of the Environmental and Renewable Energy Resources program and is currently working to build the campus Food Forest and Three Sisters Garden. She has received numerous grants and has significant publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Her work doesn’t end in the classroom. She also serves on the New York City Harbor School Advisory Committee and is part of the Cornell Aquaculture working group, providing aquaculture industry leadership in New York state.

A consultant on STEM curriculum development, she has designed K-12 curricula in science and in aquaculture, aquatic sciences and marine biology. She also provides extension services and outreach activities including visiting and consulting with farmers and advising the public and farmers on questions related to aquatic species husbandry and aquaculture.

Livengood earned her Ph.D. and M.S. in Interdisciplinary Ecology from the University of Florida, Gainesville and her bachelor’s degree in marine biology from East Carolina University.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 12, 2025

Gallery

11 a.m.

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��Ƶ students receive top award from SUNY

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Wed, 07 May 2025 14:52:42 +0000

��Ƶ students receive top award from SUNY valenzfr@morri… Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:52

��Ƶ graduates Laura Bedell, of New Hartford, and Vidya Jawahir, of Oxford, have been recognized with the prestigious Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence (CASE), the highest honor bestowed by the State University of New York (SUNY).

The award celebrates students who have successfully integrated academic excellence with leadership, campus involvement, athletics, community service, the arts, or career achievement.

Bedell, who earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration, was a four-year member of the ��Ƶ women’s soccer team and part of the team that won the division championship. She served as team captain during her senior year.

Beyond athletics, Bedell was an active member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, participating in community-focused events, including leaf cleanups, Fun Fridays with the local elementary school students and annual drives collecting food, clothing and school supplies to benefit the campus and local communities.

She excelled academically, earning Dean’s List and President’s List honors, was named a two-time Scholar-Athlete by the United East Conference and a Scholar-Athlete by the North Atlantic Conference. She was also an honoree to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team for women’s soccer and was inducted into the National Student-Athlete Honor Society, Chi Alpha Sigma.

Bedell is the daughter of Janice and Robert Bedell, of New Hartford.

Jawahir, a nursing student at the Norwich Campus, is an active member of the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), where she has played a pivotal role in mentoring fellow students, leading study groups and advocating for enhancements in the program.

Balancing her responsibilities as an adult learner, mother of two young children and managing a family farm, Jawahir is engaged in campus life, actively participating in CSTEP workshops, alumni events and mentorship panels.

Her involvement has helped elevate the visibility of CSTEP at Morrisville’s Norwich Campus, encouraging more students to take advantage of its valuable resources.

As a member of the Student Nurses Association, she helps coordinate blood drives and other initiatives that reflect her passion for community service and public health.

Her academic achievements include earning consistent recognition on the Dean’s List and President’s List.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 7, 2025

Gallery

8:30 a.m.

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Academics

Community

General

��Ƶ students at the root of annual spring plant sale, May 8-10, May 15-17

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Tue, 06 May 2025 12:33:01 +0000

��Ƶ students at the root of annual spring plant sale, May 8-10, May 15-17 valenzfr@morri… Tue, 05/06/2025 - 08:33

Each spring, the ��Ƶ greenhouse comes to life, overflowing with vibrant blooms in all shades imaginable.

Students move with purpose — trimming, watering, transplanting and caring for flowers and plants in preparation for the college’s annual spring plant sale, a tradition that has become a favorite for the campus and local community.

This year’s sale will be held at the Spader Horticulture Complex, May 8-9, from noon-5 p.m.; May 10, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; May 15-16, from noon-5 p.m.; and May 17, from 8 a.m.-noon. It is open to the public.

Inside the greenhouse, seed trays nurtured from the beginning of the semester have transformed into flourishing petunias, begonias, sunflowers and more — thanks to the dedication and care of students in the college’s Greenhouse Production class.

At the center of it all is horticultural business management student Gareth March, who wears many hats this semester. As the instructional assistant for the Greenhouse Production class and current greenhouse manager, he’s also spearheading the college’s annual plant sale.

Under his direction, this year’s sale will be bursting with color and variety. Patrons can look forward to nearly 700 hanging baskets, 5,000 four-inch annuals, hundreds of perennials, Boston ferns, tropical plants, house plants, vegetable transplants and more.

“If you would have told me I would be doing this, I wouldn’t believe you,” said March, who lives in Greece, New York. “I was so shy and now I am in front of a class, running it.”

These days, that feels natural for March, as he moves through the greenhouse with quiet confidence, fine-tuning every detail and guiding students with steady focus as the sale approaches.

“His attention to detail, focus, work ethic and passion for the everything he does sets the tone for the class,” said Adam Olinski, assistant professor of horticulture, who leads the Greenhouse Production class. “His passion really stands out. You can see it in the way he cares for plants, in the way he teaches and in how he brings the best out of everyone around him. He’s the kind of student you don’t forget.”

March graduates in May, but his legacy is firmly planted in many ways. For the past few years, he has helped grow flowers and plants and decorate the commencement stage with them.

He traces his love for horticulture back to childhood summers in his grandmother’s garden. He started his own garden at home and continued to dive deeper into the world of horticulture as he got older.

“When it became time to look for college programs, ��Ƶ offered me the perfect balance of a program that encompassed everything I hoped to learn about during my time in college, while also being close enough to home that I could still work and visit my family,” March said.

His long-term plans shifted when he had the opportunity to teach.

“I’m leaving ��Ƶ strongly considering a career in horticultural education now,” March said. “Being able to be the instructional assistant for the Greenhouse Management and Greenhouse Production classes has given me a taste of what it’s like teaching. It has ignited something within me that makes me think that I’m not quite done with the whole ‘teaching’ thing just quite yet.”

His passion hasn’t gone unnoticed. March was selected as a semi-finalist for the American HortScholars program, which recognizes outstanding college students preparing to lead the future of the horticulture industry. He also received a Bartlett Tree Foundation grant.

That recognition reflects the depth of experience he’s gained through the horticulture program at Morrisville, which March said has exposed him to nearly every corner of the industry.

“The horticulture program at Morrisville has allowed me to learn about so many different aspects of the horticulture industry, from greenhouse growing and the production of annual crops, to landscape design and installation, and even the skills you need to start and run your own business.”

He took a variety of electives to broaden his knowledge in fields he was relatively unfamiliar with, such as arboriculture and tropical ecology.

For Natasha Kazarian, a horticulture business management bachelor’s degree student, the opportunity to explore different aspects of the field was transformative. She initially enrolled at ��Ƶ in the cannabis certificate program, but found her passion rooted elsewhere.

“I took a greenhouse management class in the fall and that switched my entire thought process,” Kazarian said. “Now I want to work in a greenhouse.”

Meanwhile, March is continuing to build on his own experiences with an internship this summer as a horticulturist at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park in Canandaigua. He’ll also continue working at VanPutte Gardens in Greece, where he serves in many roles, including landscape design apprentice and assisting the CEO & landscape finance manager.

“It's going to be a very busy summer for me but I'm looking forward to it immensely,” March said.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

May 6, 2025

Gallery

8:30 a.m.

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��Ƶ welcomes new Dean of the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology

richmolr — Tue, 06 May 2025 17:09:38 +0000

��Ƶ welcomes new Dean of the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology richmolr Tue, 05/06/2025 - 13:09

��Ƶ welcomes Bin Zhu as the next Dean of the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology (ABT), effective July 1, 2025.

“Please join me in extending a warm Mustang welcome to Dr. Zhu as he joins ��Ƶ,” said ��Ƶ Provost Suzan Harkness. “We are excited for the depth of experience, expertise, leadership and scholarship he brings, and look forward to the impactful work he will make in supporting our mission, vision and strategic goals.”

Zhu brings significant experience and innovation as a professor, administrator and collaborative leader, with more than 10 years of higher education and administrative leadership experience and expertise in innovative teaching, the scholarship of teaching and learning (SOTL) and interdisciplinary research. His leadership experiences include oversight of departments, faculty supervision, program and curriculum assessment and development, budget oversight, student recruitment and retention initiatives, and fundraising through donor outreach and grant acquisition.

His expertise has been recognized through peer-reviewed publications and numerous awards for innovation in scholarship, teaching and learning. Zhu has extensive publications and research in the areas of environmental challenges such as invasive species and climate change, plant science, heavy metal pollution, the effects of ethylene biosynthesis, and invasive European frogbit in North America among other areas, which have led to 33 publications and 54 grants.

Zhu most recently served at Wagner College as the Division Chair, overseeing three departments and supervising all faculty and reporting staff, leading program and course assessment, curriculum changes, budget management, student recruitment and fundraising. Prior to that, Zhu served at the University of Hartford as the Director of the Environmental Studies Program, and was Interim Chair.

Zhu received his Ph.D. in Biology at Syracuse University, a Master of Public Administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University, and both a Master and Bachelor of Science in Ecology from Nanjing University in China. He also completed post-doctoral work at Cornell.

“I’m eager to hit the ground running and to help advance the mission of the college in meaningful ways,” Zhu said. “I can’t wait to get started!”

Author

��Ƶ

Published date

May 2, 2025

News Type

General

Building the future: ��Ƶ students construct small house inside their lab

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:26:30 +0000

Building the future: ��Ƶ students construct small house inside their lab valenzfr@morri… Mon, 04/07/2025 - 11:26

It’s a unique hands-on learning experience. Students in ��Ƶ’s residential construction program are rolling up their sleeves to build a small house right inside their lab.

The ambitious 14-week project is more than just an exercise in construction — it’s a lesson in teamwork, problem-solving and real-world application of classroom concepts.

Building the 15.6-by-40-foot house indoors is the vision of Michael Gridley, associate professor of residential construction.

“I wanted a project that would give them a different experience,” Gridley said of the small house, which does not fall under the category of a tiny house.

Students typically work off-site on community renovation projects in his Construction Planning & Management lab, which meets for seven hours on Fridays.

This hands-on project has them designing and constructing the structure from the ground up, gaining valuable experience in framing walls, carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, siding and insulation.

Students are also learning how to measure and cut materials precisely and about budgeting — key components of the trade.

“This house will be move-in ready when we are done,” Gridley said. It will feature custom-built cabinets, crafted by students in his cabinetry class. The roof will be added later, once the house is moved permanently to a family in Madison.

With a growing emphasis on energy-efficient building practices and sustainable construction, the house incorporates energy-efficient insulation, heating systems and windows and doors.

“Everything has to meet new energy codes,” Gridley noted.

Much of the material for the build was purchased from Curtis Lumber, whose support has made many projects possible, also highlighting the strong industry connections and networking opportunities available to students throughout the program.

For students, the entire project serves as a living classroom.

“I’ve always been a hands-on learner,” said Tilly Couture, a residential construction student from Nova Scotia, Canada, who also came to ��Ƶ to play women’s ice hockey. “What I like most is the hands-on experience and how much one-on-one time you get with a professor. I enjoy that you learn something in a classroom and then the next class you’re able to showcase that through doing an activity.”

This well-rounded approach prepares students for a variety of trades.

“We can basically go into any trade, like masonry and plumbing, because we know how to do a lot of things,” said Bennett Schoonover, a residential construction student from West Winfield, who was introduced to the program during a high school visit.

That versatility, combined with hands-on training, makes graduates highly sought after in the industry.

“In the last few weeks, I have had five contractors looking for students,” Gridley said. “Students graduate with practical experience that gives them a competitive edge in the industry.”

“I think anyone who’s hands-on learning or anyone who would want the one-on-one attention or specific trades learning, I think it is phenomenal here for that,” Couture said.

Students take on real-world projects outside of labs, building decks, remodeling houses and laying brick foundations, too.

“There is nothing more important than on-the-job training,” Couture said.

Later in the semester, students will be building a 28-foot-by-28-foot garage with attic trusses, along with framing a house. They are also already planning to build another small house in the lab next spring.

Gridley’s class draws students from various majors who are eager to expand their skill set or try something new.

For many, like Schoonover, that experience leads directly to employment. Schoonover has already secured a position at Siteworks Inc. in Marcellus. “Everyone I know coming out of this program gets a job.”

It also leads to internship opportunities. This summer, Couture will be interning with DeBlois Renovate and Remodel, in Manlius.

That bridge to industry is strengthened by instructors like Gridley and Shawn Ford, who bring extensive experience to the classroom.

Gridley, a 2004 residential construction graduate, also runs Gridley Construction in Madison, a business he launched shortly after graduating.

“I bring my knowledge back to the class to give them the experience that I have,” he said.

“Professor Gridley has a ton of real-world experience and we are out on actual job sites,” Schoonover said. “Aside from the hands-on experience and learning, we also learn how to work with others.”

Ford, an instructional support assistant in the residential construction and renewable energy programs, plays a key role assisting in Gridley’s labs.

His extensive experience includes working in the fossil fuel industry building power plants and nuclear facilities, as well as running a construction company for 14 years.

A drone instructor for Tompkins-Cortland Community College and the fire inspector for Chenango County, he is expanding his expertise through renewable energy courses at ��Ƶ. In May, he will complete his associate degree in renewable energy technology and transition into the college’s bachelor's degree program.

Residential construction student Steve Copperwheat already has his own business, ACE Construction Endeavors, in Clinton, but is back in the classroom to expand his expertise.

“The degree will give my business more credibility,” Copperwheat said. “And I am learning new stuff, including different ways of doing things.”

“The trades are huge now,” Gridley said. “Building this small house sparks interest in students.”

For community members like Jim Bright, the opportunity is unlike anything else.

“This is so unique,” said Bright, a retired Skaneateles resident, who is taking the course to obtain new skills. “It’s just a wonderful opportunity to build a house, indoors during winter.”

Bright, who worked in administrative roles his entire life, is excited to learn new things at age 66. “I am really enjoying gaining so many useful skills. I am so grateful to be taking this course.”

In addition to construction-related classes, students in ��Ƶ’s residential construction program focus on key business aspects through coursework in business law, accounting, employee supervision, public speaking, estimating and blueprint reading.

Their experiences are paving the way for careers in residential construction, woodworking, building materials sales, insurance claims adjusting and code enforcement, with some even aspiring to start their own businesses.

Complementing their hands-on experience are state-of-the-art facilities, including a 6,000-square-foot residential construction laboratory equipped with framing, plumbing, heating, masonry, and electrification labs. Students also benefit from specialized finish-carpentry spaces and a computer lab featuring AutoCAD software.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

April 7, 2025

Gallery

11 a.m.

News Type

��Ƶ students receive Empire State Service Corps Awards for making a difference in the community

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:19:31 +0000

��Ƶ students receive Empire State Service Corps Awards for making a difference in the community valenzfr@morri… Fri, 03/28/2025 - 10:19

Two ��Ƶ students are making a meaningful impact through their dedication to community service.

Michael Roberts, a game programming B.Tech. student from Brooklyn and Harper Callard, an aquaculture and aquatic science associate degree student from New Hartford, were honored with Empire State Service Corps Awards for their significant contributions.

Roberts received the Leadership in Service Award for his commitment as a Morrisville-Eaton Middle-High School K-12 tutor with the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP).

“I wished I would have had this (tutoring) in middle and high school,” Roberts said. “I enjoy being a resource in students’ lives. It’s pretty fulfilling.”

Beyond tutoring, Roberts is actively involved on campus as a resident assistant (RA) and is a former public relations director for the Student Government Organization.

Callard was recognized with the Innovation in Service Award for her on-campus sustainability initiatives, including a campaign to promote reusable water bottles and reduce reliance on single-use plastics. As a member of the college’s Sustainability Council, she collaborated with faculty to introduce new recycling initiatives and advocate for environmentally friendly practices. She is also an RA.

“I have always loved volunteering and helping others, so when I saw the position, I knew I had to apply,” Callard said about applying for the Empire State Service Corps.

Roberts and Callard are part of the inaugural cohort of the Empire State Service Corps, launched by Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2024 to expand service opportunities for students across New York. Nearly 2,000 SUNY students applied, but only 515 selected to participate in the program. Among them were seven ��Ƶ students.

The Empire State Service Corps offers SUNY students paid public service opportunities in areas such as K-12 tutoring, sustainability and mental health support. Participants commit to 300 hours of service throughout the year, gaining valuable hands-on experience while strengthening their communities.

Roberts and Callard’s awards were presented at the Service & Civics Summit in Syracuse, which brought together student corps members from more than 40 SUNY campuses, as well as campus leaders, local officials and state representatives. ��Ƶ President David Rogers also took part in civic engagement breakout sessions, emphasizing the importance of service in higher education.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

March 28, 2025

Gallery

10 a.m.

News Type

��Ƶ to host Renewable Energy Spring Institute March 14

valenzfr@morrisville.edu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:53:13 +0000

��Ƶ to host Renewable Energy Spring Institute March 14 valenzfr@morri… Mon, 03/03/2025 - 13:53

��Ƶ is hosting a Renewable Energy Spring Institute on Friday, March 14, for current high school and BOCES students, educators, guidance counselors and college transfers, to learn more about renewable energy.

The free event, from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at the college’s Agricultural & Clean Energy Technology Center (ACET), features demonstrations in the center’s six state-of-the-art renewable energy labs.

Attendees are welcome to participate in renewable energy demonstrations and view technologies on display, as well as network with industry representatives who will be giving short presentations and sharing their experiences. Among the companies attending are: Cypress Creek Renewables, Avangrid, Brookfield Renewable U.S., GreenSparks Solar, Liberty Renewables, New Leaf Energy and NP Environmental.

Demonstrations will include: wind turbine maintenance and electronics, solar panel installation, tower climbing and rescue, a tour of the Center’s 85 kW solar array featuring bifacial modules in both single-axis tracking and stationary ground mounts, heat pump and geothermal displays, and biofuels production and firing demonstrations.

Specific for teachers and counselors is a one-hour session with renewable energy faculty to explore training opportunities, career paths and discuss ideas to incorporate renewable energy into classes and labs.

The college’s Admissions Department, Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP) and Collegiate Science & Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) also will be represented.

To register: Renewable Energy Spring Institute; 3/14/2025, or for more information, contact Jeremy Scibetta at scibetj@morrisville.edu or Sam Doubleday at doubles@morrisville.edu.

The Renewable Energy Spring Institute is possible through a grant from the Offshore Wind Training Institute (OWTI). The college is among eight SUNY institutions to receive a grant, nearly $4 million announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul to prepare students for careers in the growing offshore wind industry.

The college’s $500,000 grant will be utilized for various training opportunities, including K-12 awareness and recruiting and coordinating with workforce development agencies to establish a skilled workforce. College credit-bearing courses are among other opportunities for prospective students, teachers/educators and others looking to explore career options in offshore wind and renewable energy.

��Ƶ’s renewable energy Bachelor of Technology and renewable energy technology Associate in Applied Science programs are already paving the way for students to play a key role in renewable fields and prepare for clean energy jobs of the future.

Author

Franci Valenzano

Published date

March 3, 2025

Gallery

2 p.m.

News Type

General

������Ƶ adult learner plants new roots; Returns to college with a purpose and a passion

������Ƶ celebrates graduates, including its first cohort of Master of Science in food & agribusiness graduates

������Ƶ faculty/staff honored by SUNY Chancellor

������Ƶ professor Elisa Livengood receives college’s Distinguished Faculty Award

������Ƶ students receive top award from SUNY

������Ƶ students at the root of annual spring plant sale, May 8-10, May 15-17

������Ƶ welcomes new Dean of the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology

Building the future: ������Ƶ students construct small house inside their lab

������Ƶ students receive Empire State Service Corps Awards for making a difference in the community

������Ƶ to host Renewable Energy Spring Institute March 14

��Ƶ adult learner plants new roots; Returns to college with a purpose and a passion

��Ƶ celebrates graduates, including its first cohort of Master of Science in food & agribusiness graduates

��Ƶ faculty/staff honored by SUNY Chancellor

��Ƶ professor Elisa Livengood receives college’s Distinguished Faculty Award

��Ƶ students receive top award from SUNY

��Ƶ students at the root of annual spring plant sale, May 8-10, May 15-17

��Ƶ welcomes new Dean of the School of Agriculture, Business & Technology

Building the future: ��Ƶ students construct small house inside their lab

��Ƶ students receive Empire State Service Corps Awards for making a difference in the community

��Ƶ to host Renewable Energy Spring Institute March 14