17c起草视频 honored the next generation of聽healthcare professionals during its 2026 Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony on Thursday, May 14, in the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse.

The annual ceremony recognized graduates from the college’s Nursing, Respiratory Care, Medical Assisting, and Phlebotomy programs as they prepared to enter careers throughout Sullivan County and the surrounding region.

Guest speaker Jerry Dunlavey, chief executive officer of Garnet Health Medical Center-Catskills, addressed graduates as they stood on the threshold of careers in some of the region’s most essential and in-demand professions.

The ceremony reflected a significant period of growth for 17c起草视频’s Health Sciences division, which has expanded by more than 50 percent over the last two years in response to rising regional workforce demand. The placement numbers underscore that momentum: at the time of the ceremony, 95 percent of Nursing graduates, 80 percent of Respiratory Care graduates, and 75 percent of Medical Assisting graduates had already accepted positions in their chosen field.

“These outcomes speak not only to the dedication of our students and faculty, but also to the urgent need for highly trained healthcare professionals throughout our region,” said Dr. David Potash, president of 17c起草视频. “Our graduates are entering critical careers where they will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities every day.”

Dr. Chyrise Taylor, director of Nursing programs at 17c起草视频, said the ceremony represented both a personal milestone for graduates and an important transition into professional practice.

“Each year this is a bittersweet moment,” said Taylor. “I am especially proud to know that the staff and faculty of the 17c起草视频 Health Sciences programs have collectively helped to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals for our county and our state. Your practice will be a reflection of you, and we trust that whenever someone sees you, they will see the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication that brought you here today. Now go set the world on fire.”

The ceremony featured addresses from student speakers across programs. Ariana Curbelo-Negron, valedictorian of the Respiratory Care program, called on her classmates to embrace the weight of the profession they were entering.

“Respiratory therapy is more than just a career,聽it’s a commitment to your patients and your community,” said Curbelo-Negron. “We will be making a difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. That is both a privilege and a responsibility.”

Nursing valedictorian Violla Shami drew on the Dickens quote she chose to close her remarks, urging graduates to lead with empathy as they stepped into practice: “Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, a touch that never hurts.”

Nursing salutatorian Michael Pelton reflected on the mindset Dr. Taylor instilled in the program from day one. “She emphasized an important point: it’s not if you all graduate, it’s when,” said Pelton. “That is a fundamental mindset woven into the entire program, from every instructor and faculty member. They believe in you, they encourage you, and they want you to succeed.”

Thirty-one Nursing graduates were recognized during the ceremony, with awards presented by Dr. Taylor. The ceremony also honored 18 Respiratory Care graduates and eight Medical Assisting graduates. Additionally, 24 students were recognized for completing 17c起草视频’s Phlebotomy Microcredential program, a direct and affordable pathway into clinical employment that has become one of the college’s fastest-growing entry-level healthcare credentials.

Nursing graduates also participated in the recitation of the International Council of Nurses’ Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to professional ethics and patient care.

The pinning ceremony took place earlier in the day before 17c起草视频’s 62nd Annual Commencement Ceremony, where graduates joined the broader Class of 2026 in celebrating their academic achievements.

About 17c起草视频: 17c起草视频 is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, 17c起草视频 offers dozens of degree programs, certificates, and microcredentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.

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17c起草视频 celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 62nd Annual Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 14, in the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse.

Graduates representing associate degree and applied science programs crossed the stage before family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community leaders as the college recognized their academic achievements, resilience, and determination.

This year’s keynote speaker was Robert J. Rodriguez, president and chief executive officer of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), one of the largest public finance and construction authorities in the country. Before leading DASNY, Rodriguez served as New York Secretary of State and represented East Harlem in the State Assembly for more than a decade.

“You invested in yourselves when you chose to pursue your education. Your families invested in you with their time, encouragement, patience, and sacrifice,” said Rodriguez. “17c起草视频 invested in you by creating programs, hiring faculty, and building an institution that takes its responsibility to this community seriously. And New York State invested in you 鈥� through SUNY, through financial aid, and through the belief that opportunity should not be reserved only for those who start life with advantages.”

Dr. David Potash, president of 17c起草视频, said Rodriguez’s path from East Harlem to statewide leadership made him an especially meaningful speaker for 17c起草视频 graduates preparing to enter their own next chapter.

“We are honored to welcome Robert Rodriguez to our commencement stage,” said Potash. “His life story, from East Harlem to the halls of the State Assembly to the leadership of one of New York’s most consequential public authorities, is a powerful testament to what public service, hard work, and a commitment to community can achieve. Our graduates could not have had a more inspiring or relevant voice to send them forward into the next chapter of their lives.”

Dr. Ellen Galligan, secretary of the 17c起草视频 Board of Trustees, delivered opening remarks that framed the day’s milestone in the context of resilience and what comes next. Citing Robert Frost, she reminded graduates that “in three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on” and urged the Class of 2026 to carry forward what they learned in the classroom, along with their determination and adaptability.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of Chancellor’s Awards, SUNY’s highest recognition for outstanding achievement among students and employees.

Elizabeth Green, known to her classmates as Lizzie, received the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. A Liberal Arts major from Monticello and president of the Student Government Association, Green served as a student representative on the college’s President’s Cabinet and was a consistent presence on the Dean’s List. Green often described herself with a simple guiding principle: 鈥淚 am a student first.鈥�

Dr. Chyrise Elizabeth Taylor, director of Nursing programs, received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Professional Service. Under her leadership, the Nursing program expanded from two cohorts to four, adding accelerated LPN-to-RN and evening options while NCLEX pass rates climbed from 38 percent to 86 percent.

Richard Butler, Maintenance supervisor, received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Service. Butler has served 17c起草视频 since 1997, building a reputation for reliability, institutional knowledge, and long-standing dedication to the campus community.

Valedictorian Abigail Parucki drew on a personal injury and recovery she experienced in high school to frame her message to the graduating class.

“17c起草视频 wasn’t just a place where we earned credits; it was a place where we learned how to manage responsibility, how to grow under pressure, and how to keep moving forward even when things felt overwhelming,” said Parucki. “If there’s one thing I hope we all take with us from here, it’s this: you are capable of more than you think.”

Salutatorian Gwenneth Redman, a high school senior at Tri-Valley who completed college coursework alongside her secondary studies as part of 17c起草视频鈥檚 College in the High School program, told graduates that her path to higher education began with a medical crisis at age 12 鈥� a locked jaw that sparked a passion for medicine she has carried ever since.

“None of us know what the future holds, good or bad,” said Redman. “Not all challenges we are forced to overcome have a bad outcome.”

This year’s graduating class included December 2025 graduates, May 2026 graduates, and August 2026 degree candidates. Students earning High Honors achieved GPAs of 3.75 or above; Honors graduates earned GPAs of 3.25 or above.

Earlier in the day, 17c起草视频 recognized graduates from its Nursing, Respiratory Care, Medical Assisting, and Phlebotomy programs during the college’s annual Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony.

The platform party also included State Senator Peter Oberacker, Assemblywoman Paula Kay, Sullivan County Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz and Vice Chair Luis Alvarez, SUNY Trustee Candice Vacin, and members of the 17c起草视频 Board of Trustees.

About 17c起草视频: 17c起草视频 is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, 17c起草视频 offers dozens of degree programs, certificates, and microcredentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.

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Visit Highlights 17c起草视频’s Respiratory Care Program

Original press release published .

State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. today visited Sullivan County Community College as part of the SUNY Reconnect Tour. Chancellor King has been visiting SUNY community colleges throughout the state to promote New York’s free community college program for adult learners, which officially began at the start of Fall 2025 classes. Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect initiative, New York State is providing free tuition, fees, books, and supplies for adults ages 25-55 who don’t already have a college degree and want to pursue an associate degree in high-demand fields.

“SUNY Reconnect is giving more adult learners throughout New York State the opportunity to achieve upward mobility and success,” said SUNY Chancellor King. “Through access to a high-quality, engaging education, campuses like 17c起草视频 are providing students with life-changing opportunities. I commend the campus for its outstanding offerings and support of our adult learners.”

The SUNY Board of Trustees said, “Governor Hochul’s transformative SUNY Reconnect program has opened doors for thousands of adult learners seeking to unleash their full potential through pursuing a degree in a high-demand field. We are proud to work with Governor Hochul on this initiative and thank her and state leaders for their unwavering support of SUNY’s adult learners.”

During his visit, Chancellor King highlighted SUNY Sullivan’s Respiratory Care program, which is eligible for SUNY Reconnect. SUNY Reconnect ensures that students receive enough financial aid and support services, including a single point of contact, extended hours, and prep courses, to complete their associate degrees. To learn more about the SUNY Reconnect degree programs available at SUNY Sullivan, visit /freecc/.

Chancellor King also toured 17c起草视频’s ATTAIN Lab, a resource providing free computer access, high-speed internet, digital literacy training, and GED preparation for any resident who needs it, whether they come to campus or connect from home. For adults who have not been able to access education and employment due to a lack of technology skills or a missing credential, the ATTAIN Lab is the first step on a clear pathway, from digital literacy to GED completion to college enrollment through the Sullivan County Promise Scholarship. For more information about SUNY ATTAIN please visit .

SUNY Sullivan President David Potash said, “SUNY Reconnect has changed the conversation about who college is for in Sullivan County. The answer is everyone. Adults who had given up on the idea of a degree are enrolling, succeeding, and building better futures for themselves and their families. This program is one of the most important things happening at this college right now, and its potential to transform educational attainment and workforce capacity in Sullivan County is extraordinary.”

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “Eligible adults looking to expand their skills can open doors with a free associates degree in high-demand fields including nursing and respiratory care. I applaud Governor Hochul for her continued investment in programs like SUNY Reconnect that create pathways to great-paying careers and ensure that New York State has a skilled and educated workforce to support its communities.”

Doris B. Gonz谩lez, Acting President of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation said, “SUNY Reconnect is a transformative initiative that not only opens doors for adult learners but also strengthens New York’s workforce in critical fields. I commend Governor Hochul for her vision in launching this program and Chancellor King for championing its impact across the state. 17c起草视频’s commitment to providing high-quality education and resources ensures that students are equipped to meet the demands of our healthcare system, addressing workforce shortages while building a brighter future for our communities.”

State Senator Peter Oberacker said, “SUNY Reconnect is a game-changer for adult learners across our region, opening doors that were once out of reach. Programs like 17c起草视频’s Respiratory Care track and the ATTAIN Lab are meeting people where they are; providing the skills, support, and second chances that lead directly to good-paying, in-demand careers. Chancellor King’s visit underscores the importance of expanding workforce development and educational opportunity here in Sullivan County and across New York.”

Sullivan County Legislature Chair Nadia Rajsz said, “Sullivan County has a healthcare workforce shortage, and SUNY Reconnect is one of the most direct tools we have to address it. Adults who want to become nurses, respiratory care specialists, or medical assistants can now pursue those credentials at 17c起草视频 completely free of charge. That is good for our residents, good for our healthcare system, and good for the long-term health of this county. The Legislature fully supports this program and encourages every eligible adult in Sullivan County to take advantage of it.”

To support the success of SUNY Reconnect, SUNY has: 

• Allocated $4 million to community colleges to support SUNY Reconnect programmatic implementation through advising, enrollment, outreach, award of credit for prior learning, and other student services, supports, and campus operations. 17c起草视频 received $100,000 and has expanded staffing to include a full-time adult navigator role; provided funding for staff to focus on adult recruitment and admissions; developed a tailored adult learner marketing outreach campaign; offset student costs for Credit for Prior Learning awards; invested in the adult student lounge with evening and weekend offerings; and provided professional development for faculty and staff to best serve adult students.
• Provided an additional $1 million to cover equipment, materials, supplies, and other one-time needs to increase student enrollment, through which 17c起草视频 is using its $35,000 allotment to invest in nursing and allied health programs including renovation of a new classroom lab for the medical assistant program; expand capacity in the respiratory therapy program with a new polysomnography class and equipment upgrades; and add an additional cohort in the nursing program with Nursing suite upgrades.
• Announced $1.1 million in grant funding for the聽to help community colleges increase access and ensure degree completion for adult learners. The campus received a $50,000 grant to participate in the Adult Learner Leadership initiative and is using the funds to expand the use of Credit for Prior Learning to help recruit students into programs; create targeted social media, email, and print campaigns with relevant messaging for adult demographics; expand services and supports to evenings and weekends and transition key programs to include fully online options; and expand co-requisite supports in Math and English including tutoring services.

SUNY Reconnect funds degrees in high-demand fields including:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Engineering
• Technology
• Nursing and Allied Health Fields
• Green and Renewable Energy
• Pathways to Teaching in Shortage Areas

Governor Hochul’s FY2026-27 Executive Budget expands SUNY Reconnect to include careers in logistics, air traffic control and transportation, and emergency management, as well as to make it easier for adult learners to return to college to pursue nursing if they already have a prior degree.

Since the May 2025 launch of  for adult learners in New York State, Chancellor King visited SUNY community colleges to promote the program as part of the SUNY Reconnect tour. The tour, which , has included visits to , , , , , , , , , , , ,  ,   ,  , , and .

17c起草视频 is proud to announce that Elizabeth Green, a second-year Liberal Arts and Sciences student from Monticello, New York, has been named a recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, the highest honor the State University of New York bestows upon its students for academic achievement and leadership.

Green is one of 205 students from all 64 SUNY campuses to receive the prestigious recognition this year. Recipients are selected by the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence Selection Committee based on outstanding achievements in academics, leadership, diversity and inclusion, campus involvement, civic engagement, research, and the arts.

“It is an honor to receive the Chancellor’s award,鈥� said Elizabeth Green. 鈥淚t is proof that hard work and dedication pays off. It wouldn’t be possible without the support and uplifting spirit of the students, faculty and staff at 17c起草视频 that encourage me to go above and beyond. I can only hope this motivates fellow and future students to succeed and achieve their dreams.鈥�

“Elizabeth is exactly the kind of student who makes 17c起草视频 proud,” said President Dr. David Potash. “She came to this college committed to growing as a leader and to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the students around her and that is precisely what she has done. This recognition from Chancellor King is well deserved, and we cannot wait to see where her journey takes her next.”

A Monticello native, Green is currently exploring her career goals, including the possibility of pursuing a career in teaching. She plans to transfer to a four-year institution to study history upon completing her degree at 17c起草视频. Throughout her time at the college, she has demonstrated a consistent commitment to leadership, a genuine investment in the student experience, and a willingness to challenge herself in new ways.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said the award reflects the very best of what SUNY students represent. “The students who have earned this recognition have inspired their classmates, their educators, their campuses and me with their inspiring work, tenacious drive, and dedication to their academic success. I commend each of the awardees and thank them for being examples for others to follow.”

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence celebration was held in Albany, with keynote remarks delivered by Shomari A. James, a SUNY Buffalo State University alumnus and Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Equity Now, Inc., a nonprofit advancing financial education and generational wealth-building in schools and communities. James offered a message that resonated deeply with the spirit of Green’s own journey: “This recognition is not the finish line 鈥� it is the launchpad.”

Each SUNY campus is permitted to submit between two and fifteen nominations for the award depending on campus size. While there is no minimum GPA requirement, candidates are expected to have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and meaningful leadership contributions to their campus community.

Elizabeth Green’s recognition is a reflection of both her individual achievement and the broader commitment of 17c起草视频 to nurturing students who are prepared not just to earn a credential, but to lead in their classrooms, in their communities, and in their careers.

For more information about 17c起草视频 and its academic programs, visit  or call (845) 434-5750.

About 17c起草视频: 17c起草视频 is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, 17c起草视频 offers dozens of degree programs, certificates, and microcredentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.

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Adult learners in Sullivan County now have a groundbreaking opportunity to earn an associate degree tuition-free at 17c起草视频 starting this fall. Thanks to Governor Hochul鈥檚 SUNY Reconnect Scholarship, part of the New York State Opportunity Scholarship Program, eligible individuals aged 25-55 without a prior college degree can have their tuition, fees, books, and supplies fully covered while pursuing degrees in high-demand fields.

This initiative will empower residents to gain valuable skills and advance their careers. 17c起草视频 is prepared to welcome eligible students into a range of programs designed for success in today鈥檚 job market. Information sessions will be held throughout the summer to assist interested individuals with the application process. Details can also be found at .

“Governor Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect removes the financial barriers that can prevent adults from taking advantage of higher education and all that it offers,” said 17c起草视频 President Dr. David Potash. “17c起草视频 is ready and eager to support adult students to gain education and jobs through this outstanding program.”

Eligible degree programs under SUNY Reconnect at 17c起草视频 for the Fall 2025 semester include:

• Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Counseling AAS
• Computer Programming AAS
• Computer Information Systems AAS
• Construction Technology AOS
• Green Building Technology AAS
• Liberal Arts & Sciences: Childhood Education AA (pathway to teaching)
• Medical Assistant AAS
• Nursing AAS
• Respiratory Care AAS

The SUNY Reconnect program at 17c起草视频 offers a significant advantage to the many adults in the region seeking to enhance their skills or change career paths. By removing the burden of tuition, fees, books, and supplies (after applicable financial aid), the program allows students to focus on their studies and achieve their educational goals. 17c起草视频 will also provide dedicated advising and support services to ensure student success. These programs align with industries experiencing significant growth in New York State and offer strong career prospects for graduates. 

“17c起草视频 provides high quality education to meet the evolving needs of our regional workforce,” said Potash. “SUNY Reconnect is a game changer, opening doors and opportunities.”

For more information, visit .

About 17c起草视频: 17c起草视频 is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Its diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, 17c起草视频 offers over 40 degree programs, certificates, and micro-credentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. Its team values critical inquiry and creativity while supporting its students in a culture of inclusion and respect.