Four SUNY Oneonta seniors are among 249 State University of New York students chosen to receive the 2018 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence. SUNY Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson presented the awards to the students during a reception in their honor Tuesday, April 10, at the Albany Capital Center.
“I am immensely proud of these students, who have demonstrated academic excellence and dedication to enriching their campuses and communities,” Johnson said. “From research publications in industry journals to volunteering in hospitals and local clinics to holding leadership roles at their institutions, I am inspired by each student we recognize today. Congratulations to all of the students receiving this year’s award.”
The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence is the highest honor that SUNY bestows upon students. It is presented annually to SUNY students who demonstrate academic excellence and integrate it with accomplishments in other areas, such as leadership, career achievement, campus involvement, athletics, community service, or creative and performing arts.
Since 1998 when the Chancellor’s Award program was implemented, 88 SUNY Oneonta students have received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence.
The four SUNY Oneonta students selected to receive the 2018 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence are:
Kayla Belush
Hubbardsville, NY
International Development Studies and Spanish major
Kayla is a student athlete who has demonstrated excellence in the classroom and in leadership roles on and off campus. She represented the college as a Study Abroad Ambassador in Colombia, performed community service and volunteer work in Bolivia, and taught a soccer workshop in Canada, all while maintaining a stellar GPA. On campus, she worked as a Resident Advisor, tutors classmates, and is active in several clubs, honor societies and nonprofits.
Daniel Prince
Tully, NY
Computer Science and Mathematics major
Daniel Prince has established himself as a talented mathematician and computer technician, all while maintaining a perfect GPA. He is a member of three honor societies, has held leadership positions in the Apollo Music Club, and is a successful peer tutor for numerous subjects. Daniel has set himself apart from the crowd with his research, dedication for his role within the college’s IT Services department, and impressive score on a prestigious national mathematics exam.
Jonelle Reyes
Ridgewood, NY
Environmental Science major
Jonelle Reyes is a well-rounded student who excels academically and is passionate about the environment. Along with consistently making Dean’s List, he has earned several impressive awards for his participation in research activities and conferences, and was invited to present at a prestigious sustainability conference in Arizona. Outside of class, Jonelle serves as a Student Sustainability Coordinator and is dedicated to multiple service efforts, including the college’s Red Dragon Thrift Shop, which he helped establish.
Anthony Vecere Jr.
Fishkill, NY
Professional Accounting major
Anthony Vecere Jr. belongs to both the Philosophy and Business honor societies, was awarded the Outstanding Senior Award from his academic department, and has presented research at conferences on and off campus. He holds positions in several clubs and serves on the college’s Student Advisory Council. Anthony has tutored students and advised prospective students at Open House. After graduation, he will pursue a master’s in Philosophy and Public Policy at the London School of Economics.