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Faculty, administrators, staff and current students at Suffolk County Community College will welcome new and prospective students to open house on Sunday, April 6, from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Open House will take place at all three of the college’s campuses in Riverhead, Selden and Brentwood, as well as its Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in Riverhead. Explore scholarships, tour the campuses, speak with Admissions and Financial Aid counselors, learn about student clubs and more. RSVP at www.sunysuffolk.edu/openhouse/

 

Nina Kezys. Photo from SCCC

Suffolk County Community College has announced that Nina Kezys, a psychology major from East Northport, has been selected as one of 20 college students nationwide named to the prestigious 2025 All-USA Academic Team and has also been chosen as New York’s 2025 New Century Transfer Scholar. Ms. Kezys was chosen from among more than 2,000 nominees for each award. She will earn a $5,000 scholarship for the All-USA Academic Team honor, and an additional $2,250 scholarship as a New Century Transfer Scholar.

These awards recognize Ms. Kezys’s outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to community service. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning Dean’s List recognition for the past two semesters, she has demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom. As Vice President of the Rotaract Community Service Club and Vice President of Membership for the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society, she has contributed significantly to the college community. Additionally, Kezys plays on the Women’s Soccer Team, serves as a Peer Mentor overseeing the Michael J. Grant Campus Food Pantry, and actively participates in the campus Honors and Psychology clubs

Ms. Kezys will receive her awards during the American Association of Community Colleges’ (AACC) annual national convention taking place in Nashville in April.

Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College, praised Kezys’s accomplishments, stating, “Nina’s dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and service embodies the very best of Suffolk County Community College. Her commitment to making a difference on campus is truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and know she will continue to make a lasting impact everywhere she goes.

The All-USA Academic Team is among the nation’s premier academic honors for students pursuing an associate degree. Nominees must be able to demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement. Sponsored by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) national honor society, the program celebrates students who leverage their community college experience to better themselves, improve their schools, and positively impact their communities.

The New Century Transfer Scholar, is an honor given to only one student from each state. The program is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, with support from Phi Theta Kappa, and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

 

Collazo Neftali

Suffolk County Community College has announced that Neftali Collazo, College Associate Dean of Athletics and Special Events, has been selected as a fellow for the prestigious SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute (HLI) for the 2025 cohort.

The HLI is a nine-month, rigorous leadership development program designed to support and empower emerging Hispanic and Latinx leaders in higher education. This competitive fellowship will provide Neftali with invaluable training, mentorship, and networking opportunities designed to further strengthen his leadership skills and expand his influence within the SUNY system and beyond.

Neftali Collazo, who has been with Suffolk County Community College for over 15 years, has played a key role in shaping the college’s athletics and special events programming. As College Associate Dean, he manages a wide range of responsibilities, including leading the college’s intercollegiate athletic programs and community outreach initiatives, and overseeing the college’s athletic fields, facilities, and event management systems.

Chancellor John B. King Jr. of the State University of New York (SUNY) announced the selection of Neftali and nine other emerging Hispanic leaders and allies for the 2025 HLI cohort, a group known for their commitment to inclusivity, leadership, and service in higher education.

Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College commented, “Neftali’s selection as a fellow for the Hispanic Leadership Institute is a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to our college. His involvement in the program will not only enhance his own growth as a leader, but will also bring back valuable knowledge and perspectives that will benefit our students, faculty, and staff.”

“I am honored to be selected for the 2025 Hispanic Leadership Institute,” said Collazo. “This program will provide me with the opportunity to advance as a leader, while also representing the importance of diverse voices in higher education. I look forward to connecting with other leaders across the SUNY system and continuing to enhance the student experience here at Suffolk.”

The SUNY Hispanic Leadership Institute has been a key initiative in supporting Hispanic and Latinx leaders in higher education since its launch in 2017.

Back row: (L to R) Dr. Donna Ciampa, Suffolk’s Interim Executive Dean, Michael J. Grant Campus; Dr. Hector Sepulveda, Suffolk’s Campus Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Michael J. Grant Campus; Dr. Irene Rios, Suffolk’s Executive Dean, Ammerman Campus; John McLoughlin, Executive Director, Enrollment Partnerships, St. George’s University; Athalie Alexander-Arrington, Associate Director of Admissions, St. George’s University; Iris Rodriguez (student) Vet Track; Michael Hector (student) Pharma Track; Jade Tordas (student) Medical Track; and representing St. John’s University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, one of Binghamton’s partnering institutions, Amy Wolfinger and Melissa Mirabella. Front row: (L to R): Laura Bruno, Vice President & Dean of Enrollment, St. George’s University; Dr. Edward Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College; and Maja Szostak, Director of Admissions, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences - Binghamton University. Photo courtesy of SCCC

Suffolk County Community College has announced transformative partnerships with Binghamton University in upstate Binghamton, New York and St. George’s University (SGU) in Grenada, West Indies to streamline the process for qualified graduates from Suffolk who are interested in transferring into medical, veterinary, and pharmacy doctoral degree programs at these universities. The new collaborations aim to provide local students with pathways to professional healthcare degrees.

A signing event, recently held at Suffolk County Community College’s Michael J. Grant Campus, featured remarks from key leaders in academia and healthcare. Students, faculty, and local elected officials also attended the announcement.

“These partnerships represent a significant step forward in providing our students with exceptional opportunities in healthcare. By offering pathways to advanced degrees in medicine, veterinary medicine, and pharmacy, we are helping to build a pipeline of highly trained professionals who will serve not only Suffolk County but the broader healthcare needs of our region. We are proud to work alongside St. George’s University and Binghamton University to make these dreams a reality for our students,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College.

Partnership With Binghamton University

In partnership with Binghamton University, up to five seats per academic year based on highest GPA are reserved for well-qualified Suffolk County Community College students who meet specific criteria. These students will be guaranteed a smooth transition into Binghamton University’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. To qualify for these reserved seats, students must complete their Associate Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Biology at Suffolk County Community College, as well as additional courses required by Binghamton University. After the five reserved seats are filled in this competitive program, other eligible Suffolk County Community College students may still apply, but admission is not guaranteed.

Maja Szostak, Director of Admissions, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University noted, “This partnership will help foster educational opportunities for students seeking a career in pharmacy by providing them with a clear pathway and the support necessary to succeed in this highly competitive field.”

Partnership with St. George’s University

“As we navigate through the complexities of healthcare in the 21st century, the demand for compassionate, skilled, and dedicated physicians has never been greater,” said Laura Bruno, Vice President & Dean of Enrollment, SGU. “But here in NY, despite having 15 medicals schools—the highest number in the country—our acceptance rate is less than 9%. The truth is there are simply not enough seats in U.S. medical schools. As a result, many highly qualified and passionate students find themselves feeling discouraged before they even apply and many others will face rejection despite their best efforts. I am here to say that there are alternative pathways to becoming a doctor and this exciting collaboration between our institutions offers one of the best, clear and unobstructed pathways to a seat in medical or veterinary school.”

“St. George’s University is delighted to offer this new opportunity for aspiring doctors and veterinarians from Suffolk County Community College to pursue degrees in medicine and veterinary medicine with us,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine. “SGU is tremendously proud to partner with SCCC and to offer multiple pathways to healthcare careers with flexible options to meet students’ different academic objectives.”

Suffolk County Community College offers two pathways for students aiming to pursue a career in medicine or veterinary medicine through the partnership with St. George’s University (SGU). The 2+2+4 Pathway allows students to complete an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Biology at Suffolk, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in a pre-medical or pre-veterinary program at an SGU partner university, and then transition into SGU’s four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.

The 2+5 Pathway allows students to enter SGU’s five-year MD program, which includes a pre-clinical year, two years of basic sciences, and two years of clinical rotations at SGU’s affiliated hospitals. To be eligible, students must complete all required coursework, maintain a GPA of 3.5 or better, and achieve competitive scores on relevant entrance exams like the MCAT or GRE

About Suffolk County Community College

Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With over 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school, to college, and into careers.

About Binghamton University

Binghamton University’s School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SOPPS) is a research-focused professional school offering the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree as well as the Master of Science and PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The pharmacy school educates students who understand the value of evidence-based, patient-centered pharmaceutical care and innovative research, and scientists who will extend the knowledge base of pharmaceutical sciences in the areas of drug target discovery, drug testing and drug delivery. Our graduates will serve their communities in socially responsible ways to improve health and well-being.

About St. George University

St. George’s University is a center of international education, drawing students and faculty from 140 countries to the island of Grenada, in the West Indies, to its programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, public health, science, and business. SGU is affiliated with educational institutions worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands. The University’s over 31,000 graduates include physicians, veterinarians, scientists, and public health and business professionals across the world. St. George’s University School of Medicine is accredited by the Grenada Medical and Dental Council which has been recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). For more information, visit www.sgu.edu.

Suffolk County Community College Student, Stefanie Karayoff, was accepted to the Future Nobel Laureates Scholarship Program. Photo from SCCC

Stefanie Karayoff, a Suffolk County Community College student and a resident of Ronkonkoma, has been awarded admission into the prestigious EF Future Nobel Laureates Scholarship Program. Created with the Nobel Prize Museum and the Forum on Education Abroad, this student program is fueled by the belief that in order to change the world, students need to experience it.

Selected students will enjoy a fully funded opportunity that encompasses a project-based course, an immersive field study, and engaging sessions at the Nobel Week Dialogue in Sweden, centered on “The Future of Health.” In collaborative teams, they will brainstorm and present innovative solutions to urgent global challenges. Alongside the project-based course and international field study, scholars will have the chance to learn from global thought leaders, enriching their understanding and expanding their perspectives.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this scholarship,” said Stefanie. “This opportunity will not only enhance my education but also allow me to engage with diverse perspectives and contribute to meaningful conversations on global challenges.”

Stefanie is currently pursuing a degree in Engineering Science at Suffolk County Community College, where she has consistently excelled in her studies and demonstrated a commitment to community service and leadership. Her passions include robotics and STEM advocacy. 

“This scholarship is a testament to Stefanie’s hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College. “We are proud to have her represent the College on this international platform.”

 

 

Military Times, for the sixth consecutive year, has named Suffolk County Community College a Best for Vets college. The ranking is the largest and most comprehensive annual list recognizing the top colleges and universities for military service members and veterans. These rankings have become a vital tool for veterans seeking guidance on maximizing their educational benefits.

This year, an impressive 304 schools made the list, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the military community in their educational journeys. Suffolk County Community College is honored to be ranked 10th in New York and 14th in the Northeast among public colleges as a 2024 Best for Vets College.

“Suffolk County Community College is proud to be recognized as a ‘Best for Vets’ school for six consecutive years,” said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Edward Bonahue. “Military-affiliated students need support to transition back into civilian life and into the learning environment. Suffolk County Community College honors their service by providing the needed tools for success.”

“The designation is a testament to Suffolk County Community College’s strong academic programs as well as the college’s collaborative efforts to provide exemplary service to military-connected students,” said Shannon O’Neill, Suffolk County Community College’s Director of Veterans Affairs.

Each year, Military Times surveys colleges and universities nationwide to evaluate their veteran-focused programs. These survey responses, along with public data sourced from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs, undergo a rigorous analysis by the Military Times data team to produce a trusted, unbiased ranking.

q*bicles by Jeremy Teipen

The Flecker Gallery, located in the Southampton Building on the Ammerman Campus of Suffolk County Community College in Selden, will present a solo exhibition featuring the innovative works of visiting artist Jeremiah Teipen from Nov. 14 through Dec. 17. Titled q*bicles, This special event will showcase an immersive installation highlighting Teipen’s recent work, which explores the complex relationship between the digital and physical realms in our increasingly interconnected world.

An opening reception and gallery talk will take place on Thursday, November 14, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. During the gallery talk, Teipen will share insights into his creative process and the inspirations behind his thought-provoking themes. Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome to partake in an afternoon filled with art and conversation.

Jeremiah Teipen is a visual artist based in Brooklyn. He holds an MFA from the School of Visual Arts and a BFA from the Columbus College of Art & Design. Teipen has received numerous awards and grants, including a production grant from the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju, the Asian Cultural Council Japan/United States Grant, and exhibition grants from the Seoul Foundation of Arts and Culture and ARKO and Arts Council Korea.

His work has been featured in various national and international exhibitions, including notable venues such as the Circulo de Bellas Artes in Madrid, Centro de Arte de Burgos, and the Queens Museum in New York. Teipen’s art has also been showcased at prestigious institutions like Tokyo Geijutsu Daigaku, Gallery Factory in Seoul, and the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju. His work has garnered attention in multiple journals and publications, including the Leonardo Journal of Arts and Sciences by TheMIT Press and The New York Times.

The Flecker Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 12:30 to 5 p.m., with additional hours available by appointment.

Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman campus is located at 533 College Road in Selden. For more information, call 631-451-4110.

SCCC Facebook

Faculty, administrators, staff and current students at Suffolk County Community College will welcome new and prospective students to a Fall Open House on Sunday, Nov. 3, from noon to 2 p.m. 

Open houses will take place at all three of the college’s campuses in Riverhead, Selden and Brentwood, as well as its Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in Riverhead.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet faculty, tour campuses, and learn about student organizations and clubs, Suffolk’s varied degree and certificate programsas well as the grants and loan process. In addition, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the numerous scholarships available for students enrolled at Suffolk.

Students and their families are encouraged to RSVP by visiting this link: sunysuffolk.edu/OpenHouse

Jennifer Kenney, Suffolk County Community College EAC Project Coordinator; Daphne M. Gordon, Ph.D., Suffolk County Community College Project Administrator; Joanne Laloi, Suffolk County Community College’s EAC client and the 2024 NYS Entrepreneur of the Year; Elizabeth Lusskin, Executive Vice President, Empire State Development Small Business & Technology Development; Bette Yee, Senior Director, Entrepreneur Development, Empire State Development; Earl Thomason Jr., Vice President of Entrepreneur Development, Empire State Development. Photo from SCCC

Suffolk County Community College Entrepreneurial Assistance Center (EAC) has won the 2024 New York State Entrepreneurship Assistance Center Award for Outstanding Performance and Achievement. The college received an award at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino in Niagara Falls, NY on October 10, 2024.

New York State Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers provide instruction, training, technical assistance and support services to new and aspiring entrepreneurs in local communities statewide and are strategically located throughout the state. The 26 centers assist new and aspiring entrepreneurs in developing basic business management skills, refining business concepts, devising early-stage marketing plans, and obtaining business financing.

Additionally, Joanne Laloi, a Suffolk County Community College EAC client, was a recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Joanne is an artist and the owner of Entremets Custom Cakes who transformed her passion into a thriving business. A graduate of Le Cordon Blue, she honed her technical skills in Paris. Despite her talent, she struggled with the business side of entrepreneurship. Realizing this gap, she seized the opportunity to expand her knowledge by taking the business plan course at Suffolk County Community College’s EAC.

Seawolves at Suffolk

Stony Brook University, a SUNY flagship institution, is partnering with Suffolk County Community College to support a “Seawolves at Suffolk” program. The program provides Suffolk students with a transfer pathway that moves them from admission, to academic and social engagement with the university, and through transfer and graduation from Stony Brook.

Seawolves at Suffolk

Recently, Stony Brook University received a $500,000 Innovation Driven by Evidence and Advanced Strategies (IDEAS) grant from American Talent Initiative (ATI) College Excellence Program (CEP) and Bloomberg Philanthropies. The grant aims to amplify the power and potential of transfer students from lower income communities through high impact experiences, research-centered opportunities, and the development of workforce-ready skills. The university is partnering with neighboring SUNY Suffolk to support these initiatives.

“Seawolves at Suffolk” centers around an accelerated on-ramp to a paid summer research/internship opportunity with Stony Brook researchers in the summer prior to students transferring to the university. This is complemented by providing:

  • unique workshops
  • earlier access to university campus life
  • supported student leadership pipelines
  • comprehensive advising support with university advisors at SUNY Suffolk
  • priority course registration
  • mini-grants to take upper-division courses at Stony Brook before transferring
  • additional wrap-around support from success specialists and career coaches

Within this innovative program, selected students who have been referred to SUNY Suffolk from Stony Brook University will be part of a cohort of students who begin their studies at SUNY Suffolk, with a shared goal of becoming a Seawolf. SUNY Suffolk is the largest community college in the SUNY system and sister institution to Stony Brook University. By beginning their studies at SUNY Suffolk, and meeting certain transfer milestones, students in the program will be guaranteed entry into select Stony Brook University programs, including Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, English, Psychology, and more.

SUNY Suffolk transfers hundreds of students per year to Stony Brook University, far more than any other community college. Together, the two institutions maintain a strong and ongoing partnership in areas ranging from National Science Foundation research projects to internships at Brookhaven National Laboratories.

“Thanks to Bloomberg Philanthropies, accepted transfer students from Suffolk County Community College are already a part of the Stony Brook University community prior to their first day of classes,” said Interim Stony Brook President Richard L. McCormick. “This grant, awarded by the American Talent Initiative, allows us to expand our commitment to social mobility while providing transfer students with paid experiential learning, academic advising, and career counseling opportunities.”

“SUNY Suffolk has always prepared our graduates for success at elite colleges and universities like Stony Brook. With support from the American Talent Initiative grant, we will provide Suffolk students with an accelerated pathway to engagement at SBU, as well as experiential learning. This partnership allows us to support even more deserving Long Island students and families to live, learn and stay on Long Island,” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College.