GCC

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation will proudly induct both the 2020 and 2021 honorees into its Alumni Hall of Fame in Batavia today at 4 p.m. after missing last year's ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eager to honor the work done by these four individuals, GCC will induct Timothy S. Whitcomb, Jim H. Tuttle, David M. DiMatteo, and Robert W. Hirsch into its Alumni Hall of Fame, forever marking their contributions to their communities and the pride they have brought to Genesee Community College.

Timothy Whitcomb, GCC class of 1989, is the Sheriff for Cattaraugus County in Western New York and has served in this role for 30 years. Sheriff Whitcomb is also a Board Member and PTP Director for Law Enforcement Operations at TTMPT (Talk to Me Post Tour); an independent not-for-profit group of committed and concerned retired police officers and police professionals, and actively speaks nationwide as on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Sheriff Whitcomb earned a master's degree in Counseling Education from St. Bonaventure University and is a certified police instructor in the areas of Interview and Interrogation, the Investigation of Sex Crimes, and the Law Enforcement Response to School Violence. Sheriff Whitcomb is a graduate of the 206th Session of the Federal Bureau Investigation's National Academy. He has also recently been certified as a SWAT Team fitness specialist.

Sheriff Whitcomb has been an adjunct professor for both St. Bonaventure University and Jamestown Community College. He has served as President for the New York State Sheriffs' Association and is a past President of the State of New York Police Juvenile Officer Association.

Jim Tuttle, GCC classes of 1971 and 1982 graduated from Genesee Community College with his AAS degree in Criminal Justice and enlisted in the United States Army. Mr. Tuttle re-enlisted in the Army Reserves several times continuing to serve the United States of America for a total of 21 years and eventually returned to earn an Associate degree in Business Administration in 1982 and later to serve on the Alumni Council.

Mr. Tuttle continued his education and earned a bachelor's degree in Hazardous Studies from SUNY Empire State College. He served as a police officer for the City of Batavia for thirty years, retiring as a Lieutenant.

Mr. Tuttle met his wife while working as an EMT at St. Jerome Hospital in Batavia.

Mr. Tuttle has demonstrated his compassion for others and the community by serving four years as a Town of Pembroke Supervisor, GCC Alumni Council member, GCC Alumni Homecoming Committee, GCC's Cougar Classic Golf Committee and on the Advisory Board for Genesee County Stop DWI.

David DiMatteo, GCC class of 1984, has been a practicing attorney in the region for over 32 years. A 1982 Notre Dame high school graduate, he began his college education pursuits at Genesee Community College, graduating GCC in 1984, he continued his education at Le Moyne College, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor's degree in Sociology then completing his legal studies at the University of Buffalo Law School in 1989. Upon graduating he took a position in Warsaw, NY where he found his own general law private practice in 1993. He works with municipalities in Erie, Genesee, Livingston and Wyoming counties addressing siting or prohibiting siting of windmills and a variety of solar projects, writing and adapting local law, and creating and financing water districts. He has worked with the NY State Senate to facilitate legislation for local communities.

Mr. DiMatteo has a farm in Wyoming County where he raises Black Angus cows and horses. He also enjoys hunting locally as well as in Africa, Alaska and the Arctic Circle. Mr. DiMatteo and his wife enjoy their farm with their three children and their new granddaughter.

Robert Hirsch, GCC class of 1997, earned his leadership certification from the Warner School of Education at the University of Rochester, a master's degree in Education from Buffalo State, a bachelor's degree in History with a minor in Education from SUNY Brockport, his coaching certification and an associate degree in History and Education from Genesee Community College.

Mr. Hirsch began his career at Warsaw Central School (WCSD) where he taught history and coached the wrestling team for over a decade. The wrestling program he built there included eight LCAA titles, seven Section V championships, over 50 sectional champions, eight individual state champions, and a team NYS title in 2007. Beyond the wrestling mat, Mr. Hirsch encouraged his wrestlers to be involved in community service; he himself served a total of 18 years as the Director of Recreation for the towns of Freedom and Arcade where he organizes the annual Summer Olympics for children.

Mr. Hirsch also coached the NYS Women's Wrestling National Team which earned Mr. Hirsch the title of 2014 Wrestling Coach of the Year by USA Wrestling. Mr. Hirsch went on to coach the Alfred State wrestling team to win the Northeast Championship and placed second two other times. Coaching four NCWA All-Americans, one National Champion and MVP of the tournament, including an eleventh-place team finish, Mr. Hirsch lead the Alfred State Wrestling team through their NCAA III transition in 2019. During this time Mr. Hirsch was the RTI Director at Alfred Almond Central School. Mr. Hirsch is currently the middle/high school principal at Franklinville Central School.

Mr. Hirsch resides in Arcade with his wife and their two beautiful daughters.

Each year, candidates are nominated by friends, family, colleagues or other associates for their impactful contributions to their profession and distinguished service to the community and/or Genesee Community College. The GCC Alumni Hall of Fame, which is located on the second floor of the Conable Technology Building, boasts honorees from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds.

Press release: 

The U.S. Department of Education announced that Genesee Community College will receive a federal TRIO Educational Opportunities Center (EOC) grant totaling $2.2 million to help unemployed workers, low-wage workers, and returning high school and college students enter or continue a program of postsecondary education. The grant comes in the form of a five-year cycle providing $430,441 each year to the TRIO Adult Educational Opportunity Center at the State University of New York (SUNY) Genesee Community College. This grant will help support programming and outreach efforts from the 2021-2022 through the 2025-2026 academic years.

The TRIO Adult Educational Opportunity Center (AEOC) provides information on college admissions as well as guidance and services to improve participants' financial and economic literacy. Among comprehensive services are academic and personal counseling, career workshops, information on postsecondary education opportunities, student financial aid and literacy assistance, and help in completing applications for college admissions. TRIO EOC programs offer services to a broad range of adult learners, including those who are limited English proficient, those who are from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in postsecondary education, individuals with disabilities, homeless individuals, youth aging out of the foster care system, formerly incarcerated individuals, and other disconnected students.

The national Educational Opportunity Center program began in 1972 and is part of a set of federal educational opportunity outreach programs known as "TRIO," which is authorized by the Higher Education Act to help low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities succeed in higher education. In FY20 there were 139 Educational Opportunity Centers in America serving more than 192,000 adult learners nationwide.

"Genesee Community College is extremely grateful for the opportunities this grant funding provides for our students and our community members. Our team of expertly trained AEOC team members work hard to maximize the impact our programs and services have for as many individuals as we can reach," said Dr. Shelitha Williams, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services. "It is exciting to see that this work can not only continue but will now reach even more people in their time of need."

"As systemic inequality and financial hardship discourage students from succeeding in college, TRIO programs like EOC take on new importance because they continue to help guide un- and underemployed workers and returning high school and college students towards earning a degree," said Maureen Hoyler, president of the non-profit Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) in Washington, D.C. COE is dedicated to furthering the expansion of college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities nationwide.

Press release:

Labor shortages across nearly all industries are making headlines, but this is a topic community colleges have tackled for years. With increased urgency, local institutions prioritize course and program offerings to meet workforce demands.

The results build strong communities and make some great success stories.

Ryan Vogt, who thought he hated math in high school, said the personal attention his Finger Lakes Community College math professor gave him changed his whole outlook on the subject. Now, Ryan has a doctorate in mathematics and works at a U.S. Department of Energy lab.

Like many scholarship recipients at Genesee Community College, Claire Gardner was inspired and determined when she entered the Nursing Program. Upon graduation in 2019, she was prepared to be effective on the frontlines battling COVID-19, transferred her associate degree to SUNY Brockport to continue her education and landed her dream job as a NICU nurse at Rochester General Hospital.

When his first year at a university fell short of his expectations, Evan Baldwin shifted his educational path. He knew Monroe Community College's precision machining program was the right fit for him. Evan was hired as a full-time CNC operator a month before earning his associate degree in May.

Though each of their experiences is unique, they represent the stories of thousands of students who start and complete their studies at community colleges every year. Thousands more inspiring stories of how community colleges have transformed students' lives are waiting to unfold.

Dreams -- not debt -- are why individuals go to college. Like Ryan, Claire and Evan, New Yorkers go to college to achieve their goals, whether earning an associate degree for an in-demand job, learning new skills to change careers, or pursuing a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or Ph.D.

That's exactly what the State University of New York's 30 community colleges, including FLCC, GCC and MCC in the Western New York region, are designed for.

At a time when student loan debt is rising across the country, nearly two-thirds of SUNY community college associate degree graduates have zero student loan debt. That means they leave campus with no student debt, but have an accredited SUNY degree, and a pathway to a career or an advanced degree.

Simply put, community college is the most affordable way to earn a college degree, no matter how far they want to go.

New York State is rebounding and rebuilding after the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic. This means job opportunities in many industries will return to full vitality and new, future-looking jobs will be created.

With deep ties to their communities and regions, SUNY community colleges can help residents seize this moment -- and make education work around a busy life, with flexible on-campus and online associate degree programs for full-time or part-time students.

Applications can be completed online, are easier than ever and free at FLCC, GCC and MCC, like at most community colleges. Knowledgeable faculty and staff are available to guide students through the process.

Anyone interested is encouraged to visit flcc.edu, genesee.edu, and monroecc.edu for information on special enrollment opportunities.

Submitted photo and press release:

Last week, eight students became the first to take part in the Certified Nursing Assistant program available at the BEST (Business Employee Skills Training) Center at Genesee Community College. From Buffalo, Medina, Arcade, Strykersville and Lockport these eight unique individuals, in photo above, have jumped onto the fast-track into the rewarding and high-stakes healthcare industry.

The eight students are: Joshua Gross, Jacquelyn Francis, Charli Wright, Paige Tittel, Madison Meyers, Maria Garcia, Allyssa McKeever, and McKayla Trombley.

Through a combination of minimal eligibility requirements which are listed online at www.bestcenter.org, concentrated instruction and hands-on clinical experiences, the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is designed to be completed in just six weeks or 132 hours. 

"The entire BEST Center is excited about this program. Our partnership with both Genesee County Job Development Bureau and the Orchard Rehabilitation Nursing Home in Medina, New York mean these students will complete the program with valuable, real-life experience in real clinical settings that will translate directly into employability," said John McGowan, Ph.D., director of the BEST Center.

The BEST Center offers a variety of Certification and workforce training programs that are starting this Fall including the 100 percent in-person, Phlebotomy Technician Program beginning in September, a Supervision Certification to prepare you for that next promotion, and the popular Mechatronics, which integrates mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and microelectronic skills.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact McGowan today at jmmcgowan@genesee.edu or by calling (585) 345-6868 to learn more.

Some students may be eligible to receive funding for the CNA or other programs through the Genesee County Job Development Bureau. To find out more, contact Teresa VanSon at (585) 344-2024, ext.4223, or at Teresa.VanSon@co.genesee.ny.us.

Press release:

It is no secret that the heroes of this past year are those in the healthcare industry, on the front lines, holding our loved ones hands and working hard to take care of those who were and still are, sick.

However, what most don't know, is that there are ways to launch careers in the healthcare industry that don't take years to complete, and perhaps just as importantly, don't rack up the student loan debit that a traditional four-year degree program could.

Last month, the BEST (Business Employee Skills Training) Center at Genesee Community College officially opened registration for its newest program, the Certified Nursing Assistant training program to fast-track eligible individuals into the rewarding and high-stakes healthcare industry.

With minimal eligibility requirements which are listed online at www.bestcenter.org, this 132-hour New York State of Education Certification program teaches basic nursing and personal care skills, Mental Health and Social Service Needs, the Care of Cognitively Impaired Residents, the Basic Restorative Services and Residence Rights and more!

Program students also spend time gaining priceless real-life, hands-on experience during clinical rotations at in-patient, local facilities in both Le Roy and Medina.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Dr. John McGowan, director of the BEST Center today at jmmcgowan@genesee.edu or by calling (585) 345-6868 as this program starts on July 6.

Week 1 Classes will be held from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 6, Wednesday, July 7 and Friday, July 8. Weeks 2 thru 5 classes will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays beginning July 12 and continuing through Aug. 13.

Some students may be eligible to receive funding for this program through the Genesee County Job Development Bureau. To find out more, contact Teresa VonSon at (585) 344-2024, ext.4223, or at Teresa.VonSon@co.genesee.ny.us

Press release:

This week the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) have "One & Done" single dose Johnson & Johnson Janssen (J&J) vaccination clinics with appointments and walk-ins available targeting those who are 18 and older and open for any New York State individuals, who reside, work or study in the state.

“With proms, graduations, weddings, fairs, etc., getting the J&J vaccine now means that two weeks after the date of your shot you are considered fully vaccinated,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health director for GO Health.

“It takes more planning to get the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines as they are two doses and it will take two weeks following the second dose to be fully vaccinated, which would be 5-6 more weeks before you can participate in large events without the time and expense of testing.

"To learn more about the safety of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine please visit the CDC (Centers for Disease Control). We encourage everyone to talk with their primary care provider if they have concerns about any of the vaccines. With the options we currently have we continue to encourage everyone who is able to get vaccinated with the vaccine they are comfortable receiving.”

All clinics offer walk-in opportunities; however, we encourage you to register via the vaccination webpage or use the vaccine registration help lines below, and choose the appropriate J&J link.

• The GCC clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5^th from 9 – 11 a.m.  
• Special Clinic -- Genesee County Office for the Aging, Downtown Batavia is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5^th from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. 
• The Ridgeway Fire Hall clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 6^th from 9 – 11 a.m. 
• Special Clinic -- Orleans County Health Department is scheduled for Friday, May 7^th from 10 a.m. – noon.

For those who do not have internet, they can call the GO Health Vaccine Registration Help Lines:  

• Genesee:  (585) 815-7168
• Orleans:  (585) 589-3170

These lines are ONLY to make vaccine appointments, are not able to answer COVID-19-related questions, and are not associated with either health department.  

“We continue to see positive cases in unvaccinated individuals and it will continue as we work toward getting more of our population vaccinated,” Pettit said. “There are plenty of options to get any of the three vaccines offered. For your health and the health of others we encourage everyone who is able to be vaccinated to get vaccinated now.”

If you are interested in making an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccination, now is the time to do it locally!  

If you are a business/church/organization that is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic at your location, please fill out the survey. One of our staff members will be in contact with you.

For those who are seeking testing, both health departments provide limited free rapid testing for those without symptoms at the respective health departments. For Genesee County, a rapid test drive-through clinic is scheduled for May 6^th at County Building #2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. For Orleans County, a rapid test clinic is scheduled for May 5^th at the Orleans County Health Department at 14016 Route 31 West, Albion.

To register for testing go to the GO Health testing page and choose your preferred clinic location.

In order to comply with COVID-19 social distancing requirements, GCC held a drive-thru open house on Saturday for prospective students.

Submitted photo and press release:

On Saturday, May 22, Genesee Community College will recognize its students during its 53rd Commencement Ceremony, taking place completely online. Honoring this group of deserving achievers, will be keynote speaker, Susan Salvador, Ed.D., former vice president for Student Affairs at Monroe Community College in Rochester.

"Operating in such close-knit communities and working with our small class sizes, our faculty and staff were heart-broken when we had to postpone our traditional in-person commencement and move to a completely online event in 2020," said Genesee Community College President James Sunser.

"As we came to realize the 2021 commencement would also be virtual, our talented teams rolled up their sleeves and got right to work. We all found comfort in putting our best efforts into creating something special for our students, and we are pleased that they will get to hear from Dr. Salvador."

Building on the success from last year's video-style graduation ceremony, GCC is planning a similar online broadcast for the class of 2021. Salvador's address will come to the esteemed graduates as part of their online ceremony. 

Salvador is currently a highly experienced consultant, trainer and speaker on student affairs practices and student learning. In addition to serving as vice president for Student Affairs at Monroe Community College in Rochester, she served in that capacity at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, Pa., and was a search associate for William Spelman Executive Search.

Salvador was a contributing author to "Learning Reconsidered: A Campus-wide Focus on the Student Experience" as well as a member of the National Writing Team to produce the inventory statements for the "Principles of Good Practice for Student Affairs," publications sponsored by American College Personnel Association (ACPA) and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA).

She has served as a consultant for community colleges establishing housing and residence life programs, an author of articles on the impact and philosophical change of residence halls on two-year colleges, and a lecturer in the Educational Foundations Department at Buffalo State College to teach Community College Administration.

In addition, she served as president of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester Board and as a member of: the Golisano Children's Hospital Board at the University of Rochester Medical Center; the National Advisory Group for the National Technical Institute of the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology; the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House Development Committee; the Young Women's College Prep Public School of Rochester Foundation; the Wegmans Hillside Work-Scholarship Rochester Program Board of Directors; and the Paperclip Communications Community College National Advisory Board.

Salvador was president of ACPA from 2010-2011 and is a Diamond Honoree. She served as an ACPA Educational Leadership Foundation trustee, chair of Commissions and member of the Senior Student Affairs Advisory and External Relations Advisory Boards, among other leadership roles.

Inspiring students throughout her career, Salvador has received: the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society's Distinguished Administrator Award; a Certificate of Merit from the New York State Assembly for significant contributions to the student personnel profession; an Outstanding Contribution to the Profession Award from the College Student Personnel Association of New York State; and the 2004 Mildred Bulpitt Woman of the Year Award from the American Association for Women in Community Colleges. She was an ATHENA Award nominee sponsored by the Women's Council of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and was inducted into MCC's Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.

She has a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from The University of Michigan, a master's degree in College Student Personnel/Counseling from The Pennsylvania State University and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Siena College.

As Genesee Community College continues to develop its #SUNYGCC21 virtual commencement, details will be made available on www.genesee.edu/commencement.

Press release:

We would like to take the time to congratulate Montana Dieter on signing a celebratory letter of intent to compete at Genesee Community College this fall.

Montana plans on joining the Lady Cougars Soccer team at GCC under the guidance of Coach Jeff Reyngoudt. During Montana’s time here at Pembroke Central School she has been a standout in both Soccer and Cheerleading.  

As a member of the Lady Dragons Soccer Team, Montana has been a four-year starter at forward since her freshmen year. During her tenure with the Lady Dragons, she has put together an impressive resume, which includes 26 goals and 18 assists. Montana plans to use her immense speed and shiftiness to continue her success at the next level.

While attending GCC, Montana plans on studying to become a Registered Nurse. Montana is extremely excited and honored to continue her career at the next level, competing for the Cougars. 

Coach April Meier said, “I would like to congratulate Montana for her success and accomplishments while on the Pembroke Varsity soccer team. I know she will go on to do great things with this opportunity to play soccer at GCC next fall. Montana is a highly talented athlete her combined qualities of speed athleticism, quick decision making and mind for game strategy make her a formidable and skilled offensive player. It gives me great pride and pleasure to see the athletes from our program pursuing the sports they love in college. Best of luck to Montana and the GCC Cougars in their upcoming fall 2021 season!”

Press release:

Following steadfast support for New York’s colleges and universities throughout the pandemic, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that the recently signed American Rescue Plan includes an estimated $2.6 billion for New York’s public, private, and proprietary institutions of higher education.

In Genesee County, Genesee Community College is expected to get $9.1M and Genesee-Livingston-Steuben-Wyoming BOCES is expected to get a total of $662,000. The total allotment for the Finger Lakes Region is almost $164M.

Schumer said that public and nonprofit schools will use half of their award on emergency financial aid grants to students to help them with college costs and basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare.

The other half of the funds will allow institutions to provide additional student support activities, and to cover a variety of institutional costs, including lost revenue, reimbursement for expenses already incurred, technology costs associated with a transition to distance education, faculty and staff trainings, and payroll. Proprietary schools must use their awards exclusively to provide financial aid grants to students.

“As New York’s colleges, universities, and students face over a year of unprecedented hurdles, they do so at a steep cost that it is our responsibility to address and overcome. In prioritizing the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff, New York’s higher education institutions have ripped massive holes in their budgets and are now facing down financial devastation – and we simply can’t let that happen,” Senator Schumer said.

“As Majority Leader, I was proud to make funding for New York’s higher education institutions and students a top priority, and the American Rescue Plan will deliver this much needed $2.6 billion in assistance to help our world-class institutions through the crisis, get students safely back to classes, and get campuses across the state back to ‘normal’.”

This funding announced today is in addition to the $2.4 billion Schumer secured for New York’s institutions of higher education in the past COVID-19 relief bills. In total, Schumer has secured over $5 billion for New York’s colleges and universities in the past year.

Submitted photo and press release:

Following what has been arguably one of the most challenging years for athletics departments across the nation, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has recognized Genesee Community College's Assistant Vice President of Student Engagement & Inclusion and Director of Athletics, Kristen Schuth, as the 2020-21 Junior/Community College Athletics Director of the Year.

In addition to the countless impacts the coronavirus pandemic has had on collegiate communities, NACDA has also had to reinvent its recognition ceremony and will present Schuth with the Director of the Year honor at its 56th Annual Convention virtually in July.

"I've always been immensely proud of GCC's athletes and the strong teaching and coaching staff we have," Schuth said. "They make me want to work harder and do more, and so, I love what I get to do and am so grateful for the team I'm surrounded by.

"With athletics facilities among the finest in the region and partnerships with other areas in the College such as Student Success and Student Engagement & Inclusion, our programs and students have demonstrated growth and strengthened relationships.

"I look around the country and I see the amazing things my counterparts are doing to uplift their athletes and support their programs and I am truly humbled by this award."

Schuth first came to GCC as Head Softball Coach in 2004 and became an Adjunct Instructor in the Department of Health and Physical Education in 2005. Between 2004-2010 Schuth compiled a win/loss percentage of .534. Prior to her first season, the softball team went 7-19.

But under her leadership, her teams recorded five winning seasons, finished in the top four in Regional Finals and produced two NFCA (National Fastpitch Coaches Association) All-Americans. In 2010, she was named WNYAC (Western New York Athletic Conference) Women's Softball Coach of the Year at GCC.

After a short three-year break while she served as Assistant Director of Athletics at Finger Lakes Community College, Schuth returned to GCC as the Director of Athletics in 2013.

As part of an effort to more fully integrate Student Engagement and Inclusion initiatives into every aspect of GCC's student experiences, Schuth added this area to her oversight in 2019 in becoming the Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement & Inclusion, in addition to retaining her role as Director of Athletics.

Schuth grew up in Hilton, NY and is a member of the Hilton High School Athletic Hall of Fame. At SUNY Brockport she starred in both softball and basketball, earning letters in both sports all four years as well as being named SUNY Brockport female athlete of the year in two consecutive years. She was an All-American in basketball her senior year. She is a member of the SUNY Brockport Athletic Hall of Fame.

Kristen earned her master's degree from California University of Pennsylvania and now resides in Spencerport with her husband and two sons.

"When I was notified that Kristen would be receiving the Athletics Director of the Year Award from the NACDA, I couldn't have been more proud," said GCC President James Sunser, Ph.D. "Kristen exemplifies what it takes to be a great leader.

"From the wisdom and knowledge to the skill and experience, her students and her staff look up to her and know she will do what it takes to provide leadership and guidance. Throughout the adversities of the last year, Kristen has accomplished so much and has led GCC's Athletics Department with a courage and strength to be envied."

This prestigious award has earned Schuth a place in GCC's Recognition Matters series which highlights the accomplishments of the College's faculty, staff and students. Officials at GCC have embraced this series as a way to acknowledge not only the achievement, but the high quality of the recognized individuals who demonstrate GCC's "beyond expectations" brand.

Press release:

Perpetually striving for her own "Personal Best," Williamsville resident Susan Makai will share her story Wednesday, March 17, at 1:30 p.m. on Genesee Community College's Fashion Episode 21:1.

For 32 years Makai has owned and operated Personal Best, an internationally known image and performing school that also teaches etiquette, communication and business protocol to hundreds of companies, colleges and high schools throughout New York State.

As part of Genesee Community College's Fashion Program, Makai will appear via Zoom on a special Fashion Episode 21:1 to tell her story and inspire the audience to keep reaching for their personal best.

Join the FREE, virtual presentation to hear about how her education, her upbringing and her experiences in life drove her to create Personal Best and what it has meant for her career -- and those who have studied with her.

With just one physical classroom, but broadcasting online to hundreds of pupils around the state, Personal Best has received numerous "outstanding training" awards and has been featured in books, magazines and articles about the talent and modeling industry. Perhaps most rewardingly, Makai's students have been recognized with hundreds of awards at national acting and modeling competitions and some have gone onto to successful careers in fashion modeling, acting, and television.

In addition to her successful business, Makai has served on business and fashion advisory boards for several educational institutions, including Genesee Community College. Most recently she was elected to the national board for PRIMA, an association for talent managers and school directors. Many recall Makai from her longtime television fashion commentator role on "AM Buffalo," Channel 7 WKBW's morning program, or as weather reporter and movie host at local CBS, NBC and FOX affiliates.

Makai, who grew up in White Plains, came to Western New York to attend college where she earned an undergraduate teaching degree in Speech-English with a minor in Theater and a master's degree in Education. In addition, Makai is a graduate of the University of Buffalo's Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership.

To watch Fashion Episode 21:1 with Susan Makai, visit on Zoom here at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 17.

Fashion Episodes are a special collection of opportunities made available by the Fashion Program at Genesee Community College. The Fashion Program has always been a flagship for the college. The knowledge and experience of the faculty and their dedication to their students has produced quality and professional workplace candidates and well-prepared transfer students since the program's inception more than 40 years ago.

GCC is proud to maintain several articulation agreements tailored specifically to support the career track of students in the Fashion Programs. GCC students who earn a Fashion Business: Merchandising A.A.S. can seamlessly transfer to LIM to complete their B.B.A. in Fashion Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Marketing or Management; or to Cazenovia College's Fashion Merchandising B.P.S. program.

In addition, GCC's Fashion Business: Fashion Design A.A.S. students can transfer to Cazenovia's Fashion Design B.F.A. degree program. Anyone interested in taking advantage of these transfer opportunities through GCC is encouraged to contact GCC's Student Success Center at (585) 345-6805 or via email at SSC@genesee.edu.

Press release:

Genesee Community College Forum Players and guest alumni will broadcast their performance of Anna Deavere Smith's "Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992" online for FREE today and tomorrow ONLY!

Anyone, anywhere, will be able to view this moving performance any time between now and 11:59 p.m. Saturday, March 6 by clicking on this link.

Due to the graphic and violent video footage, racial slurs and strong mature language used in this production, viewer and parental discretion is advised.

After interviewing more than 300 individuals who were witness to the riots in Los Angeles that erupted following the acquittal of the police officers charged with assaulting Rodney King 30 years ago, Smith delicately compiled those raw experiences into a series of powerful monologues that bring a range of perspectives into focus.

"Watching the evening news recently and seeing story after story of the violence taking place all around us, I couldn't help but feel like it was all too familiar," said Director of Fine Arts Maryanne Arena. "I wanted to do something to help our community listen to each other and learn from our past.

"Knowing so many of our students are learning remotely and feeling the heaviness of the anniversary of Rodney King's arrest approaching, this piece is the perfect selection."

As a special interest project, six talented GCC alumni have returned to participate in this performance:

• Alex Grayson, Class of 2011
• Sania Hyatt, Class of 2015
• Tori Ogunsanya, Class of 2019
• Maria Albanese, Class of 2016
• Antonio Ware, Class of 2009
• Shellene Bailey, Class of 2010

Also making a special appearance is local performer, Riley Asher Stalbaum, professional trainer at the Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel.

What: GCC Announces FREE, ONLINE Performance of "Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992" - Available to ALL via YouTube!

When: LIMITED TIME - Today and Tomorrow ONLY - March 5 and 6

Where: Broadcast ONLINE on YouTube for FREE.

Who: All are invited! Note: This production contains violent graphic video, strong racial slurs and mature language.

"Can we all get along?" -- Rodney King

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee Community College Foundation and Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble Honorary Chairperson Gina G. Giese ('91) have confirmed the Sixth Annual Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble will take place on Monday, July 19, at Stafford Country Club in Stafford.

Giese, a Batavia resident, earned an associate degree in Business and Marketing from GCC in 1991, a bachelor's degree in the same from Buffalo State College and an MBA from Canisius College. She has spent her career as a local business leader. She is currently retail regional manager, administrative vice president at M&T Bank in Batavia, where she started her career with the bank 32 years ago.

A devoted volunteer and member of GCC's Alumni Council since 2011, Giese has served on many committees including the Cougar Classic and GCC Alumni Panel Series. She and her husband, Walter, are golfers and have also volunteered on the PGA Tour.

"I am sincerely grateful to Gina for serving as chair for the sixth annual Cougar Classic," said Executive Director of the GCC Foundation, Justin Johnston. "In my time at GCC, I've enjoyed collaborating with her on our Alumni Council. Gina's leadership is vital to so many areas of GCC, and I look forward to working with her on this important initiative to raise scholarship funds for our GCC students."

The Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble allows up to 36 foursomes for the 18-hole event at the esteemed Stafford Country Club. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, all beer and nonalcoholic beverages during play, lunch and dinner with a cash bar, and much more!

Most importantly, all proceeds from the Cougar Classic support GCC student scholarship programs, making higher education possible for deserving students in our communities.

Businesses and individuals looking to take advantage of this event's advertising opportunities and lock in sponsorship levels are encouraged to act early and contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield directly at (585) 343-0055, ext. 6265, or via email at jgwakefield@genesee.edu.

Exciting new event details, registration and sponsorship forms will be available here.

Photo from a previous Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble, from left: Erik Fix, Samantha Schafer, Gina Geise and Walter Szczesny.

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee Community College has proudly named Deborah Penoyer, MS, RN as the new Nursing Program Director at its Antoinette Marchese Clancy School of Nursing.

Penoyer, of Rochester, took on the position after her predecessor Laurel Sanger retired in late 2020.

Having graduated its 50th class of nurses in 2020, the Nursing Program at GCC has been a flagship program for the College since its inception.

With constantly evolving demands in the healthcare field, this high-tech and high-demand program accepts an exclusive group of just 96 students every year and boasts a 95-percent job-placement rate upon graduation.

"I truly appreciate the quality of pedagogies I saw at GCC and am excited to be part of them," Penoyer said. "It's always been my priority to promote respect for differences and to embrace cultural competence for the value they bring to the learning experience.

"In the face of uncertainty, it is ever more important to be agile, provide flexible learning opportunities and to remain steadfast in ensuring student success. I have already seen those practices succeeding at GCC and look forward to building upon them."

The Nursing Program at GCC is designed to benefit students of all ages and all stages of life. With programs to bridge Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) into Registered Nurses (RNs) and a traditional RN track, students can learn, apply skills, and grow into their careers.

These elite programs require students to participate in an Information Session before beginning. Such sessions are held online and those interested in a rewarding career in nursing or healthcare are encouraged to sign up now here.

"It is the care and attention to details that the department faculty and staff have put into the curriculum and these Information Sessions that make our program and therefore our students so successful," Penoyer added.

Penoyer dedicated 17 years to child and adolescent care at Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong Memorial Hospital. Following her passion for educating and uniting others, she took on the additional role of Nurse Educator and Training Center Coordinator where she got to develop nursing practice policies, procedures and protocols as well as onboard new nurses and technicians at Strong.

In 2010, Penoyer's desire to lead and to contribute to the future of the nursing industry led her to SUNY Geneseo where she served as Nurse Manager in College Health for 10 years before returning to a large health system, Rochester Regional Health's Primary Care and Ambulatory Specialty Institute where she was responsible for Operational Excellence and Compliance for Adult and Geriatric Services.

Penoyer earned a Master of Science, Leadership in Health Care Systems, Health Promotion, Education and Technology from the University of Rochester's School of Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Roberts Wesleyan College and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Monroe Community College.

Press release:

"I don't know what I want to do, what would I major in?" quoted Lindsay Gerhardt, assistant dean of admissions and recruitment at Genesee Community College. "My recruiting team hears it all the time when we ask someone why they didn't enroll for classes. Sometimes, people just need more."

So, the Admissions team decided to do more.

Major Exploration Days at Genesee Community College were introduced as a way for interested individuals to learn exactly what the College's programs are all about. Taking it a step further, the faculty members from the various programs participate in these sessions so potential students learn what courses they would take, hear about the associated field experiences that are available and develop a clear picture of what their semester could look like!

In addition, these sessions provide opportunities for the students (and any friends or family members who are listening in) to hear about the transfer opportunities GCC has to offer specific to these areas of study. Naturally, Major Exploration Days also include discussions about the vast array of careers and jobs these programs prepare students for.

Each session has been designed to cover a group of academic programs and majors that tend to have some common interest amongst students and some potential career overlap. All of these sessions are open to anyone who is interested in attending GCC! The sessions are free and offered completely online for maximum convenience.

Anyone can attend any or all of these sessions based on the programs of interest:

• Thursday, Jan. 21 will cover Business & Commerce programs, Information Technology degrees and certificates, and a variety of Science & Technology programs! Specific programs include: Accounting, Biotechnology, Business Administration, CIS, CSN, Computerized Drafting and Design, Computer Repair, Fashion, Helpdesk Support, Medical Administrative Assistant, Tourism, Hospitality Event Management, and Web Design.
• Thursday, Feb. 4 will explore programs in Education, Human Services, Law and Criminal Justice! Specific programs include: Alcohol & Substance Abuse Studies, Childcare, Corrections, Developmental Disabilities Studies, Economic Crime Investigation, Forensics, Gerontology, Homeland Security, Paralegal Studies, Policing, Teacher Assistant, and a Teacher Education Transfer Program.
• Thursday, Feb. 25 focuses on Creative Arts, Health & Physical Education and will also include the vast opportunities available under the Liberal Arts umbrella! Specific programs include: Biology, Chemistry, Communication & Media Arts, Digital Art, English, Fine Arts, Fitness & Rec: Personal Trainer, History, Mathematics, Physical Education Studies, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Spanish, Sports Management Studies, Sociology, and Theatre Arts. If you have not yet selected a specific major, this is the session for you!

GCC recommends anyone considering an education or a career in any of these fields to register for any of these sessions by clicking here; emailing admissions@genesee.edu; or calling (585) 345-6800.

Nya Thomas, softball standout at Notre Dame High School, has signed with Genesee Community College. Thomas is the daughter of Otis and Nicole Thomas.

Photo*: Teagyn Thomas, Nya Thomas, Nicole Thomas, Gunnar Thomas; Back row. JC Kabel Edge (her coach on her travel team), and Mike Rapone, ND's athletic director.

*Otis Thomas was in quarantine and couldn't attend the signing.

Submitted photo and information.

Press release:

Genesee Community College's BEST Center (Business Employee Skills Training) has been awarded the New York College Apprenticeship Network (NYCAN) grant. The award is perfectly timed with the celebration of the U.S. Department of Labor's sixth annual National Apprenticeship Week which runs November 8 to 14, 2020.

The NYCAN grant which totals $15,000 is a result of a partnership between The State University of New York (SUNY) and the New York State Department of Labor and is designed to focus on advanced manufacturing.

"As the BEST Center's primary focus is employee development and skills training, we are highly attuned to the workforce needs of our communities," said Director of the BEST Center John McGowan, Ph.D. "The programs we offer are specifically designed to grow highly skilled and employable personnel to ensure the economic health of our region."

Genesee Community College's BEST Center has begun to engage small, medium, and large employers to secure paid apprenticeships in high demand, competitive wage occupations throughout Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, and -- through online capabilities -- far beyond!

"The NYCAN grant allows us to support employers with Registered Apprenticeship programs, as well as assist current and future Registered Apprentices," McGowan said.

New York State has provided $9 million of funding for SUNY community colleges, to create one of the largest statewide public/private partnership apprenticeship programs in the country.

At Genesee Community College, the BEST Center's programs house the expertise and support that identify workforce needs, determine skills gaps, and engage employer sponsors to expand apprenticeships throughout the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, and far beyond.

The SUNY Apprenticeship Program will assist in developing 2,000 pre-apprentices and Registered Apprentices over four to six-years in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology/cybersecurity/ artificial intelligence and more.

Press release:

Veterans Day, like so many other important events in 2020 will look a little different this year. But the Adult Educational Opportunities Center (AEOC) at Genesee Community College refused to let a global health pandemic stand in the way of honoring this country's veterans.

Through the hard work and collaboration of the College's staff and faculty and the dedicated team at the AEOC, a special Virtual Veterans Day Celebration has been created and is now live online at www.genesee.edu/veterans-day for all to see.

The site will remain live throughout Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11.

"While we will miss the ability to shake our Veterans' hands and thank them face to face, we are very excited to be able to expand our reach and be able to share this with those who have been unable to attend our events in the past," said AEOC Director Staci Williams.

GCC is also hosting an online, customizable Open House on Nov. 11 where potential students and families can participate in sessions of their choice. Details on how to participate are available at GCC's Virtual Open House.

What: GCC's Veterans Day Celebration Website is Live!

When: NOW!

Where: online at   www.genesee.edu/veterans-day

Who: All are invited to join in honoring our veterans.

Press release: 

Everyone interested in attending Genesee Community College is encouraged to register and select which sessions best fit their own unique needs. Choose to hear the Financial Aid information or join later to meet key faculty and Athletics team coaches.

GCC is taking full advantage of the online environment to allow potential students and their families to zoom in and out of the sessions they choose. The registration form includes a complete agenda for selection.

Taking place completely online, Open House will begin at 9:30 a.m. with information about the Admissions process, Financial Aid, Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and services specifically designed to support homeschooled students and adultlearners. Around 11 a.m.participants will get to hear about the role of GCC's Student Success Coaches and Campus Center Advisors and get some expert help figuring out if Online Learning is right for you.

Then, at noon, the Academic breakout sessions will give all participants a chance to meet faculty from their intended major, hear about program expectations and technology associated with the program.

After the breakouts, Transfer and Career Services will explain how they help students maximize their time and plan for the future they want. The Learning Center -- which provides FREE tutoring to GCC students, the Counseling, and Access and Accommodations offices will also present the plethora of services they provide to help ensure student success.

Then, at 1:30 p.m. listen in to the Student Experience Panel as they discuss "What is there to do at GCC?" and hear all about Living on Campus at College Village. Wrapping up the event, at 2:30 p.m. join the rest of the Cougar Pride in an informative Athletics presentation.

For more information contact GCC's Admissions Office at 1-866-CALL-GCC or by email at Admissions@genesee.edu.

What: Customize Your Experience at GCC's Virtual Open House

When: Wednesday, Nov. 11, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Register and Choose Sessions to Attend at: www.genesee.edu/VisitGCC

Who: Students and Families of All Ages Interested in Attending GCC!

Background: For maximum convenience, effectiveness, and safety, Genesee Community College will host a customizable Virtual Open House on Wednesday, Nov. 11.