Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
Virginia Tech: Bradley Klein Honored With Emeritus Status
BLACKSBURG, Virginia, May 2 -- Virginia Tech issued the following news:
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Bradley Klein honored with emeritus status
Bradley Klein, associate professor of neuroscience in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, has been conferred the title of associate professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.
The emeritus title may be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy of
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BLACKSBURG, Virginia, May 2 -- Virginia Tech issued the following news:
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Bradley Klein honored with emeritus status
Bradley Klein, associate professor of neuroscience in the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, has been conferred the title of associate professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.
The emeritus title may be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy ofthe resolution and a certificate of appreciation.
A member of the Virginia Tech community for more than 34 years, Klein made significant research contributions to the study of neuroscience. His scholarship includes more than 50 peer-reviewed publications, and he continues as editor-in-chief of the definitive textbook on veterinary physiology that is used by veterinary medicine students around the world.
He guided the laboratory training of seven graduate and seven undergraduate students, many of whom have continued to have impactful careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Klein served on and led department, college, and university committees including over 20 years as chair of the Peer Evaluation of Teaching Committee and chair of the first committee that led to the development of an undergraduate neuroscience curriculum culminating in the establishment of the School of Neuroscience.
He was a longtime member and chair of Virginia Tech's Sigma Xi chapter and was the first associate head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology.
In the classroom, Klein taught a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate classes on the topics of veterinary neuroscience and physiology and received the Carl J. Norden North American Outstanding Teacher Award.
-- Written by Emily Southern '26
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Original text here: https://news.vt.edu/articles/2026/05/vetmed-emeritus-klein.html
Two to Receive University of Wyoming Honorary Degrees
LARAMIE, Wyoming, May 2 -- The University of Wyoming posted the following news:
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Two to Receive UW Honorary Degrees
The University of Wyoming will confer its highest award, the honorary doctoral degree, upon two individuals who will be recognized during UW commencement ceremonies Saturday, May 16.
They are Bob Beck, a veteran media professional and educator who retired from Wyoming Public Media after serving as news director of Wyoming Public Radio for 34 years; and Jay Kemmerer, a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist who led the emergence of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and remains
... Show Full Article
LARAMIE, Wyoming, May 2 -- The University of Wyoming posted the following news:
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Two to Receive UW Honorary Degrees
The University of Wyoming will confer its highest award, the honorary doctoral degree, upon two individuals who will be recognized during UW commencement ceremonies Saturday, May 16.
They are Bob Beck, a veteran media professional and educator who retired from Wyoming Public Media after serving as news director of Wyoming Public Radio for 34 years; and Jay Kemmerer, a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist who led the emergence of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and remainson the board of Jackson Hole Ski Corp.
Beck will receive a Doctor of Letters for the advancement of knowledge in the humanities, including history, philosophy, language, literature, religion, and critical and cultural studies. Kemmerer will receive a Doctor of Humane Letters for service to humanity, society or public service.
UW alumni, current or former trustees and faculty members are eligible to nominate individuals for honorary degrees who embody the university's high ideals; exemplify the values of excellence, service and integrity; and possess distinguished accomplishments in their professions, public service or service to humanity. Submissions are referred to a joint committee of trustees and faculty members, which forwards recommendations to the full Board of Trustees for approval.
"The bestowing of an honorary degree is a cherished tradition at the University of Wyoming," says Michelle Sullivan, chair of the UW Board of Trustees. "It is the ultimate way we show our thanks to those who have made the university, Wyoming and the world a better place. Jay and Bob are both highly deserving of this recognition."
Beck began his broadcast journalism career after earning a Bachelor of Science in radio/TV from Southern Illinois University. He worked as a news and sports broadcaster at stations in Illinois and Wyoming before starting at Wyoming Public Radio in 1988. During his time as news director, Wyoming Public Radio won over 100 national, regional and state news awards.
In addition to his duties as news director, Beck was the co-creator, host and producer of the news magazine "Open Spaces," which won 11 national Public Media Journalist Association (PMJA) awards. He won four individual PMJA awards for reporting and five regional Edward R. Murrow Awards. He also won numerous Associated Press and Wyoming Association of Broadcasters awards.
As an adjunct faculty member at UW for 20 years, Beck mentored generations of students and twice earned the UW Mortar Board "Top Prof" award. He covered the Wyoming Legislature longer than any other broadcaster and documented pivotal events such as the Matthew Shepard murder, the crash that killed eight UW student-athletes and numerous landmark policy debates. Beyond journalism, Beck contributed significantly to the community, co-chairing the Albany County United Way campaign, serving as president of the United Way board and volunteering with numerous nonprofit organizations.
"Bob's impact on the state of Wyoming -- and on generations of journalists -- is immeasurable. He is not only one of the finest journalists this state has ever known, but also one of its most devoted citizens," wrote Jessica Garate, one of Beck's former students who now is the evening anchor at KRQE News 13 in Albuquerque, N.M. "Through his integrity, curiosity and compassion, he elevated Wyoming Public Radio into one of the most respected (National Public Radio) affiliates in the nation. His trusted voice guided Wyoming residents through legislative debates, major state issues and stories that defined our communities for decades."
"Over the course of 34 years, Bob Beck's voice was a daily companion to the thousands of listeners tuning into Wyoming Public Radio. With a confident ease of delivery, Bob brought listeners the news of the day, whether it was the stakes of a statewide election, a critical policy decision by state lawmakers, an approaching blizzard or a Wyoming Cowboys victory," wrote WyoFile's Maggie Mullen, who began her career as a reporter under Beck's mentorship. "In darker times, Bob helped Wyomingites make sense of the world, including the crash that killed eight University of Wyoming athletes and the murder of Matthew Shepard. On both days good and bad, when listeners heard Bob's voice, they knew it was someone they could trust."
Kemmerer, who grew up in New Jersey, has deep Wyoming roots: The Kemmerer family expanded its eastern coal operations to southwest Wyoming in the late 1890s, and the Lincoln County seat was named for Mahlon Kemmerer, Jay Kemmerer's great-grandfather. The Kemmerer mines contributed to the state's revenues and employment in the Kemmerer/Diamondville area for decades.
After earning a Bachelor of Science in business administration and finance from the University of Denver, Kemmerer began his career in 1974 at Chemical Bank (now JP Morgan Chase) in New York before joining The Kemmerer Corp. in 1977. In 1981, Kemmerer and his father, John L. Kemmerer Jr., sold their mining interests to Gulf Oil. Kemmerer led the Kemmerer Bottling Group Inc. in Joliet, Ill., from 1986-1994. He also served as chairman of Burling Instruments Inc. of Chatham, N.J., as well as Mid-American Waste Systems, located in Winchester, Ohio, from 1990-92.
Deciding it would be important to reinvest in Wyoming, Kemmerer joined the board of First Wyoming Bank, the state's largest bank holding company. This enabled him to tour First Wyoming's regional banks while looking for investment opportunities. In 1992, Kemmerer led his family's reinvestment effort with the purchase of the Jackson Hole Ski Corp., which was facing litigation and bankruptcy. This was the beginning of the Kemmerer family's major investments in Wyoming's tourism industry.
Kemmerer's leadership and strategic vision resulted in the emergence of the world-renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which helped make the town of Jackson and Wyoming a major tourist destination. In 1997, he also purchased the CM Ranch near Dubois to preserve the legacy of the historic dude ranch that he visited as a child. Since the sale of the Kemmerer mines, Jay and the Kemmerer Family have invested over $350 million in Wyoming tourism businesses.
"Jay's passion for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, over the past 30 years, has shaped the resort into a haven for mountaineers, extreme sports athletes and skiers of all levels. Under his leadership, (the resort) has become synonymous with excellence in the outdoor recreation and tourism industries, contributing substantially to the reputation and economic vitality of Jackson Hole and Wyoming as a whole," wrote Eric Macy, one of the local investors who purchased the resort from the Kemmerers in 2024. "His impact on the lives of those who cherish Wyoming's natural beauty and embrace outdoor adventure is immeasurable ... What distinguishes Jay Kemmerer are not only his remarkable achievements but also his unique blend of hard work, humility and ambition. He leads by example, inspiring those around him, whether friends, employees or family, with his quiet expertise and genuine warmth. Jay's commitment to excellence, coupled with his profound sense of community, has made him an exemplary figure in both the business world and in the hearts of those who know him."
The Kemmerer family's first involvement with UW was in 1992 when Kemmerer and his father decided to endow four-year, full-ride scholarships to the top high school graduates of Kemmerer and Cokeville high schools. Today, the John L. Kemmerer Jr. Scholarship is awarded to one graduating student each year from Kemmerer and Dubois high schools. Additionally, the Kemmerer Fellowship at UW's Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources is awarded to a graduate student each year.
In 2017, the Haub School had a concept of creating an outdoor recreation and tourism management curriculum, and Kemmerer agreed to fund its development. Since that time, the curriculum and enrollment in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management Program have grown to 73 current students and 53 graduates working in industry across the region and state. In 2024, Kemmerer, through a $5 million gift, created an endowment to name the Jay Kemmerer Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality (WORTH) Institute to help ensure the continued success of the tourism industry in Wyoming.
Under Jay's direction, the Kemmerer family's total philanthropic contributions to the state of Wyoming exceed $30 million.
"His generous backing of student programs and initiatives has changed young people's lives and helped further the University of Wyoming's mission to serve the people and the state of Wyoming," Macy wrote. "Jay's dedication to education and the betterment of the community is a testament to his belief in fostering the next generation of leaders and innovators."
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Original text here: https://www.uwyo.edu/news/2026/05/two-to-receive-uw-honorary-degrees.html
Oakland University Announces Winners of the 38th Annual Nightingale Awards for Nursing Excellence
ROCHESTER, Michigan, May 2 -- Oakland University issued the following news:
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Oakland University announces winners of the 38th annual Nightingale Awards for Nursing Excellence
Oakland University's School of Nursing and its Board of Visitors have announced the 2026 Nightingale Awards for Nursing Excellence winners and runners-up. This year's top nurses in Michigan come from a variety of clinical roles and settings, and are recognized as exceptional in the healthcare field. This year's Nightingale Awards Ceremony will honor 10 winners and 11 runners-up in nine different nursing categories.
... Show Full Article
ROCHESTER, Michigan, May 2 -- Oakland University issued the following news:
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Oakland University announces winners of the 38th annual Nightingale Awards for Nursing Excellence
Oakland University's School of Nursing and its Board of Visitors have announced the 2026 Nightingale Awards for Nursing Excellence winners and runners-up. This year's top nurses in Michigan come from a variety of clinical roles and settings, and are recognized as exceptional in the healthcare field. This year's Nightingale Awards Ceremony will honor 10 winners and 11 runners-up in nine different nursing categories.Awardees are nominated by their peers and supervisors and recognized as exceptional in their nursing roles in both clinical and nonclinical settings.
Oakland University School of Nursing will host this annual celebration of nursing, during National Nurses Week on May 6, 2026.
Thanks to the support from Presenting Sponsor Henry Ford Health, along with the other generous sponsors, individual donations and support from the School of Nursing Board of Visitors, the Nightingale Awards provides future nurses with scholarships, including the Nightingale Legacy Scholarship. This endowed scholarship will be awarded annually to nursing students who display the pioneering spirit of Florence Nightingale.
"We're deeply committed to educating and empowering the next generation of Michigan nurses," said OU School of Nursing Dean Dr. Christopher Lance Coleman. "Today's nurses embody not only the resilience of Florence Nightingale, but also the strength, compassion and innovation required to meet the evolving demands of healthcare. They bring purpose to their practice and a powerful 'why' that drives meaningful change in the lives of patients and communities every day."
The Nightingale Awards Ceremony will be on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in the Oakland Center Ballrooms, on Oakland University's main campus in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Each Nightingale Award winner receives a check for $1,000, a solid bronze statue of Florence Nightingale and a Nightingale pin. Runners-up receive a commemorative plaque.
For more information on the event or to purchase tickets to attend the event, please contact Kristen Damiano in OU School of Nursing at (248) 364-8759 or by email at nightingale@oakland.edu or visit oakland.edu/nursing/nightingale.
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2026 Nightingale Winners/Runners-up
Excellence in Advanced Practice Nursing
Winner: Jenni L. Hoffman, Eastern Michigan University School of Nursing, South Lyon, MI
Runner-Up: Jessica Schmidt, Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, Jackson, MI
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Distinguished Alumni
Winner: Chantelle Feeny, Henry Ford Providence Novi, Northville, MI
Runner-Up: Dylan Perry, Corewell Health East, Ferndale, MI
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Excellence in Nursing Leadership
Winner: Amelia LaChance, Henry Ford Health, Brighton, MI
Runner-Up: Douglas Kukiela, Henry Ford Providence Novi, Monroe, MI
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Excellence in Education
Winner: Stefanie Gibson, University of Michigan Health, White Lake, MI
Runner-Up: Taylor Soltis, Henry Ford Jackson Health, Brooklyn, MI
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Excellence in Executive Administration
Winner: Bernadette White, Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, Bloomfield Hills, MI
Runner-Up: Kim Meeker, Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, Riverview, MI
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Nursing in the Community
Winner: Michelle Allread, Oakland County Health Department, Sylvan Lake, MI
Runner-Up: Dr. Randon Jenkins, Wayne State University & Oakman Medical, West Bloomfield, MI
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Post-Acute Care & Specialty Nursing
Winner: Abbey Chehab, Trinity Health Ann Arbor, Dearborn, MI
Runner-Up: Patricia Klassa, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, Plymouth, MI
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Staff Nurse Practice
Winner: Lana Abutaha, Henry Ford Providence Southfield Hospital, Canton, MI
Winner: Jill Pendegraft, Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, Rochester Hills, MI
Runner-Up: Samantha Bolton, Henry Ford Health, Windsor, ON
Runner-Up: Joseph Burns, Corewell Health - William Beaumont University Hospital, Troy, MIRunner-Up: Stacey Amiot, Detroit Receiving Hospital ED, Clearview, ON
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People's Choice
Winner: Carlie Austin, Detroit Medical Center, Livonia, MI
Runner-Up: Maggie Starr, Henry Ford Hospital, Oak Park, MI
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Event Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor ... Henry Ford Health
Platinum Sponsor ... Corewell Health
Platinum Sponsor ... Michigan Medicine
Alumni Sponsor ... Strum Allesee Family Foundation
Silver Sponsor ... Detroit Medical Center
Bronze Sponsor ... McLaren Oakland and McLaren Macomb
Bronze Sponsor ... Oakland County Health and Human Services
People's Choice Award ... Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Award Sponsor ... AmeriCare Medical
Award Sponsor ... Priority Health
Award Sponsor ... Trinity Health
Trophy Sponsor ... Angela Hospice
Pin Sponsor ... Michigan Health & Hospital Association
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Original text here: https://www.oakland.edu/news/nursing/2026/nightingale-awards/
OSU Students Advance Land-grant Mission on National Research Stage
STILLWATER, Oklahoma, May 2 -- Oklahoma State University issued the following news:
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OSU students advance land-grant mission on national research stage
Six Oklahoma State University students joined peers from across the country in one of the nation's largest undergraduate research gatherings as they showcased their work at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, held April 13-15 in Richmond, Virginia.
The conference highlights student achievement across all academic disciplines while providing opportunities for professional development, networking and graduate school exploration,
... Show Full Article
STILLWATER, Oklahoma, May 2 -- Oklahoma State University issued the following news:
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OSU students advance land-grant mission on national research stage
Six Oklahoma State University students joined peers from across the country in one of the nation's largest undergraduate research gatherings as they showcased their work at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, held April 13-15 in Richmond, Virginia.
The conference highlights student achievement across all academic disciplines while providing opportunities for professional development, networking and graduate school exploration,a reflection of OSU's land-grant mission to expand access to education and advance research that serves communities in Oklahoma and beyond.
Among those presenting was Katelynn Biggs, a music education senior, who shared her research on diversifying the secondary French horn curriculum. While she has presented before, Biggs said this experience stood out because of the conference's size and interdisciplinary scope.
"I presented at the National College Music Society Conference in Spokane, Washington this last October, but that is music specific, and so it wasn't nearly as large," Biggs said. "It was nice to talk to people who were in the sciences, who didn't necessarily have a background in music, or know all about music the way I do."
Biggs said being in the same room as various researchers from different disciplines left her feeling inspired, as if everyone's passion for their pursuit of discovery was contagious.
Students must apply and be selected by the Council on Undergraduate Research to participate in NCUR, making the opportunity highly competitive. Biggs said the selection process added to the significance of the experience and built anticipation leading up to the conference.
Presenting alongside research from STEM fields offered a unique, and at times intimidating, environment that pushed her outside her comfort zone.
"It was almost an intimidating experience, because right beside me there was a wonderful researcher doing brain cancer research and how different lasers affect the tumors," Biggs said. "I was like, 'Oh, man! That's real deal lab research.' It's an amazing opportunity to present at the same level and in the same space. It really showed me that the research I'm doing is important."
Even so, Biggs said the exposure to different disciplines ultimately expanded her perspective and helped her think more intentionally about her future.
"There were so many graduate schools there recruiting, and I think what I gained most from this conference was being able to talk to different grad schools and start planning my next steps," Biggs said.
Upon reflection, the opportunity to present her research and engage in conversations with peers showed Biggs the future of innovation is bright. Especially in a place where researching music is just as important as any other study.
She added that support from OSU played a key role in making the opportunity possible.
"I feel very thankful for the support I've had at OSU," Biggs said. "The Greenwood School of Music and the College of Arts and Sciences have been very supportive of me traveling and helping fund my research travel, because that stuff can get expensive too sometimes."
OSU students who presented included:
* Katelynn Biggs, instrumental music education, "Beyond the Prescribed Music List: Female-Composed Music for the Modern Horn Student"
* Ruthie Presswood, psychology, "The Creation and Evaluation of an Ethnically Informed INQ-15 in BIPOC College Students"
* Chole Tolle, microbiology, cell and molecular biology, "UV-Treatment of Contaminants of Emerging Concern in Wastewater"
* Kalen Strunk, microbiology and environmental biology, "Establishing a Baseline for Argentinian Thread-Waisted Wasps: A Species Level Checklist of Sensu Stricto"
* Sanaa Smith, criminology and criminal justice, "Faith on Display: Investigating Religious Discrimination in the Workforce"
* Marley Harris, fine arts, "The Resurfacing Interest in Brutalism and Its Cultural Significance on Self-Expression: Analyzing the Intersection of Architecture and Graphic Design
The OSU Henry Bellmon Office of Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research supports students attending conferences by providing funding for registration and scholarships to offset travel costs.
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Original text here: https://news.okstate.edu/articles/communications/2026/osu-students-advance-land-grant-mission-on-national-research-stage
Kutztown University to Celebrate Spring 2026 Commencement May 15-16
KUTZTOWN, Pennsylvania, May 2 -- Kutztown University issued the following news release dated May 4, 2025:
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Kutztown University to Celebrate Spring 2026 Commencement May 15-16
More than 1,300 students will be awarded degrees during Kutztown University's spring commencement ceremonies May 15-16, at O'Pake Fieldhouse. Dr. Philip Cavalier, university president, and Dr. Lorin Basden Arnold, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, will preside.
Graduate students will receive their degrees at 5 p.m. Friday, May 15, including 16 doctoral candidates. Solomon Johnson '24, Higher
... Show Full Article
KUTZTOWN, Pennsylvania, May 2 -- Kutztown University issued the following news release dated May 4, 2025:
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Kutztown University to Celebrate Spring 2026 Commencement May 15-16
More than 1,300 students will be awarded degrees during Kutztown University's spring commencement ceremonies May 15-16, at O'Pake Fieldhouse. Dr. Philip Cavalier, university president, and Dr. Lorin Basden Arnold, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, will preside.
Graduate students will receive their degrees at 5 p.m. Friday, May 15, including 16 doctoral candidates. Solomon Johnson '24, HigherEducation and Student Affairs, will serve as the graduate student speaker.
Undergraduate students in the Colleges of Education and Liberal Arts and Sciences will graduate at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 16. Ava Esterly, Environmental Science, will serve as the morning's undergraduate student speaker.
Undergraduate students in the Colleges of Business and Visual and Performing Arts will graduate at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16. Zhixi Zhang, Business Administration, will serve as the afternoon's undergraduate student speaker.
Solomon Johnson '24 of Philadelphia, Pa., graduates with a Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs. He also earned Bachelor of Science in sport management and a minor in coaching/athletic administration from KU in 2024.
Johnson's academic and extracurricular endeavors at KU have carved a path of exceptional leadership and dedication to sportsmanship. As a student coach and intern with the Golden Bear men's basketball team, Johnson contributed to developing strategies and fostering an environment of excellence and determination. His involvement with the Philadelphia Youth Basketball Summer Program as an assistant coach further showcased his commitment to nurturing young talent and advocating for the importance of sports in personal development and community engagement.
Johnson's tenure at KU was also marked by significant volunteer work within the Golden Bear athletic department, demonstrating his well-rounded contributions to the university's athletics community.
Ava Esterly of Pottstown, Pa., graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a concentration in Regenerative Organic Agriculture and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
As an intern at both Farmer Jawn and the Rodale Institute, Esterly helped design scalable techniques for 100-acre production systems and developed comprehensive economic reports comparing conventional and organic crop yields.
Esterly's extensive research portfolio focuses on the mechanical and ecological drivers of soil health. She has spearheaded studies on the synergistic effects of biochar and compost on crop productivity, the isolation of mycorrhizal fungal spores, and the impacts of transitioning conventional farming systems to regenerative management. Her findings have been presented at the Ecological Society of America (ESA) national and mid-Atlantic conferences, as well as to the research department and executive leadership at the Rodale Institute. Her professional background bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and community engagement.
Esterly was selected as the student speaker to announce a $1.5 million grant for Kutztown University's Regenerative Organic Agriculture program in 2024 and was a mentor and student team leader as an underclassman for the Regenerative Agriculture Living Laboratory. Her contributions have earned her several prestigious honors, including the Farm Credit Foundation for Agricultural Advancement Scholarship and KU's Chambliss Student Academic Achievement Award Silver Medal.
Zhixi Zhang of Palmyra, Pa., graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He triple majored in personal financial planning, supply chain management and finance, while also minoring in psychology.
Zhang is a high-achieving Honors Program student. He served as the chief financial officer for the Applied Investment Management (AIM) Association, where he led performance strategies and organizational restructuring to drive productivity. His professional background includes serving as a C2C Advice Intern at Vanguard, where he specialized in generational investing and operational strategy for clients with portfolios ranging from $50,000 to $5 million.
In addition to his financial roles, Zhang has proven expertise in operational optimization. As a Global Sourcing Intern at Clark Associates, he helped manage global logistics and refine workflows, ultimately generating more than $1.5 million in savings. He also conducted foundational research on the recruitment and retention of young finance professionals as an extern for the Pennsylvania Bankers Association.
Zhang is the co-founder of both the Ski and Snowboard Club and the Chinese Students and Scholars Association. He also served as president, vice president and treasurer of the Ultimate Frisbee Club, where he managed budgets, increased equipment investments and coordinated competitive tournaments.
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Original text here: https://www.kutztown.edu/news-and-media/news-releases/may-2026/spring-2026-commencement-may-15-16.html
FSU Students Place Third as Only U.S. Team at Global Competition
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, May 2 -- The Florida State University's College of Business issued the following news:
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FSU students place third as only U.S. team at global competition
A team of four students from Florida State University's Herbert Wertheim College of Business said they seized a spirit of confidence - thanks to their intense preparation - to earn a third-place finish at the prestigious 36th annual Scotiabank International Case Competition, held March 24-28 in Ontario, Canada.
The only team representing the U.S., FSU students Lucas Bonassi (BS Finance '26), Omer Chai (BS Finance
... Show Full Article
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, May 2 -- The Florida State University's College of Business issued the following news:
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FSU students place third as only U.S. team at global competition
A team of four students from Florida State University's Herbert Wertheim College of Business said they seized a spirit of confidence - thanks to their intense preparation - to earn a third-place finish at the prestigious 36th annual Scotiabank International Case Competition, held March 24-28 in Ontario, Canada.
The only team representing the U.S., FSU students Lucas Bonassi (BS Finance '26), Omer Chai (BS Financeand Management Information Systems '29), Yash Mirpuri (BS Finance '26) and Thomas Ngo (BS Finance '29) bested most of the 14 international teams from universities spanning five continents and Oceania. The field included competitors from Canada, Mexico, Peru, Nigeria, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong and New Zealand.
"Hearing Florida State called as a finalist and walking up on that stage in front of all the teams isn't something you forget," Bonassi said. "Bringing home third was a really proud moment for all of us."
The Scotiabank International Case Competition, hosted by the Ivey Business School at Western University in London, Ontario, challenges teams to analyze real-time business problems, present proposed solutions and defend recommendations under tight time constraints. Teams worked through two live case challenges tied to issues considered by many to be global priorities, including decarbonization and improving access to critical services.
In the first case, teams examined the Toronto Transit Commission's budget to identify $150 million to invest in hybrid or fully electric buses.
The FSU team recommended a line of retrofittable buses that can convert from gas-fueled to battery-powered over time. That paired with operational streamlining, would help the Toronto Transit Commission hit net zero emissions by 2040 while also driving significant new revenue, the team said.
Two days later, teams returned for a second case, this one focused on scaling technology-enabled healthcare delivery Teams evaluated global strategy and expansion considerations of Zipline, a U.S. startup delivering blood and emergency medical supplies to clinics in Rwanda.
The FSU team recommended that Zipline expand into suburban commercial delivery in the U.S. while retaining its existing operations in Africa and honoring its government contracts. The students also outlined a path to an initial public offering within the next five years. In addition, the team proposed that Zipline license its software to healthcare-focused competitors in order to spread the humanitarian value of emergency medical care beyond a single company.
The team's students are members of the Business Case Club at FSU. According to the registered student organization's website, the club "trains students to read and analyze business cases and present solutions to real-world problems," then represent FSU at external competitions.
"We spent a lot of time preparing not just for this competition but building up our skills all year through the Business Case Club," said Bonassi, who serves as co-president of the organization. "Going up against teams from all over the world was humbling, but our preparation gave us the confidence to compete at that level."
-- Robin Doyle
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Original text here: https://business.fsu.edu/article/fsu-students-place-third-only-us-team-global-competition
Chancellor King Continues SUNY Reconnect Tour With Visit to Sullivan County Community College
ALBANY, New York, May 2 -- The State University of New York issued the following news release:
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Chancellor King Continues SUNY Reconnect Tour with Visit to Sullivan County Community College
Governor Hochul's SUNY Reconnect Program Provides Free Community College Tuition, Fees, Books, and Supplies for Eligible Adult Learners in High-Demand Fields
Visit Highlights SUNY Sullivan's Respiratory Care Program
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Loch Sheldrake, NY -- 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
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, May 2 -- The State University of New York issued the following news release:
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Chancellor King Continues SUNY Reconnect Tour with Visit to Sullivan County Community College
Governor Hochul's SUNY Reconnect Program Provides Free Community College Tuition, Fees, Books, and Supplies for Eligible Adult Learners in High-Demand Fields
Visit Highlights SUNY Sullivan's Respiratory Care Program
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Loch Sheldrake, NY -- 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 hasbeen 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 SUNY Sullivan 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 https://sunysullivan.edu/freecc/.
Chancellor King also toured SUNY Sullivan'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 https://www.sunyattain.org.
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. Gonzalez, 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. SUNY Sullivan'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 SUNY Sullivan'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 SUNY Sullivan 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. SUNY Sullivan 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 SUNY Sullivan 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 SUNY Adult Learner Leadership Initiativeto 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 Governor Hochul's SUNY Reconnect program 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 kicked off in June 2025 at Dutchess Community College, has included visits to Tompkins Cortland Community College, SUNY Schenectady, Jefferson Community College, Suffolk County Community College, SUNY Niagara, SUNY Erie Community College, Jamestown Community College, Monroe Community College, SUNY Broome, SUNY Adirondack, Rockland Community College, Ulster Community College, Westchester Community College, Columbia-Greene Community College, Clinton Community College, Herkimer County Community College, Fulton-Montgomery Community College, North Country Community College, Finger Lakes Community College, Cayuga Community College, and Hudson Valley Community College.
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About the State University of New York
The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNY's 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the country's oldest school of maritime, the state's only college of optometry, 12 Educational Opportunity Centers, over 30 ATTAIN digital literacy labs, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.7 million students across its portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.5 billion in fiscal year 2025, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and annually one in three New Yorkers who earn a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit suny.edu.
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Original text here: https://www.suny.edu/suny-news/press-releases/5-26/5-1-26/sullivan.html
