Wallace, a resident of Pine Bush, N.Y. and a graduate of Pine Bush Central High School, has recently graduated from 17c起草视频 with an associate degree in criminal justice. She has since matriculated to the University at Albany’s bachelor of arts criminal justice program.

鈥淎s I continue my journey in criminal justice, I’m driven by a deep understanding of the societal impact of the system,鈥� said Wallace. 鈥淚 recognize that the justice system affects not just individuals, but families, communities, and society as a whole. That’s why I’m committed to approaching my work with empathy and compassion, particularly when it comes to vulnerable populations like children.鈥�

Wallace expressed deep appreciation for the scholarship鈥檚 impact on her educational journey.

鈥淚 would like to stress that none of my goals would be as obtainable had I not received the scholarship,鈥� Wallace said. 鈥淚 am in need of financial support, and I am eternally grateful for the assistance I have received from 17c起草视频 and the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation.鈥�

鈥淲e are thrilled to be able to assist Justina Wallace as she pursues the next step in her educational career,鈥� said Jim Gleason, a cofounder and current board member of the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation. 鈥淭he WLNF is committed to helping students in our community reach their potential, and we wish her well as she pursues her degree at SUNY Albany.鈥�

The Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation Transfer Scholarship, established in 2024 in partnership with the 17c起草视频 Foundation, provides a one-time $5,000 award to 17c起草视频 graduates who transfer to a State University of New York (SUNY) institution to complete their bachelor’s degree. The scholarship can be applied toward tuition, housing, textbooks, fees, or other educational expenses, easing the financial transition for deserving students like Wallace.

For more information about the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation Transfer Scholarship Program, contact the 17c起草视频 Foundation by calling (845) 434-5750 x3188 or emailing foundation@sunysullivan.edu.

About the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation:鈥‥stablished in 2022, the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation (WLNF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization comprised of Wolf Lake homeowners dedicated to philanthropic activities benefiting the towns of Thompson and Mamakating. Visit for more information.

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.

17c起草视频 is thrilled to welcome back the Metropolitan Opera鈥檚 award-winning 鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� series to Seelig Theatre for the 2025-26 season, presented as part of the 17c起草视频 Foundation鈥檚 Community Cultural Connections series. The series begins on Saturday, November 8, with a live simulcast of Giacomo Puccini鈥檚 timeless masterpiece 鈥淟a Boh猫me鈥� (Franco Zeffirelli鈥檚 production), starring Juliana Grigoryan and Freddie De Tommaso. The season continues on Saturday, November 22, with Richard Strauss鈥檚 elegant romance 鈥淎rabella鈥� (directed by Otto Schenk), featuring Rachel Willis-S酶rensen in the title role.

17c起草视频 is also delighted to present a special encore transmission of Amadeus Mozart鈥檚 beloved holiday classic 鈥淭he Magic Flute鈥� on Saturday, December 6. This screening features the December 30, 2006, performance directed by Julie Taymor鈥攁 family-friendly favorite that has become a holiday tradition for opera lovers around the world.

鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� season continues with a revival of Umberto Giordano鈥檚 passionate tragedy 鈥淎ndrea Ch茅nier,鈥� starring Piotr Becza艂a and Sonya Yoncheva; the first new Met production in nearly 50 years of Vincenzo Bellini鈥檚 final masterpiece, 鈥淚 Puritani,鈥� directed by Charles Edwards and conducted by Marco Armiliato; and a special Valentine鈥檚 Day encore of Jules Massenet鈥檚 鈥淐inderella鈥� (2022), featuring Isabel Leonard in an abridged English adaptation by Kelley Rourke.

Later in the season, audiences can look forward to Richard Wagner鈥檚 鈥淭ristan und Isolde,鈥� starring Lise Davidsen as Isolde and Michael Spyres as Tristan; Pyotr Tchaikovsky鈥檚 鈥淓ugene Onegin,鈥� with Asmik Grigorian as the lovestruck Tatiana; and the Met premiere of 鈥淓l 脷ltimo Sue帽o de Frida y Diego,鈥� composed by Gabriela Lena Frank with a libretto by Pulitzer Prize鈥搘inner Nilo Cruz.

2025鈥�26 Seelig Theatre Schedule

• Saturday, November 8, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淟a Boh猫me鈥� (Puccini)
• Saturday, November 聽22, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淎rabella鈥� (Strauss)
• Saturday, December 6, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淭he Magic Flute鈥� (Mozart)
  • (Encore performance from 2006 鈥� family-friendly holiday production directed by Julie Taymor)
• Saturday, December 13, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淎ndrea Ch茅nier鈥� (Giordano)
• Saturday, January 10, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淚 Puritani鈥� (Bellini)
• Saturday, February 14, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淐inderella鈥� (Massenet)
  • (Encore performance from 2022 鈥� Valentine鈥檚 Day family-friendly production in English)
• Saturday, March 21, 12 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淭ristan und Isolde鈥� (Wagner)
  • (Note earlier start time)
• Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淓ugene Onegin” (Tchaikovsky)
• Saturday, May 30, 1 p.m. 鈥� 鈥淓l 脷ltimo Sue帽o de Frida y Diego鈥� (Gabriela Lena Frank)
  • (Debut/premiere production)

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and Met Opera members, $10 for students, and $5 for children under 5. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at , and will also be sold at the Seelig Theatre Box Office on the day of the show (cash, checks, and credit cards accepted).

The doors and the box office will be open 30 minutes before the listed showtime. All screenings except for 鈥淭he Magic Flute鈥� and 鈥淐inderella鈥� are simulcasts of live performances and will start promptly as listed.

About The Met: Live in HD: 鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� is a Peabody- and Emmy Award鈥搘inning series that brings world-class opera performances to cinemas and theaters across the globe. 鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� series is made possible by a generous grant from its founding sponsor, the Neubauer Family Foundation. Digital support of 鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� is provided by Bloomberg Philanthropies. 鈥淭he Met: Live in HD鈥� series is in partnership with Rolex.

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 our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.

About the 17c起草视频 Foundation: The 17c起草视频 Foundation supports the mission and advancement of 17c起草视频 through fundraising, scholarships, and community partnerships. By connecting donors and regional organizations with opportunities to invest in student success, the Foundation helps expand access to education and enrich cultural life in Sullivan County. Through initiatives like the Community Cultural Connections Series, the Foundation also brings world-class performances and programming to the campus and the broader Catskills community. Learn more at .

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The 17c起草视频 Foundation is proud to present 鈥淓xcerpts & Conversation鈥� with award-winning journalists Martin Smith and Marcela Gaviria in an in-person presentation of the critically acclaimed PBS Frontline documentary, “China, the U.S. & the Rise of Xi Jinping.鈥� In a unique format moderated by Ultan Guilfoyle, the audience will gain firsthand perspectives on the making of this powerful film, the ascent of China’s influential leader, Xi Jinping, his impact on China, and relations with the U.S. and the world. The event will take place on Thursday, June 26, at 6 p.m. in 17c起草视频鈥檚 Seelig Theatre.

Tickets for the screening and question and answer session are $75; there will be a coffee reception following the screening. There will also be a pre-screening meet and greet cocktail reception with the filmmakers starting at 4:30 p.m., for which tickets are $150. Tickets can be purchased online at sunysullivan.edu/excerpts-conversation/. 

All proceeds from this event will benefit the 17c起草视频 Foundation, which plays a critical role in sustaining 17c起草视频 as an accessible and affordable institution of higher education in Sullivan County.

鈥淭his is an incredible opportunity for our community to engage with vital global issues through the lens of award-winning investigative journalism,鈥� said 17c起草视频 Foundation Chairman Jose Herrera. 鈥淭he evening with Martin Smith and Marcela Gaviria promises to be a truly illuminating experience.鈥�

Smith and Gaviria are veteran PBS FRONTLINE journalists and producing partners with RAINmedia, an independent documentary production company based in Livingston Manor, N.Y. Their impactful films, many produced and reported for PBS FRONTLINE, have covered the most significant news events of our time. Since founding RAINmedia, Smith and Gaviria have produced and reported over 50 hours for . RAINmedia鈥檚 films have won every major award in broadcast journalism, including multiple Emmys, duPont-Columbia Gold Batons, George Polk Awards, Peabody Awards, Overseas Press Club Awards, and Writers Guild Awards. RAINmedia is committed to powerful storytelling, exceptional production values, and intelligent reporting.

Guilfoyle, former director of film and video production at the Guggenheim Museum, co-curated the blockbuster 鈥淭he Art of the Motorcycle鈥� exhibition. A filmmaker who began his career at the BBC, his award-winning films have been shown on major networks in the U.S. and UK. He also writes about design and architecture.

鈥淓xcerpts & Conversation鈥� marks the exciting launch of 17c起草视频’s Cultural Connections series. The series will serve as an ongoing platform for a wide array of cultural experiences at 17c起草视频, including performances, readings, talks, music, screenings, and more. 

鈥淲e’re thrilled to launch Cultural Connections with Martin Smith and Marcela Gaviria’s documentary,鈥� said 17c起草视频 President Dr. David Potash. 鈥淚t is a timely and fascinating look at China and the U.S. I can’t think of a better way to start an exciting series of events that are grounded in connectivity and our community.鈥�

Sponsorships are available for this event. For more details about tickets, the event, sponsorships, or for any other details, please visit sunysullivan.edu/excerpts-conversation or contact the 17c起草视频 Foundation at 845-434-5750 x3188 or via email at foundation@sunysullivan.edu.

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 microcredentials 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.

About the 17c起草视频 Foundation: The 17c起草视频 Foundation seeks and secures private funds to supplement the College鈥檚 traditional revenue sources. Through ongoing efforts, it provides scholarship assistance, funding for equipment, enrichment programs, and the ability to enhance and strengthen selected academic areas and programs that prepare students for life after formal education. The Foundation was formed under the provisions of Section 216 of the Education Law and Section 404, subdivision (d) of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law. The Foundation is governed by an independent Board of Directors.

Golf enthusiasts and community supporters are invited to participate in a friendly day of golf amidst the natural beauty of the Catskills. The tournament provides a vital opportunity to directly contribute to the 17c起草视频 Foundation’s ongoing efforts to empower local students and strengthen the community.

“We are honored to host this year鈥檚 golf tournament in support of the 17c起草视频 Foundation鈥攁n institution that plays a vital role in empowering students, strengthening our workforce, and building a brighter future for our entire region,鈥� said 17c起草视频 Foundation Chair Jose Herrera.

Individual golfer registration is $150, and foursomes can register for $600. Doubles and triples are also welcome. The registration fee includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, a gift bag, and participation in the luncheon and awards ceremony.

For those who prefer to support the cause without hitting the links, a $100 ticket is available to attend the luncheon and awards ceremony at 2 p.m. in Wulff鈥檚 Banquet Room. This provides a chance to network with community members and participate in a silent auction.

“We are pleased to invite you to participate in our annual golf tournament鈥攁n enjoyable event that brings together enthusiasts and professionals for a day of camaraderie and sportsmanship on the green,鈥� said 17c起草视频 President Dr. David Potash.

A special accommodation rate is available for golfers wishing to stay overnight at Roscoe Mountain Club on Sunday or Monday. Interested individuals can contact the club directly for booking details.

All proceeds from the Sullivan Cup Golf Tournament will directly benefit the 17c起草视频 Foundation, which plays a critical role in providing scholarships and resources that make 17c起草视频 accessible to a wide range of students.

Local businesses and individuals can further support 17c起草视频 by becoming a Sullivan Cup Sponsor. Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, including SPONSOR ($5,000), PATRON ($2,500), CONTRIBUTOR ($1,000), SUPPORTER ($500), and BOOSTER ($250).

Interested participants and sponsors are encouraged to register early as space is limited. Registration and sponsorship forms can be downloaded at . Completed forms and checks can be mailed in, or individuals can register and secure sponsorships online.

For more information about the Sullivan Cup Golf Tournament or sponsorship opportunities, please contact the 17c起草视频 Foundation at 845-434-5750 x3188 or via email at foundation@sunysullivan.edu.

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 our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.

About the 17c起草视频 Foundation: The 17c起草视频 Foundation seeks and secures private funds to supplement the College鈥檚 traditional revenue sources. Through ongoing efforts, it provides scholarship assistance, funding for equipment, enrichment programs, and the ability to enhance and strengthen selected academic areas and programs that prepare students for life after formal education. The Foundation was formed under the provisions of Section 216 of the Education Law and Section 404, subdivision (d) of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law. The Foundation is governed by an independent Board of Directors.

鈥淚 would like to stress that none of my goals would be as obtainable had I not received the scholarship,鈥� Poitras said. 鈥淚 am in need of financial support, and I am eternally grateful for the assistance I have received from 17c起草视频 and the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation.鈥�

The Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation Transfer Scholarship, created in 2024 in partnership with the 17c起草视频 Foundation, is a one-time $5,000 award designed to support 17c起草视频 graduates as they transition to a State University of New York (SUNY) institution to complete their bachelor鈥檚 degrees. The scholarship can be applied to tuition, housing, textbooks, fees, and other expenses, helping students like Poitras achieve their educational goals within SUNY鈥檚 nationally recognized network of institutions across New York State.

Reflecting on his time at 17c起草视频, Poitras shared that he was able to complete his general education requirements and take courses he thoroughly enjoyed. He is continuing his academic journey as he pursues a Bachelor鈥檚 Degree, minoring in history and considering additional minors in business or Middle Eastern studies.

Thanks to the WLNF scholarship, Poitras is also preparing to study abroad next semester with a focus on the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern worlds. 鈥淭his opportunity would not have been possible without the financial support provided by the scholarship,鈥� he explained.

鈥淔ollowing my graduation, I will be pursuing a graduate program, either at Stony Brook or ideally Cornell University,鈥� said Poitras. I will be working towards a Doctoral Degree in Sociology, or a business-oriented degree such as a Master’s of Industrial and Labor Relations.鈥�

For more information about the Wolf Lake Neighbors Foundation Transfer Scholarship Program, please contact Dan Rigney at 17c起草视频 by calling (845) 434-5750 x3188 or emailing drigney@sunysullivan.edu.

鈥淭he Foundation is grateful to have Jeff Bank鈥檚 support,鈥� said Jose Herrera, Foundation Chair. 鈥淭hese funds will certainly enhance the Foundation鈥檚 efforts to rally private support for 17c起草视频鈥檚 programs in the future.鈥�

鈥淛eff Bank is pleased to participate in the FHLBNY鈥檚 2024 Small Business Recovery Grant (SBRG) Program,鈥� said George W. Kinne, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Bank. 鈥淢any very worthy local businesses and non-profits have benefitted from distribution of grant funding obtained through this unique program. We鈥檙e pleased to be able to support the 17c起草视频 Foundation which assists many students and families with scholarships to attend 17c起草视频.鈥� 

“We are grateful to our longtime community partner, Jeff Bank, and past Foundation Board member Jeff Bank President/CEO George Kinne. This grant, obtained through the Federal Home Loan Bank of NY, is deeply appreciated. Jeff Bank and George Kinne are tremendous supporters of 17c起草视频 and many other nonprofits in our community,鈥� said 17c起草视频 President Dr. David Potash.

Jeff Bank has successfully secured SBRG funding to assist local non-profits as they navigate economic challenges, including rising interest rates, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and increasing energy costs.

The 17c起草视频 Foundation remains committed to enhancing educational opportunities for students through scholarships, program funding, and strategic initiatives that prepare students for success in their careers and communities. This funding will enhance the work of the Foundation as it continues its mission to support 17c起草视频’s educational programs and initiatives.

For more information about the 17c起草视频 Foundation or to make a donation, please visit sunysullivan.edu/foundation/where-to-give/, or contact Dan Rigney at Foundation@sunysullivan.edu, or call 845-434-5750, ext.3188.

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. For more information, please go to SUNYSullivan.edu.

By now many Hudson Valley residents are pretty wary of harmful algal blooms in area waterbodies and the health impacts they can have on humans and pets. This month 17c起草视频 Green Building Technology major Dominique Etienne will travel to Phoenix, AZ, to present the results of her research on these algal blooms or CyanoHABs at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Students (ABRCMS).

Etienne鈥檚 poster talk, “The Effects of Climate Change on CyanoHABs,鈥� explored the impact that seasonal temperature changes can have on these algal blooms or CyanoHABs. Her study is the result of research she did this past summer in the Bridges to the Baccalaureate Program at SUNY Purchase, a paid eight-week summer research program funded by the .

鈥淢y project was very interesting to me because we really looked into the human and environmental causes and impacts of harmful algal blooms and CyanoHABs,鈥� said Etienne. 鈥淭he Bridges program did a really good job of preparing us for everything that we did. For example, we had our first practice symposium recorded so we could watch our feedback and we talked with the mentors on how we could improve ourselves. The feedback and repetitive practicing really made me improve throughout the program so I feel that I’m ready for ABRCMS!鈥�

鈥淚’m so happy that I get to be part of Dominique’s experience at 17c起草视频,鈥� said 17c起草视频 Bridges Program Coordinator Kathryn Scullion. 鈥淚’m proud of the research she has done through the Bridges Program and thrilled that she was chosen to present her work at ABRCMS. I feel very fortunate that she works in the labs with me and participates in the Garden Club because she’s so hardworking, intuitive, and inquisitive, and just a pleasure to be around.鈥�

In addition to her studies at 17c起草视频, Etienne, a Middletown resident, works in the science labs, is a member of the Garden Club, and is interested in the Crochet, Art, and Gaming clubs. She also likes to hike on the campus鈥檚 nature trails.

鈥淟ife at 17c起草视频 for me is super fun and educational, and my professors have been super helpful with providing me support when I reach out to them with questions I have with coursework and provide me with extracurricular opportunities like the Bridges program,鈥� said Etienne, who hopes to work in the sustainability field after she graduates.

For over 20 years, the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS) has been the go-to conference for historically excluded community college, undergraduate, and postbaccalaureate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Bridges to the Baccalaureate Program is an intensive eight-week summer research program at SUNY Purchase for underrepresented community college students interested in science seeking hands-on research experience. The program includes on-campus housing, a $4,800 stipend, professional development, workshops, and off-campus field trips. Interested 17c起草视频 students should contact Bridges Program Coordinator Kathryn Scullion at . For more information about the program, 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. 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 over 40 degree programs, certificates, and micro-credentials 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. sunysullivan.edu.

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November 10, 2023

鈥淲hen I got here, I didn鈥檛 know any English at all,鈥� said Velasquez, who was born in New Jersey and moved to Honduras with his mother at a young age. 鈥淚 felt helpless. It was a hard time for me. I鈥檓 the kind of person who always tries to do my best, but, when I got here, I couldn鈥檛 do anything. Then I met Valerie.鈥�

Valerie Brescia, then a tutor and coordinator for the newly established 17c起草视频 Liberty Partnerships Program, is now Director of the Program, which is part of the statewide Liberty Partnership Program (LPP). 17c起草视频 LPP and its community-based partners help underserved and underperforming area youth become college- and career-ready, through a Summer Program, as well as year-round mentoring, tutoring, study skills classes, ESL support, field trips, and admissions and financial aid workshops. In 2023, 17c起草视频 LPP served 300 plus students in Liberty and Monticello school districts and Sullivan County BOCES.

After meeting Brescia in 2017, Velasquez became one of 17c起草视频 LPP鈥檚 first students.

鈥淪he spoke to me in Spanish, and it was such a relief to me to have someone speaking Spanish to me,鈥� said Velasquez, who was determined to learn English. 鈥淚 remember staying after school till 7:30 at night. Val really helped me. She was so nice to me and so patient with me. If I didn鈥檛 receive that help from LPP, I don鈥檛 think I would be speaking English that much.鈥�

Fast forward six years, and Velasquez is now a 17c起草视频 graduate, and has been a bilingual mentor and tutor for 17c起草视频 LPP for two years. He earned his Liberal Arts and Sciences degree while going to school full-time, living on his own with a younger brother, and working two jobs. He also often works as a translator at 17c起草视频 admissions, orientation, and other events. This past April, Velasquez attended the statewide Liberty Partnership Program鈥檚 Empire Promise Youth Summit in Albany as a mentor and LPP program alumnus.

鈥淗e’s become everything and more than I thought he could become when I met him in 2017,鈥� said Brescia. 鈥淗e鈥檚 a self-made person who knows when to ask for help but who puts the legwork and miles in to make himself successful.鈥�

鈥�17c起草视频 has brought me the opportunity to have a career,鈥� said Velasquez. 鈥淚 will always be grateful for that.鈥�

This summer, Velasquez is working with local students in LPP鈥檚 six-week Summer Program, which provides career and academic support, tours of the College, and financial literacy, nutrition, team-building, healthy relationships, and other programs to local middle and high school students. More than 50 students from Liberty and Monticello school districts and Sullivan County BOCES are participating this summer.

In addition to being a model for students, Brescia and others in the Summer Program say Velasquez has a great personal impact on the students鈥� experiences in the program, getting them to open up and engage in activities, especially students who know little English.

鈥淚 think he鈥檚 a hell of a mentor,鈥� said Junior Sanchez, a facilitator with Follow Us to Success, one of the Summer Program鈥檚 partners. 鈥淗e gets these kids to understand that he鈥檚 been there before, and, if he can do it, they can do it. He鈥檚 paved the way for a lot of them.鈥�

鈥淚 feel like I鈥檓 giving back what I once was given,鈥� said Velasquez, who said he understands what it鈥檚 like to struggle. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not easy to get rid of that feeling that you don鈥檛 fit in. Maybe I can make a tiny small change in one person鈥檚 life or mindset.鈥�

During the school year, Velazquez has worked for LPP as a bilingual, science, and math tutor in local school districts. This past year he worked with students in Liberty Central School District. Markella Nikolis, a school counselor at Liberty High School, said Velasquez鈥檚 kind and helpful approach has had a big impact on Liberty students. 

鈥淓nrique easily became part of our school community,鈥� said Nikolis, a school counselor at Liberty High School, 鈥淗e understands how to reach all of our students no matter their learning style, background, or ability.鈥�

Liberty Superintendent Dr. Patrick I. Sullivan said the benefits of the district鈥檚 partnership with LPP go beyond the classroom.

鈥淭he impact of our collaboration with 17c起草视频鈥檚 Liberty Partnership Program goes beyond the years our students attend Liberty Central Schools,鈥� said Sullivan. 鈥淲e appreciate the collaborative relationship with LPP, and all that it does for our students within our hallways and beyond.鈥�

Looking to the future, Velasquez said he will likely take a semester off, but that he hopes to pursue a four-year degree, likely in sciences, especially astronomy. For now, he will continue working for LPP and at his night and weekend job at Walmart in Monticello. Always eager to learn more, he鈥檚 also been studying French in the evening through an online program.

鈥淚t’s just a great opportunity, like a key to open up a door for more knowledge,鈥� said Velasquez, who said he is eager to learn more about other cultures. 鈥淢y way of thinking is why not learn something? Why not read a book? Why not become the better version of yourself?鈥�

Brescia calls Velasquez the 鈥渢utor who wears a cape.鈥�

鈥淗e鈥檚 a lot of people鈥檚 hero. He鈥檚 one of my heroes,鈥� said Brescia, who is quick to say that all her staff wear capes. 鈥淚鈥檓 blessed with a great staff.鈥�

For more information on 17c起草视频 LPP, visit sunysullivan.edu/liberty-partnerships-program.

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August 11, 2023.

鈥淚t was scary to go back at 55, but having Trey with me made it so much easier and eventually super comfortable and even great,鈥� said Ramona. 鈥淚 wouldn’t have had that much courage to go back without him. It was nerve-racking to begin with but doing it with my son was extraordinarily exhilarating鈥�

鈥淲e are pretty close and going to school together was unlike the usual mom-son relationship,鈥� said Trevon or 鈥淭rey,鈥� a Monticello High School graduate, who was also a guard for the men鈥檚 Generals basketball team. 鈥淲e were mom-son friends and classmates. We did assignments and homework together, and if either of us struggled, we could really help because we were both in it.鈥� 

Trey said attending college with his mom pushed him to work harder and do better. Ramona said her son made the experience less daunting.

鈥淪he showed me how to hand in quality work, push myself beyond the norm, and think outside my comfort zone,鈥� said Trey, who added that he鈥檚 especially proud of his mom for graduating with honors. 鈥淚’m proud of myself but beyond proud of her! Graduating with my mom was extra amazing.鈥�

鈥淏eing with Trey helped me feel young again and not out of place or awkward,鈥� said Ramona. 鈥淚’ll be forever grateful, and I will hold this time close to me when he leaves home for the first time ever in August for his next chapter.鈥�

The Grays both earned Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in Business Administration. Ramona earned her degree with honors. Trey is heading to Morris College in South Carolina next fall on a full basketball scholarship and plans to complete his business degree. 鈥淚t鈥檚 over-the-top exciting,鈥� said Trey, adding that he plans (after playing in the NBA) to open his own sports management company.

While she had been aiming to become store manager at her job at Dunkin Donuts, Ramona said her 17c起草视频 degree and courses have empowered her to aim higher.

鈥淢y plan for the future is to become an HR manager,鈥� said Ramona, who took a Human Resources Management course as part of her degree program.聽

Trey and Ramona said their favorite professor was Simon Clement, an assistant professor at the Catskill Hospitality Institute and an assistant coach for the men鈥檚 basketball team. The Grays took courses together with Clement in each of their four semesters. 鈥淗e really helped us both out so much,鈥� said Trey.

Clement said it was unique and inspiring to see a mother and son working towards their degrees and furthering their education at the same time. 

鈥淏oth Ramona and Trevon were the type of students a teacher could get excited about teaching; they would work well in groups together, but individually they also brought conflicting views to the classroom that would initiate passionate and entertaining debates on different topics,鈥� said Clement. 鈥淓arly on in my classes, I would notice many of the younger students referring to Ramona passionately as ‘mother’ when working together or getting advice, but I was completely surprised when she told me that Trevon was in fact her son and not just a fellow student who looked up to her.  It was great to see them push each other to do better and take a similar interest in each other’s education and success.鈥�

Ramona also wanted to acknowledge Liberal Arts, Sciences & Health Sciences Professor Amy Colon. 鈥淪he was our history teacher for two different history classes, and she and I really hit it off and related to one another,鈥� said Ramona. 鈥淪he made me feel super comfortable and welcomed me sharing my wisdom and experiences with her students, some of who I tutored. She is amazing.鈥�

Catskill Hospitality Institute Director Justine Hoskin said that the Institute offers many in-person classes throughout the week and also many online courses to accommodate students鈥� individual needs and busy schedules. 

鈥淭he programs within the Catskill Hospitality Institute are created to keep the thought of 鈥榦ngoing education鈥� in mind,鈥� said Hoskin. 鈥淲hether you just graduated high school and know you want to start at 17c起草视频 with a hireable and transferable degree, or you have decided to pick up classes to further yourself once you have entered the workforce, we are here for just that. We have many adult learners in the program who are here on their own accord or through their employer, supporting their growth.鈥�

The Catskill Hospitality Institute at 17c起草视频 offers courses, programs of study and degrees in Business and Entrepreneurship, Hospitality and Tourism, and Culinary Arts. Two of the Institute鈥檚 courses, Human Resource Management and Principles of Management, are among many courses being offered during Session 2 of 17c起草视频鈥檚 Summer Sessions, which begins July 11. For more information, visit sunysullivan.edu/summer2023. 

Registration for Fall 2023 is also underway. Classes begin August 30. Learn more about courses, admissions, and financial aid opportunities at sunysullivan.edu. Established by the Sullivan County Legislature, the Sullivan Promise Scholarship provides eligible Sullivan County residents who earn a high school diploma or GED in 2023 the opportunity to receive free tuition and fees at 17c起草视频 for up to two years of full-time study. Learn more at sunysullivan.edu/sullivan-promise-scholarship. 

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 over 40 degree programs, certificates, and micro-credentials 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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June 22, 2023 

SUNY Chancellor鈥檚 Award for Student Excellence 鈥� Haddy Gai

SUNY Chancellor鈥檚 Award for Student Excellence 鈥� Roxanne Dastparvardeh

SUNY Chancellor鈥檚 Award for Excellence in Faculty Service 鈥� Jessica Lopez-Barkl, Associate Professor, Liberal Arts, Sciences and Health Sciences

SUNY Chancellor鈥檚 Award for Excellence in Professional Service 鈥� Andrew Becker, Director of Institutional Research and Acting Director of Institutional Technology

SUNY Chancellor鈥檚 Award for Excellence in Classified Service 鈥� Lou Russell, Buildings & Grounds Maintenance Worker

Bridges to the Baccalaureate Summer Research Program

Mauro David Cortina

17c起草视频鈥檚 2023 Academic Awards: In Recognition of the College鈥檚 Outstanding Students

Liberal Arts and Sciences, AA 鈥� Stanley Rivas-Cornejo

Business Administration, AAS 鈥� Nabiha Shah Jahan

Business Administration, AS  鈥� Hailey Siegal

Business: Accounting, AAS 鈥� Laura Sandoval-Padilla

Chemistry Achievement Award 鈥� Katherine Schwartz

Computer Graphics/Graphic Design, AAS 鈥� Nathaniel Martinez

Computer Graphics/Graphic Design, AAS 鈥� Kelsey Meyer

Computer Programming, AAS 鈥�  Lizeth Hernandez

Criminal Justice, AAS 鈥� Kayla Giminiani

Human Services, AS 鈥� Michael Noren

Liberal Arts and Sciences: English, AA 鈥� Chase Hook

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities, AA 鈥� Sondra Lee

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Psychology, AS 鈥� Rebecca Smyth

Liberal Arts and Sciences: Childhood Education, AA 鈥� Angela Edwards

Liberal Arts Student Engagement 鈥� Haddy Gai

Medical Assistant, Certificate 鈥� Shawn Gill

Nursing, AAS 鈥� Angelina Pacella

Nurses Pinning 鈥� Debra Wieder

Physical Education Studies, AS 鈥� Macy Shamro

Recreation Leadership, Sports Management, AAS 鈥� Rosselys Bare

Respiratory Care, AAS 鈥� Sean Resto

Nursing Awards

Clinical Excellence: Pamela Cemelli Brinkerhoff, Erika DeGroat, and Elizabeth Paredes

Leadership in Nursing: Ryan Pennell and Megan Medley

Respiratory Care Awards

Lambda Beta Society: Sean Resto and Rosalie Felice

2022鈥�2023 17c起草视频 Athletic Awards

Cross Country

Mary Hartill 鈥� Coaches Award

Austin Heller 鈥� Coaches Award

Kobe Mends 鈥� Coaches Award

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Mary Hartill

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Mary Hartill

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Kobe Mends

Esports

Andrew Palmarini 鈥� MVP

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Andrew Palmarini

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Andrew Palmarini

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Andy Zheng

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Andy Zheng

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Felix Hall

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Felix Hall

Men鈥檚 Basketball

Jay Alvarez 鈥� MVP

Jalen Minto 鈥� Coaches Award

Cameron Gallon 鈥� Most Improved

17c起草视频 Athlete of the Year 鈥� Jay Alvarez

NJCAA Division II 1^st Team All-American Award 鈥� Jay Alvarez

Mid-Hudson Conference First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Jay Alvarez

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Jay Alvarez

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Jay Alvarez

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Cameron Gallon

Mid-Hudson Conference Second Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Kipplyn Richvine

NJCAA Region XV Second Team All-Region Award 鈥� Kipplyn Richvine

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Naquan Pounder

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Naquan Pounder

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Brandon Harris

Mid-Hudson Conference Second Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Jair Currie

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Jair Currie

NJCAA Region XV Sportsmanship Award 鈥� Jalen Minto

JV Men鈥檚 Basketball

Myles DeBrecourt 鈥� Co – MVP

Uriah Ladson 鈥� Co – MVP

Rocco Gutierrez 鈥� Coaches Award

Trevon Gray 鈥� Most Improved

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Kobe Mends

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Oswaldo Rook

Women鈥檚 Basketball

Barbara Bruno 鈥� MVP

Deivejon Harris 鈥� Coaches Award

Tamari Hubbard 鈥� Most Improved

17c起草视频 Athlete of the Year Finalist 鈥� Deivejon Harris

NJCAA Division II 3^rd Team All-American Award 鈥� Deivejon Harris

Mid-Hudson Conference First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Deivejon Harris

Mid-Hudson Conference MVP All-Conference Award – Deivejon Harris

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Deivejon Harris

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Deivejon Harris

NJCAA Region XV Player of the Year Award – Deivejon Harris

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Tamari Hubbard

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Tamari Hubbard

Mid-Hudson Conference First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Brieanna Maple

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Brieanna Maple

Mid-Hudson Conference First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Barbara Bruno

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Barbara Bruno

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Rosselys Bare

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Rosselys Bare

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Haley Peck

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region Award 鈥� Haley Peck

JV Women鈥檚 Basketball

Rosselys Bare 鈥� MVP

Haley Peck 鈥� Coaches Award

Seraiah Dawson 鈥� Most Improved

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Alivia Latham

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Conference 鈥� Alivia Latham

Men鈥檚 Baseball

Andy Rivas 鈥� MVP

Jack Clifford 鈥� Coaches Award

Cameron Mann 鈥� Most Improved

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Jack Clifford

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region 鈥� Jack Clifford

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Jack Clifford

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Nathaniel Coffey

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region 鈥� Nathaniel Coffey

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� David DePew

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region 鈥� David DePew

NJCAA Region XV Sportsmanship Award 鈥� David DePew

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Trey Lugbauer

NJCAA Region XV Academic All-Region 鈥� Trey Lugbauer

NJCAA Region XV Second Team All-Region Award 鈥� Cameron Mann

NJCAA Region XV Gold Glove Team Award 鈥� Cameron Mann

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Region Award 鈥� Austin Napoli

NJCAA Region XV Gold Glove Team Award 鈥� Austin Napoli

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Jordanie Minaya

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Hunter Perrotta

17c起草视频 Athlete of the Year Finalist 鈥� Andy Rivas

Mid-Hudson Conference Academic All-Conference Award 鈥� Andy Rivas

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Andy Rivas

NJCAA Region XV Gold Glove Team Award 鈥� Andy Rivas

NJCAA Region XV First Team All-Conference Award 鈥� Jacob Yager

JV Men鈥檚 Baseball

David DePew 鈥� MVP

Yohander Ubiera 鈥� Coaches Award

Matthew Sanchez 鈥� Most Improved

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 over 40 degree programs, certificates, and micro-credentials 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. For more information, visit sunysullivan.edu. 

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May 10, 2023.