Three SUNY Oneonta students have been named 2025 recipients of the prestigious SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence.
Fernando Trejo, Emily Petramale and Aaron Paul were among a select group of State University of New York students recognized by SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. during a reception in their honor in Albany on Tuesday, April 29.
All three students are members of the Class of 2025.
“We are so proud of Fernando, Emily and Aaron and all they have given to the SUNY Oneonta community,” said President Alberto Cardelle. “They are true leaders and inspiring role models, and their achievements here are just the beginning. I can’t wait to see the difference they’ll make in the world beyond our campus.”
The Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence, or CASE, 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, campus involvement, community service and the arts.
Meet SUNY Oneonta’s 2025 CASE recipients:
Fernando Trejo
Germantown, NY
Adolescence Education, Africana and Latinx Studies
Fernando is a hardworking student leader committed to uplifting underserved communities and inspiring through education. A dual major with a minor in African American History, he continually makes the Dean’s List and EOP Honor Scroll, is a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society, and is president of the Africana & Latinx Studies Club. A proud participant in the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP), Fernando supports migrant students as an ambassador and mentor and completed an internship with the state’s Migrant Education Program. He is also a Kings of Excellence mentor and dedicated member of the Oneonta State Emergency Squad.
Emily Petramale
Chester, NY
Adolescence Education, Mathematics
Emily is a standout leader and mathematician with a rigorous three-year graduation plan. A dual major, she’s a Provost’s List honoree, Pi Mu Epsilon Honor Society member, and Susan Sutton Smith award recipient. Emily conducted a four-semester study on the mathematical game Rithmomachia, presenting her research and preparing a co-authored article for publication. A student supervisor in the Office of Admissions, vice president of the Association of Secondary Educators and a peer mentor, Emily supports prospective students, underclassmen and future educators. Her dedication extends beyond campus as a food pantry volunteer and paraeducator, inspiring and empowering young learners.
Aaron Paul
Harriman, NY
Adolescence Education, History
Aaron is a stellar student leader and champion for diversity, equity and inclusion. A dual major minoring in African American History, he is a Dean’s List student and Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society member. Aaron has served as a teaching assistant in History courses, presented his research on campus, and mentored peers through Access and Opportunity Programs, Kings of Excellence, and as a Resident Advisor. As president of the Association of Secondary Educators, he champions professional development for future educators. Aaron is a proud Student Association senator and associate justice, and an Alpha Phi Omega (national service honor society) member.
