Program Journal Advertising Promote your business, honor a leader, or share a message of support in the 2026 Leadership Awards Program Journal. 2026 Honorees: Thomas Rickard '92 · Everett Collie · Dr. Erika Hackman · Derrik Wynkoop · Helen G. Ullrich, Esq. The Leadership Awards Program Journal is the official publication of the Leadership Awards Ceremony & Reception. It features the evening's honorees, program highlights, and messages of support from individuals and organizations. The journal is shared at the event and members of the SUNY Orange community, including alumni, community leaders, partners, and supporters. It serves as a keepsake from the event and a lasting reflection of the values celebrated through the Leadership Awards. By placing a journal ad, you help advance scholarships and opportunities at SUNY Orange while gaining meaningful recognition among an engaged and mission-driven audience. Your Ad Makes an Impact Proceeds from journal advertising directly support scholarships and educational initiatives that help SUNY Orange students pursue their academic and professional goals. Journal Advertising Options Full-Page Ad $500 Size: 5" W x 8" H Full-color placement in the Leadership Awards Program Journal Purchase Full-Page Ad Half-Page Ad $250 Size: 5" W x 3.875" H Full-color placement in the Leadership Awards Program Journal Purchase Half-Page Ad Quarter-Page Ad $125 Size: 2.375" W x 3.875" H Full-color placement in the Leadership Awards Program Journal Purchase Quarter-Page Ad Event Sponsor Name Listing Only: $75 Individual or organization name listed in the journal. Ad Submission Guidelines Ad format: Print-ready PDF Color mode : CMYK Resolution: 300 DPI Ad submission deadline: Friday, April 3 We kindly encourage early submission whenever possible. Providing materials in advance allows ample time to ensure best presentation and overall quality. Design support: Ad design assistance is available with appropriate lead time. If you would like support creating your ad, please contact us as early as possible to discuss options. Purchase a journal ad Interested in event sponsorships or tickets? Explore Leadership Awards Sponsorship Opportunities or Purchase Event Tickets Contact us with any questions about journal ads, or other aspects of the event. Contact Us Thank You to Our 2026 Leadership Awards Sponsors We are grateful for the partners who support the Leadership Awards and help advance student success. Sponsors to Date Interested in being recognized as a Leadership Awards sponsor? Explores sponsorship opportunities above or contact us to learn more.

Alumni Spotlights - Class of 2000 - 2009 Submit YOUR Alumni Story Here kareema dale '09 "SUNY Orange's supportive environment, dedicated faculty, and innovative curriculum have truly been instrumental in preparing me not only for the challenges of achieving my life goals but also for excelling in my nursing career.” Kareema Dale is a dedicated leader in healthcare who exemplifies the spirit of service and mentorship. Kareema graduated from SUNY Orange in 2009, and began her professional journey the same year at Orange Regional Medical Center. After eight impactful years, she explored her leadership journey at Vassar Brothers Medical Center. In 2020, just before the pandemic, she became the Practice Manager at Crystal Run’s Urgent Care, where her leadership was instrumental during a critical time in healthcare. Today, Kareema is back at Garnet Health Medical Center new leadership, serving as the Director of the Float Pool. She draws on lessons learned from her mentors and prioritizes mentoring and coaching her team to help them achieve their goals. Her leadership philosophy is simple yet profound: “Whatever your destiny is, I want to know so I can figure out how to help you get there.” Kareema believes in leading with heart and showing her team the power of compassion. In her own words, she feels “blessed to have her team,” and it’s clear they are equally fortunate to have her. donna minicucci '07 "Nursing has been a rewarding journey, and teaching has allowed me to give back to the profession that has given me so much." Donna Minicucci’s journey in nursing is a testament to lifelong learning and dedication. After graduating from SUNY Orange’s Nursing Program in 2007, Donna embarked on a new career as a Registered Nurse in critical care, having entered nursing as a second career. Her passion for nursing and commitment to patient care saw her remain in bedside care for 13 years, where she honed her skills and expertise. Donna’s dedication to advancing her career didn’t stop there. She earned both a critical care certification and a master’s degree in Nursing, with a specialization in education. Her desire to give back to her alma mater led her back to SUNY Orange, first as a tutor for the nursing program. Her role soon expanded as she began teaching classes and ultimately became a full-time instructor and skills coordinator, where she played an instrumental role in shaping the next generation of nurses. In 2023, Donna retired from her full-time position, but her connection to SUNY Orange continues. She remains an adjunct instructor in the skills lab, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with students. Donna’s story is an inspiring example of growth, perseverance, and a passion for both nursing and education. She has left a lasting impact on the SUNY Orange community and continues to make a difference in the lives of future healthcare professionals. nicole murray '06 "Teaching in healthcare at a community college allows me to enrich students' lives by empowering them with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference. Through education, we not only transform their future but also strengthen our community and improve patient care - one student at a time." Nicole Murray’s journey at SUNY Orange is a testament to perseverance and a passion for medical imaging. Starting at SUNY Orange in 2004, Nicole knew from high school that she wanted to pursue a career in Radiologic Technology. Despite the program’s high demand, which delayed her entry, Nicole remained committed. She earned an AS degree in Math and Science in 2004 while continuously applying to the Radiologic Technology program. Her persistence paid off when she finally began the program in August 2004 and graduated in the summer of 2006. Soon after graduation, Nicole passed her National Boards and became a certified Radiographer, earning her R.T. (R) credentials. Her early career saw her working in Dutchess and Orange Counties in a variety of settings, from emergency rooms to orthopedics and urgent care. Always eager to expand her knowledge, Nicole cross-trained in Computed Tomography (CT) and earned her R.T. (R) (CT) credentials after passing her national boards in CT. Her passion for the field didn't stop at imaging. While working, Nicole was approached by the Radiologic Technology department chair about becoming a volunteer hospital instructor. She enjoyed mentoring students during clinical rotations, which eventually led to an adjunct position as a Clinical Preceptor. Nicole found this role incredibly rewarding, and it wasn’t long before she was offered a position as a full-time instructor on campus. Nicole’s career continued to evolve, and she was appointed as the Clinical Coordinator for the Radiologic Technology program, eventually becoming the department chair—her current role. Reflecting on her journey, Nicole shares that being an educator was never part of her plan, but her story shows the limitless opportunities a career in Radiography can offer. Her journey demonstrates that a career in Radiography can open doors to unexpected and fulfilling paths, whether in clinical practice, sales, administration, or education. Nicole’s story is an inspiration to all who pursue this dynamic field, proving that one can continue learning and growing in ways they may not have anticipated. phillip cappadora '09 "Success isn't measured by how far you've come, but by how many times you chose to keep going when it felt easier to stop." Phillip Cappadora's journey is a testament to resilience and the unexpected turns life can take. In 2006, a life-changing injury as an ironworker led to nearly a year of rehabilitation, culminating in orthoscopic surgery in December 2007. Seeking a new direction, Phillip enrolled at SUNY Orange (Orange County Community College) in 2008. His path took an unexpected turn when he was recruited for a role in the musical Honk Junior after just a few weeks in an introductory theater class. Though Phillip's background was rooted in athletics, his injury shifted his focus, leading him to explore the world of theater and film. Encouraged by a group of friends and inspired by his experiences in acting classes, he discovered a new passion. His performance in the 2009 independent film Village Music—his first acting role—left a profound impact on him, solidifying his desire to pursue a career in the film industry. Today, Phillip is the Founder of The Astoria Filmmakers Club and the Executive Director of The Triborough Film Festival. His story is a powerful reminder that while we can make plans, it's often the unexpected moments that truly shape our paths. Amy Stillwaggon '02 "After the market bubble burst, she joined her father and grandfather in their business, Newburgh Envelope, a full service commercial print supplier. As of 2015, Amy owns and operates Newburgh Envelope full time." Amy attended her first 2 semesters of college while still completing her senior year at NFA. Graduating NFA in 2000, Amy completed her Associates in Business Administration at SUNY Orange before transferring to SUNY New Paltz to complete her Bachelor of Arts. Throughout college, Amy was a Realtor. She learned during this time that she loved sales. After the market bubble burst, she joined her father and grandfather in their business, Newburgh Envelope, a full service commercial print supplier. As of 2015, Amy owns and operates Newburgh Envelope full time. In addition, Amy has been a Director Consultant with BNI Mid-Hudson Valley for 11 years, overseeing multiple chapters, facilitating trainings and teaching the art of networking regionally. In her spare time, Amy had the pleasure of opening a food pantry in Ulster County, currently sits on the Foundation Board of the ARC of Sullivan Orange, and can be found running 5Ks in the area. Plans for 2020 include utilizing the space at Newburgh Envelope to be even more of an asset to the business community, being a resource beyond just print, and providing access to the tools entrepreneurs need to launch their businesses. Niccole Card '02 & '04 "I have served in my dental hygiene professional association on the local and state levels since graduation as well. I love this college and all that it has to offer!" I graduated from SUNY Orange in 2002 with my Associate in Arts and graduated again in 2004 with my AAS in Dental Hygiene. I then went on to attain my BS in Dental Hygiene and MS in Dental Hygiene. I came on as an adjunct in 2008 in the Dental Hygiene Department and then became full time in 2011. I have served in my dental hygiene professional association on the local and state levels since graduation as well. I love this college and all that it has to offer! Michael Benzaia '08 "My degree and the time spent at SUNY Orange set me up for more success than I even imagined possible." My degree and the time spent at SUNY Orange set me up for more success than I even imagined possible. Since graduating from the Rad Tech program I have established myself in two of my passion careers- Medical & Television. The skillset the rad tech professors/clinical instructors taught me is what I used to obtain my graduate degree and what I currently utilize to navigate the entertainment world. I have been fortunate to have worked a fulfilling career in the Hudson Valley at medical facilities such as ORMC (Garnet), Middletown Medical, St Lukes Newburgh, & Hudson Valley Imaging. I applied the knowledge from these experiences to break into television working as an actor, medical consultant, and covid safety officer. I have appeared as an actor on How to get away with murder, General Hospital & Scandal. I have traveled around the world from New Zealand to Scandinavia. These experiences helped grow my empathy and understanding. None of this would have been possible if it wasn't for that moment when I said to my parents, " Why don't I give SUNY Orange a try. It’s close to home and affordable." The possibilities today are limitless because SUNY Orange gave me the tools that I needed to excel. Carol Murray '02 "This College is my home away from home and I have enjoyed many wonderful mentors and friends throughout the years." I started at Orange County Community College in 1992 after being laid off from a state position and having a 3 month old and 4 year old at home. I received a Word Processing certificate through the displaced worker state program. I returned years later and completed my Associates degree while working full-time. In 2004 I returned again but as a part-time employee in the Diagnostic Imaging Department and enjoyed working for Professor Misiak. I was fortunate to move into a full-time position In Diagnostic Imaging and then remained here working in Academic Affairs with VP Chew and VP Heppner for 5 years. In 2011 I moved to the President’s Office and worked alongside Dr. Richards. He was an amazing leader and mentor to me. Because of his encouragement I went on to obtain my Bachelors and Masters degrees in Human Services. I am now proud to work alongside Dr. Young in the President’s Office. Dr. Young is taking the College to a new level with her incredible energy and I am witness to the great work being done from my view in our office. This College is my home away from home and I have enjoyed many wonderful mentors and friends throughout the years. The faculty are excellent in their disciplines and we have a staff that really cares about our students. People who come to SUNY Orange find it hard to leave...like me, I’m still here!! JC Hendrickson '04 JC feels that his time at SUNY Orange prepared him to work in his chosen field for the past 17 years. He has fond memories of Professor Paul Basinski who mentored him during his time at the college. JC Hendrickson attended SUNY Orange from 2002-2004. He then went on to get his Bachelor’s degree in Law & Society from American University in 2006, and his Masters of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University in 2015. JC is the Director of Congressional Affairs at the Justice Action Network. In this role, he leads legislative policy and advocacy before the U.S. Congress for the nation’s largest bipartisan criminal justice reform advocacy organization. Prior to this position, he worked in several other policy and advocacy roles, including leading the U.S. refugee resettlement and asylum policy and advocacy at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) for 3 years; and federal government relations for the criminal justice reform team at the Pew Charitable Trusts for 6 years. He was on legislative staff for members of Congress on Capitol Hill for just under 5 years, and while he was a student at SUNY Orange, he was elected to the Middletown Common Council. JC says that the courses he took in the Global Studies department helped spur his interest in working in Washington, DC. He learned the dynamics that are at play, the history behind them, and how to critically analyze them. He feels that his time at SUNY Orange prepared him to work in this field for the past 17 years. JC has fond memories of Professor Paul Basinski who mentored him during his time at the college.

Providing a variety of meaningful opportunities to keep alumni connected to SUNY Orange faculty and staff, current students, and alumni. SUNY Orange Alumni Engagement Alumni Contact Form Spotlights E-Newsletter Sign-up Make a Gift SUNY Orange Foundation & Alumni Engagement invites you to, Connect. Engage. Give Back. Whether you live nearby, or far away, there are many ways that YOU, our Orange County Community College – SUNY Orange alumni, can stay connected to the College, students, and other alumni. Here is just a small sample of some ways you can keep in touch, get involved, and when possible, give back. Connect. Stay connected to the College, students, and other alumni through the Alumni E-Newsletter. We'll email you invitations to alumni events, advances and achievements with College, departments and among students, alumni news and spotlights , Foundation events and fundraisers, and events on campus. You can update your contact information and sign up to receive the Alumni E-Newsletter HERE. And don't forget to connect with us on social media. Engage. Stay engaged with the College, students, and other alumni by volunteering as an alumni presenter for College events, alumni panels, class or club discussions, or career services workshops If you are interested in volunteering your time, please let us know by filling out a brief form HERE . O pportunities can be done virtually or in-person. Give Back. SUNY Orange Foundation & Alumni Engagement works to ensure that Orange County County College - SUNY Orange remains a high-quality, affordable education c hoice for students of all ages through its extensive Scholarship and Grant-In-Aid programs. You can give back by making a contribution to the annual fund, giving to the Student Emergency Fund, creating a scholarship, incorporating SUNY Orange Foundation in your will or just giving your time and getting involved. For more information about giving back to SUNY Orange Foundation & Alumni Engagement, please click HERE If you have any suggestions or would like additional information about alumni engagement at the SUNY Orange Foundation, please feel free to reach out. Thank you, and we look forward to connecting with you! Additional Resources . SUNY Orange The Citadel OCCC History Collection Transfer Advising Establishing a Scholarship Career Services Office

Play golf for a great cause! The SUNY Orange Foundation Golf Outing is an opportunity to play golf, have fun, AND raise money for scholarships for deserving SUNY Orange students. Thank you to all of our golfers! We are sold out! But you can still join us for dinner and drinks before golf or purchase a tee-sign in support of SUNY Orange Athletic Scholarships! We will have a Golf Cart Decorating Contest! Bring your own decorations and have some fun! Prizes for the best decorations! Everyone is welcome! This event raises money for SUNY Orange Athletic Scholarships. This year, the SUNY Orange Men's Basketball team played in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II basketball tournament - only the second time in the history of the College that this has happened. The SUNY Orange Colts took fourth place in the championship and the program's 31 wins (against 3 losses) ranked them second in the nation and established a school record. Several of these players are scholarship recipients and your generous support of this event helped to give them this incredible experience. We hope you will join us and continue to support this wonderful program. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 STONY FORD GOLF CLUB 5:00PM DINNER AND DRINKS | 6:30PM TEE TIME Download the registration form HERE or register online below our sponsor logos.

75th Anniversary Celebration Weekend Event Details & Tickets: Details Details Tickets Details Tickets Weekend Combination Ticket Interested in joining us for the entire weekend? Enjoy special pricing with our weekend combination tickets. Weekend Ticket Don't miss the opportunity to empower SUNY Orange students. Funds raised during the 75th Anniversary will be used for classroom upgrades. Purchase Sponsorships Here Have questions, ideas or want to get involved? We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out to our Alumni Engagement Manager, Carly Glassé, at [carlyglasse@sunyorange.edu ] or [845-341-4179]

"Spare" some time and join fellow students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for a fun afternoon of bowling for a good cause - Scholarships for students! Bowling for Scholarships…One Strike at a Time "Spare" some time and join fellow students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members for a fun afternoon of bowling for a good cause - Scholarships for students! Pizza, soda, and prizes included! $25 per player (registration required). Lane Sponsorships available for $350 and includes: name recognition on our website and social media, name recognition at the fundraiser, and six bowler registrations. Your ticket includes two hours of bowling, plus pizza and soda for your team. Registration is accepted online here or by registration form HERE All lanes include 6 players – if not playing as a team of six, you will be matched with other registered players. Space is limited. For more information contact Jennifer D'Andrea at jennifer.dandrea@sunyorange.edu or at 845-341-4179 For more information on what the venue is doing to keep us safe during the pandemic, click on the link HERE Sunday, March 6, 2022 3:00-5:00 p.m. Doors open at 2:45pm Quinnz Pinz - 13 Railroad Avenue - Middletown, NY All proceeds to benefit the SUNY Orange Foundation Presidential Scholarship Fund.

Alumni Spotlights - Class of 2020 - Present Submit YOUR Alumni Story Here Tasha Juracek '20 ' "I look back and, although they felt like the hardest years of my life, I miss it so much. I’m just so blessed that I chose SUNY Orange and I am very thankful." When Tasha Juracek enrolled in the Nursing program at SUNY Orange, she was balancing more than most. As a full-time student, full-time employee, and the mother of a toddler and a six-month-old, her plate was full—and then some. “Times were very challenging. I was definitely juggling a lot,” she recalls. Despite the immense pressure, Tasha found unwavering support and strength through her SUNY Orange professors. “They were empathetic, but they still held me to high standards. When I came to them ready to quit, they would just tell me to get back to the books.” It was that mix of compassion and accountability that helped her push through some of the most difficult years of her life. Looking back now, Tasha reflects fondly on the tight-knit, understanding community within the Nursing program. “While you’re going through it, it feels like family and friends who haven’t been through such a vigorous program can’t really relate. But the professors say, ‘We’ve been there. We’ve done this. Success is ahead.’” Their guidance, she says, was “unexplainable and priceless.” Today, Tasha is a proud labor and delivery nurse. Her passion for nursing has even inspired others—most notably, her sister. After witnessing Tasha assist during a birth, her sister changed her major to Nursing at SUNY Orange. “She fell in love with it,” Tasha says with pride. Tasha took her professors’ advice to heart, embracing every opportunity to grow within the profession. She has earned several advanced certifications, continued to develop her clinical expertise, and achieved personal milestones that once felt out of reach. “I bought my first house after becoming a nurse. I had another baby. Nursing truly changed my life.” Tasha’s journey is one of grit, gratitude, and growth. Her story is a powerful reminder that even during life’s most demanding moments, perseverance, paired with the right support, can lead to a future filled with purpose and possibility. Emma Olivet '21 '"I’m truly grateful to SUNY Orange for the growth, connections, and opportunities it has provided me, both during my time there and beyond." Since graduating from SUNY Orange in December 2021 with a degree in communications, Emma Olivet has embarked on an exciting journey. After completing her bachelor’s degree in May 2023, Emma entered the job market and initially landed a position at a media company. However, she soon realized it wasn’t the right fit and began searching for a new opportunity. During her transition period, Emma stayed connected to SUNY Orange through the Foundation’s newsletters. It was here that she recognized a familiar name—Carly, a former classmate from her English course at SUNY Orange, and current SUNY Orange Foundation alumni engagement manager. Emma expressed her interest in pursuing a career in the non-profit sector, and based on the conversation, joined both the Leadership committee, and the alumni committee. Emma continues to actively contribute to both committees today. Through these connections, Emma had the chance to meet the Vice President of the Council of Industry, and fellow SUNY Orange Alumna, Johnnieanne Hansen, which ultimately led to her current role as Program Coordinator supporting the Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program, the Certificate in Manufacturing Leadership, and hosting various events and networking programs throughout the year. Reflecting on her journey, Emma notes that although SUNY Orange wasn’t part of her original plan, it turned out to be a pivotal experience. She credits SUNY Orange, particularly Professor Lacovoiti whom she met along the way and who changed the game for her, for shaping her career path. She is forever thankful for the opportunities that the college and its people have provided. Emma’s story is a reminder that sometimes the best plans are the ones we don’t anticipate, and SUNY Orange continues to be a source of growth and connection long after graduation. Jessica King '20 "I am very grateful that I was finally given the opportunity to show SUNY Orange just how well of a student I could be. It was incredible to say the least." I began at SUNY Orange in the Spring of 2011 after the death of my fiancée. I decided then, there isn't a day that is promised to us, and I better get going. At that time, I had already been a dental assistant and my dream was always to become a dental hygienist. I enrolled and started taking night classes part-time. Once I finished all of the prerequisite courses in preparation for the dental hygiene program, I began applying and was denied three times. I met with advisors, retook some classes in order to get higher grades, and never gave up on my dream. I have to say, it was not easy to keep going. Every time I received the denial letter from the program, I wanted to just quit. I felt defeated, unworthy, and just awful. But I chose to keep going. After my third application, and third denial, I immediately started seeking other programs. I felt I deserved to achieve my goal. I sought out the Fortis Institute and was accepted into their program. A week later I received a call from SUNY Orange offering me a seat into the program and I gladly accepted. It took me three years of applying to finally be accepted into the program. Once in, I worked hard - harder than I think I ever worked. I became a better student, raised my GPA, and worked the entire time I was in the program. Needless to say, the struggle was real! I am forever grateful for the opportunity I was given. There wasn’t a day I didn't show the faculty how much it truly meant to me. In the end, I graduated with the A.S. in Mathematics and Natural Sciences and an A.A.S. in Dental Hygiene. None of this was easy. I am not very good at math, but I did my best and made it to the end. I was also our dental hygiene class fundraiser and managed to raise $357 in tooth brush sales before the Pandemic. The money was put towards our SUNY Orange Dental Hygiene pins that welcome us to the profession. The SUNY Orange Dental Hygiene program is likely the best in New York. We have outstanding passing rates and professors that really take pride in making sure we are well prepared. I have no doubt that I will pass all of my board exams and I have the Dental Hygiene faculty to thank for that. I am very grateful that I was finally given the opportunity to show SUNY Orange just how well of a student I could be. It was incredible to say the least. Marie Lopez Colon ‘20 "SUNY Orange has helped shape my life into what it is now...Don't give up, don't back down. It's all about strategy and using your time wisely." I went into SUNY Orange as a non-traditional college student. I have two beautiful children now ages 5 and 9 and I've been married for 9 years. I dedicated myself to being a mother and wife, but I knew something was missing. I knew that I wanted to do something with Criminal Justice, but didn't know what exactly I wanted to do. I met Ms. Penzato and she immediately got me started. Ms. P is knowledgeable and gave me the information I needed to start my classes. I even had the blessing of registering my 2-year-old at the time into the SUNY Orange Kinder College program. I think the Universe was aligned with me and what I wanted to do. Ms. Penzato placed me in one of Mr. Z's classes and I fell in love with Criminal Justice. During this time, I was also trying to obtain my real estate license. I joined the Criminal Justice Club and was able to learn and be mentored by Ms. P and Mr. Z. I was awarded scholarships and it was the reason I feel like I have been so successful. I also had the honor of interning for Repetitive Sean Patrick Maloney during the summer of 2019 because of the Criminal Justice Club. My first semester I made it on the Dean's List and I passed my NYS real estate salespersons license. I was on the Dean's List every semester and graduated in the Spring of 2020 with Manga Cum Laude Honors. Three months after graduation I was given an opportunity to work for Fearless! An amazing organization who help survivors of Domestic Violence. SUNY Orange has helped shape my life into what it is now. I am a first generation immigrant from El Salvador and I have invested a lot into my education in the hopes that I may get where I want one day. I have earned my place and will continue to earn the positions, and things I want to manifest into my life. I also have done it to show my children an example of a hardworking Latina and a mother they can feel proud of. Don't give up, don't back down. It's all about strategy and using your time wisely.

Make a gift to the Jenny Mirecki Scholarship today! Make a Gift to the Jenny Mirecki Memorial Scholarship Jenny Mirecki was a talented, beloved and respected professor in the SUNY Orange Education Department who passed away in July 2024. Jenny was passionate about helping and engaging with kids from an early age. She turned that passion into her profession. She taught at Taft Elementary School in the Washingtonville School District for seven years. Taking a break from teaching, Jenny devoted the next nine years to raising her three beloved children. Her dedication to parenthood and love for children was evident in the strong bond and relationships she fostered with them. She then continued her teaching career at SUNY Orange in Middletown, NY, as an associate professor of Early Childhood Education. Through her passion, she helped shape and prepare her students for the future, so they could continue to pursue their careers in education. Jenny was also an outgoing and active member of her local community. She went above and beyond in every role that she held. Jenny volunteered on the Washingtonville Teacher Center Policy Board starting in 2003 and RECAP of Western Orange County Head Start Policy Council, as well as helping run the local Alex’s Lemonade Stand each year. She was also co-advisor to Future Teachers Association, and played a very active role as a chair of the Safety and Security Committee at SUNY Orange. Your gift to the Jenny Mirecki Memorial Scholarship will help continue Jenny's good work and support the students she cared so much about. Thank you for honoring Jenny's memory with your gift.

Save the Dates! Please join us as we celebrate this incredible milestone...our 75th anniversary! Friday, May 16, 2025 5:00pm to 8:00pm 75 Years of Transforming Lives SUNY Orange Middletown Campus 115 South Street Middletown, NY Tour the campus and walk through the decades during which Orange County Community College has been serving students. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served in all spaces. “Decade-specific” exhibits will be available to peruse. Students and faculty will be available to answer questions and share stories with attendees. Saturday, May 17, 2025 6:00pm to 10:00pm 75th Anniversary Gala West Hills Country Club 121 Golf Links Road Middletown, NY The Celebration of the Year! Join us as we honor all that Orange County Community College has done over the years and help shape the next 75 years as SUNY Orange continues to transform lives. Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:00 to 12:00pm Newburgh Campus Brunch and Tour 1 Washington Center Newburgh, NY If you haven't seen the Newburgh campus, you're really missing out! Join us for brunch and a tour to learn more about the key role that Newburgh will play in the College's future! We hope you'll join us at one or all of these events and share some happy memories of your time at Orange County Community College - SUNY Orange. If you would like to share your memories for posterity, please visit our Tribute page or Kudoboard to let everyone know how much this college has meant to you. Questions? Contact Carly Glasse, Alumni Engagement Manager at carlyglasse@sunyorange.edu or call (845) 341-4179

Register Now Hosted by the SUNY Orange Foundation & Alumni Engagement and the SUNY Orange CSTEP Program What You’ll Gain Hear directly from SUNY Orange graduates about the experiences, decisions, and opportunities that shaped their careers. Real insights and practical advice from alumni working in STEM fields See what STEM jobs are actually like day-to-day Be inspired by professionals who started where you are Ask your own questions during a live Q&A session Who Should Attend? Students interested in STEM majors or career paths Students planning to transfer into STEM programs Alumni exploring STEM careers, transitions, or ways to give back A nyone curious about careers in science, technology, engineering, or math Anyone seeking broader career direction, professional insight, or inspiration for their future What to Expect This interactive panel will feature SUNY Orange alumni sharing honest perspectives on their educational paths, career decisions, and experiences in the workforce. Brief introductions from each panelist Personal stories about transitioning from college to career Practical advice on preparing for internships, transfers, and the job search Insights into what employers value in STEM fields A live Q&A where you can ask your own questions Featured Alumni Panelists SUNY Orange alumni working across a range of STEM fields will share their experiences, career journeys, and practical advice. Panelists will be announced soon. Event Details FREE • VIRTUAL • OPEN TO STUDENTS & ALUMNI Date: April 9 Time: 5:30 PM Format: Live virtual panel (Zoom) Cost: Free to attend *Registered participants will receive the Zoom link and event reminder prior to the session. Register for the STEM Alumni Career Panel Don't miss the opportunity to hear directly from SUNY Orange alumni about how they built successful careers in STEM. Ask questions, gain practical advice, and explore the possibilities ahead of you. This event is free and open to students and alumni. Register Now *Registration is required to receive the zoom link Questions? General event questions, panelist or alumni inquiries: Carly Glassé Director of Development & Alumni Engagement Carlyglasse@sunyorange.edu Student questions, CSTEP program inquiries, or registration assistance: Sergio Lopez Director of CSTEP sergiolopez@sunyorange.edu

Apply for over 200 need-based and academic-based scholarship opportunities available for entering, returning, and graduating students at SUNY Orange. More than $500,000 awarded annually in SUNY Orange Foundation scholarships. Supporting students across every stage of their academic journey. Applications for the 2026 Scholarship Cycle are now open. Apply by April 10, 2026. Apply for a Scholarship Apply Here Financial Aid Grant-in-Aid The SUNY Orange Foundation awards more than 275 scholarships each year helping students achieve their educational goals. Whether you’re a new student, continuing your studies, or preparing to graduate, Foundation scholarships recognize your hard work and help ease the financial burden of college. This academic year, SUNY Orange students received more than half a million dollars in Foundation scholarships. These awards are made possible by generous donors who believe in the power of education- and in you. Who Can Apply? All SUNY Orange students are eligible to apply! Scholarships are available for: Incoming freshmen Returning and continuing students Graduating students transferring to a four-year college Submit one online application to be considered for multiple scholarships. Start Your Application How to Apply? Applying for a Foundation scholarship is easy. Submit one online application to be considered for multiple scholarships. Follow these simple steps to complete your online application: 1. Sign in using the same username and password as your SUNY Orange email. (Current students log in with their A# and password) 2. Complete the General Application: Fill in your information, certify, and click Submit. 3. Answer the Conditional Application Questions: Once you submit the General Application, an additional section will open based on your enrollment status. Here you'll answer short essay questions, provide any required references, and complete certification. 4. Submit Your Application: The system will flag any missing items or required fields. You'll receive an email if additional information is needed. Once complete and certified, your application will move ahead for review. References Required: Two references are needed (academic, professional, or personal). At least one must be from a current or former instructor. It is your responsibility to consult your recommenders before entering their email addresses and to follow up to ensure they submit their letters by the deadline. Start Your Application Scholarship Application Timeline The 2026 SUNY Orange Foundation Scholarship Application opened on Monday, January 12, 2026 and will close on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM. Scholarships are available for graduating, entering, and returning students. Due to system restrictions, late submissions cannot be accepted. Applications received even one minute past the deadline will be excluded from consideration, so be sure to plan ahead and submit early! All scholarship funds for SUNY Orange students are applied directly to SUNY Orange accounts. If a student receives more financial aid than their total cost, the Foundation reserves the right to adjust award amounts so that funds can support additional deserving students. Graduating scholarships will be sent to the transferring institutions. Our scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors, SUNY Orange alumni, friends, and community partners. Empowering students. Changing futures. Celebrating Scholarship Recipients The Scholarship Awards Ceremony is the Foundation's annual celebration recognizing the hundreds of students who receive scholarship support each year. It's also our opportunity to thank the many donors who make these scholarships possible. See Photos from the 2025 Scholarship Awards Ceremony Interested in Establishing a Scholarship? If you or someone you know would like to create a SUNY Orange Foundation scholarship, click here to learn more. Need Financial Aid Assistance? For more information on financial aid options: Call 845-341-4190 or Visit the SUNY Orange Financial Aid Department Website Have questions about the scholarship application? Contact Sharon Hood, Scholarship Administrator Sharonhood@sunyorange.edu 845-341-4725

Photo Library Links Tribute Kudoboard FAQ's For more information Call: (845) 341-4337 or Email: dawnansbro@sunyorange.edu